di-did-it

2012-01-20T20:21:00.000-06:00

Hello, visitors & followers! I hope you're all happy and healthy & 2012 is getting off to a grand start for you! I'm still alive and doing great - just haven't created anything lately so haven't had anything to share with you. I did start some new pendants last weekend, but decided a smaller soldering tip is needed so am waiting for that to arrive. In the meantime, I'm planning a bathroom remodel. I haven't made any improvements on the home-front for a few years and with both hubby & I starting new jobs recently, now feels like the right time. Decorating is a form of expressing creativity, so it's all good, right? Yes [grin] I'll try to remember to take before & after pictures to share with you.

While my life has been full and great, I do miss blogging (both sharing here and visiting many of you on your blogs), and am working on ways to fit it back into my life.

Believe,
Di

yoga cards, charm swap & update on bca pendants

2011-11-27T13:29:00.001-06:00

So, how was your Thanksgiving? Lots of good food, family time & laughter? I hope so!

Since my last post, I've enjoyed creating two dozen cards for a custom order. It's been awhile since I've worked with paper. It was nice not to have a pressing deadline so I could take my time to enjoy the process, playing with colors & textures. Here's a sampling of the results:

These are a couple charms for a swap going on in one of the Yahoo groups I belong to. Don't you love the depth of the colors you get with Friendly Plastic?

Lastly, the bca pendants I shared in my last blog post are all gone/spoken for (so no blog give-away -- sorry!). They were fun to make and as always, I learned something along the way.

I'm off now to begin decorating for the next holiday! Are you all decorated at your place for whichever holiday you celebrate next?

Believe,
Di

breast cancer awareness pendants

2011-10-31T18:21:00.000-05:00

When I shared a photo of my last glass pendants (link here) on facebook in July, a friend said she'd like something in pink with "the" ribbon as embellishment. In honor of her and October being Breast Cancer Awareness month, I made some pink glass pendants with pink ribbons. These I intentionally kept simple -- no extra wiring -- to represent freedom rather than confinement.

These pendants will all be given away to breast cancer survivors/fighters, with the person who inspired them getting first choice. If there are any left after facebook, I'll hold a blog drawing.

Believe,
Di

katydid and wips

2011-10-10T13:50:00.000-05:00

This katydid came by the other day. Aren't its patterns interesting? You can click to see close up.

And just so you know I don't spend all my time bird & bug watching {smile}, here are some wips I've been working on in honor of October being breast cancer awareness month. Don't forget to schedule your mammograms, ladies, and self-check too!

Believe,
Di

a special trip to the mailbox

2011-10-02T14:02:00.000-05:00

I'm hoping to feel up to making progress on some glass pendant WIPs today (been fighting a bit of a cold), but in the meantime, I'll share a photo from yesterday. Our mailbox is at the curb, and since I'm not consistent about watering plants, I use silk flowers in the mailbox flower box. The fact the flowers are fake didn't matter to this gorgeous dragonfly -- he rested there nearly hidden for quite some time. If it had been a cloudy day I might have missed him, but the sun danced so beautifully off his stunning wings I saw him instantly & dashed back in the house for the camera. If you click on the photo, you can see him in more detail.

Wishing you all a truly enjoyable day!

Believe,
Di

young hummingbird

2011-09-18T12:59:00.001-05:00

We put the hummingbird feeder out every year, but this is the first year we've been visited by a youngster. This little one has been eating and resting on our oriole feeder all weekend. His right wing is weaker than the left, but soon he'll be strong enough to travel far. For now, we are enjoying his visit -- so much fun to watch!

Believe,
Di

I'm a winner!

2011-09-03T18:46:00.000-05:00

Check out the fabulous book I won over at Carmi's Art/Life World! It arrived today and was a wonderful start to my holiday weekend. I'm looking forward to soaking in the beautiful photographs and following the instructions to create unique jewelry pieces. Thank you, Carmi! You are very generous!

It's been a fast paced couple of weeks here. Yes, after being laid off in February, I'm very happy to say I'm gainfully employed again and thrilled to say that thus far, I'm absolutely loving most everything about it! Life is GOOD!

"Work while you have the light. You are responsible for the talent that has been entrusted to you." ~ Henri-Frederic Amiel

Wishing you all a safe and fun-filled holiday weekend!

Believe,
Di

our state bird at our state fair

2011-08-19T15:35:00.001-05:00

We enjoyed a great day at the Iowa State Fair Wednesday. I snapped this photo of the state bird of Iowa at one of the gardens while we snacked on freshly made mini donuts for breakfast. Yes, I gave in to a sugary treat at 8am but was a good girl the rest of the day with a veggie corn dog for lunch and lots of water (ok, and a couple wheat beers before we left - smile).

Speaking of photos, my new camera arrived after we got home from the fair and I'm LOVING it! I haven't played much, but what I've seen of it so far has be very excited. This fun new toy might mean I have more photos to share (that give-and-take thing, since I enjoy so many of everyone else's photos on their/your blogs). Until next time....

Believe,
Di

goodbye to a great little camera

2011-08-16T09:30:00.000-05:00

After two years and four months of great service, my little Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS suddenly quit working. I loved that camera ~ it easily fit in both my purse and back pocket and it took great photos. Reading through various reviews of the camera I learned mine suffered from a common defect. It would freeze up and the screen would go black. It would be several seconds or minutes before it would unstick. Reliability is an absolute must for a camera, so off to research new cameras I went. Tomorrow my new Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS arrives! I'm so excited about the advanced features of this little camera and to top it off ~ we had enough reward points saved up to cover the price! WOO-HOO! The only downside is that it won't be here today in order to use it tomorrow when we go to the Iowa State Fair. Looks like I'll be taking my larger camera on that adventure.... not ideal, but it'll be good practice at being responsible ~ hahaha! Interesting that two years ago, the 28mm 20x zoom on my "larger" camera was ground-breaking... yet today the upgraded version of that camera has 24mm 35x zoom for $170 less. What will they be offering a year from now? hmmmm.....

"The number one benefit of information technology is that it empowers people to do what they want to do. It lets people be creative. It lets people be productive. It lets people learn things they didn't think they could learn before, and so in a sense it is all about potential." ~ Steve Ballmer

Believe,
Di

drilling holes in glass pendants

2011-08-14T12:30:00.003-05:00

Hubby & I went to a home improvement store yesterday to buy a couple electrical items. We can never seem to get out of those types of stores without snooping around in other isles, which usually means impulse purchases. This time I was the lucky one, finding and purchasing a glass & tile bit for my Dremel. It couldn't stay in the package long, either. I had it out last night to create a new glass pendant. I love my Dremels (yes, so much so that I own two of them). This new drill bit opens up even more creative options for my pendants. YIPPEE!

"Sometimes on the way to the dream, you get lost & find a better one." ~ author unknown

Believe,
Di

in the zone

2011-07-24T20:40:00.001-05:00

Some ideas have been floating around in my head for several months now, and I finally took action on them yesterday. The hours flew by before I knew it. Not only did I have an absolute blast creating these pieces, I'm totally diggin' the results and can't wait to create more. The possibilities are endless & my mind is racing. Granted, I have a long way to go but this is an excellent start. This afternoon was spent cutting & grinding a couple dozen pieces of glass for the next time I can play, which I sure hope is soon {grin}.

"My motto - sans limites." ~ Isadora Duncan

Believe,
Di

black-n-clear/silver set

2011-07-22T22:40:00.001-05:00

I recently lucked out with a heck of a bargain on a black & white jacket so decided to create something unique to go with it. The focal point of the necklace is a mirrored glass tile, ground down for smooth edges before being embedded into Friendly Plastic. It was then covered in gloss glaze.

"People often say that 'beauty is in the eye of the beholder,' and I say that the most liberating thing about beauty is realizing that you are the beholder. This empowers us to find beauty in places where others have not dared to look, including ourselves." ~ Salma Hayek

Believe,
Di

friendly plastic play date

2011-07-09T08:15:00.001-05:00

Over the last few years on my last job, I occasionally worked with a gal whom I'd never met in person. All our interaction was over the phone or computer. Regardless, we discovered things in common and struck up a friendship. She recently left work to pursue her creative dreams and invited me to come to her studio to play sometime. Still unemployed myself, I took an afternoon off from job-hunting and finally met my friend in person. What a delight! We spent the afternoon getting to know each other a little better and playing with Friendly Plastic. She'd purchased some but not taken the time to use it so I showed her some very basic techniques. She has no fear & immediately began experimenting. Here's a photo she snapped of the results of our first play date:

I'm grateful for this "new" creative friend in my life, and look forward to our next play date. She's pursuing her dream and so willing to share herself. As Louise Hay said, "Everyone in my life has something to teach me. We have a purpose in being together."

Believe,

dragonfly visit

2011-07-01T19:50:00.000-05:00

While weeding the garden today, I was visited by a beautiful dragonfly.

I cannot explain it, but whenever I see a dragonfly, I'm compelled to stop whatever I'm doing and study it. They fascinate me to no end. We're both born of water (I'm Pisces), and according to some, dragonflies symbolize growth and change, which I've definitely been going through. Whatever the draw, its visit was one of the highlights of my day (among several ~ it was truly a blessed day).

After a cold & wet June, central Iowa is finally experiencing summer. We've been in the upper 90's the past two days, and expect to stay here for a while. YAY! I love the heat ~ bring it on! Fully experiencing all four seasons is one of the best parts of living in the Midwest and something I cherish. Then again, I've not lived anywhere else so it may just be a situation of choosing to be happy :)

"Life is a succession of moments. To live each one is to succeed." ~ Corita Kent

Believe,
Di

practicing wire wrapping

2011-06-20T19:50:00.004-05:00

Have you taken any jewelry classes online? I recently took Max Goodman's Jewelry Workshop through Craftsy.com. Max covers pearl knotting, wire wrapping, chain making & photo etching and does a good job of talking students through each step in the process. I took the class primarily for the wire wrapping and chain making and wasn't disappointed. I've been practicing the wire wrapping using wires, beads & findings I had on hand. The center item of the earth-toned bracelet below is one of my Friendly Plastic creations (love that stuff!).

Happy creating! And remember, as we learn new skills...

"A mistake is simply another way of doing things." ~ Katherine Graham

Believe,
Di

jewelry mode

2011-06-07T21:25:00.000-05:00

The earring swap I participated in last week ignited a bit of a jewelry craze for me. Here are the latest creations.

The beautiful purple and silver glass beads in these earrings are encircled by rings made from UTEE, alcohol inks and various powders. I thought then provided an atmospheric or planetary ring quality to the glass beads that remotely look like planets.

