Saturday, December 26, 2009

A fitting End to a Merry Christmas!


After all the pretty presents were opened and our bellies were full, my youngest daughter had one more gift for us...she passed out silly mustaches.  She labeled it, donning our gay apparel. And to all a Good Night!
Hope you all had a Very Merry Christmas!

We did get our first snow on Christmas Eve! How perfect was that?  I didn't take any pictures until this morning. 

It isn't packing snow, but so pretty!
Now it's on to a brand New Year!

Friday, December 25, 2009

The Gift


I received the gift of remembering, and knowing.
My gift came several years ago, but I was reminded by Sarah, a few days ago.  She sent good will to her friend, Renee.  
We all link to blogs, read a bit and go on.  But Renee, hit a sore spot. Renee gave me goose-bumps.  Renee, made me remember.  So in turn, Sarah and Renee, gave me a gift.
Let Fly!
So here is my gift.
 I haven't told many, about what I experienced.  It was mine to know.  And it's what I believe.
11 years and 2 months ago, my husband was diagnosed with Multiple Myloma. It's a cancer that develops through the bone marrow. (a gift from his stint in Vietnam and  agent orange). Our world as we knew it changed forever.  When Richard, (husband), found out, he was devastated. At that time he was told  that there wasn't a lot they could do besides chemo and radiation.  Big whoop! He was given 18 months.  And I thought, how dare they tell him that. That is not going to happen.
My husband, had said to me, "what if it is all that I have left to live?" And all I could tell him was, "well it will be the best 18 months you will ever have".  I wanted him to know that he had to think he had a million years ahead of him.  He had to Know!
We got through the first round and the second round...etc.that lasted a year, we even left home and lived in a sterile  hospital room for 3 months.  He had a bone marrow transplant that WORKED!  Of course, there was daily and monthly  treatments to keep his cancer repressed, but he was living again.
I always believed and always asked, to keep my husband strong and healthy and safe.  But, to whom am I asking? 

I am not a highly religious person, but I've always believed in the power.  It was this power within me that helped us get through this change in our lives.  I asked for guidance and strength, but from where? Heck if I know, I just knew, I believed. If I could take on his or anyone's burden I'd do it in a flash.   But let me get to the nitty gritty of the gift I received, with another slight detour.   My husbands, Mother was a very gifted soul.
We had our ins and outs, me being the "daughter-in-law"... I wasn't taking her son away.  We became very close through out the years,  after we stopped competing for the love of one human being.
6 years after my husbands transplant, the cancer started moving again. While dealing with this, my mother-in-law passed away.  It was totaly unexpected and I didn't know how my husband would handle it.  He did okay, I was the one who went  bonkers.  Who was I going to confide in, who could I talk about the things we studied, the spirtuality, the path of our lives?  I truly loved her.
 Two weeks after her passing I asked for a healing for my husband, I didn't ask for guidance or an orpportunity.  I was adament, I wanted a healing...that's what I got.
I went to sleep telling not asking!
I felt myself awaking, like I had to get up, and as I turned over to get up, I heard a voice in my mind,  don't open your physical eyes, watch and listen..I envisoned my eyes opening, but yet they were closed.    The air around me went quiet.  I felt the stillness.  The sounds of the outside world went still.  Yet I felt an air of silence.  It's a feeling, just a feeling.  My body was turned on it's side facing the door of my bedroom and then I felt the presence of an overwhelming light.  In my minds eye I saw the precesion of the High Holy Healers enter, into my bedroom, with an amber glow like candle light.  They were led by my Mother-in-law.  I only knew it was her because of her small height.  Yet just a feeling.  Knowing.  She was clothed in a white gown of simple cotton, how do I know, I don't, I just know.  She is followed by the 3 Holy men.  How do I know, I just know. I know they are there to guide her to heal.  I know they are the High Holy Healers.  The air has a scent of insense, I hear the chanting in Latin.  I know.  But how do I know?  I see them wave their hands over my husband, speaking, chanting, blessing.  I see my Mother-in-law look directly into my eyes, she doesn't say a physical word, but I hear her speak the words.  "I am a healer now! I simply am.".
I knew in that very monmet that my husband was healed of that particular cancer.  I knew it with my whole being.  I also knew that she came as a healer and not as the Mother, that he knew. I felt that the High Holy Healers were there to guide her in her first healing, I just believed.   And in that knowing, I learned that the power of my thought brought the healing of light and unconditional love.  I just know.
A light in someones eye, a smile, the mention of a friend in a blog post, that touches someones spirtit.
A gift.
We are many, we are one!
Merry Christmas


