Seasonal Whimsies by Susan V.

We had visitors !!

2012-01-15T12:26:00.000-08:00

On our recent trip to the coast we had several visitors, unexpected , happily received. These wonderful creatures roam freely around the area . I had a one way conversation with them , they were extremely good listeners.

There were actually four of them , however one of them was camera shy and moved out of frame as I took the picture. Sigh.
As you can see it was a glorious day at the beach!

My husband Terry in front of the large log that wash up on the sand. The day was beautiful , only about 45 degrees , since there wasn't any wind it was actually quite comfortable .

Life is like a day at the beach, sometimes calm and peaceful , other times stormy and challenging . The key is to embrace each day, and thank God you were allowed to spend time there. ~ Susan~

Happy Accident! MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

2011-12-23T17:04:00.000-08:00

I was trying out a new Zupfe (braided bread) recipe and apparently my yeast wasn't active anymore . :( Not wanting to waste the dough I decided to try something else with it. So I cut & rolled into skinny stripes that I twisted into a knots and deep fried them! One word brushed with melted butter & garlic salt YUMMY! They would probably be good dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon too. The ones pictured here are still virgin so I may split the batch and do one of each favor. I will be starting my healthy eating again come monday.. .. I'm just saying.... Merry Christmas Everyone!! May it be blessed! Susan

My favorite Collection

2011-12-18T11:35:00.000-08:00

I love the Dickens characters I purchased from The Simpich doll company back in the 80's . Back then it 6 months for them to complete the order as everything was created by the family. Their shop was a like something right out of a fairytale . The exterior was a Tudor style and when you stepped inside it was pure magic! check it out at:

http://simpich.com/museum.html

GASP!* 8 MORE DAYS TILL CHRISTMAS!!!

2011-12-17T20:16:00.000-08:00

ONLY DAY MORE DAYS, I am not done shopping! We recently purchased a beach cottage and are still trying to recover from everything that comes with a new home.

We absolutely love this house! It's easy to take care of can't wait to spend our first summer out on that deck! Umbrella drinks all around! In the meantime we are enjoy spending time up there , the sun always seems to be out even though the temps are low. The beach is 2 blocks one way and the jetty is blocks the other way!
But back to my dismay, I still have several gifts to purchase and need to wait until the 21st to finish my shopping. I console myself by believing there will be some amazing deals for us last minute shoppers. Keeping my fingers crossed!
We did a lot of shopping online this year and I signed us up for Ebates.com so I am interested in seeing how that works out. I would mind a check just for shopping online.

In the meantime there are a few pictures of my newest piece Jingle Bell Santa available www.ahaartistsstudio.com
He measures 16" tall and 8" wide. Soft sculpture armature with clay head. Mounted on wood box with vintage Christmas tree , lots of tiny silver toned bells on his sleeves,hat,pants legs and down the front of his coat.

Thank you for stopping by

Merry Christmas to one & all! Bless you all. May the Lord keep

you & your families safe & happy for He can fill every need!

New items up for sale !

2011-11-26T12:53:00.000-08:00

I have just listed 2 new items on the http://www.ahaartistsstudio.com

First is a Vintage Mantle Clock piece called Let It Snow featuring a soft sculpture armature doll with clay head. The second is an Ice Skating Snowman Come join us for Small Business Saturday!

Latest Work!

2011-11-19T22:23:00.000-08:00

Here is a few updates on recent Santa Claus gourds. Enjoy~

Mia!

2011-11-19T20:42:00.000-08:00

Wow! I have been gone a long time! Our summer , such as it was, was spent scouting out a vacation home in Ocean Shores Wa! Ocean Shores is a tiny beach community in the Pacific Northwest, a tiny finger of land that is surrounded by water.

We have Pacific ocean on one side, fresh water lakes , the bay and fresh water canals all located on this tiny slice of land. It is the most wonderful place ever! After searching all the home Ocean Shores had to offer in our price range we bought this one TADA!