The pendant is stamped friendly plastic, coated with gloss glaze.

"Do what's in front of you as well as possible. Keep going until you realize what you're best at." ~ Helen Gurley Brown

Believe,
Di

beaded earrings

2011-05-29T19:05:00.001-05:00

I joined another quick swap today ~ this time for earrings. I haven't made jewelry for months, and needed to get my supplies out to repair a bracelet for my sister, so it seemed like a great idea. And as always, I had fun! I've had these beautiful glass beads for quite awhile, but don't have any clothing in these colors so they are perfect to use for a swap. The earring wire itself is gold-plated, so will hopefully be ok for my swap partner.

I had so much fun, I decided to make something for myself. I'd purchased these pewter moons moons ago (ha ha). They pair well with the dragonfly and glass beads. It's simple bead work, but they are one of a kind and all mine, and each time I wear them, I'll remember the relaxing afternoon I enjoyed making them.

"The ability to embrace my ordinariness makes me feel extraordinary." ~ Jana Kennon

Believe
Di

generic vs handmade

2011-05-23T08:39:00.002-05:00

I was invited to have coffee with a local business woman last week. She owns her own small business & gave me a tour of the beautiful facility. It wasn't a job interview ~ rather ~ we were just reconnecting (I'd taken a class from her many years ago, not long after she founded her business). I was so amazed and appreciative that she'd make time in her busy day to foster a relationship ~ that is what small business is all about! A generic, store-bought 'professional' business card feel right to me, so I chose to make one using her company's color. I wondered through Michael's looking for embellishments & came across some flowers. The colors didn't scan well but that's ok.

Customizing our creations for the recipients not only makes it more appealing to the recipient, but helps push our creativity where we might not otherwise go (or to use items we might not otherwise use)....

Remember...

"Happiness held is the seed; Happiness shared is the flower." ~ John Harrigan

Believe,
Di

check in and bookmark swap

2011-05-16T09:07:00.001-05:00

Yowsa! It's been six weeks since my last post. If anyone tells you looking for employment is a full-time job in itself, believe them! While I look forward to receiving a paycheck again, this transition period and journey of exploration has been tremendously rewarding as far as personal growth. I've met some fabulous women and discovered paths and opportunities I didn't know existed. Going out into the world after nearly 29 years at one company is like discovering a complete library of books when previously you only had access to a few. Oh, the possibilities!

Speaking of books, I've read several so far this year and if I had to pick just one to recommend, I'd recommend Aspire by Kevin Hall. I finished it and immediately started reading it again... it's that good. If you want something to get you thinking & truly inspire you, read this book.

And now for the 'goods.' In April I signed up for a Yahoo Group bookmark swap for May. It was a perfect push for me to create something when I might not otherwise take the time. I created yesterday and oh what fun I had! Creating was fun... the challenge was trying to make items that the recipients might like. I know one of the gals but the other two are new to me, so I had to make assumptions based on previous correspondence I'd seen from them, blogs, etc. Anyhoo.... here's what I ended up with:

The beautiful image of an Indian postcard is from Stampington & Company, cat stencil by All Night Media, and daisy paper by DCWV. Twinkling H2Os made one of the daisies pop out, along with a mixture of embossing powders for the center. It was a great day and I look forward to my next stint playing/creating. In the meantime, I leave you with a quote from Aspire:

"Talents and gifts do not reduce or diminish when shared; they expand and increase like the widening ripples from a pebble dropped in water." ~ Kevin Hall

Believe,
Di

new storage and wip

2011-04-02T20:37:00.001-05:00

My hubby has been revamping his workshop. After building some new wall cabinetry, he had some leftover pegboard, so he built this storage/display unit for me.

I removed the handle on top, added casters to the bottom and filled one side with some clearance/thrift shop findings that will eventually be used in art or altered jewelry.

Here it is in its new home. Notice Winston and Gandalf there? Ahhh.... love....

And here's what I've added to one of the backgrounds I shared a couple weeks ago. It's my first painting of a person. I just "saw" her in the background and brought her forward. It was weird, and, it was magical. She's not complete, at least I don't think so.... I'm just letting this piece come about as it will. I look at it each day, open for it to to speak to me again... telling me how it wants to emerge...

"See into life -- don't just look at it." ~ Anne Baxter

Believe,

winter isn't giving up

2011-03-29T11:08:00.001-05:00

It's March 29 and winter isn't giving up on Iowa yet. We didn't get much snow overnight, but enough to blanket most things. It's so clean and fresh! Mother Nature is making everything clean & sparkly for spring to make a glorious & colorful late entrance!

When I turned back to the house, I discovered these two priceless babes watching my every move. Gandalf and Winston haven't let me out of their sight much since we lost Gandalf's brother Avatar to renal failure Friday night. They haven't had much attention the last few weeks since I've been caring for Avy, so not only are they making sure I'm ok, they are wanting their fill of affection (and believe me, I've been pouring it on them). I don't know what I'd do without my boys..... at the moment, they are each curled up napping in their baskets next to my desk. Yup, I'm in love..... :)

Believe,

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T07:40:00.001-05:00

St. Patrick's Day is an enchanted time --

A day to begin transforming winter's dreams

into summer's magic. ~ Adrienne Cook

Believe,
Di

get your craft on

2011-03-14T19:52:00.001-05:00

The last few days I've taken a break from job search stuff to nourish my creative side, which, quite frankly, was getting pretty darn cranky about not getting any attention. My husband gave a Zentangle kit to me for Valentine's Day (he rocks!) so I've started playing around a bit with Zentangles. I created and sent holiday cards (yes, I was so late with Christmas/New Year's cards that I sent St. Patrick's Day cards instead ... hey, better late than never, right?), and worked on two backgrounds for new pieces:

I'll share the pieces once completed.

On the book front, I finished reading Taking Flight: Inspiration And Techniques To Give Your Creative Spirit Wings by Kelly Rae Roberts (excellent!). The last couple of chapters were definitely my favorites, and this book is now residing in my craft room, within easy reach whenever I need inspiration. I started Room by Emma Donoghue (love it!) and will finish Clear Your Clutter With Feng Shui by Karen Kingston tonight. What have you been reading?

Now, in honor of March being National Craft Month, I encourage you to go forth and get your craft on! {smile}

Believe,
Di

connection, gratitude & hope

2011-02-21T15:04:00.001-06:00

Sharing our thoughts & creations takes courage, but the rewards are worth the effort and with each step, connections are made & confidence grows. The creative blogging community is a wonderful web of support & encouragement that is sometimes hard to find in one's local community. Though we don't all have the same tastes and preferences (how boring would that be?), we look for something good in each new soul we encounter. I thank all the wonderful friends I've made through blogging, and welcome the new friends who have recently become "followers."

One of my new pals, Tammy at Bonsai Habits, posted this video on her blog last week. It's such an important message, I'm passing it along too. I hope you'll take a few minutes to take it in....

Believe,
Di

OWOH winner

2011-02-17T17:54:00.006-06:00

OWOH = WOW! I am so glad I made the effort to participate in this wonderful event. I haven't even scratched the surface when visiting all the fabulous creative souls & their blogs. Heck, I haven't even read the comments on my own blog (I'm sorry for this ~ it's on the top of my to-do list for tomorrow!). For now, it's February 17 pm and time to announce my winner. Drum roll please...
#131.... Nicole at Beadwright! Nicole, I'll contact you for your book choice and mailing address.

My sincere thanks to all the visitors to my blog during this event. I'm anxious to read the comments tomorrow as well as continue visiting others from the event.

Believe,
Di

Walking Through Illusion

2011-02-02T14:15:00.001-06:00

This week's snowstorm took out our internet last night, so I curled up & finished a good book I'd started in January. I don't normally share much on my blog about the books I read, but this book was different and since it's not a best seller or on Oprah's list, I want to get the word out about it. It's Walking Through Illusion by Betsy Otter Thompson. Here's the description on the back cover:

"Walking Through Illusion features a series of short stories about biblical people who either knew Jesus or knew of him, and were influenced by him in one way or another. It is about people who lived long before Christianity began. The author believes that we don't take our beliefs with us when we leave here; we take the love we found from having them.

"Each chapter focuses on the growth of a particular person and each chapter is complete within itself with a specific theme. The end of each chapter has a worksheet with questions, designed to bring the ideas from the book into the reader's everyday life in a meaningful way."

Let me share up front that I'm not Christian nor do I know much of the bible. As such, I was a bit skeptical about reading this book. However, I do pride myself on being open-minded & inquisitive, and I thoroughly enjoy books that help me grow & evolve so I decided to give it a try. While I believe it would've been an easier read if I had known something about these biblical characters, my naivete meant I came to the stories with no preconceived notions. Topics addressed included Morality, Approval, Confusion, Death, etc. (23 in all). Most of the stories were easily relatable to my own modern day life. To help with that connection, the author shared her own personal insights on each story/lesson. I would not have guessed it when I read those first few pages, but I ended up highlighting multiple passages in the book, having been touched by them, and even tabbing a few powerful pages. I'm very glad I opened my heart & mind to this book. It was well worth the time.

If you too pursue personal growth, or just enjoy a good read, I recommend Walking Through Illusion. http://www.betsythompson.com

One World One Heart 2011

2011-01-31T05:30:00.001-06:00

Last night was the official kickoff of One World One Heart 2011. I am excited to participate this year and want to thank Lisa Swifka for hosting this wonderful event. I'm anxious to blog hop all over the world the next couple of weeks, meeting other bloggers and peeking into their worlds. We are all alike in one way or another, and it's fun to uncover those similarities and learn from our differences.

Oh, silly me... introductions....

Hello, and welcome to my blog! My name is Dianna but my friends call me Di. I live in central Iowa, USA. Having worked in the corporate world my entire adult life, I decided a few years back it was time to nurture the other side of my brain/self. When I could make time in my schedule, I started dabbling in various creative areas, starting first with silk flowers & greeting cards and more recently playing around with mixed media, jewelry, essential oils, a wee bit of photography, etc. I've been having a blast! The biggest challenge has been finding time & energy while working a full time (plus) job. That issue is being resolved for me, as I'm one of 1,500 being laid off at our company. My last day will be 2/15/11, so while I've been busy & will continue to be busy finding a new job, I intend to find one that affords me more time to enjoy life & express myself through creative activities! One of these days I hope to land on one or two creative outlets that truly make my heart sing AND bring joy to others. My dream is to take that creative outlet and turn it into career in some way (hey, a girl's gotta have goals, right?). In the meantime, I want a job supporting someone else reaching their goal. When I'm not working, I'll continue learning, practicing & sharing various art & crafts.

