Two Dog Studio

A New Chapter

2010-02-12T19:17:00.003-06:00

This photo that Hilery took last week when she was here visiting, helping and having fun with me is so charming. It was taken on Hay Street in the downtown historic district of my new hometown, Fayetteville, NC. After almost four months here, I'm finally starting to feel a little bit settled (thanks to my daughter's help). I'm so content and happy with the huge change we decided to make in our lives by moving from the midwest to the south.

Halloween ATC's

2009-09-12T19:21:00.002-06:00

Mom just left after what will probably be her last visit to Wichita. We found some time to create in my craft room. Fall always makes me anxious to get out my Halloween goodies, and Mom was wanting a refresher course in a couple of transfer techniques. We made some packing tape transfers as well as a couple of gel medium transfers then turned them into ATC's. The top five are hers and the the bottom 7 are mine. There were a couple of additional cards that didn't make it into the photo. We 'copied' each others ideas a time or two, but they still managed to look like 'our own' style. It was alot of fun and the next time we get together will be in a totally new space in our new home in North Carolina!

Picture Our New House Here

2009-08-30T10:23:00.002-06:00

After looking at SO many houses I was dizzy, we couldn't decide on anything that we thought would work for us. This pretty lot was already 'cleared' (we don't do that in KS!). It's in a lovely gated golf community and we'll build a small home here and ultimately buy a great beach house too... at least I hope so!

Riding the Waves

2009-08-29T14:51:00.002-06:00

We just got back from house hunting in N.C. We were delighted to discover that dogs aren't banned from the beach! During the off-season they can go out any time, day or night. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, they are allowed after 5:00 p.m. and before 8:00 a.m. We spent several days at Holden Beach and walked the dogs each evening, and on our last morning took them out and watched the sunrise. This photo isn't in perfect focus, but I love how Susie's head is just barely poking out of the wave as she swims toward shore.

North Carolina Bound

2009-07-31T16:04:00.002-06:00

I took some photos of a few different North Carolina beaches when we were out in May...... I went for a job interview, was offered a position, and after alot of agonizing over the pros and cons decided to take a chance and go for it! It is just beautiful there, and we only saw the smallest fraction of what the state has to offer. We're making plans and preparing to pack up and leave the town we've lived in for over twenty years. Here's to embracing change, no matter how old I get!

Childhood Pet

2009-06-08T12:35:00.002-06:00

My entry for the collaberative book that Mom, Hilery and I have been working on for some time now. We take turns choosing the theme and this time Hilery chose "Childhood Pets". This is Ringo, my first dog, a collie mix who came to live with us when I was about 7. He lived until well after I had married and moved away from home. He was my best buddy for all those years and helped me through those difficult "teenage" times. I don't remember ever NOT wanting a dog and still today, my fur babies remain one of the most important things in my life.

"Bird" Book Project

2009-06-04T17:46:00.003-06:00

This great little altered book is one I made in a class taught by a very talented local lady, Jo McQueen. She has recently been teaching at some larger national events and has her own line of rubber stamps and collage items called The Queen's Dresser Drawers. You can check out some of her items here: http://www.thequeensdresserdrawers.com/ I haven't been feeling very creative lately, and this is just what the Dr. ordered. Hopefully, I can get back into the spirit again. The covers of the book are a gutted vintage book. We made the pages individually and finally bound it with fabric strips and grommets. The sticks are from my friend Karen's yard.

2009-06-04T17:44:00.000-06:00

2009-06-04T17:38:00.001-06:00

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T15:32:00.002-06:00

The date on this photo of Mom and I is September, 1962. It would have been shortly after my fourth birthday. I don't remember the day the photo was taken, but I DO remember being in love with visiting my grandparents farm. The times when there were baby animals of any sort around were even more special to me. Mom, Grandma and Grandpa would always make sure I had an opportunity to pet and hold any and all of the farm's babies. This is one of my favorite photos of the two of us, my memory being jogged after reading my mom's own post about her mother on her blog.

Susie Sun Worshipping

2009-04-12T14:48:00.002-06:00

I am often accused by my family of having a 'favorite' dog, and that my 'favorite' dog is Clarice rather than Susie. In fact, I love them both dearly and wouldn't trade either for a million dollars. I took this photo of Susie last July 4 while we were eating brunch on the back deck. She will be 10 years old this fall, a feat our vet says is difficult, as most Dobie's don't live into double digit years. I fuss over her every little bump and stumble watching for anything suspicious. Both my girls get a thorough grooming weekly, including having their teeth brushed and rinsed with disinfectant wash. When we had their teeth cleaned a couple of years ago, the vet said that two years can be added to your dog's life just by keeping their teeth clean (not much different from humans in that regard). I have taken that to heart and for 7 and 9 year old girls, they have very bright smiles. In just a few months time Susie has gotten much more gray around her muzzle and eyebrows and is a bit less playful. But overall, she seems to be doing quite well for a senior citizen!

March Snow and Ice

2009-03-29T13:41:00.002-06:00

Starting Friday, we had ice and sleet all day. By Saturday it had turned to snow. It's almost April 1, but I guess we were fooled early! I don't remember having winter weather this late in the over 20 years we've lived in Wichita. There were near white-out conditions for some of the day yesterday. Needless to say, we have stayed in all weekend and puttered around the house. This is the poor tree in our front bed whose leaves, buds and branches are coated with a thick layer of ice.

A Wonderful Blog Award

2009-03-23T14:58:00.002-06:00

This was presented to me by Diana O'Cobthaigh, a wonderfully talented and ever so sweet friend I met through ATC-World. Her home base is Australia, which in my fantasy is a most romantic place. In fact, my dad, who was never a traveler, always wanted to visit there and never had the opportunity. I imagine he's seen all of it by now from his vantage point in the heavens.

At any rate, before I become too sentimental..........

Here is a link to Diana's gorgeous blog, she's SO much more creative with hers than I could ever hope to be, so it's worth the diversion!
http://docobhthaigh.blogspot.com/

"These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these kind writers."