This little cutie has 2 beds 2 baths and a fabulous stone fireplace. Best part was it came furnished and the fireplace runs on propane so no wood cutting! Yay!

My hubby had just finished painting the front railing , doesn't it look awesome? Last picture is our view. There's beach grass everywhere and we have no plans to change that! Au Naturael' for us! did I spell that right? It hasn't been all play though , it needed a little bit of tlc , fortunately I am married to the most handy of men! After 2 trips we are all done fixin' and ready to start relaxing! Can't wait for summer to relax on that deck and enjoy some umbrella drinks. sigh! ~Susan

New work

2011-07-19T15:15:00.000-07:00

New piece up for sale on http://www.ahaartistsstudio.com/

For some reason I am in the mood for Halloween! Probable has something to do with the cloudy,rainy weather we are having here in Oregon. Come on over and check us out !

Yea! Spring/Summer

2011-06-04T14:52:00.000-07:00

I am sooo happy spring /summer has finally arrived in Salem Oregon! After 8 long dreary months we have sun and 82 degree temps! I am feeling more energetic already, re potted some plants added new ones to my hanging garden. Hubby just mowed so of course I had to share some pictures.
The clematis is blooming everywhere , I have huge purple, pink&white, snowy white and pink clematis. I just love them they are my favs.
If you look closely you may see Disney Alice in Wonderland figures tucked in the garden.

On a different note here is a new piece that is for sale on http://www.ahaartistsstudio.com
This is a vintage wood lazy susan , on which I have painted vintage style Halloween images has been sealed for protection Price $28.00 plus shipping...Measure the size of a dinner plate around 8" .

April 25th Debut for AHA Marketplace!!

2011-04-24T23:42:00.000-07:00

Hooray for the Red, White & Blue!!

Hurray on over to catch the Holiday art from our studios to you!! My new piece is called the Ol' Colonel. He is a 10 1/2 inch tall air dry clay Rooster struting his stuff in a very patriotic outfit.
The Ol' Colonel believes in celebratin every the of July by wearing his favorite red & white striped pants, star spangled blue & white star vest and his Sunday go to meetin' waist coat jacket. Available tomorrow!

American Holiday Artists Challenge Under the Big top

2011-02-26T19:56:00.000-08:00

http://www.ahaartistsstudio.com/

The American Holiday Artists "Under The Big Top " Event is under Way . Come on over and see what we have create just for this event!

All of our Artists went all out! We have a tightrope walker, fortune teller, clowns , talented bichons and elephant & much more.

Here are my challenge pieces available on Ahaartistsstudio.com

Circus Kewpie

Peanuts the Elephant

American Holiday Artists Challenge

2011-02-22T11:36:00.000-08:00

We will be going to the circus with the Under The Big Top Challenge!
Ever wanted to runaway to the circus, well here's your chance. Mark your calendars for Feb 25th debut of AHA's new site. www.ahaartistsstudio.com
So grab some popcorn, peanuts , some cotton candy and prepare to be amazed by the clowns, dancing bear, tight rope walker , elephants and much more!

Two WIPS for upcoming AHA Marketplace

2011-02-17T20:17:00.000-08:00

First is a tiny Kewpie that will have the feathers and beaded necklace reminiscent of prizes given out in early Circus events.
Second is an elephant standing on a ball. Still needs a little more clay, and eye placement correction.

The winner is

2011-02-17T20:08:00.000-08:00

Mila from Tuscany Italy! Thank you for participating in OWOH!

I've cleaned my studio Woo Hoo!!