Shhh sleep now!

Friday, December 11, 2009

The Snow The Memories!



It's beauty, it's white, it's, clean, it's soft, it's wet and cold...SNOW!  There's a heavy silence in the air as each magical crystal lands upon the earth, layer upon layer, creating another wonderland to play in.
The first snow is magical, it always brings forth my childhood...fighting with my sisters, over who gets to wear the red rubber boots.  I always got the ugly black ones, with the clunky metal buckles, that were way to big so I'd have to wear 3 pairs of socks. Which was totally useless after jumping in the biggest snow drift I could find, because I came out of the drift but my boots didn't.
We'd spend hours rearranging the snow in the yard  with half built snowmen, and angels lined up in 5 different sizes.  Our laughter bounced off the insulation of the snow when we threw the first snowball, and our screams boomed when we got hit in the face and felt the icey cold freeze slide down our necks.
I know many of you recevied your first seasons snow. You either love it or curse it, but the first snow is magic!  It brings back the child. The child who never forgets to play.
Sadly we haven't received our first snow, so I'll share a photo of last seasons first snow!
Enjoy! Laugh! Play!

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Greetings From the Big Guy


Well I finally finished one of my Santas'!  And lupey me! I used oil paint...took forever to dry!  But I did enjoy dipping my brushes in the mix of colors, the smell of turpintine, the smuge of red paint on my face!   I just listed him on Ebay.  He's like a giant, old fashion post card greeting! Now I really need to go clean up the paints.  The brushes have been soaking long enough, time to wash them before they turn to goo!  

All is well on Pearl Avenue...for now!  

Thursday, December 3, 2009

A Few of my Favorite Things!!!!

As I was creating little pretties, I'd finish what ever I was working on and set it a side.  In this case the finished pieces ended up in a nest of honeysuckle.  Now, as each piece landed in the nest, and I started creating the next little treasure, my mind was frantically trying to figure...do I make a whole village to go with the church, and what should I  add to the paper cones?  What do I have, in my baskets and buckets, which has taken over my work space,  that will enhance the crown and the cross?  As my thoughts traveled out into the universe, I glanced at my nest full of little pretties...Well duh! It looks perfect just as it is!  

So why do we beat ourselves up over a solution when it's almost always right in front of us?  I know it's a trivial little thing, (what to do with the pretties), but maybe if I let my mind wonder out of the box and let it tread into the silence of space...let go, I'll remember that there is nothing that can't be solved. 

So, you know what I'm going to do after I finish my Santa s? (Yes I'm almost finished with them. )  I'm going to knock down a wall.  One that does not hold up the house! 

Saturday, November 28, 2009

A Whimsical Dream

I've finished this magical, whimsical art moon doll, which is attached to a keepsake box.  I love sculpting my versions of these moons, not quite human, but yet...that's what imagination is for! My favorite part of this sculpture is the antique ear bob.  I have lots of pretty odd ball treasures, and plan to add one to each vintage moon.  Maybe the next one will have a body!   I currently have this Whimsical Dream on Ebay, take a look-see for details! 

I have my hands in a lot of projects right now, and today my goal is to finish a painting of Santa, so I'm off to play in the paints!  Enjoy the day!

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Do You Want to go to Paris!