Cody and Chance

2009-03-22T13:14:00.002-06:00

This is my entry for Marilyn's pet deco. For those of you who don't know her, these are her golden's, Cody and Chance. Shortly after we started this project, Marilyn lost Chance to cancer at the tender age of 4. Having been in her situation, I acutely feel the pain of her loss. Here is my tribute to her beautiful Chance and those he left behind. The quote is one of my favorites: "if you should die before me, ask if you could bring a friend" (Stone Temple Pilot). To read more of how they came into her life and see examples of her beautiful drawings and artwork, go to her blog:

http://www.mydapperdog.com/blog/2009/03/new-direction.html

2009-02-01T14:06:00.002-06:00

I was inspired by one of my favorite bloggers to re-visit some crazy quilting. I am so happy I did, and am pleased with the result. The pieces above have, as their embellishments, a combination of lace, thread, beads, buttons, and ribbon. The heart ornament is finished off with a charm from a small collection I have that my daughter and I made on one of her rare visits home. The square quiltie will by my contribution to Fabric In Altered Art in an effort to resurrect the monthly 6x6 quiltie swap. I'm not optimistic, as only two of us are signed up so far. The heart ornament is hopefully the first of a few that I plan to make. Valentine's Day has never been a holiday that has captured my crafting interest. However, I think I've found something to hang my hat on here!

Vintage Lace Jacket

2009-01-25T12:29:00.002-06:00

This is the finished jacket. I think it will look really cute with a camisole and pair of jeans (once the weather warms up - today it's 18 outside). All of the lace is vintage, the ribbon is new 1/4 inch satin. When I was talking with my mom about the project, I wasn't sure what to use as a base fabric. Her idea proved to be a terrific one: A sheer curtain panel repurposed into a fun wearable! I adapted the idea from one that was presented in my Sew News magazine a few years ago.

Heirloom Lace Construction

2009-01-21T15:12:00.002-06:00

Here is the beginning construction of the jacket I'm working on. It's using the vintage laces mentioned in my last post. So far, so good. The proof will be in the finished product!

Vintage Lace

2009-01-19T18:43:00.002-06:00

Here is part of of my collection of vintage laces. Some of them I have purchased, a couple of pieces Mom gave me. It's been forever since I have done any garment sewing, but have been wanting to make a thing or two. One project that has been on the back burner for, literally, a couple of years or more, is a little lightweight jacket embellished with different laces. I have it cut out and some of lace sewn on the sleeves. We'll see how it turns out. I always have high hopes for the garments I sew and they never live up to my expectations. Worse case, I suppose, the lace is still good and can be recycled into other projects!

Whimsical Headbands

2009-01-17T15:29:00.002-06:00

I like to push my hair back out of my face when I do my skincare routine before bed, and also when I'm on the treadmill. Today, I tried my hand at some crocheted flowers (don't look TOO close there are a zillion imperfections). To add a bit of fun into my bedtime routine, I sewed them on these inexpensive (3 for $2.00) headbands to dress them up.

2009-01-16T18:49:00.002-06:00

Here is a little atc book I put together for a group project with some on-line friends I've traded with for several years now. We share a love for our dogs, and have done similar projects before. This book holds several atc's in the accordion style pockets. The instructions called for cut-down simple postal envelopes, which of course I had NONE. So, I improvised and cut paper envelopes to size. It will come home full of atc's containing images of my red-girl, Claire.

Self Portrait

2009-01-15T18:53:00.003-06:00

I don't like my new wrinkles, so this is the best I'm going to do. I love this necklace, one that Hilery made for me by special request. The bead is handmade and I love the wire lace and multiple strands of beautiful beads. I wore it today with this burgundy sweater and awesome vest which was a Christmas gift from Bob. The colors aren't super true in the photo because in real life, the pink in the necklace blends beautifully with the burgundy in the sweater.

Real Bread vs. Faux Bread

2009-01-13T17:38:00.004-06:00

As part of my 2009 New Year's Resolutions, I am trying to take at least one photo a day. The goal is to include the ordinary and the not so ordinary. Since I've never been a good journal keeper, and I can't draw even a straight line, this challenge seems right up my alley!

Our favorite bread is this lovely and delicious whole grain miche from Panera (on the right). Well, over the weekend we ran out and in an effort to get our shopping done we picked up this Earth Grains "Double Fiber" (on the left) loaf. Well, the 'Double Fiber' loaf is like eating saw dust infused with air. Yuck. Today, Bob went to Panera and retrieved TWO loaves of our favorite. One is languishing in the freezer for that rainy day when we run out again!

Unsung Heros

2009-01-12T17:39:00.003-06:00

Since seeing a photo of the War Dog Memorial and cemetery in Guam, I have spent much time thinking of our military men and women, past and present, as well as their dedicated, loyal, working dogs. For Christmas this year, I received a limited edition replica of the memorial in Guam. It was made for me by the artist, Susan Bahary. The memorial, it's dedication, "Always Faithful", and the names of the fallen sit on my desk for me to remember every day the ultimate sacrifice made by each, without hesitation.

Working Dog

2009-01-11T14:30:00.002-06:00

Clarice seems to always "know" when it's the weekend, I will be home, and there is a newspaper to be retrieved from the driveway. As soon as my feet hit the floor, she is at the front door ready to do her task for the day. Rain or shine, snow or ice, she flies off the porch on her morning mission! All of our dobies have had the task of bringing in the paper. Before Claire, it was BJ, then Olivia, then Susie (who still loves to go after it, but graciously allows her younger sister the honor.) These dogs LOVE to work, I need to teach them more and often feel guilty that I don't take the time to do so.