2011-02-17T20:02:00.000-08:00

After the holidays my studio looked like tornado alley! Things were piled up to my nose and covered my floor to the point, one would have thought I was some sort of crazed hoarder. I have changed my piggy ways and totally revamped my storage & studio. I like to call it "Controlled Chaos".
I can actually find things now, because .. well it's all sorted, labeled and in containers. So far so good.
I finally replaced my plastic folding table from Costco and invested in a Martha Stewart desk. Her new line of craft units are really awesome, I was going to purchase the MS craft table, however after reading 55 comments on the 100 something parts, the excessive amount of time and frustration the reviewers stated they experienced was enough to make me rethink that one. I bought the desk instead, the only assembly required was screwing in the legs. That was it! It has turned out to be an excellent choice. It has 2 drawers on the right, which allows me to keep my sculpting tools in the desk and off my work surface. The deep file drawer is now home for sketch books, books drawings. The center drawer, which would be for a computer keyboard is now home to my blank canvases.

Since I work with clay, paints,glues etc, I opted to have a piece of glass cut for the top. It cleans up easily and protects the desk top.
And look I actually have space to get some fun stuff done! It's all good! ~Susan

One World One Heart Giveaway starts Jan 31st!

2011-01-30T14:56:00.000-08:00

The Last One World One Heart blog adventure begins tomorrow. If you would like to enter in the Seasonal Whimsies Giveaway Please leave a comment on this post. That's it!! Be sure to provide a way for me to reach you if you win.

The prize??a set of Victorian Magnets from the Victorian Trading Co!

One World One Heart

2011-01-27T12:03:00.000-08:00

One World One Heart begins on Jan. 31 through the 17th of February. I will be posting my giveaway offering on the 28th with instructions on how to be entered into my blog giveaway! If you are interested in joining the fun here is the link to follow to be added to the blog list . Over 1000 are listed already
http://awhimsicalbohemian.typepad.com/a_whimsical_bohemian/2010/12/annoucning-the-fifth-and-final-one-world-one-heart-event-.html

Celebrate 365

2010-12-17T19:03:00.000-08:00

I have been notified by Connie Porcher of Celebrate 365 magazine that two of my Santa Claus figures will be the Christmas edition! I am so thrilled to be included in this beautiful magazine with so many other talented artists! I encourage everyone to visit http://www.celebrate365.com/ for more information. Thank you Connie!

I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas filled with love, joy and the gift of sharing. I continue to pray for our troops, for all who have lost their jobs and for this country. Blessings to one and all! God Bless America ! ~Susan~

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T10:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!! Blessings To one and all.

I hope you all have a wonderful day and if you have a chance , come over to AHA Artists Studio
and take a peek at our newest offerings ~Susan~

New Art For Sale on American Holiday Artists Studio
New art offerings are now up on the AHA website , if you have a chance please come on over and see all the fabulous new creations being offered just in time for Christmas! Here is the link to the Santa Claus & Snowmen pieces for sale in my studio.

http://www.ahaartistsstudio.com/Vanderhoek_studio.htm

This link is for the main marketplace
http://www.ahaartistsstudio.com/

New Christmas Gourds

2010-11-16T11:29:00.000-08:00

The holidays are coming swiftly upon us, while my 10 yr.old grandson laments at the length of time he has to wait for Christmas, I just purchased my first Christmas gift! It seems like this time of year sweeps in and out like the tide.
This year we have decided to hit the beaches of Hawaii after the Holidays , which will be something to look forward to after the holiday let down.

I have been working on some new Christmas pieces to offer on Ebay & the http://ahaartistsstudio.com/ site . The first photo on the left shows all 7 tiny snowmen and 1 penguin. The tiny snowmen& penguin were created using 4" dried gourds. Each one has it's own personally , unique clothing and accent pieces.
I will be offering a Large Santa Claus piece on the AHA website as well. He measures 15" tall & carries small feather tree. He has a retro appearance with color washes ranging from dark to lights reds with tiny mod trees covering the coat. A border of vintage cream and combination of various geometric shapes finish off the border. His hat is cover in large two toned circles and HO HO HO written as a pattern on the hat. He will be available on the website on Nov 25th.
I will be hosting a blog giveaway starting on Nov 25th ending on Dec.5th
Check back to sign up to win a one of a kind prize! ~Susan~

New Items just listed !