The on-line creative community (bloggers, yahoo groups, etc.) has become an important part of my life, just like creating/crafting is now integral to who I am.

Anyhoooo, I encourage you to roam around my site. If you have a question, comment or suggestion about anything, please let me know.

Oh, and as a thank you for visiting my blog, if you are an active worldwide blogger & leave a comment on this OWOH post between 1/30/11 and 2/17/11 (with a way for me to contact you in the event you win), you name will be entered in a drawing. One lucky blogger will win this bookmark I made along with her/his choice of one of the following books (just three of my favorites, and don't worry, the winner will receive a new book and not my marked up, written in, tabbed version).

Life is a Verb by Patti Digh
I Can Do It by Louise L. Hay
The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron

I'll draw the winning name on 02/17/11.

Believe,
Di

craigslist virgin no more

2011-01-26T20:25:00.000-06:00

Well, I made my first craigslist purchase this evening. While I don't typically get pulled in by trends and such, I've been taken in over the past couple of years by the versatility of dress forms. Keeping my eye open for an inexpensive one for many months now, I stumbled across this one late last week. She reminds me of my late-teen days working in the dress/gift shop. I can't wait to clean her up so she adds a bit of style to my craft room!

I hope you too are enjoying unexpected delights this week.

Believe,
Di

you are worth the time

2011-01-18T20:15:00.001-06:00

This message is too important not to share...

Thank you, Jan Phillips.

bookmark swap

2011-01-16T18:55:00.001-06:00

It's been many months since I participated in any of the activities in the Yahoo groups I'm in. I finally ended that cycle today. My plan was to make a bookmark from polymer clay, but for some reason the clay wouldn't harden so I switched gears and used metal. The recipient likes deep colors, nature-inspired themes, suns and moons so I choose jewel-toned ocean colors and end beads that have a sun on one side and moon on the other. The back reminds me of rain.

It was fun to make ~ I hope she likes it!

Believe,
Di

winter's splendor

2010-12-27T20:15:00.001-06:00

Winter blessed central Iowa with so much beauty this morning, my heart was full...

May you too find peace & quiet beauty this last week of 2010.

Believe...
Di

it's the fifth & final but it's my first

2010-12-24T15:35:00.000-06:00

Lisa over at A Whimsical Bohemian has announced the details for the fifth & final One World One Heart event. I plan to participate (my first time!). Won't you join, too?

haiku expressions - part 4

2010-12-20T18:45:00.003-06:00

This is the last post for the collaborative challenge Phyll & I did. Here is the piece I created, followed by two haiku she wrote to express her interpretation of it:

The black hole confounds.
Man ponders its mystery,
But what if it's white?

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

I cut the black hole.
A total absence of light
Reflects in my eyes.

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

Aren't these haiku thought-provoking? I really like what Phyll did with them!

As for the art, the background is something I started nearly a year ago and have added various layers to and tinkered with off and on for months, never quite sure what I'd use it for. When it came time for me to create a piece for our collaboration, I knew it would be the perfect starting place. I toyed with making it an underwater scene of some sort, but my love of moon and sun items won and thus it became cosmic space. The sun was made from Friendly Plastic (both stick and pellets) & alcohol inks. The moon too was made of FP. The photo doesn't show it well, but there's pearl ink forming craters. While I liked it the overall piece just like that, my intent was to illustrate balance.... internal balance.... but how? The idea of something busting through intrigued me, so I pursued it, adding the mirror to reflect on the viewer and imply the internal/personal balance breakthrough. Something like that anyway.... When my hubby saw it, his initial reaction was a black hole had consumed our earth. Then he saw it was a mirror and made some wisecrack about the universe revolving around him... LOL!! I like all our interpretations, and love that the piece has a voice at an individual level. It has become one of my favorites.

My thanks go out to Phyll for her creative talents, open mind, willingness to try anything and loads of patience! You are a true gem, Phyll!

Believe...
Di

haiku expressions - part 3

2010-12-15T21:15:00.000-06:00

For the second half of our collaborative challenge, Phyll & I each created something artistic and the other wrote a haiku to represent it. Here is the intriguing piece Phyll created, followed by my interpretation, expressed via haiku.

traveling through time
they felt the pulsing rhythm
an eternal dance

Here's a close-up shot of some of the detail of Phyll's piece, so you can appreciate the work. She's truly got a knack for details!

My piece is done and as soon as I take a decent photograph of it for Phyll to work with, I'll share it along with what I'm sure will be a fantastic haiku from her.

Believe...

haiku expressions - part 2

2010-11-23T17:20:00.001-06:00

Phyll received my art piece so I can safely post a photo of it now. Phyll has a way with words, so I had a difficult time picking just one of several haiku she wrote. One, in particular, touched me, but my muse wasn't successful coming up with just the right visual representation to do it justice so I stepped away a few days and came back. This time, another haiku called to a part of me, and my muse was game! Here's the haiku Phyll wrote along with the piece I made to represent it:

I'm remembering

How mother loved fresh flowers

Tucked in every room.

She left me all her vases.

They don't fill the same.

Next up... we each create something artistic and the other writes a haiku to represent it. This should prove interesting! *smile*

Believe...
Di

haiku expressions - part 1

2010-11-16T21:15:00.001-06:00

To challenge each other & ourselves, my online pal Phyll & I decided to try a collaboration. We each wrote a few haiku & the other person chose one and created a 5" x 7" representation. Here's the haiku I wrote & the beautiful representation piece I received from Phyll:

sweet nectar sustains

hovering so gracefully

blink and she is gone

The Friendly Plastic hummingbird is stunning! She's really taken FP places I haven't ventured yet. And isn't it cool how she incorporated an eye into the piece? Details! Art is in the details! Thank you, Phyll!

I'm mailing my piece to Phyll tomorrow, so will post a picture in the next few days.

Believe...

meet "Heath"

2010-10-23T20:20:00.001-05:00

or "Heather" ~ I haven't quite decided... {smile}

This precious & intricately detailed fairy chrysalis was created by the wonderfully talented Heather, over at Heather's Daydreams. I swear she must use powerful reading glasses AND a desktop magnifier to do this work...AND have extremely steady hands. It's quite impressive & she'd make a fortune if she'd sell them. Thank you, Heather! After the month I've had, your love & generosity brought tears to my eyes.

Yes, it's been a challenging month, but everyone has those so I won't dwell here. There's enough drama on tv ~ I don't want it on my blog. I'm finishing up a collaborative swap with my pal Phyll and will share the finished pieces soon. I've been chomping at the bit to share the eye-catching piece she created, so check back so you don't miss it.

In the meantime, I'll leave you with a couple quotes...

"The most important thing one woman can do for another is to illuminate and expand her sense of actual possibilities." ~ Adrienne Rich

"We are each of us angels with only one wing, to fly we need only embrace each other." ~ Jessamyn West

Believe...
Di

books aside

2010-08-31T19:50:00.000-05:00

My free, gently-used art books didn't fly off the shelves like I thought they might but that's ok. I'm sure I'll find loving homes for them at some point. For now, I'm putting them aside to begin a creative collaboration with my online pal Phyll. She's worked with countless mediums and is always experimenting with new things. I'm anxious to see what she does. Heck, I'm anxious to see what I do, since it's been quite awhile since I've played on that side of the studio! LOL! I'll share the photos/scans of the pieces when they're done. For now, I'll leave you with a quote:

"The root meaning of the word art is "to fit together" and we all do this every day. Not all of us are painters, but we are all artists. Each time we fit things together we are creating -- whether it is to make a loaf of bread, a child, a day." ~ Corita Kent

recipients & a few more books to give away

2010-08-23T20:30:00.001-05:00

I'm tickled to be able to pass along these books/publications to three lovely ladies:

The Princess ~ The Art of Cartooning by Walter Foster
Tami ~ Art Escapes ~ Daily Exercises & Inspirations for Discovering Greater Creativity & Artistic Confidence, by Dory Kanter
Jodi ~ Artful Blogging, Aug/Sep/Oct '09 & Somerset Studio Sep/Oct '07, Nov/Dec '07, Mar/Apr '08 & Jul/Aug '09

Tami, would you please send an email to me with your mailing address? My email is shown on my profile ("about me") page.

Since I still have a few books/publications available, and have now added three more, I'll make another offer.

Cloth Paper Scissors, July/August 2009
Cloth Paper Scissors, September/October 2009
Creative Cardmaking a Complete Guide, published by North Light Books
Herbal Pleasures Cooking & Crafts by Katherine Richmond
Old Age Is Always 15 Years Older Than I Am ~ a book of quotes that are great for making birthday cards
Paper Crafting with Carol Duval
Sew Crafty ~ Craft Projects That Are Sew Much Fun They'll Have You In Stitches by Heather Lancaster & Desiree Tanner
The Stamper's Sampler June/July 2007
The Ultimate Crafts Compendium, published by Hermes House

If you're interested, email me or leave a comment by 8/30/10 and let me know which one(s) you'd like. If more than one person asks for a particular item, I'll ask my dh to draw names from a hat. The items & shipping are free. I just ask that you only request what you'll actually read/use.

I'll announce winners 8/31/10 or shortly thereafter, and ask that mailing addresses be privately emailed to me at that time (if not already provided).

Enjoy every moment

gently used art book give-away

2010-08-15T20:03:00.000-05:00

Today is National Relaxation Day, and what better way to relax than with a good book? I've been doing a wee bit of downsizing and have some art books & publications to pass along (seems appropriate since August is National Artist Appreciation Month). I have the following items available:

The Art of Cartooning by Walter Foster
Art Escapes ~ Daily Exercises & Inspirations for Discovering Greater Creativity & Artistic Confidence, by Dory Kanter
Artful Blogging, Aug/Sep/Oct 2009
Cloth Paper Scissors, July/August 2009
Cloth Paper Scissors, September/October 2009
Creative Cardmaking a Complete Guide, published by North Light Books
Paper Crafting with Carol Duval
Somerset Studio, September/October 2007
Somerset Studio, November/December 2007
Somerset Studio, March/April 2008
Somerset Studio, July/August 2009
The Stamper's Sampler June/July 2007
The Ultimate Crafts Compendium, published by Hermes House

If you're interested, email me or leave a comment by 8/22/10 and let me know which one(s) you'd like. If more than one person asks for a particular item, I'll ask my dh to draw names from a hat. The items & shipping (gulp, I may regret the shipping part) are free. I just ask that you only request what you'll actually read/use.