Artist Trading Card Workshop Lessons

2009-01-11T14:20:00.002-06:00

My contributions to this month's Bernie Berlin ATC Workshop Trade that I host on ATC World. This is (I think) our fifth month, we do about 3 lessons per month. This month: Transfers, Fun Foam, and Tissue Paper Background. I've done them all before, but it's fun to revisit sometimes to see how my ideas have changed over time. I didn't particularly like the fun-foam idea before, and this time is no different and they are my least favorite. For awhile now, I've been wanting to make some 'button-cards', so I used some sewing tissue and some plastic "faux" buttons to mimic a button card. I'm thinking I want to make some hand-made buttons and make some atc sized button cards. Guess that will go on my "to-do list" along with the other 9,000 things I want to accomplish this year!

"Change Your Shoes, Change Your Life!"

2009-01-10T07:36:00.002-06:00

As part of my new year, I've been inspired to do a bit of "re-inventing" of myself. I haven't purchased many items of clothing in awhile, and most of what I have is worn and in need of pitching. But, one can't possibly purchase new clothes without new shoes (in this case boots) to go with. Always on the prowl for new shoes, which can be difficult given my size 11 foot, I ran across this gorgeous pair of all purpose boots. They are by Jim Barnier, so lightweight, SO comfortable, and they look stunning with a pair of jeans. I can see myself wearing them for many seasons to come.

Beaded Necklaces

2009-01-09T18:31:00.002-06:00

My collection of beaded necklaces began about a year and a half ago. I mentioned to Hilery how much I loved the look of chunky beaded necklaces, but just didn't think I could 'pull it off'. For my birthday that year, arrived the first of these and my collection has been growing ever since. All but just two or three are made by my talented girl, just for me, the others I've purchased here and there. My favorites are those she's crafted, though. As my collection has grown, so has my need for a place to keep them tidy and accessible. I woke up one day last weekend with the epiphany of putting S-hooks off the high wire shelf that Bob hung in the closet for storage of my other special collection (purses). Well....... then there are the floor to ceiling racks for the shoe collection.....What's a girl to do????? At least I have an understanding spouse, and a daughter with endless creativity! Thanks to you both!

New Tree, Old Favorites

2008-12-20T18:34:00.003-06:00

This year we have a new Christmas tree. It has LED lights, hopefully not a fire hazard!!! Our old tree was a fiberoptic lighted gizmo that I just loved. Last year when Bob took the decorations off and removed the skirt, the whole motor was melted! We are SO lucky that the entire house didn't burn to the ground! I've decorated the new tree with all of my atc ornaments collected over the past several years, along with a few of my treasured ornaments from years past including a few hat boxes and shoes given to me by my mom. My collection of Hummel ornaments (also a gift from Mom) is also placed on it, but not shown in this photo.

Advent ATC'S

2008-12-04T12:57:00.002-06:00

I had planned on posting each card, everyday, as I opened them. But, the best plans.............. Here are days 1-4 of the wonderful Advent ATC set sent to me as a RAK by Phyllis Terrell. She is amazingly talented, and called these cards 'simple'! I think not! She must have spent so much time on this project! I'm not sure how I was selected to receive them, but I LOVE them and can't wait to see the rest. They are making this holiday season that much more special for me! Thank you again, Phyllis!

2008-11-29T18:47:00.002-06:00

A great honour has been bestowed upon me today ... I've been nominated for a Kreativ Blogger Award by the very talented Diana O'Cobthaigh in Austrailia. http://docobhthaigh.blogspot.com/

The rules are this:
The winner may put the logo on their blog.
Put a link to the person who sent you the award.
Nominate 5 other blogs for the award.

As Diana so appropriately phrased: "So this is a Kreativ Blogger Award, does that mean it's to be bestowed upon creative people that have a blog or does it mean these people have creative blogs?? Don't really know, so I've chosen 5 creative artistic people with blogs that I love to visit regularly":

1. http://memoirsofawildrose.blogspot.com/
The perfect example of a creative person, who also has a blog. She also happens to be my mother, from whom I'm convinced my daughter and I received all of our very best attributes! She is writing this wonderful blog in a "Letters to My Daughter" fashion, posts every (or nearly every) day, and I look forward to her latest entries with enthusiasm!

2. http://thepioneerwoman.com/confessions/
A hysterical, witty, and heartwarming look at the life of ranch wife Ree Drummond. Bet you can't read just one of her entries. She is wildly talented and you can spend the entire day lost in her musings!

3. http://demibrix.blogspot.com/
Barbara Brannon, an artist with a real life, who manages to look at life in the best way possible while never knowing what tomorrow may bring her.

4. http://vintageflair.typepad.com/vintage_flair/
Rediculously gorgeous vintage, shabby chic eye candy! Lori just had a new baby, and is apparently taking a bit of time 'off' from her blog. But, still worth a look!

5. http://www.thesumofallcrafts.blogspot.com/
Valerie is a fairly new member to atc-world, and has just taken the group 'over the top'! She's incredibly talented and amazingly generous in sharing her knowledge with the group!

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

2008-11-25T16:08:00.002-06:00

......in a jar. I've been looking for the longest time for a recipe that I can put the dry ingredients in a jar, include the baking directions and make into cute little gifties. Finally, I ran across one a couple of weeks ago on-line. How cute is this? And simple, simple, simple to put together. Yet, I would love to receive it as a gift! Guess, I will make an extra just for me!

A Special Gift of Kindness

2008-11-24T17:43:00.003-06:00

A mysterious box arrived in my mailbox today. When I looked at the return address, I thought, "Oh, My! Phyllis is participating in one of my swaps..... but which one??" Then, after opening the box I was even more mystified. It was full of atc's, which I was SURE didn't fit with any theme I'm currently hosting. But, then I read the enclosed note:

Dear Tammy,

These are some simple cards to help celebrate the holiday season. If you would like, you can open one each day of December until the 25th, or you can choose a time and open them all at once!!

I hope you enjoy them and I hope you have a wonderful Christmas.

Phyllis

Advent cards! How wonderful! And, what an amazing and thoughtful gift from a truly talented artist! I have placed them in a special bowl in my entryway. I believe I will open one each day of December to prolong the pleasure.

Thank you SO much, Phyllis!