2010-10-25T13:32:00.000-07:00

Yea! It is the 25th of the month time for brand new holiday items to be posted on the American Holiday Artists Studios Marketplace as our artists create new items for the holiday season, I invite you to visit the marketplace for all your holiday decorative treasures. Most of our artists accept orders and commissioned work. Susan

Is Time Moving at Light Speed Or ....

2010-10-11T12:18:00.000-07:00

OMG is time moving at the speed of light or am I standing still??? Where did summer go? Not that Oregon saw much of summer, the temps never really hit much in the way of heat and we had lots of rain too.
There have been reports saying our beloved pumpkins may not turn their glorious orange in time for Halloween! This could be a disaster, who in the world wants green pumpkins?! Unheard of!
I can see it now , we'll all be painting our pumpkins orange. sigh.... Probably have to import some from another state, this would just be wrong!
Fall in Oregon is all about the corn mazes and pumpkin hunt. Every year our family treks out to one of the nearby farms for a afternoon of fun in the corn mazes, sipping hot cider, munching on warm apple cider donuts. yummy! Most importantly the search for the most perfect pumpkin. The kids always head for the humongous pumpkins, which of course out weighs a small teenager! Always a treat to try and wrangle it into the the wheel barrel.
I have been busy working on commissioned Santa Gourds and music doll pieces which I will post peeks of , before heading back to my studio. Smiles Susan

Trick Or Treat Street

2010-09-15T06:49:00.000-07:00

Join in the fun with three terrific artists! They are offering prizes and fun ! Here's the link

http://retrorudolphs.blogspot.com/2010/09/trick-or-treat-street-3-days-of-tricks.html

My Little Demon

2010-09-12T17:12:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share my newest piece that will be available for purchase on the new www.ahaartistsstudio.com Marketplace on Sept. 25th.
My Little Demon is a hand sculpted piece made from paper clay securely mounted on a tin that opens to reveal a secret hiding place. Named for one of my weaknesses " Halloween candy & cupcakes!" Approximately 7 inches tall, carries a large lollipop and appears be standing on top of a cupcake. Demon has been painted then cover in Martha Stewarts extra fine glitter and glass glitter on top of the cupcake. Two different colors crepe paper fringe as accents. Off to the movies with my family! ~susan~

The Winners Are....

2010-09-12T16:57:00.000-07:00

The winning number selected by random number generator are # 8 Cathy Santarsiero

and #29 Norime Henderson ! Congratulations and thank you everyone!

The Last day to leave comments to be enter!

2010-09-11T10:58:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day to leave a comment to be enter in the ahaartistsstudio.com market launch. Just leave a comment and a way to contact you that's it! Visit the others aha blogs and enter there too! I will be using a random counter to pick the 2 winners tomorrow. Thank you all for visiting! ~Susan~

CHRISTKINDEMART IN AUGUST ! GIVEAWAY Prizes

2010-08-23T17:33:00.000-07:00

AhA Marketplace opens Today!! with Grand Giveaways!

The AhA Studios Marketplace is open for business @ http://www.ahaartistsstudio.com/

Christkindlemart Giveaway Prizes.

      Prize# 1 Tiny witch ornie

    Prize # 2 sculpted ghost pin tag. (pictured below)
I will add a 3rd prize if I receive over 200 comments. So Invite your Friends!

To celebrate this momentous occasion all Ahartisans are participating in a Blog Give-away! This Give-away will run from August 25th through September 12th. The rules are very simple, and you have a chance to win more than one prize.

Here's how it works.

First, each Ahartisan has posted a picture of our give-away prize clearly marked on our blogs. Next we have all chosen a random number.

All you have to do is post a comment under each prize picture. Now, if your comment corresponds with the Ahartisan's chosen number, then hooray, you win the prize for that blog. So, the more comments you post, the more chances you have to win! Easy!