I'll announce winners 8/23/10 or shortly thereafter, and ask that mailing addresses be privately emailed to me at that time (if not already provided).

Choose Love,
Di

my 1st solo shop project since jr high

2010-08-08T09:48:00.001-05:00

Well, it's not art, but I did create something this weekend...

I've used essential & carrier oils to blend my own body oils the past few years. It was a logical choice when the producer of my favorite body oil discontinued the product. I did a little research, purchased the supplies at a local store & just started experimenting. I found that while I loved the results, the oils were pricey locally & the choices somewhat limited. My supplies were dwindling. What to do?

Internet research indicated Young Living is a leader in essential oils so when my friend/massage therapist invited me to a YL seminar last month, I went to learn more. While their essential oils might indeed be some of the purest on the market, they are simply out of my price range. With more research, I found others that will meet my needs as well as my pocketbook

My reference guide & "ultimate aromatherapy set" arrived late last week. I was like a kid on their birthday! Where to start? What do to first? That was simple for someone who can't resist organizing things. Storage was the first order of business! The oils needed to be someplace they could be easily & quickly retrieved. The solution? Ask hubby to donate scrap wood and allow me to use his shop tools (being stubbornly independent, I'm tickled to say the only help I asked for & received from him was attaching the pneumatic staple gun to the air compressor).

Next step? Learn more about the oils themselves. Having found no classes locally, and not willing to pay the prices for what I've found for online classes (is it obvious I'm, shall we say, budget conscious? :), I'll set aside a little time here & there to read through the 300+ page book I ordered.

So what have you all been up to lately? I intend to blog hop later today/tonight to find out. First I'm driving about an hour north to mow my mother's yard & visit her & my aunt. I'm looking forward to the road time as I have a new audio CD that I'm thoroughly enjoying ~ "I Can Do It" by Louise L. Hay. Anyhoo... c'ya soon in blogland!

Love your life,

what was I thinking?

2010-07-17T07:32:00.003-05:00

A friend asked me to share what I was thinking when I created the emotion cards I posted last week. It felt good to be asked. I, for one, like it when the person who created something provides some insight into what they did, be it the technique, the reason for certain images, etc. Ask me questions any time....

Courageous ~ the photo is of a small, cracked glass garden globe. To me, it looks like a planet (I like sci-fi, Star Trek, etc.). It symbolizes the courage to explore and do things one has never done before. The bird in the trees is for the baby birds I've been watching this year as they learn to fly ~ again, courageous in my mind.

Fear ~ of being trapped (the web), of deception/betrayal (the poison), of no freedom/privacy (the eye) and of the unknown (the card).

Gratitude ~ gratitude it very important to me and a part of my daily life. When I was taking various photographs of the garden that day, I was studying this statue and trying to discern what emotion she portrays. Gratitude came to mind, and as it did, it felt right as I was simultaneously grateful for my life and just the blessing of being there in that moment. The attached flower & butterfly are appropriate for the garden scene and add dimension & texture.

Guilt ~ The scan didn't pick this up well. The word is cut from paper that I spray painted with a hammered metal finish so it looks like heavy steel to symbolize how guilt weighs a person down. The golden bottom layer is a polished stone technique using alcohol inks on glossy photo paper. It has a bit of a fiery/flame look I think and could represent a personal hell. Between the top & bottom layer is a mesh that I darkened to represent bars to reflect how guilt can cage a person.

It's looking to be another beautiful day in central Iowa today. I hope it will be the same wherever you are. Enjoy your day!

emotion cards

2010-07-11T12:51:00.000-05:00

I'm participating in a 4" x 6" Emotion Cards swap in one of the Yahoo Groups I'm in. These are the four cards I created. It was such a fun process ~ coming up with which words I wanted to use & how I wanted to express each of them. While I have nothing against using non-copyrighted images in art and occasionally do, I prefer to use images I've photographed when I can. This allows me to incorporate my interest in photography with my art.

On a personal note & follow-up, the gray hair color I got in May lasted less than a week but thankfully, my hair grows relatively fast. In June I had another 2-3 inches cut so there's only about an inch or so of blond left on the top, which I'll have cut off in August. YAY! My transition will have taken just under a year. And while I love the look of long hair, I'm thoroughly enjoying the ease of short, wash-n-go hair. I just may keep it short for awhile...

the dragonfly --oops

2010-06-13T19:37:00.001-05:00

6/14 AM update: oops! My friend Trace politely informed me off-blog that I had photographed a mayfly, rather than dragonfly. If you google 'mayfly' you'll learn, as I did, these are cool creatures too... not as cool as a dragonfly, IMO, but still amazing. Thanks, Trace!

Look at the wonderful little miracle the pizza delivery guy pointed out to my husband this evening, just outside our front door. I am fascinated by dragonflies, and have never before witnessed this event. My inner child was ecstatic! Dragonflies represent change in many cultures, as well as hope. It's a sign, I just know it. Most everything is, if we're only open to it.

koan

2010-05-20T19:15:00.000-05:00

koan (kō′än)
n: a Zen Buddhist riddle used to focus the mind during meditation and to develop intuitive thinking

Q: How long should you stay at something?
A: However long it takes to get what you came for.
Q: How do you decide what you came for?
A: You don't, you discover it.
Q: How do you discover it?
A: You notice what isn't there anymore when you feel like leaving.

From "Refuse to Choose" by Barbara Sher.

change is in the air

2010-05-15T17:00:00.001-05:00

I debated writing this post ~ it's a bit personal for my blog. But, I am a firm believer that we are all more alike than we sometimes feel. We all go through trying times. Life ebbs & flows. It's when we connect with each other & share ourselves that we truly live.

I've been wandering these past few months, allowing unprecedented work stress & family issues/responsibilities to consume me. What little free time I've had I've spent reading and just sitting... a little lost... searching... looking for my authentic self... the me I was created to be, not the person everyone else expects me to be. It's been an uncomfortable time, sensing a change is needed but not knowing what or how. Knowing something is coming.

In the last year, I've had my long brunette hair cut above my shoulders and dyed blond to allow the true salt & pepper color to grow in a little less noticeably (i.e. less skunk-like). This week I had much of that blond hair cut off and what was left, dyed to match my real silver/gray/pewter hair. It was liberating. And it's pushing me to move past this immobile stage I've been in and emerge anew. I don't know where this is going, and I know there will be challenges and trying times ahead, but I'm taking action & gaining momentum. As I learn things that others may find worthwhile, I'll share them.

As I write this, a Barry Manilow song from my youth comes to mind...

"Did you ever feel somethin' in the air

And you block it out, but you know it's there

Did you ever find, things about to change

I can see the signs all along my way

And I can feel that

Something's comin' up

And I don't know what it is

Something's comin' up

And I don't know where it's gonna take me

But there's something dyin'

Something bein' born "

And since you know I love quotes & I haven't shared any for awhile:

"A little stress and adventure is good for you, if nothing else, just to prove you are alive." ~ Lady Bird Johnson

"Never be limited by other people's limited imaginations. If you adopt their attitudes, then the possibility won't exist because you'll have already shut it out ... You can hear other people's wisdom, but you've got to re-evaluate the world for yourself." ~ Mae Jemison

"My father said there were two kinds of people in the world: givers and takers. The takers may eat better, but the givers sleep better." ~ Marlo Thomas

"Feeling insecure is good for you. It forces you to do something better, drives you to use all your talents." ~ Helen Gurley Brown

"We are each gifted in a unique and important way. It is our privilege and our adventure to discover our own special light." ~ Mary Dunbar

"In each of us there are places we have never gone. Only by pressing the limits do you ever find them." ~ Dr. Joyce Brothers

"Begin doing what you want to do now. We are not living in eternity. We have only this moment, sparkling like a star in our hand - and melting like a snowflake." ~ Marie Beynon Ray

"Human beings have an inalienable right to invent themselves." ~ Germaine Greer

"Some people think it's holding on that makes one strong; sometimes it's letting go." ~ Sylvia Robinson

"Remember always that you have not only the right to be an individual; you have an obligation to be one. You cannot make any useful contribution in life unless you do this." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

part three ~ getting arboreal: a nature collection

2010-04-10T19:40:00.000-05:00

It's the third & final check on our trees for the photo excursion Julie & JeriAnn hosted. I'm amazed at how much taller my tree has grown since my first photographs August 28. Now, rather than the golden leaves of November 8, we have tiny green buds.

This last photo shows the height growth (ok, you might have to squint to see the branches reaching up to the top of the photo), as well as reminds me how luscious green this tree will be in a month or two.

Thanks for coming by to visit. I'm off now to visit the other trees/sites of participants in the photo excursion. If you'd like to come along, click here, scroll down a little and you'll find a list in red on the left side. Enjoy!

sunshade

2010-03-28T18:30:00.002-05:00

"A sequoia can live two thousand years. A squid has a four-year life span. A mayfly, born with the dawn, is gone by dusk. Each life is a whole life, complete in itself. The quality of that life has nothing to do with its longevity, but everything to do with how it is lived." ~ Barry Neil Kaufman

I celebrated my birthday this month & thought the above quote was appropriate. I don't know about you, but I'm wondering... where the heck did March go? I mean, I'm excited that spring has arrived, but this month sure seemed to slip right on by. Besides work & family time, I spent a lot of time reading & just resting. I think my mind/body knew it needed to prepare for the warmer months, when I'll get active outdoors again. Studio time will decrease, but hopefully not disappear like it did this month. Balance is a good thing...

This piece is displayed in our living/reading room (tied with the studio for my favorite room in the house). I completed it three weeks ago and enjoyed the process & the results so much I immediately started another (before going into r&r mode). I may do a series combining acrylic work with metal ~ there's a voice inside me telling me to go this direction, at least for now. Hey, I'm game!

"What you love is a sign from your higher self of what you are to do." ~ Sanaya Roman

Enjoy your journey.
Di

a gift from a gift

2010-02-28T16:15:00.001-06:00

"A friend accepts us as we are yet helps us to be what we should."

~ Author Unknown

Sometimes we creative types can be misunderstood souls. We don't always follow the crowd or the rules, be they social or other. We dance to our own music and learn over time to be our true selves & not compromise our spirit. It is no wonder so many of us flock to the blogging community, Yahoo groups and other networking mediums to discover & connect with like-minded souls that respect different opinions & applaud individuality. Online I've met some of the most wonderful people in my life. People I care about very much. They are gifts in my life. One such gem is Tracey, who surprised me this week with a generous gift.