Fabric Christmas Cards

2008-11-23T07:06:00.002-06:00

For the third year, I'm making a few fabric Christmas Cards to trade. They went out in the mail yesterday, but I kept this one. It's more like a postcard as it doesn't fold open. I covered some ecru fabric with a shimmery see through fabric before layering on the decorations. I picked up the striped ribbon at Michael's months ago while looking for "masculine" type goodies and barely used any. It seems to fit perfectly here, along with a bit of vintage lace and a little star shaped tree ornament. I made decorative envelopes for each card so that they look special on arrival in everyone's mailbox! I put my collection of fabric cards out as part of my Holiday decorating, they are all REALLY gorgeous.

November Fabric Postcard

2008-11-15T15:14:00.002-06:00

The second in my new series of fabric postcards. October's theme was harvest/halloween, and this month's theme is holiday. I love the little girl with her sleigh full of toys, including her baby doll, and presents. The image was printed on laser jet and transferred to stacky laminate. Then stitched to silver cardstock and embellished.

THE One I Couldn't Part With

2008-11-14T18:52:00.002-06:00

This is THE little halloween quiltie made by my friend, Cathy, who is always gracious enough to participate in the monthly 6x6 trades we have. Her work is always so perfectly done, and I'm so lucky to have a little collection of her art (both fabric and paper). When this arrived in my mail box, I just couldn't let it go. I hadn't planned on taking the time to make a Halloween Quiltie, but as you can see this one is too adorable to pass up! Thanks, Cathy!!!!!!!

Secret Pink Teapot

2008-11-10T18:47:00.002-06:00

My mom is writing her memoirs on her new blog, http://memoirsofawildrose.blogspot.com/. She is taking photos of special family mementos and writing wonderful little stories to go with each one. She asked me to take photos to send her of anything that she's given me over the years that I'd like her to inlcude. Among the few things I recently sent her, was a photo of this cute little pink teapot. It sat atop our fridge at home from the time I was a little girl. It was never used for tea (my folks, and now me, were always straight up black coffee drinkers). The little pot was (and is) a storage container for all sorts of odd keys collected by my parents over the course of my years at home with them.

Anyway, Mom politely declined to write her story associated with the shiny pink glazed pot. Her memories associated with it are not a 'sweet' as mine....

I always knew that the heavy little tea pot came from one of the restaurants where my mom waited tables, called "The Rickshaw". I was really little, maybe 6 years old or so, and I mostly remember her working at night while Dad and I were relegated to finding supper on our own. BUT, once in a great while, my dad would load me up in the car with him to pick Mom up at work. The best part of the outing was my dinner date with Dad. We would sit together at (what seemed to me) the most charming little place in the world, with low candlelit tables, a mysterious menu, and people speaking something other than English. I don't really remember too much about what kind of food we ate, but instead remember how wonderful it felt to be Mom's favorite, and best, customer for the evening.

So, Mom, that is the story of the Pink Teapot. From your best little customer's perspective!

One LAST Halloween Piece

2008-11-08T08:44:00.002-06:00

Well, I wasn't going to participate in the October Quiltie swap.

I started hosting it a couple of months ago so that Cathy could have a bit of a break. The fun part is I get to see everyone's work before it goes out into the world.

Of course, after the quilties for trade arrived, I just couldn't resist and had to make one of my own. There is one that really 'speaks' to me and I just must have! I will post the secret quiltie later, it's a beauty!

Mine is relatively simple, some fussy-cut halloween images, my favorite blanket stitch and a darling little spider embellishment that I received in a goody bag from another trade (thank you Julie!) that is attached with a couple of seed beads. For some added interest, I used dimensional fabric paint on the leaves and the crow's vest, scarf and hat. I liked it well enough to make two so that one could be added to my own collection.

Christmas Row Houses

2008-11-06T12:21:00.002-06:00

These little fabric houses are for a row house swap. They measure about 4"x6". I fussy cut the images from some novelty fabric I had left over from a couple of years ago. I'm thinking that a cute accordion style finished project will fit the "Row House" theme. I'll post it when the trade is over and I've put it together.

Proud to be an American

2008-11-04T09:26:00.006-06:00

Today, among many other days, I'm especially proud of my native country and all she stands for.

I have always had an inherent patriotism, as do most Americans. Mine however, was made infinitely stronger when as as young married couple Bob and I had the priviledge of living overseas among our military. Every day, everything these brave men and women did, and still do, was for our country, it's people and it's democratic values. Each event attended on base, even something as simple as a movie, was preambled by The National Anthem. It's incredibly inspiring to see, in person, all of those standing in uniform with hats off, hands over hearts, listen and watch the flag furl. To this day, over 20 years later, I think of that time in my life and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice each time I see the flag and hear those words.

It is election day. A historic one at that. No matter which party wins, this will be a first. Either the first African American or the first female will inhabit the White House. I don't pretend to understand political views which differ from my own, as much as I try. I do believe that when The People speak as one, what is best for this land that I love will ultimately prevail.

What is a Good Mom?

2008-11-02T06:58:00.004-06:00

Mom called me the other day. She was 'just thinking what a bad mother I was'.

What?

This came about because of something that happened when I was about 6 years old, that she didn't remember happening. I had gotten in trouble for getting in a mud fight with the brat that lived next door. Well... HE started it! And, really, what's a girl supposed to do? I had to stand up to that icky boy and ended up covered in mud from head to toe. Mom caught me, stood me on the front porch and stripped my muddy clothes OFF! Hadn't she told me to NOT get muddy?

That little mud hole beside the house was my FAVORITE play place after a good, though rare, Tulsa rain. I was always really careful to never get more than my hands dirty while making mud pies, but that particular day the little turd next door, Darrin I think his name was, decided to throw a mud ball right on me. I knew I'd be in the dog house regardless, so decided to stand up to him. Guess I learned! Well, after I told this story on a recent visit my mother was aghast that she would do such a thing to me. Do I look traumatized? I think not.