The Coastal Sisters are having a giveaway! So head on over to  http://coastalsistersnews.blogspot.com/ before the 29th, you'll find all the info when you get there, you know you'll want this little treasure!  It's so, Oh la lucious!

Friday, November 20, 2009

Do You Believe...


Because We Believe...Art,  Ebay artisit group is celebrating their 1st year, and you should see what they are giving away!  Go and check them out and get in on the celebration! The giveaways are all GORGIOUS!
Just click on the link if you Believe!

Monday, November 16, 2009

Here Comes Santa Claus!


I've been checking to see who's naughty or nice, and of course we've all been nice!
This right jolly old elf is currently on Ebay! 
Go see if you are on his naughty or nice list!

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Anyone Up For A Round of Dominos ? No Jest!



 I've been working on sculptures of course...
but I'm going back to my beginnings!  Using bits a pieces of found objects.  That's what I used to do.
Restyling vintage objects.  Though in a smaller scale, the treasures I've collected over the years, can not, and will not be thrown away!  Alone they are works of art, but when creating...I see art in every piece of salvage I've collected, destine for the garbage pile.  I will think nothing of scavenging through a pile of trash.  Most sought after is a house being demolished.  Though I've only used a minute portion in this Jester/Domino piece, it was worth it.  Oh do I have treasures!!!  And you shall see, it just takes time to put them all together!  But for now, this unique piece is here, Etsy . 
 Enjoy!



Tuesday, November 10, 2009

It's A Jolly Holiday Giveaway


The Team at Magical Holiday Artists, are having their first giveaway! 
Just click on the link for your chance to win some of the seasons magic for yourself!

Monday, November 2, 2009

The return of the Full Moon!

One of my favorite things in the world is the light of the full moon!  When the glow of the full moon, lights the dark earth, casting its light...it  leaves me breathless.  Or when the shimmery beams reflects the surface of the ocean or a lake, or even a shallow bird bath, it' wondrous illumination inspires me beyond words.
I don't have a recent image of the glorious moon, but tonight I'll venture out and take my shot of the glowing wonder in the sky.
So right now I'll have to leave you with a sculpture that was inspired by the Man in the Moon!

Tonight when the Moon is high, go out and take a deep and see how inspired you become!

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Happy Halloween To All


We are preparing today!
The disguise, the treats, the merriment!
Have a safe and Happy Halloween!
...and save a piece of candy for yourself.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Before We Know It We'll Hear HO HO HO! But Right Now It's Hoot Hoot!

Yep I'm still working on Halloween! Oh I've got snowmen Wips, and a Santa or Two, in the works, but it ain't over til it's over! I still have candy to buy, and maybe a costume to disguise myself...and I haven't carved my pumpkin yet! Rush Rush Rush, and before you know it, that Jolly old Man with a twinkle in his eye, will be wishing us a Merry Christmas to All!!!

TRICK-OR-TREAT!
and
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Let it Snow, let it snow let it snow,,,Oh No not yet!


It was still snowing when this snowman was made. The giggles and laughter echoing through the neighborhood, while trying to roll the snow for the perfect snowman.
Well it was in my imagination! Just getting ready to pull out the snow boots, the coats and scarves and gloves! I love the first snow of the season. I can feel the memories of childhood creeping into my being. The heavy wet snow sucking my boots right off my feet. My cheeks frozen and red, the quiet calming stillness as the flakes drift down, insulating the earth...and then the first snowball, hits me, right smack in my face!!! The war begins! And the beauty of white glitter is no more!
This snowman is ready to help you with your snowball fight. He's listed on Etsy.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

New Moon


Just waiting for the new moon, so in the mean time I created this Victorian style Moon Man! I'm still working on Halloween pieces. I always work on Halloween, can't stop! But this guy was in my head and I had to start working on him. So here he is...only 3 days on Ebay, starting tomorrow. Now it's time to catch a few more moon beams and wish upon a star. Umm, what am I going to create next?