This beautiful mixed media piece is proudly displayed on a stand next to my monitor. I photographed the piece first where it's displayed (second photo below). Since this is a little dark (I like the ambiance it creates), I also photographed it in natural light. Gorgeous, isn't it? I love how the whole mood of the piece changes with the different lighting. To me, the flowers mark the entrance to the woods just behind, and I want to go explore....

"Spring on Over - Anytime" #004

8" x 10" mixed media

Tracey is a talented, multifaceted artist with wonderfully unique works. Please do yourself a favor & take a moment to visit her...

ArtFire - Angel Wings and Whisperings

Blog - Whisperings 13

Etsy (art) - Whisperings 13

Etsy (vintage) - The Giggling Goblin

Zazzle - Wadsworth-Noll Studio

books - 2010 to be record year

2010-02-18T20:02:00.006-06:00

I realized the other day I've read four books this year. That's amazing for me. I love to read, but am a slow reader and not one to sit still for long (without falling asleep...lol). Thank the stars for audio books! Three of the four I've 'read' this year were audio books. What a convenient way to learn & grow.

I've decided to make 2010 a record year for reading, and have updated the right side bar of my blog with book information. If you have a book you'd like to recommend, I'd love to hear from you. I enjoy books about creativity, arts/crafts, spirituality of all kinds, time management, understanding human behaviors, the power of being positive, motivation & self awareness, inspiration & ways to make a difference.

Happy reading!

1st photos in the light box & fp/glass pendant

2010-02-13T19:25:00.000-06:00

I set up the light box last night and experimented a bit, then changed some things around this afternoon and experimented some more. I'm sure I'll be tweaking things a bit as it gets more use, but it will definitely get more use. Thank you, Chris, for sharing your inexpensive option.

Here are a couple photos of the altered Friendly Plastic pendant. I used a Dremel to grind down a mirrored glass piece (by Diamond Tech) and a craft iron to remove enough fp from the original fp piece to accommodate the glass. The back of the pendant is embossed pewter. Everything but the top of the glass and the bail is sealed with glaze. I like the results and am anxious to create more fp pieces. Have you tried this fun medium yet?

making a light box

2010-02-12T19:15:00.001-06:00

Tonight I'm making a light box. I've admired the way Chris at Crafts by Chris photographs her gorgeous beads, jewelry & clay works, and in her last few blog posts, she's been sharing her photography process with her readers. If you're interested in how to photograph your small art/craft, or just want to check out some cool jewelry & other miscellany, click here.

I'll be back this weekend with a photo of the altered blue fp pendant and maybe more (I have a feeling it's gonna be a great weekend!).

Cheers!

wip ~ altering blue fp pendant

2010-02-10T17:45:00.001-06:00

I decided the blue Friendly Plastic pendant shared in my last post needed something more (in addition to a bale).... something to make it truly unique. The idea came to me this past weekend. The process began Sunday and I've done a smidgen each evening. Tonight the back went on. Once I get it all sealed I'll share the results. For now, here's a peak at the back...

And lest I forget, a warm welcome to the new "followers" that have joined since my last post. Thank you for your interest!

fp tutorial

2010-01-31T17:57:00.000-06:00

First & foremost, I want to welcome a couple new "followers" to my blog. Thank you for your interest! Please let me know if you have questions, comments or suggestions. I love hearing from people.

I'm trying something new today and posting a tutorial. I don't know that this is my forte, but I indicated in a November post I would share the process I used to make the purple Friendly Plastic pendant, and today's the day. Today we're making a blue FP pendant.

Start with a bargain piece of costume jewelry. I'm using a silver clip earring. Cut a piece of FP slightly bigger than the earring and choose a stamp (I'm using one from Fancy Pants). Unmounted stamps work best if your piece isn't totally flat. You can use a stamp that's smaller than your piece, but I'm not good at placing them in the center so I just use oversize stamps to eliminate that problem.

Lay the FP over the piece & melt it with a heat gun.

When it's nicely melted, prepare your stamp by pressing it into a watermark stamp pad (I use VersaMark) and then pressing it into the FP. Use your fingers to press everywhere to ensure full contact. Experiment with the pressure for different looks. Firm pressure will reveal the metal underneath, which may or may not be your intent. That's what I did for the purple piece, but for this blue piece I chose to use less pressure.

When you're confident the stamp isn't going to lift from the FP, place the piece in a cold water bath to solidify the FP.

After a few moments remove the piece and carefully lift the stamp from the FP. The edges might be a little jagged, as you can see here.

Place a nonstick craft sheet (I use Ranger's) on a griddle and heat the griddle to 275. Lightly touch/drag the edges to melt/smooth them. Once cool, add your preferred glaze/sealer (I like Triple Thick by DecoArt) and a bail. Thread on a cord or chain and you're set!

dusk

2010-01-30T19:07:00.006-06:00

It's been well over two months since I created anything in the studio. Admittedly, it's a bit intimidating to get back into it... but I will. I cleaned the work area today in hopes inspiration or my muse would show up this evening. No luck yet, but I did come across a poem I wrote 06/20/09:

dusk is falling
and you've changed.
you're not the person you were
in the midday sunshine.
I don't know you anymore.
did I ever know you
or did I just see
what you wanted me to see?
maybe I never looked hard enough.
did I not care enough to know
or did I somewhere
deep inside
know I wouldn't like what I found
if I squinted & looked into the sun.
is this your dark side
come out to play in the twilight?
it's playing with you
as much as the rest of us.
you're just too close to see it.
caught up in the exciting rush
the evening breeze
is taking you away.
a storm is here.
we're trying to pull you to cover
while you insist on being swept away.
at some point
we must save ourselves.

reclamation

2010-01-10T14:23:00.004-06:00

I apologize for my absence. It's poor blog etiquette to go offline for more than your usual amount of time without indicating when you'll return. My last post, from 11/26 was vague in this regard. At the time, I expected to post again in a couple weeks. Let me rephrase that ~ I hoped to post again in a couple weeks. Turns out, December was an extremely challenging month (closing out a challenging year in many ways), with many wonderful blessings and several unpleasant events. Tough times can wear on you and push you down. Thankfully, I remembered a couple of days ago I'm in control of my life ~ no one else is. I'm going to take a little time to put my life back in order (read, journal, meditate, etc.) but will be creating again & sharing very soon. I intend to be back posting at least once a week by the end of the month. I'll also be catching up on your blogs as soon as I can. I'm anxious to see what you've all been up to!

I want to sincerely thank those of you who have emailed to check in on me. Your caring friendship helps keep my candle burning. You are angels & I appreciate you very much.

Here's to a healthy, joyful, creative 2010 for all of us!

And... because I love quotes, love sharing quotes and couldn't choose just one today...

"There are no hopeless situations; there are only men who have grown hopeless about them." ~ Clare Boothe Luce

"One of the quickest ways to become exhausted is by suppressing your feelings." ~ Sue Patton Thoele

"Don't ever confuse the two, your life and your work. That's what I have to say. The second is only a part of the first." ~ Anna Quindlen

"Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim." ~ Nora Ephron

Thanksgiving, and every day

2009-11-26T08:30:00.000-06:00

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity… Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” ~Melody Beattie

"Gratitude connects us to others and feeling gratitude allows us to be our best selves. When we are truly grateful, we can count on living the life we want." ~MJ Ryan

I am grateful for the countless blessings in my life, including you, my blog readers and online friends. May you have a fun-filled, healthy holiday!

PS ~ I've received a couple inquiries about how I made the purple FP pendant, so I'll be sharing details in an upcoming post ~ just not sure how soon due to the holiday, family in town, catching another bug, working most every weekend, etc. But ... creating & sharing via this blog make me happy, so it will definitely be ASAP!

purple fp pendant

2009-11-21T16:45:00.002-06:00

It was a stellar day last week when I found a forgotten gift card in my wallet. Without missing a beat, I trotted off to that store & found a beautiful purple shirt, crying out for a custom-made pendant. It was so much fun creating this pendant last night, I'm making matching earrings tonight! This Friendly Plastic is a tad addictive {smile}.

Thanks for coming by! Don't be shy if you have a question or comment. I'd love to hear from you.

fp & metal pendants

2009-11-17T21:40:00.001-06:00

Here are my latest Friendly Plastic & metal pendants. Boy, are these fun to make.

Here's a shot of the backs, along with a penny to show their size. I like embossing the back so it looks nice, just in case the pendant flips on my neck.

And in case you're wondering what the heck I could wear the blue, aqua & orange one with, well, I wasn't thinking of it at the time I made it, but it goes great with one of my favorite shirts....

Thanks for coming by! Drop me a line if you have a question or comment. I'd love to hear from you.

to start your day...

2009-11-13T07:12:00.002-06:00

In case you missed the sunrise this morning, I'm sharing the beautiful sight from central Iowa just a few minutes ago. It took my breath away. Now I'm sipping my favorite coffee as I type this. I have a hair appointment this afternoon (wonderful scalp massage), RENT tickets tonight (my favorite musical) and plans to go to a art/craft show tomorrow with my mom & sister. Life is good! Have a fantastic Friday, everyone! Oh, and I have been creating some here & there.... I just don't have anything done yet. I'll share when I do.

part two ~ getting arboreal: a nature collection

2009-11-08T16:49:00.001-06:00

It's time to check in on our trees, for the photo excursion Julie & JeriAnn are hosting. These updated photos are a stark contrast to the green leaves I photographed on the tree August 28. Just a few leaves remain, shimmering a golden yellow. I didn't realize it until I downloaded the photos to my pc, that our pooch is in the background of one of them. The little sweetie is with me everywhere....

It over 70 degrees here in Iowa today ~ a rare treat for November. I hope you're enjoying rare treats today too!

diffusing flash

2009-11-05T20:00:00.001-06:00

I don't have any recently completed items & am not big on sharing works in progress so today I want to share a photography tip. The other day in one of the Yahoo groups I belong to, the subject of photographing our creations came up: specifically, to flash or not to flash. Sometimes you need the light a flash provides but that light is just too darn harsh. What can you do?

Weather and all other things permitting, take your photo outdoors.
Add other lighting at various angles to offset the shadows cast by other lighting.
Bounce light off white walls and/or ceilings. This spreads out the light and reduces the shadows.
Increase the ISO setting, attach your camera to a tripod and take the photo without the flash.
If your camera has an internal flash, try covering it with a piece of white paper, tissue, coffee filter, opaque plastic lid, etc. I've found various layers of bubble wrap work nicely. This lessens the amount of light reaching your subject, thus reducing harshness & shadows.
If your camera has a pop-up flash, cut a white or opaque plastic bottle so it will fit over the flash, thus dispersing the light a bit.