More Magazine Images

2008-10-27T15:15:00.002-06:00

Here are more images from "Victoria". They are dry brushed with gesso, outlined with fine black marker and painted with my brush markers. I love how they almost look like a painting. They ALMOST make me look artistic!!!

Recycled Magazine Images

2008-10-27T15:10:00.002-06:00

These atc's I made this weekend using magazine images. They all seem to have a story to tell if one looks closely enough. I have tons of old "Victoria" magazines that I picked up on ebay awhile back. It has THE most wonderful images to use in this type of project. I also used some out of my stash of old National Geographic. Two of my favorite sources for this type of atc!

Happy Harvest, Happy Birthday

2008-10-26T15:08:00.003-06:00

My daughter, Hilery, raved about the halloween apron that I made from this pattern and about how she loved the 'angles' of it. She is hosting Thanksgiving dinner at her home this year, and unfortunately, her dad and I will likely not be able to be there with her. So.. I made this apron as part of her birthday present(s) this year to wear while she is preparing her feast. Hopefully, Hilery will think of me and wrap herself in her momma's love while she cooks for her family.

Harvest Artist Trading Card

2008-10-22T17:15:00.003-06:00

I think I'm ready to transition away from Halloween crafty things...... This little atc is for the November trade at TreasureArtTrends. I used the packing tape transfer technique on an image I printed on my laser jet. Also, found some wonderful different colors of german scrap and this brown is just one of them. "Many Glad Thanksgivings" to all!

Christmas Deco Entry

2008-10-22T17:13:00.001-06:00

Another Christmas deco for one of my favorite yahoo groups, TreasureArtTrends, where many of my long time mail art friends 'live'. This one belongs to Gwenn. It looks like one more deco in this round robin before I receive my homer!

Always Faithful

2008-10-18T09:58:00.002-06:00

I just 'happened' to receive this photo in a grouping of "animal" photos from my mom a couple of weeks ago. I loved it so much that I did some research on the monument. It's located in Guam along with the War Dog Cemetery from WWII which commemorates the service and dedication of some amazing animals. It would be so wonderful to be able to visit in person, but I'm not sure how that would ever happen. I did, however, locate the artist Susan Bahary. After a visit with her on the phone, I've decided to purchase one of her limited edition replicas which will be about 11"x12" and will sit atop my desk in a place of honor. http://www.vet.utk.edu/wardog/biography.shtml Here is a link to read about the War Dog Memorial. After much discussion with my husband, we have decided that ultimately we will donate our piece to the Humane Society in our community to use as they see fit.

Joanie's Christmas Deco

2008-10-17T08:03:00.002-06:00

This adorable houseshaped deco arrived for me to work in recently. I used one of my favorite holiday photos of Clairice and some cute rub-ons. I love the house shaped chipboard, must see if I can find one of these to add to my stash - like I need more stash....

First Fabric Post Card

2008-10-17T07:59:00.002-06:00

October is the first month I have participated in the ongoing fabric postcard swap. Here is my first postcard..... my sewing machine was having a hissy-fit the entire time I was putting it together. I think it doesn't like the sticky texture of the fusible that I recently purchased. OH well! Live and learn, as always!

One to Keep, One to Trade

2008-10-07T18:33:00.002-06:00

These are quilties/aka fabric book pages for the monthly trade I participate in. For Sept, the second theme is School Days. I found the image on-line and transferred it to a piece of muslin (with my heat tool and laser printer) that I have stamped the letters on with pigment ink. I just love these 1930's reproduction fabrics, too.

"Black and Orange"

2008-09-18T17:21:00.002-06:00

....Is the color theme for the September Quiltie exchange. Of course, black and orange means Halloween! LOL! I cut the bat silhouette from black fabric, fused it on the background then stitched and embellished. Not terribly difficult, but fun nevertheless!

"Santa's Best Helper" Deco Page

2008-09-16T16:40:00.002-06:00

This is my entry in Keri's Christmas themed deco. I happen to know she loves dogs just as much as I do, so hopefully she won't mind that I used a photo of my Claire in her Santa hat last Christmas.

Halloween ATC "Zindorf" Style

2008-09-10T13:38:00.002-06:00

Yet more fun with Halloween images! This is a technique I've been wanting to try for awhile. I found it on a lovely blog by Michelle Zindorf. She has many beautiful cards, I adapted one to my purpose. I am trying to expand my knowledge of inks and stamping techniques and I love how artful her work is. To check out more of her inspiring ideas go here: http://zindorf.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/2008/09/09/is-it-autumn-yet-tutorial-116/

Altered Kitchen/Tea Towels

2008-09-06T20:37:00.002-06:00

These coordinate with the apron I just finished. I had a hard time finding the kind of towel I wanted....was looking for a vintage style fabric like they used to make kitchen towels from. This is the closet I came. It's a microfiber that started out white and I tea died it (which came out a bit blotchy, unfortunately). Still, I think they turned out kinda cute. I made two sets, one to keep and one to 'trade' with my fabric group friends!

Halloween Apron

2008-09-06T20:34:00.002-06:00

I love making anything halloween related. And, I love wearing aprons when I cook. So, I had fun making this cute little triangle apron for halloween!

Fabric Itty Bittys!

2008-09-03T16:53:00.002-06:00

More itty bittys!! These are mixed media, mostly fabric but the images are paper. I'm having SO much fun with these and it doesn't hurt that Halloween was the theme (my favorite!) These are for a swap with Fabric In Altered Art. I can't wait to do more of these guys! I've just started using timtex, rather than regular cotton batting and love how it really gives a piece some substance.

"Recyled" is the theme.....

2008-09-02T18:55:00.000-06:00

I made these quilties this afternoon for the "Recycled"swap for the fabric group I'm in (actually, one for trading and one for keeping!). The fabric isn't 100 per cent recycled, but it HAS all been languishing in my stash for SEVERAL years! So, hopefully that counts. I used some yellow netting from a bag of lemons I had in the fridge, (now that was kind of fun and it reminded me of a bird cage!), some OLD OLD wildlife cards and junk from my junk jewelry box. The lace is some pretty vintage hand crocheted stuff off of a pillowcase maybe.