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

By the Light of the Silvery....

It's all because of the Man in the Moon. He's there, watching all of us, lighting the way. He'll leave for a bit, but he'll come back, he always does, giving us that awe inspiring celestial show, that only he can do. Hope you enjoyed his iridescent span of glow, mine was a silvery golden blue, before the wispy clouds rolled in. But he was still there, and I anxiously wait for the next light of the silvery moon.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Busy Bees Bee-ing Bee Witched



Boy did I get side tracked with these little bees! I started sculpting pumpkins and witches. As always I walk away from my pulp, and apparently I walked away for a long time, because the pulp was setting and firm and what did I see in the blob of pulp? It was the impression of a bee, so that is why I got side tracked with the Bees, I got Bee Witched...so once one was finished I had to start a whole hive. So here are 4, two are sold, and I really need to get back to the pumpkins and witches. They will be finished by this weekend. Now if the weather will cooperate, they will dry in time, and I won't have to turn the oven on...

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Hurry Hurry for the Giveaway

Debb over at http://halloweenjinglesbellsboo.blogspot.com/ is having a giveaway. She is picking a winner on the 22 of September, so hurry, and add you name to the pot. I love giveaways. Good Luck, you may just win the prize.

Taking a Trip


I am sending these guys on a trip. They are going to visit Nancy at www.artistreestudios.com. Nancy is having an art show in October. I'm gonna miss them, but they are excited about being in an art show. So I'll shine them up in their Halloween finery, and pack them carefully in a layer of cobwebs. Hopefully they will all find new homes and spread their whimsy holiday cheer around! Have a good trip you guys!

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Artistic Halloween Queens Giveaway!!!


Look who's having a Giveaway!!
Head on over to
http://artisticthalloweenqueens.blogspot.com/
and enter for a chance to win some Halloween Treats!
Winners will be chosen September 22.
Pass the word, and hurry on over!




Monday, August 31, 2009

Look What I Won!

Okay, look up! AT the Banner. I won that banner!
So my special great big thanks to, Brenda at The Vintage Polka Dot! for having that contest that I just happened to pop in on at the last minute.
Yea for me! And again Thank You, Brenda!

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Think I like these colors?



I seem to have used these colors all week! I didn't want to, but Halloween was screaming at me!
I did manage to finish a few pieces.
I whipped up some Halloween brooches. You'd think it would have been easier because they are small.
WRONG!
Maybe if I'd get bi-focal s so I could see what I was painting?
&
I finished another shelf sitter. Classic primitive folk art style.
Now do I list them on EBay or Etsy?

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

It's Hard to Settle in after a Vacation


I have tons of WIPs to finish, but my thoughts are still here!
I don't have to tell anyone how hard it is to settle back in after a vacation.
Ah such is life...and the anticipation of the next Holiday.

But for now... the next Holiday is Halloween, and I need to put on my Witches hat.
I think I shall wear "that" hat while doing the laundry!
What inspiration !

Besides finishing Halloween projects, I want to finish the non-Halloween projects that have been patiently waiting, and waiting.
Yes I shall create today with paint and wax.

All is well in the world today.

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Another Fine Mess

I know I know I keep making a mess! But you see, when I mix the pulp, and use what I need, I always have some left. So begins another character! I promise they will get done.
I work well under pressure. It's not the creating of the figures that stops me, it's the painting. Some times, these fine pieces of body parts will sit, and sit, until they tell me what colors they would like to have splashed on them.
So I shall get back to creating and clean up my mess!

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Was I going Blind?