Beware that diffusing your flash can change the light from a bluish cast to a more golden tone. You may or may not like this. It's easy to adjust with your photo software if you want to change it....easier than trying to remove shadows.

If you're interested in more information, there are a good number of photography books & websites out there. Just google "diffusing flash" and you'll get all kinds of hits. Most important... experiment to see what works best for you, your camera and your situation(s).

Here are some photos from my experimentation last night. The first three photos were taken with my subcompact Canon with internal flash. Photo one is with no flash (it's blurry because I didn't use my tripod). Photo two is with flash and photo three is with flash that I diffused with bubble wrap. What do you think?

These next four photos were taken with my better quality Canon. Photo one is with no flash (using a tripod). Photo two is with added lighting. Photo three is with flash and photo four is with pop-up flash diffused by a plastic bottle. The differences are subtle, but there. If I wanted the best photo possible, I'd start with photo four and enhance it with photo software. What do you think?

belated blogiversary!

2009-11-05T18:29:00.005-06:00

Monday was the first anniversary for my blog. Woo-Hoo! While I wasn't sure what I was doing when I started out, and still don't have a clear focus, I look back at my posts over the year and see growth, which was one of the main reasons I started the blog. I've also met some talented individuals and made some good friends. I thank you for visiting my blog and enriching my life. You've reached out and connected with me, encouraged & inspired me. I'm grateful. Life is good!

I'll close this short post with a quote I came across today. It goes along with the variety of creative endeavors I experiment with and share on my blog...

"Everybody has talent, it's just a matter of moving around until you've discovered what it is." ~ George Lucas

nature nurturing

2009-10-25T20:14:00.005-05:00

Life has been pretty stressful lately. I grabbed a couple hours after work today for some soul-care. We're fortunate to live less than 10 miles from some wonderful parks, so I grabbed my camera and headed for one of my favorites. It's not a colorful park, but it's beautiful nonetheless. I could sit and stare at the oaks for hours....

The water is so soothing....

Even the clouds were cooperating to set just the right meditative mood...

A couple times I was so moved by the sights, sounds & smells, I nearly cried....

Then a squirrel came along and coaxed a big smile out of me....

Nature brings peace, balance & harmony to my life...

Please, my friends, take time for yourselves.

"We hear voices in solitude we never hear in the hurry and turmoil of life; we receive counsels and comforts we get under no other condition."
~ Amelia Barr

experiment, practice, learn!

2009-10-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

When you're creating, do you strictly follow product instructions and/or lessons learned in classes? I like to know the rules mostly so I can determine which ones I want to break.

I've been experimenting more with Friendly Plastic lately. Most of my efforts have been rather hideous, but eventually something worth saving results. This pendant is an example. It's FP on copper I added texture to then heated to warm the color. The entire piece is sealed with gloss glaze. The glaze is fine, but I'm going to the store today to buy some EnviroTex Lite and see if it will provide a nicer finish on future pieces. If you've used EnviroTex Lite and have any tips you'd like to share, I'd welcome them!

1.25" x 1.5" pendant

Friendly Plastic on textured, heated copper

autumn postcards

2009-10-17T13:11:00.004-05:00

Fighting a bug & laying low last weekend allowed me to start working on a postcard swap I signed up for with one of the groups I belong to. I hadn't done any paper crafting for awhile, and it felt surprisingly foreign at first, but it came back to me. I finished the five cards today, so will drop them in the mail Monday.

Now to grab some lunch & a nap before moving over to the other side of the studio..... I hope you're enjoying a good day too!

clove & our first snow

2009-10-10T17:10:00.000-05:00

I awoke this morning congested & with a sore throat. Boy, did that hit fast, as I felt great last night. Hopefully it'll pass as quickly as it came. To help in that regard, I cancelled today's plans and am laying low. I did some online research about which essentials oils are good for my condition and unfortunately, didn't find a lot of consistency amongst the various websites I visited. A couple mentioned clove, and since that's one of my favorites and I have it on hand, I chose it. If it doesn't work, at least I'll enjoy the aroma. It's such a warm fall scent.

I had another surprise when I awoke this morning ~ our first snow of the season. Large, fluffy flakes floated gently about, bringing a crisp freshness to the air. I took these photos early in the day, from our patio door. A little over an inch accumulated before it all melted away this afternoon. The photo below shows it on a cob web ~ interesting, huh?

Stay healthy out there!

postscript to virtual studio tour

2009-10-07T16:30:00.001-05:00

I had a great time this past weekend visiting all the studios on the tour (at least I think I made it to all of them). What a visual treat to see such varied work spaces, each enabling those creative souls to express themselves and make this world a better place. My special thanks to those of you who visited my studio via my blog and especially those who left a kind comment. You truly brightened my day.

Speaking of comments, I received several comments about the metal strip at the bottom of one of the shelving units. I'd like to share a few more of these little niceties that make the area so functional. If you can take away a helpful idea from here, my mission is complete {smile}.

Drawer slides work great for printers that open on top for scanning and for other items that need to be opened from the top when used (like my Silhouette).

An eight-outlet electrical strip attached under the work surface makes getting power easy, without the inconvenience of cords draped across the work surface. A peel-n-stick ruler (this one is 48") attached to the work surface means there's one less item to get in the way.

Modular shelving made from inexpensive mdf (medium density fiberboard) allows for wonderful flexibility. The majority of the shelves in my area are like the one pictured above. They can be hung (see next photo) or stacked. The slots allow thin panels to be inserted either horizontally or vertically as needed.

The shelves can be hung any number of ways, but we found this method to be the most flexible. A wedge-shaped board is screwed to the back of the shelf and two boards, the top one also wedge-shaped, are screwed to the wall. The board attached to the shelves nestles into the top board on the wall while the bottom board on the wall keeps the entire shelving unit equal distance from the wall, top to bottom.

Last but not least, is handy parcel paper and gift wrap storage (please ignore the dust ~ I'd rather be creating than cleaning).

If you have any questions or tips you'd like to share, please post a comment or send an email to me. I welcome your input!

welcome to my studio

2009-10-02T17:40:00.001-05:00

Welcome to my studio! Latin guitar is playing on the stereo & cedar incense is burning to sooth the senses. There are warm glows here & there from various little lamps, dragonfly lights, etc. Make yourself at home, be inspired, get paint/ink/clay/whatever on your hands & under your fingernails. Indulge & have fun!

This photo shows the room overall (the other half, behind me as I'm taking the picture, is the yoga/exercise area ~ a very important part of my life too). My very best four-legged friend and puppy soul mate is there in his bed.... with me wherever I go.

This side is set up for card making & painting (the easel is mostly cut off in the picture ~ off to the left with my denim apron hanging from it). Recently gessoed canvas frames are drying on the work surface, calling for me to express myself. If you're interested, you can click on the photo to see more detail.

As you can see, I have a weakness for stuffed animals ~ a weakness my wonderful husband indulges me in. There are several stuffed animals sprinkled about the room, helping to lighten the mood when needed, as well as giving me someone else to talk to when our dog stops listening {smile}.

Oh, and speaking of my husband, he's the talented individual who built this studio for me, to my exact specifications. I'm very blessed... and very grateful. He didn't miss a detail. For example, the bottom front edge of the shelf in the third photo has a metal strip, painted black, so I can easily use a magnet to hang instructions in front of me when I'm trying new techniques.

This area is set up for jewelry work, metals, sewing, UTEE, Friendly Plastic (the griddle is a few shelves under the stuffed animals in the last picture) and polymer clay (the oven is behind the butterfly photo on the upper shelf to the right). I don't really need two dremels, but my dad didn't use his anymore and offered it to me, so hey, why not? It's actually come in handy a few times.... having one with a sanding disk attached all the time and the other open for whatever attachment is needed has saved a little time.

Here is, unfortunately, where I am a lot of the time, instead of creating in the other work areas. There's just so much eye candy in blogland, that I get pulled in. Does this happen to you too? I now have a timer next to the keyboard, to help me manage my time better. Saturday, however, that's going out the window. I'm going to take my time and enjoy the Open Studios Virtual Tour. Come along with me, won't you?

The words on the lampshade, repeated in at least three other places in the room are a constant reminder to myself. BELIEVE.....

Thanks for visiting. If you'd like, leave a comment with your questions or feedback. As most bloggers will tell you, it's not why we blog, but it's a very nice fringe benefit!

open studios virtual tour

2009-09-29T21:20:00.002-05:00

A friend turned me onto Cloth Paper Scissors earlier this month (thanks, Terry!). I don't know how I've missed this great publication all these years. I won't miss it going forward. In it, I learned of their sister publication, Studios. This I've gotta have, as I love looking at other people's work spaces. I study the organization, the practicality, the comfort, colors, you name it and I'm enjoying it & learning from it. Then yesterday, I discovered the blogs for these publications. Better yet, they are hosting a virtual open studios event this Saturday! What a great way to get to see others' studios while sharing my little slice of heaven. Grab a cup of coffee Saturday morning & join me as we take in the sights!

Virtual Open Studios Tour, beginning Saturday, October 3, 2009.

rule of thirds

2009-09-27T20:34:00.001-05:00

It was a beautiful day here today, so before the sun set, I grabbed my camera and enjoyed the fresh air. Since my primary goal was to enjoy the moment, I kept my photo-shoot simple using the rule of thirds.

I liked how the shadows played on the wood path...

Here they played on the fence. If you squint a little, can you see the face ~ forehead, eyes & nose?

Last winter was tough on my climbing roses, but somehow my favorites hung on and blessed us with a handful of blooms this year. This might be the last one of the season...

Have a great week!

FP dragonflies & 100 days

2009-09-23T06:49:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile since I posted. Unwanted family drama visited, taking my time & energy. Before that, I was able to play a tad, and the last two nights catch up on some sleep, so I'm back & ready to engage again.

Here are a couple of dragonflies I made using Friendly Plastic (click on the image to see a closer view). I added glass beads to the bottom one before coating with gloss glaze. The effect is a little like the veins on real wings. The top dragonfly shows the veins that were part of the original metal charm I used to press into the FP.

Did you know, counting today, there are 100 days left in 2009? Time flies fast. Life passes quickly. Get out there & enjoy it while you can! And don't forget to come back & visit!

what's your focus?

2009-09-12T16:53:00.001-05:00

I got my first camera while in junior high school. I think I sent away for it from one of those ads in the back of a magazine. Unlike the pink-paddled breast-enhancer (you know them.... you'd squeeze the paddles together in front of your chest) that only gave me sore arms when it promised a larger bosom, the cheap plastic camera actually worked. Here's what was probably the first picture taken with that camera (my sis took it ~ it's of me ~ age 14).