Each of us have listed our fellow Ahartisans on our blogs, so all you have to do is follow the list from blog to blog, find the prize and comment. What could be easier?
All contest prizes will be posted on August 25th!
Good luck & Thank You for participating in the American Holiday Artist's Studio Marketplace Great Give-away! ~Susan~

This verbiage was shamelessly "borrowed" from either Kim , or was it Pea who borrowed it from Melissa, who borrowed it from Valerie, or was it Shirley? I borrowed it from all of you, ....So many of us borrowed this perfectly crafted statement I am not sure who really wrote it! But a heartfelt thank you! You know who you are ! It was perfect~ :)

2 prize
Please your comments for this post to be enter in giveaway

CHRISTKINDEMART IN AUGUST ! GIVEAWAY

2010-08-22T12:04:00.000-07:00

To Celebrate the debut of the American Holiday Artists Studios Marketplace
***** AHA artists are hosting a blog giveaway ****
starting Aug. 25th!
* * * * * * *

* THE GREAT AMERICAN HOLIDAY ARTISTS BLOG GIVEAWAY! *
To celebrate the debut of our new Marketplace our artists invite you to enter the world of Christkindlemart in the spirit of Europe's old world Christmas markets.
* Let us transport you to our virtual Christkindlemart marketplace. To start your journey,* grab your favorite hot beverage, then enter the winter wonderland of Europe, the air is crisp & *filled with the scent of freshly baked gingerbread, and huge decorated cookies hang from strings in the one of the brightly colored booths. Ornaments & tiny twinkling lights cover the* huge tree in the markets square, and before you is the first artist's virtual shop. * * * *
Each stop offers a chance to be entered into a prize giveaway just for visiting. There will be many chances to win, to participate leave a comment on this post along with your contact information should you be the winner of a blog giveaway prize. * * * *

Visit http://www.ahaartistsstudios.com/ for a complete of participating artists. I have listed all AHA artists to the left as well.

I will posting pictures my giveaway items later today

Prizes! Giveaway!

2010-08-18T19:44:00.000-07:00

Starting on August 25th American Holiday Artist will be hosting a all member blog giveaway. Giveaway will end on Sept 12,2010. To enter on the 25th just leave a comment on each blog that has a announcement and prize for the giveaway. Each artist will have a prize giveaway , so be sure to visit all our wonderful artist members. For a list of artist blogs go to
www.ahaartistsstudios.com our new site to debut on Aug. 25th.

Celebrate 365

2010-08-04T11:49:00.000-07:00

The new summer issue of Celebrate 365 magazine is out ! Connie Porcher, creator of this awesome magazine graciously used three of my Alice figures in the lastest edition! 2 dolls figures and the large teapot clock. All of the pieces in this magazine are wonderful, it is a honor to be in the magazine with them. Check out the feature interview with Flora Thompson of Bone Head Studio, I am a huge fan of this talented lady's work. Her version of Alice is amazing! Congrats to everyone ! check out Celebrate365.com For the latest work of your favorite artists and market lines. ~Susan~

2 new items listed on Ebay

2010-07-31T18:12:00.000-07:00

I have just listed 2 new Halloween pieces on Ebay. Yeah! Finally have been able to get some fun stuff done. Now, I face the daunting task of cleaning up my studio so I can actually find the things I need for my next creations.
My husband continues to lurk outside my studio door any time he wants to speak to me. My husband " mister neat nick" fears being consumed by my hideous messiness.
On occasion, he will point a finger accusingly at the carpet as bits of fluff , threads, and crepe paper that hitch rides on the legs of my uber noisy, fluffy little dogs, that then carry the objectionable bits outside the confines of my studio. I can't be held responsible for bits of rubbish that sneak out of the studio of their own accord.
I invite you to check our AHA groups offerings on ebay using aha art in the search box! Enjoy your weekend ! ~Susan~

Here are the pictures !