I've been working on this painting, an image of children at the sea shore. I've had this image in my head for months. I am a huge, huge, huge,(did I say HUGE?), fan of Bessie Pease Gutmman, the famous artist, who captured the pure essence of children. Her images always makes my breath catch. If I could only illustrate as she did...anyway, there is no way I could ever paint as she did! But when an image triggers something in you to create, well that is what art is all about.
I have always desired to sketch, draw, paint,...children, and always told my self, who you? Yeah me, I had to try. I layed out the sketch, filled a little color in to give me guide line and started working. Of course it will change in every way so as not to actually copy her work. As with every artist, you capture an inspiration and use it to make it your own. I picked my colors, which will change through out the whole process, and began to do some light detail.
Now I know my vision isn't what it used to be, but something was diffidently going on here. I would dip my brush, and apply. Well that didn't show up, so I dipped my brush again. Nothing. Am I going blind? Is my eyesight finally going? Do I keep dipping my brush thinking it hits the paint, when it's not?
I even clean my brushes, and start over. Zip, not'ta, the paint is not going where I apply. This is serious if I can't see detail. I cleaned my brushes again, wipe off the water and put them away in the rusty tin cup I always store them in.
I decided it was time to see the eye Doc'. I looked up his number, made an appointment and felt a lot better, knowing I was going to nip this eye sight thing in the bud. I went back to my studio to tidy up, and re organize, and what did my perfect sight see? Ah Hah! It was more than my sight, it was my lovely little kitty! Apparently she has penchant for chewing on my brushes until all the fine bristles are totally chewed down to a nub!
I kept the eye appointment, because if I couldn't see that the fine hairs of the brush were gone, then it is time to bi-focal! UGH! Still can't blame the cat!

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Summer Time Fun

I've been working on these row houses, fun, fun, fun...lots of color and crayons! Now it's time for fine tuning, they need the tweak to make them POP! But what to choose? I have boxes and tubs full of great stuff, locks, knobs, ancient hinges with 100 year old rust still on them, dare I leave the rust on? I'll probably list these on Etsy, with in a week or so, but it all depends...I get lost going through all of my treasures, and get side-tracked.

Side-tracked as in painting. I started cleaning my work table and found some inspirational pictures I had tucked in a book. You know those little pieces of clippings you'll need one day? Well I found a picture that I had always wanted to paint, and started sketching the layout, and I'm obsessed with it now, so as soon as I clean the oil paint out of my finger nails and get my brushes cleaned up I'll start on Halloween.

It's a good day on Pearl Avenue

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Back to Creating

It's time to finish these

I am one of those fortunate homeowners, who still, has radiators to heat my home, and it's great for speed drying my sculptures. But since turning the gas off for the summer, it takes forever for these characters to come to life. So what do I do? I start another batch of pulp!!! The bare skeletons of these characters are lined up in various stages, from wet to dry, waiting patiently for that final hardness to set in, only to be dropped. Yep, I drop every one of my pieces to make sure they don't break. Well I think one is ready for the fall!
Onward Ho!

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Finished



I finished my chair. Now I can get back to my sculpting and painting. I'll show ya what I'm working on soon.

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Work for the starving artist



This is what I'm doing for a good client, she always brings me chairs to re-style. Actually to re-upholster. I should have taken a picture of what it looked like before, but I couldn't wait to get the hideous fabric off, and start new. Any hoo, I do work like this, so I can buy my art supplies.

I used to have a vintage shop, selling re-styled furniture, antique pieces, etc, when this customer came in and wanted to know if I could upholster a chair for her. "Well sure" I said. I had only re-styled, by painting furniture pieces, or making a cabinet out of old doors. Not to turn a customer away I jumped right in. No, I had never attempted upholstery before, but there is always a first time for everything. What did I get myself into?...it wasn't to bad, the trick was to take the old fabric off slowly so I could see how to put the new fabric back on. I always self teach! Thinking this would be a one time job,sweating bullets hoping the customer would like it... I am now doing a 6th chair for her. And I thank her very much, because every time I run low on art supplies, she calls and say, "Lisa can you do another chair for me?"

I post a picture when I'm finished. Now I'm going to get messy with some paper pulp, and start another Halloween...I know I have a chair to finish, but a character is screaming to be sculpted!