Christmas Deco (already!)

2008-09-01T19:45:00.002-06:00

My little book is out making the rounds. This one belongs to my long time on-line friend, Cathy. It's a cute little accordion book, and I got to use one of my my Cuttlebug embossing folders on it! She will go in the mail tomorrow.

Box for My Itty Bittys (3x3's)

2008-08-31T09:26:00.002-06:00

This is the little box I made yesterday to hold the 3x3's that I will be receiving back in the swap I mentioned previously. It really took a short amount of time to make and was alot of fun to do. I found the tutorial at SCS, a great website that has tons of info and project ideas. I visit them often: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com

Itty Bittys (3x3's)

2008-08-30T20:07:00.003-06:00

These little guys are apparently all the 'rage' right now. I'm just a little bit slow to catch on! They are 3x3 cards that you can make to keep, trade or give away. But, like atc's, I'm afraid they will be addicting to collect!!!!! These are sample of my very first two. I made some of each to send in for a trade and can't wait to see what I get back!!!!! I also made a little box to keep them in today. It turned out adorable, and I'll try and get a photo of it posted tomorrow!

Vintage Halloween Costume ATC

2008-08-30T20:01:00.002-06:00

Did I mention, I like to make Halloween art? LOL! This image was printed on my laser printer and used for a gel medium transfer. The web and the bat are new punches I just bought a couple of weeks ago. This bat is larger than my other bat punch, so I'm excited to have two sizes to use in my Halloween art! I again, used my stampin' up scallop punch to make paper rick rack - it's easy, fun and looks really cute on a layout.

Indian Summer ATC

2008-08-30T19:58:00.002-06:00

I got a new toy, a Cuttlebug, and I love the embossing folders which I used for the background. The little bear is a stamped image from a retired Stampin' Up set I picked up on ebay which was just toooooooo cute to pass up. I've been using the embossing folders for lots of things the last few days, I wonder what I ever did without them!

Watercolor on Baby Wipe Background

2008-08-30T19:54:00.002-06:00

The background technique is from Bernie Berlin's ATC Workshop book. I've done most of her exercises before, but am working through them again and trading some of the atc's made with the yahoo group ATC World. I really like making Halloween things, and just LOVE my little bat punch and dig it out every year to add little bats to my work.

Vintage School Days ATC

2008-08-30T19:48:00.002-06:00

I've been wanting to do some "School Days" themed things for awhile now. This atc has a stamped background to look like a blackboard, paper from an old math book and some spelling book themed scrapbook paper. The rickrack is also scrapbook paper punched in a 'rick rack' pattern with my new scallop punch by stampin' up!. http://www.stampinup.com

The image is a heat transfer of a photo printed on my laser printer. The little gal on the far left is my mom. The other kids are her classmates when she went to country school in Iowa in the '40's. Cute, huh?

Fabric "Flower"

2008-07-11T18:42:00.002-06:00

My friend, Cathy J., challenged those of us in her group to make a fabric flower from instructions that she wrote. The kicker was, she didn't provide any photos of the finished project. I mostly look at the diagrams and only scan the written instructions whenever I am sewing anything - from a purse, to a quilt, to a garment. I really struggled here, trying to get my stitches covered and find a button large enough to cover my boo-boos. There is a LOT of fabri-tac glue under that button!

Quilted Drawstring Handbag

2008-07-11T18:38:00.002-06:00

Here is another handbag I put together. The instructions were less than stellar, so the next time I will have to make some adjstments up front to make it go together a bit easier. The fabric is some Asian inspired fabri with parasols and cherry blossoms.

"Summer" fabric atc's

2008-07-11T14:31:00.002-06:00

It's become a challenge for me to come up with anything new and fresh..... not sure I accomplished that here, either. But, these are pretty cute regardless. I stitched odd bits of fabric to timtex, then cut to size and zig-zagged the edges. After I stamped them with the "Blossom" definition, paper flowers and silk ribbon stitching were added. Currently, I'm cleaning up odds and ends of projects so I can get started on a fabric book for a 1:1 book swap. I'm looking forward to the new project.

Tammy's House ATC's

2008-07-07T12:56:00.002-06:00

I am hosting a 'house shaped' atc swap on ATC World. These little buggers are a TON of work, but are really alot of fun. The shape gives them so much character, and houses are so 'in' right now. I am thinking of using the larger template to make a paper and/or fabric book, the possibilities there seem endless!

This series of cards is staying in my collection, but for the swap I have made several that are very similar.

Garden/Bird Handbag

2008-07-07T12:49:00.002-06:00

This little handbag is made from a pattern supplied by Cathy J., from FabricInAlteredArt group. Three of us made purses from the same pattern, and they all turned out so different. It was a fun experiment to see what different people do with the same idea. The fabrics are some batik fat-quarters I had laying around. The patches were sewn onto the bag along with the bird images. The flowers are from some vintage lace I have. Pretty cute!

Red White and Blue Brunch

2008-07-05T20:15:00.005-06:00

Today for lunch, we had breakfast. Blueberry pancakes made with fresh blueberries. I had fresh strawberries in the fridge, and thought they added a patriotic touch for the holiday weekend. Of course, no meal is complete unless it is eaten out on the deck accompanied by a Diet Pepsi and shared with the girls.

Time for a new post!!