2010-07-08T17:14:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd post a few actual pictures of the house now that it's painted . Thank You EV!! For reminding me to post the outcome. I had a hard time getting a good picture because Oregon is in the middle of a for real heat wave!! It's a whopping 105 flipping degrees out there!
In the immortal words of the Wicked Witch from the Wizard of Oz " I'm melting!!" We went from 65 degrees to 105 in the space of about 3 days! On those cold, endlessly rainy months of Oregon ,I wonder why we left Phoenix AZ. Oh yea, I remember now!
I need to get in gear and work on some of my paper mache pieces, man those puppies will be completely dry within a few hours. Tomorrows going to be another scorcher , so you'll know what I'll be working on tomorrow. Unless my husband offers to take me to the beach that is.
Bye for now I've got pumpkins to paint! ~Susan~
PS: for those who have joined Flora's (BoneHeadStudios) prayer group to prayer for our country & it's leaders , stay strong we can make a difference! Blessings to one and all!

Phew!

2010-07-07T09:28:00.000-07:00

Sorry about the cliff hanger! I had quite the shock when we were finally able to sneak out of the house to view the new color. My heart sunk , when I first saw it. The color looked so light and we had Sunshine too which really made the color look light.
We had been testing the color on our normal gray skies which apparently made the color darken even more. The picture that is currently post of our deck is the color it was. Sort of a light tan which we liked but felt we wanted to change it up a bit, so we went with something different. Once the cream trim was painted and the front door received its new color sun dried tomato ( a color my husband confessed was way out of his comfort zone) everything just sort of fell into place.
It was sort of funny though , my husband kept reassuring me that the color looked great,
of course once they allowed us out he was all over the place making sure he didn't miss anything. I went back inside and hid, secure in the knowledge that we had made a huge house sized mistake. It took me several hours to wander back out side to check the color again. Since our backyard had the contrasting white pergola it was easier to see how the color really looked. The color had a chance to dry a bit & darken and I felt so much better.
It took a good 4 days for the color to dry and now we both love it. A couple of our neighbors have stopped by to tell us how much they love the new look! YAY!
My recommendations for anyone who is having their homes painted this summer, take a deep breath try to stay calm, check out homes that have colors you like, get lots of samples paints to try out and cross your fingers!! ~Susan~

I'm Freaking out here!!

2010-06-29T11:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, so we decided to have our home painted. It took us forever to pick out the colors, finally my husband and I choose a Sherwin Williams color called Comfort Gray with Alabaster for the trim and Rookwood Red for the door.
Having been fans of the HGTV for a couple of years , especially Curb Appeal, we felt confident we could avoid the pitfalls of the folks on the shows, especially when the house color goes on and the owners freak out because the color looks totally different when painted on a large building. After all I am an artist, I work with color everyday ! We took their helpful hints on how to choose colors really taking into consideration the color of the brick on the front of our house, style and our yard.
Then, I found the Northern Shores and Seaports Sherwin Williams brochure. There it was ...the perfect house with the colors I crave. A two story painted pale gray with creamy soft white trim and a deep red brown front door.
The moment of truth, the painters have arrived today to paint the house. I am freaking out!! The reason, we have been entombed inside of our house ! It is covered in plastic, all of the doors and windows are covered I can't see anything!!!! If we have made a mistake in color choices, all of the neighbors will know it before we do. ARGH!!! I feel so helpless, and the fear keeps building, I have visions of those odd looking lilacs and blues people paint their houses. At least on Curb Appeal, the home owners are allowed to get out of the house before the actual painting begins. This allows them to freak out on camera and stop the painting to avert a horrible paint color fiasco.
The front door bell rings, I answer the door , the painters have a question and have been forced to create a exit for us because they have a problem in the back of the house. I quickly exit the door and run to the curb to view the house, my stomach sinks , the color is really really light ...... frantically I search for the huge paint sample we created on a large piece of artist canvas to compare the colors , then I realize I threw it away yesterday , trash day...... SCREWED!! I am praying the color darkens up when it completely dries..............
OMG! are we going to be those people with the odd color house????? I am painting another canvas with our color to compare it just to be sure the paint company didn't screw it up. I did dip one pinkie into the our color sample and covertly placed my color onto a spot already painted by the front door. Drat! the color blended perfectly ! We may have made a huge mistake. I am suppose to be dieting today, at the moment I am shoveling toffee coated peanuts in my mouth as I type. Bad day to diet , as reality kicks in .....this house paint is guaranteed to last 25 frickin years ! OMG! I think I'm going to be sick....