In high school I received a 110 pocket Instamatic as well as a Polaroid self-developing camera. It wasn't until digital came around that I decided to invest in something new. I chose an Olympus Camedia C3000. It was one of the best non-SLR cameras available in 2001 and worked well for me for several years. It still works, but this year I wanted something more ~ something with more zoom that I could easily carry with me. Not finding one camera to fit both needs, I purchased two. In my purse, I carry a Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital Elph. When I'm after good photographs, I use my Canon PowerShot SX1 IS. The SX1 IS is as close as I could find to an SLR without the price tag, challenges & higher learning curve of an SLR (I hope to get there someday).

Anyhoo..... to the point of this blog post... The auto-focus of most cameras zeros in on what is exactly in the center of your viewfinder/ LCD screen. What if that's not the section of your photo that you want to be the sharpest? For example, here's a picture I took without thinking about the auto-focus.

The fence is more in focus than the metal ring. This was not my intent. When I realized my mistake, I went back for another photo. This time, I shifted the camera so a portion of the metal ring was in the center then held the focus button half-way to 'lock' it. I then shifted the camera so the fence was again in the center of the photo and snapped the picture. See the difference?

Is this earth-shattering? Umm, no. It is something, however, that novice photographers might easily forget. Discovering a problem when we get home and view the photo on our computer monitor is not the time to shift the focus. Whenever we can, it behooves us to take a few moments before taking a picture to think through everything, then after snapping the picture, zoom in to view the photo on the camera's LCD screen before moving on.

Happy photographing!

let your life speak

2009-09-10T20:57:00.003-05:00

This evening I finished reading "Let Your Life Speak - Listening for the Voice of Vocation" by Parker J. Palmer. It's insightful and thought-provoking. As I thought through what the author had shared, I noticed I'd highlighted & tabbed at least a dozen pages. With that much good stuff, I decided to share a few paragraphs. I went to the publisher's website to find the correct form to request permission. That's where I saw notice that it will take approximately 4 to 6 weeks to process my request. I'm not that patient, so must forgo sharing the paragraphs I'd selected and opt instead for just one sentence (which I hope won't get me in trouble with copyright laws).

"We are here not only to transform the world but also to be transformed." ~ Parker J. Palmer

You can read more about this book on Amazon.com (and I suppose several other sites that sell books). It's a great little book that I highly recommend. My thanks to Patti Digh for suggesting it.

Oh, and yes, I need a fourth category for my blogging (see yesterday's post) entitled "other." {smile}

a little organization please

2009-09-09T20:08:00.001-05:00

Taking a cue from Melissa Haren who hosts a delightful & diverse blog, I'm going to put some structure around my blogging. I intend for this to not only help me stay on track with my goals, but be informational (and with any luck, inspirational) for anyone who reads my blog as well. My focus will be on three main categories:

arts & crafts (greeting cards, jewelry, mixed media, etc. made with Friendly Plastic, metal, polymer clay, acrylics, UTEE, the possibilities are endless... )
photography (anything from composition to camera settings to links to some great pictures &/or informational sites)

aromatherapy (information about essential oils, etc.)

Each week, I intend to learn something new &/or play in at least one, if not all three of these areas, and pass along that knowledge/ share the results with you. Are any of these areas you're interested in?

Please come along with me, and if you have skills and/or knowledge you'd like to share, I welcome it! If you have questions or comments, post them! I'm determined to engage & experience this life we're given and I'd love to do that with like-minded souls.

They say when you know you must teach others, you put more focus on retaining what you learn. I'm going to test that theory {smile}.

volunteers, reflection, remains & whimsy

2009-09-06T21:20:00.000-05:00

I wondered around our yard with my camera today. As I didn't plant any veggies this year, I was delighted a month or two ago to see volunteer tomato plants growing from the previous year's fallen tomatoes. What a luscious treat a ripe tomato is eaten fresh from/in the garden!

Here I caught my reflection, along with the clouds, in the water of our pool.

This is the remains of a clematis flower. As beautiful & interesting as the blossom itself, don't you think? Looks like something Tim Burton would dream up.

And what would a garden/home be without some whimsy here & there? This is just one of several smiles we've sprinkled about.

time & the holiday weekend

2009-09-05T10:30:00.001-05:00

For most of us, this is a three-day weekend ~ WOO-HOO! Here at our house, we're doing home maintenance projects & enjoying time with family. We've also set aside play time for creating. I'll share a photo or two in the next couple of days, but just want to plant a couple seeds this morning for everyone....

"Do we really need more time, or do we simply need to use our time more wisely?" ~ Amy Jones

"The bad news is time flies. The good news is you're the pilot." ~ Michael Altshuler

I hope you have a wonderful & creative holiday weekend!

fall jewelry set & discovering my purpose

2009-08-30T17:20:00.001-05:00

I had high hopes going into this weekend to play with Friendly Plastic &/or polymer clay to make some unique jewelry pieces. Alas, it wasn't meant to be this weekend. I did, however, squeeze in some time last night to bead/wire a necklace & earring set for one of my favorite fall blouses.

Today I browsed through the fall calendar of local adult education classes. I seriously considered the precious metal clay class, but decided I have enough stuff to play with already, without adding something new just now. I want to play with what I've got first! I did, however, sign up for a class (almost always do... just can't resist). It's entitled, "Discover Your Purpose." My husband just smiled & laughed a little when I told him the two classes I'd considered & which one I chose, saying he knew it would be either arts/crafts or self-discovery/help. What can I say? {smile}...

How about you? What's the last class you signed up for?

getting arboreal: a nature collection

2009-08-28T21:40:00.000-05:00

If you follow my blog, you know I have a thing for trees, so when I learned Julie over at The Land of Lost Luggage was teaming up with JeriAnn for their second annual photo excursion and the subject was trees, I grabbed my camera. Meet my tree....

This tree is one of two river birches my husband & I planted a couple of years ago. Isn't the bark interesting? And what a deal we got.... as part of a special program sponsored by our local energy company and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, we purchased them for only $25 each. What a bargain!

Be sure to come back around November 8-14 for a new photo or two, as each of us participating in the excursion will post a total of three times (the last being the week of April 4-10). In the meantime, act like a tree frog and hop (or click) on over to Julie's blog to see her tree, as well as links to all the other participant's photos.

delighted!

2009-08-25T06:04:00.000-05:00

I'm delighted to share that today my Friendly Plastic charm from my last post is featured on the Friendly Plastic blog. How fun is that?! Do a gal a favor and check it out, will ya? I'm betting you'll see something you like over there. It's full of inspiration, eye candy, techniques with step-by-step instructions and links to other fun, inspiring sites.

A special thanks to Linda Peterson of Linda Peterson Designs for reaching out to me for this opportunity. Every day holds something special in store!

"It makes no difference how many peaks you reach if there was no pleasure in the climb." ~ Oprah Winfrey

Enjoy the journey.

my first charm swap

2009-08-22T18:09:00.001-05:00

front

back

This month I participated in a charm swap with the Yahoo group Altered Art of Visions and Dreams. Each of us created three charms no larger than 1-1/2", and each with a silver jump ring. I decided to use Friendly Plastic for mine. Considering this was only my second time using Friendly Plastic, there was some trial & error, but it was all fun. Instead of using a rubber stamp to create a recessed image, I used a broken broach of my Grandmother's. For the back, I cut a circle from the metal portion of an old floppy diskette (remember those?), hammered it to create texture, then applied metal ink to it. After attaching the front to the back, I dipped each charm in gloss glaze for protection along with a nice shine.

These charms were a lot of fun to make and I'm anxious to make more Friendly Plastic pieces, as a variety of ideas have been swimming in my head.

What about you? Have you played with Friendly Plastic? Do tell....

renewed enthusiasm & goal setting

2009-08-16T11:54:00.003-05:00

I enjoy photography. I am not educated in the craft, knowing next-to-nothing about aperture, shutter speed, etc., but I enjoy taking photos none-the-less.

Those of you that follow my blog know I submitted photos to the Iowa State Fair this year and none of them were accepted. While disappointing, it was really a gift in disguise (most disappointments are). We attended the Iowa State Fair on Friday and as we do every year, visited the Photography Salon first to see all the beautiful and inspiring photographs, paying particular attention to those on the wall with ribbons. Afterwards, I asked to retrieve my photos from the back room and was lucky enough to have the Superintendent of the event assist me. He asked if I'd like his feedback on my work. Did I ever?! He looked at each of my photos with me, telling me specifically what I could've done differently that most likely would've earned entrance into the show and even ribbons for a couple of them. He said it was clear I have a good eye and he knew if I worked at it, I'd be in the event next year, giving me all kinds of tips & suggestions. Now, obviously, he wants to grow the event (they broke records again this year) but he was so truly passionate and enthusiastic about photography and helping me learn & understand things, that I believe him. Spending 10-15 minutes with him was the highlight of my day! When we left the building, I sat down and made notes from everything he'd told me, so as not to forget a thing!

After that, and some fair food, we took in all the fantastic pieces at the Fine Arts event and then the Arts & Crafts area. Usually I gravitate to the mixed media pieces, but this year, it was a color-washed pen & ink drawing that caught my eye. The piece has so much going on in it I could look at it for hours. Most importantly, it stirred a feeling in me I cannot describe. That's what I someday want my art/photos/whatever to do. Tell a story ~ evoke emotions ~ transport the viewer somewhere.

At the working artist tent, I met the air brush artist my DH recently took classes from. What a talented & nice guy and wow, his work blew me away. What an inspirational morning it was! I just love our fair...

Today's task? I'm goal driven. If I don't have specific goals, I sway all over the place without purpose. Today I'm going to check the status of my 2009 goals and consider tweaking them. I was bad, putting them away a few months ago, which is a big no-no. Out of sight is out of mind for me. The year is more than half over already. Things change and need re-evaluated from time to time. There's no better day than today!

How about you? Do you have specific goals? I'm curious.... how often do you review and possibly modify them?

shadows on layers

2009-08-09T19:00:00.001-05:00

When I was photographing one of the backgrounds I made while taking Julie Prichard's Layer Lover class, I decided to play around with how shadows looked on the piece. Interesting...

What do you see in the shadows?

forget tarot cards...