2008-06-27T14:47:00.002-06:00

Well, I haven't posted in quite awhile now.... haven't felt very creative due to lots of 'things' going on. I did, however, just finish this sweet little handbag. I just love the fabric, it's reproduction 1930's fabric charms (5x5 squares) with additional fabric for the straps and ruffles. The instructions called for 'pre-quilted' fabric for the lining, which was just SO ordinary. Since I have an overabundance of supplies, I made my own quilted lining. Took extra time, but all in all I'm pleased with the result. The buttons (both on the outside tab and inside lining pocket) are from my small collection of vintage buttons that belonged to my grandmother. I have a nice stash of authectic 1930's and 40's fabric scraps, but they are so small I dispaired of ever finding anything to do with them. I think this pattern might be perfect, since I'm SURE I can cut 5x5 squares from enough pieces to make at least one handbag. (Note to self: Add to list of projects........ sigh.) I've carried this bag for a couple of days now and the size and shape are just right for me. I think that when it gets dirty, I'll throw it in the washer. I imagine the fabric will just have more character if it's faded and soft. Thanks for looking, and I"ll try and post more often!

Quilted Purse Swap

2008-05-14T05:32:00.003-06:00

It's been awhile since I've posted, or created anything for that matter.... Been busy, and when I've actually had time - my muse has been on hiatus. I was committed, though, to a quilted purse swap. This is what I ultimately came up with. The back is also pieced with the same little 1.5" (about) squares and the ribbon trim and handle is grosgrain. All of the supplies are one's I had on hand, I've made a deal with myself to try and use up some of my stash! We'll see how long that lasts........ The purse is off to the hostess, I'm anxious to see what comes back!

Goodie Bag Challenge Return

2008-04-19T07:32:00.002-06:00

This is the gorgeous piece I received in return for the "Goodie Bag Challenge" with Fabric in Altered Art (one of my fav Yahoo Groups). The photo doesn't BEGIN to do the wall hanging justice, it is just a stunning piece and I am SO lucky to have received it! I will post a better photo when I get it hung in my studio!

Thank you Sammy!!!!!

"Goodie Bag Challenge"

2008-04-06T18:00:00.002-06:00

This is the finished project for a challenge where I received the 'raw goods' in the mail. There were fabric and beads and ribbon (I added my own image of one of my atc's printed on fabric and few other of my own things). All the beading and fringing and wool bead decorating was done by me. I really love the bright colors and I hope Anita loves it too.

Greyhound Rescue Benefit Auction

2008-03-02T15:12:00.002-06:00

I was asked to do a 5x5 chunky page for a book that an on-line greyhound lover friend is putting together. Well..... when I saw the photos of such sweet babies I wanted to do a page for every dog! But, here is where I stopped. They are traveling to NY tomorrow and I hope they help to raise a bit of money to help these sweet creatures be adopted to loving homes. The two greyhounds in the boat are Ginger and Guiness boating off Cape Cod. The kid frolicing in the water is Ginger. Raptor's page has his name tag on the front. Last, but not least, is Secret - looking out the window. I LOVE doing what I can to help pet charities! Thanks, Brigitte, for giving me the opportunity.

Customized Pen Holder

2008-02-29T12:29:00.002-06:00

My other 'quest' over the last few weeks, has been SOME way to store all my pens. Of course, I couldn't find the perfect solution (go figure) So, DH came to the rescue and put together this fab holder. It's made from PVC and scrap wood. I can keep all my double tipped pens on their sides and all my brush pens on the ends on the top. Perfect!!! Everyone ought to have a handy little man around the house! LOL!

Lots of Wall Shelving

2008-02-29T12:15:00.003-06:00

Instead of "Waiting for the Pefect Time", I just decided to jump in and organize my studio. The first thing we did was hang all this relatively inexpensive wall shelving. What a difference! Finally, I have a place to put my book collection and can see most of my supplies at a glance. The bonus: I was able to hang several pieces of my grandmother's handwork on the wall. It's been in hiding since we moved to this house 4 years ago. Now, I just love to walk in the room and see a part of her there.

Handmade Work Table

2008-02-29T12:04:00.003-06:00

This is THE fabulous work table that my DH made for me! I have been looking and shopping and, basically, driving myself crazy trying to find the perfect work surface for my space. The key is, "My Space". Everything was either Too Tall, Too Wide, or Too cheaply built (despite rediculous price tags). Since he's such a great guy, he built this table just for me! I just love it's fun and funky look: The bases are stained black, the drawer are stained medium oak and we picked up thise fun knobs and the top at the home improvement store. It's 8 feet long and I STILL can fill it up and end up working in a 12x12" work space! LOL! Its awesomely beautiful and just perfect. Next project: "Sewing Table"!!!!!

Wire Shelving Upgrade

2008-02-29T11:59:00.002-06:00

I have had these heavy duty wire shelves in my studio for a few years now, mostly out of necessity. I have never know what to do with them to make them a more effective storage solution until I ran across Tim Holtz' studio photos on his blog. These little baskets and wire drawers are just the ticket! You can see Tim's and learn more about where to get them here:
http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/2007/11/the-studio.html

More "Bird-ing"

2008-02-21T16:12:00.002-06:00

This bird deco belongs to one of my favorite on-line friends, Cathy. It's just an adorable book!!! For my page, I used some new papers I just bought, from Basic Grey's "Periphery" collection. They are GORGEOUS....... so much so that I bought TWO sets!!!!! Can't run out of my favorite things!!! LOL! The bird image is, again, from a garden book I picked up ages ago in the bargain section of B & N. The thing I love about the bargain book is that there are tons of images that look like hand-drawn birds, flowers and insects. Inside the pocket, I've tucked relevant dictionary descriptions of birding, flying and the mocking bird. I hope you like it, Cathy!!!

Creative Lighter Fluid

2008-02-21T15:50:00.004-06:00

This atc set is for a coffee themed atc swap on the yahoo group Treasure Art Trends. I used a retired Stampin' Up set "Espress Yourself" and stamped the images on acetate. Then I embossed them with clear embossing powder and painted the back with "Latte" acrylic. The quote is one I ran across in one of my art project books.