2009-08-02T21:15:00.001-05:00

What do you think toenails say about a woman? Are perfectly tended feet & toenails a telling sign of something, and if so, what? Is she pampered, or just taking good care of herself? I don't wear polish on my finger nails as my art, yard-work, etc. make it too much effort to maintain. I do, however, indulge my feet. Lately, however, I've forgone luscious reds & oranges for clear polish. What does this mean? Am I being indecisive, or increasing my apparel options? One of life's mysteries, I guess.... {smile....}

So tell me, what color polish is on your toes right now?

Snow White in July

2009-07-31T21:22:00.004-05:00

The current challenge for Mixed Media Mischief Makers is Snow White. Personally, I don't care for the story; it's far too dark for my taste. However, I love a challenge and the members of MMMM are great, so I gave it a try. Here's my piece. I like it much more than my Alice in Wonderland piece. That one was far too busy for my taste. This one is simpler....more focused on what I wanted to draw attention to from the story.

This 8 x 8 mixed media on canvas includes acrylics, polymer clay, floral tape & UTEE. My photo doesn't show the color variation & texture of the background, but I think you get the gist. I tried to focus on the contrast between how ugly & cruel deception is and how it can deceive us with shiny, luscious beauty.

Tell me.... what part of Snow White captures your imagination?

Jane, I've got a blow

2009-07-29T19:58:00.000-05:00

Tonight, as I read the results I'd been waiting a month for, all I could think of was the line in Jane Eyre where Mr. Rochester learns Mason is in his house.... "Jane, I've got a blow; I've got a blow, Jane." Now, granted, my blow is much less by comparison, but it's definitely a let down. Allow me to explain.

As with many state fairs, having your photo selected for exhibit at the Photography Salon at the Iowa State Fair is an honor. I first entered in 2003 and all four of my photos were exhibited. One received honorable mention. I was shocked and thrilled. That year, 39% of the photos entered were exhibited. The next year, two of my four photos were exhibited. Overall, 36% of those entered were shown. I skipped five years and tried again this year. Tonight I learned none of my four were selected. I knew it would be tough since last year, only 22% were selected, but still..... it's disappointing.

As the news sank in, I kept thinking of the positive feedback I've received from my family, online friends & blog visitors. That feedback really helps put things in perspective for me. So what if the judges at our fair this year didn't care for my work, I like it, and so do others. I'll continue to photograph my way and be happy about it. And to those who've ever offered a positive comment on my work, I thank you!

If you're interested, I entered two of the photos already posted on my blog along with these two (without the watermarks, of course)...

circus rose

deck chair

movement

2009-07-28T19:37:00.001-05:00

Today I worked on my piece for the "Snow White" challenge I'm participating in. If I'd been thinking, I'd have taken a picture of my Sculpey Glaze mishap & share it as a blooper, but I thought of it too late. Suffice it to say when they say you can bake the glaze a few minutes to help seal it, they mean 1 or 2 minutes ~ not 5 or 6. LOL. Anyway, the background paint isn't dry so I can't yet assemble the piece. Thus, I'm sharing a photo I took today which captures some of my very favorite colors. I'll share the challenge piece yet this week (it's due 8/1).

a little push

2009-07-28T10:29:00.000-05:00

"Our own well-being is always the result of healthy decisions for ourselves coupled with disengagement from the choices of others."
~ Karen Casey

I'll tell ya up front the sole reason I'm publishing this post is to push myself to create something today. I want to. I need to. I will. I've been taking care of family & other things for a month now with little/no down time. Today I'm taking a much-needed break to replenish myself. I'll be of no good to others if I don't stop & take care of myself. And, like most of you who visit my blog know, one of the very best ways to do that is through creative expression/escape. Whether it's good or bad, done or not, I'll post something tonight, then hopefully catch up on all the blogs I love to visit. You might see me tip-toeing through your blog in the next couple of days! Leave the porch light on.....

create where you can

2009-07-12T08:19:00.001-05:00

I haven't had any studio time for three or four weeks (yes, I'm going through withdrawals) so I express myself wherever I can. Yesterday, it was mowing the front lawn. I think it looks like pond ripples around the tree. What do you see?

it's how you look at things

2009-07-02T11:45:00.000-05:00

Life threw a nasty curve my way a couple weeks ago, one I certainly didn't see coming. Ever. But with every painful, unhappy situation there's an opportunity. An opportunity to grow & become a better person, to help someone else, and yes, to be happy in spite of situations. Sometimes it takes us awhile to see it, but it's there. We need only look for it. That might mean changing our position.

This photo visually expresses what I'm saying. These plants are less then 1" tall. People rarely even notice them. They're growing out of the moss that grows in between our cobblestone patio. Lying on the ground with my camera on macro, I see another world. I can almost see the fairies dancing about. Can you?

if you don't like it, change it

2009-06-18T16:49:00.000-05:00

I've been taking Julie Prichard's "Layer Love" class the past month (great class!). My attempt at lesson 1 left something to be desired, so after later lessons, I went back in and modified it. I like it much better now. Can you see the trees through the vegetation? And yes, I need to work on my lettering (smile). Try clicking on the above image to see the texture detail. Below is the "before."

an amazing book, a wren house and a quote

2009-06-09T20:42:00.001-05:00

Tonight I finished "Life is a Verb" by Patti Digh. Well, finished my first reading ~ this book will not be placed on a shelf to gather dust. It was one of the most moving & insightful books I've ever read. Reading it these past few months (this is not a book to rush through) I've laughed, cried, written notes, done some of the action exercises, highlighted passages & quotes and tabbed so many pages with colored post-it tape it looks like it's got fringe! If you haven't read this book, I encourage you to check it out!

Afterwards, I strolled through the garden with my camera. The wrens came back again this year, nesting in a ceramic acorn. Funny, we have about a dozen wooden houses we put out for them, and they choose this acorn which was meant to be just decorative. Hey.... whatever they want they can have.... I'm just tickled they're here! I'm continually amazed at how loud those tiny little birds can be with their songs.

Lastly, I want to share a favorite quote in follow-up to my poem from Sunday.

"The only fundamental rule for me is to just be yourself. Let your freak-flag fly, and if someone doesn't get you, move on." ~ Drew Barrymore

I choose embrace

2009-06-07T11:45:00.002-05:00

do you ever feel
like you don't fit in
anywhere
you wonder why
you seem to see life
differently
from everyone else
you know you don't
not with 6.8 billion others
but yet it feels that way
sometimes
surely there are others
others with similar thoughts
questions
beliefs
interests
you can connect with
on some level
but
connections are fleeting
friends are rare
we're all too busy
with the details of life
we don't notice
don't care
don't have time
and tomorrow comes
another opportunity
to wake up
enjoy
every precious moment
we're given
we're all intimately connected
whether we realize it
embrace it
or not
I choose embrace

Creative Spirit Art

2009-06-06T12:31:00.001-05:00

I'm late with this post, but I just have to share the wonderful surprise I received in the mail this week! Caryn Lynn Duncan from Creative Spirit Art in Dover, NH, http://www.carynduncan.com/ sent this inspirational "pocket full of Creativity." I just love the sayings & the colors she chose. And what attention to detail she has.... the silver thread used for the stitching & button-tie closure are great. It brings me such joy. Thank you, Caryn Lynn!

birthday "cards"

2009-05-23T18:37:00.000-05:00

My husband's birthday was Friday. We took the day off to celebrate together, as we do every year. Since he already received his gifts before his birthday, I wanted to come up with something to surprise him. He's commented on occasion that I make cards (as in greeting) for everyone but him. So this year, I decided to make cards for him. But, instead of greeting cards, I made playing cards so he could "deal" the day however he wanted it to play out. It was a big hit. Here are the steps I came up with, in case you want to do something similar for someone you love.

Decide what you want on the cards. I used categories such as food & drink, movies, culture, outdoors, road trip, etc. Click on the photos to see what I mean.

Create a 3-column table in Microsoft Word or similar program, setting the column height at 3.5" & the width at 2.5"

Type in the table cells & use available clip art to add visuals & color. Print. I used glossy photo paper, but this isn't necessary.

Make a generic version for the card backs. Print.

Trim excess from all printed pages, keeping the table of 9 cards still together, 3 columns & 3 rows per page.

Glue card fronts to card backs. I used my tape gun, but if I do this again, I'll use the adhesive cartridge with my Xyron.

Laminate the fronts & backs. I used the two-sided lamination cartridge with my Xyron, but any lamination product should work.

Cut the cards. Use a small corner punch on all four corners of every cards. Note, however, this was extremely tough on my punch, so I'll be buying a new one at some point.

Print two of the generic card backs on one page of card stock. Cut and glue/tape to create card box.

metal & wood yin & yang

2009-05-13T20:34:00.001-05:00

One of the Yahoo groups I'm in does a weekly ATC hobnob. This week's theme is Yin & Yang. I chose to use metal & wood. The metal is light aluminum and the wood is a veneer insert that was inside one of DH's cigar boxes. It's a very simple ATC, but I like how that simplicity seems to strengthen the elements & put the focus on them.

Live easy, love freely & laugh loudly!

mom's day cards

2009-05-10T08:54:00.001-05:00

Here are a couple quick cards from last night. The images are from Stampington & Co.

I hope all you moms out there have a wonderful day!

dogs as teachers

2009-05-06T17:12:00.001-05:00

The following is from an email making its way around, so you may have already seen it, but if not, enjoy.... I love the message and I'd like to give credit to the author, but the email I received didn't indicate who wrote it. If you happen to know, would you please contact me so I can give credit? Thanks!

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!

wonderland challenge

2009-05-03T20:41:00.001-05:00

The open house blog party at Mixed Media Mischief Makers is just around the corner. Here's my completed piece for the Wonderland Challenge:

This 8x8 mixed media on canvas includes acrylics, polymer clay, "silk" flowers with UTEE centers, grunge board with spray paint, cut pewter (dream), mosaic tiles, drawer pull (crown), "admit one" ticket (part of a goodies packet my pal Marsha at http://tumblefishstudio.blogspot.com/ sent me a few months ago), glossy photo paper (Cheshire cat grin) heat-treated copper mesh, heat-treated soft copper and a safety pin.

Don't forget to swing by the Mixed Media Mischief Makers blog on Tuesday, May 5 for the open house! Be sure to leave a comment for a chance for a door prize. http://mixedmediamischiefmakers.blogspot.com/

golden visitor

2009-05-01T13:25:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I was treated to several visits from a goldfinch. Although it's our state bird here in Iowa, I've not seen very many of them. I was delighted to discover it likes the new seed in the feeder. The photo isn't very sharp, but isn't this feathered friend a gorgeous yellow? When s/he flies across your line of sight, you see it!