Bluebird of Happiness

2008-02-20T10:29:00.003-06:00

I found this littel 5x7 canvas laying around my art room just begging to be altered. I was on a 'bird' kick anyway, as I just finished working in a "Birds and Bees" deco. I liked the deco so well, I had to make something similar for myself. The piece has some sentimental value as well. The nest 'eggs' are made of paper clay mixed with a bit of blue acrylic paint, the quote is from "Define Your Life" stamp set by Stampin' Up. The nesting material is randomly scored brown cardstock colored with distress inks and sliced into tiny strips. Anyway...... I think I'll keep it!

Variety Night? Whasssatttt?????

2008-02-15T14:49:00.002-06:00

As a brand new Stampin' Up' demonstrator www.stampinup.com , I went to a monthly meeting of a group of local demos. The girls call it Variety Night. The idea (I think) is to share three projects. A scrapbook page, a technique and a 'giftable'. They were all just working away like little beavers and were SO creative and productive. While I, on the otherhand, could barely keep up (partly because I am SO not creative at night, and partly because I was relatively clueless to the process). Anyhow, this scrapbook page is a conglomerate of the technique (dahlia folded flower in upper right) and the scrapbook page which features a hidden journaling under the photo. The felt flowers are embellished with some cute rub-ons. The photo is of Bob in the hot-tub playing with Clarice. She will join you in the water with absolutely no coaxing!

More Zentangle - ing

2008-02-08T20:30:00.000-06:00

These are all the 'rage' on ATC-World http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ATC_World/

What's a "Zentangle"

2008-02-03T19:44:00.000-06:00

Good question. I'm still trying to figure it out. The examples I've seen are just amazing, so thought I would give it a go. I started with a little stamp of a face and built on it with my fine tip Precision Pen. I can see that they can become addicting........ but to say they are time consuming is an understatement!

New atc's

2008-01-20T14:17:00.000-06:00

A couple of atc's I made this weekend for upcoming swaps. Both are retired Stampin' Up sets. The chocolate set I recently picked up on ebay, just couldn't resist.

Stampers 7

2008-01-06T17:03:00.000-06:00

This is a stand-up desk calendar that my very talented friend Karen designed. We made them today at our stamper's group meeting, which met for the first time today. Some old faces and new faces there, and what fun. I spent too much money on Stampin' up goodies, of course. But, what else is new!

Closest to MY heart

2008-01-06T16:58:00.000-06:00

This photo is actually of Bob and Claire last year (2006) at Christmas. But, I hadn't scrapped it yet, and I love how this page turned out.

The sentiment: "The things we are truly thankful for are the things we keep the closest to our hearts."

"I HATE Kansas"

2008-01-06T16:53:00.000-06:00

The biggest storm we've had in YEARS was during the time my poor little Las Vegas desert babies were here. I should have bought my poor SIL long undies for Christmas!

The journaling under the 'white out' picture off our deck: "Life is like a blanket of snow. Be careful how you step on it. Every step will show."

Words to live by.

Grama's Favorite

2008-01-06T16:51:00.000-06:00

But Mom says she DOESN'T PLAY favorites! LOL! Susie would argue otherwise and knows that Grama is ALWAYS good for some long term snuggles!

Mom's Specialty

2008-01-06T16:49:00.000-06:00

For breakfast Christmas morning, Mom made all of us her famous (at least to us) biscuits and gravy. Yumm-0!

Orient Express ATC's

2008-01-04T17:54:00.001-06:00

I think I'll enjoy getting back 'into' atc's. I didn't do much in the way of trading last year, and really miss it. These are for a first time trade in a special yahoo group, TreasureArtTrends. There are many talented artists there, so I feel lucky to be a part of it! And, I can rarely turn down the opportunity to make anything with an Asian theme!

Thanks, Cathy, for letting me participate!

"Recycled Christmas Cards"

2008-01-02T19:36:00.000-06:00

What a great idea for an atc swap. I had so much fun digging into my stash of Christmas cards for this swap. Now, if I just had a way to use the millions more cards I have! LOL! I finally (with DD help) have figured out my recent 'issue' with posting to my blog, soooooo...... one of my many resolutions is to update it on a more regular basis.

Bird Themed Quiltie

2007-09-15T17:46:00.000-06:00

One more quiltie for trading this month. The theme was "Birds". I used some authentic "Kansas Pheasant" feathers on the back.

Halloween Quiltie

2007-09-13T19:09:00.000-06:00

For 6x6 quiltie swap.

"Shades of Yellow"

2007-09-13T19:07:00.000-06:00

What a hard color!!!! I had a really difficult time making this work at all... As you can see, I didn't use much yellow at all. I liked the little caucasian girls in kimono and one IS yellow after all. Used my brand new serger for the edging. It does some rolled hems and picot edging too, but those are on the other side of my learning curve.

Music Themed Fabric Book

2007-09-13T19:05:00.000-06:00

This is a fabric page for Alyson's Music Book RR. The mesh pouch hold loose embellishments.

Things with Wings

2007-08-07T18:57:00.000-06:00

Another quiltie for August quiltie swap with Fabric in Altered Art. I used a Laura Birch image as inspiration here (as well as the reddog). The bird is outlined and embellished with painting and stitching. I had so much fun with this method, I would LOVE to try a wall quilt with multiple animals. Another thing to put on my 'to do' list!!!!

Shades of Red Quiltie

2007-08-07T18:54:00.000-06:00

A 'red' quiltie for swapping in the fabric yahoo group I belong too. I recently purchased a couple of Laura Burch books and used her "mythical dogs" as inspiration. In addition to fabric and stitch, I was able to use some of my fabric paints.

ATC Workshop

2007-08-07T18:52:00.000-06:00

This week: Machine Stitched and Hand Stitched. I made the handstitched atc awhile back, for a summer themed swap and the machine stitched is some novelty print fabric, decorative stitching and couched fiber with a timtex backing

Poor Suza-bella Has a Big Owie!

2007-08-07T18:46:00.000-06:00

Well, on Sunday the two dogs were "play fighting" after their morning walk and Susie got the short end of that one. This isn't the first time. Both girls have had their turns at the vets office getting sewn up for one reason or another. She's doing great and doesn't fuss with her stitches at all. Poor baby.