Our new deck!

2010-06-20T11:41:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share something else with you today. Even though we are still in winters clutches for the moment our backyard is in glorious living color. My husband decided it was time for a real deck to enjoy our blooming backyard. We had a pebble concrete deck before which wasn't very foot friendly for those of us who go barefoot virtually all the time.
Now it is soft & smooth to the foot and so inviting! However, it is drizzling again, sigh, and the ground is squashy , wet & cold on my feet as I take these pictures. Pooka & Chloe' investigate while I take pictures, silly doggies think there might be something new out there to find. They are fascinated with the pond, probably because of the singing froggies. They are only 1 1/2 inches long fully grown but boy do they like to singing!
Notice the gray skies..... Our backyard is long and sort of narrow, our a corner lot the slopes down on the far side. We wanted to create a intimate & private setting especially as our neighbors are fairly close on the backside. I think we managed to create a private sanctuary with all of the towering trees and lush foliage. This is our secret garden. Where Clematis commingle with tiny pink climbing roses, on hidden trellis's and climb the vintage white rattan headboards set out for them. There is a small waterfall that has been over taken with green leafy ground cover with it's purple flowers. Now if only the sun would grace us for a while , we could have it all!
Can you find Alice , the white rabbit, Daisy, the caterpillar and the mad hatter ? Probably not since the pictures a so small, but I have Alice sitting near the front of the waterfall Daisy is nestled to her left and the caterpillar is tucked in amongst the ferns . The rabbit and mad hatter are sitting shaded under the burgundy and green leafed Japanese maple trees.
For those of you with the sun shining on you , I envy you , for those of us that sit under the gray skies of the Pacific Northwest, hang in there our day in the sun will come! Blessings Susan

Halloween art pins.

2010-06-02T11:41:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to show off the wearable art pins I have just listed on EBay. They have been mounted on aged hang tags that can be displayed on your favorite holiday tree or easily removed to wear as a Halloween decorative pin. Have a wonderful day! ~Susan~

Finished at last!

2010-05-09T13:08:00.000-07:00

At last the finished Alice in Wonderland teapot. The teapot measures 8" inches by 10"inches . I created this piece by first making the armature and then sculpting the entire piece with clay. It features a large dandelion on the back with assorted leaves. On the front the Cheshire Cat sits above the heart shaped frame of the clock . with clock is battery operated and easy to remove to replace the battery when needed. Layers of color washes were used to created an aged distressed look. Thank you for stopping by! Susan

Wip of new work

2010-04-02T12:28:00.000-07:00

I thought I would post a few WIP photos of piece I am currently working. Still lots to do yet bases need to be added and lots of tweaking but we're getting there. I really like creating these pieces. Maybe I should take some pottery classes so that I could try and create them as real teapots! Wouldn't that be fun. well off to my studio. smiles Susan

Hungry for dessert not much time?

2010-03-23T10:24:00.000-07:00

This is a fun recipe to try. Cake in a cup. Especially for kids to make . It takes 5 minutes from mixing ingredients to microwave! My grandson wanted to bake something together so we tried this recipe. He loved it , it's sort of a sponge cake consistency,very tasty and satisfying especially with ice cream or whipped cream.
5 minute Chocolate mug cake
4 Tbl spoons flour
4 Tbl spoons sugar
2 tbl spoons cocoa powder
1 egg
3 Tbl spoons milk
3 tbl spoons oil
3 tbl spoons chocolate chips
splash of vanilla extract
1 large mug

add all dry ingredients into mug mix well with fork.
add slightly beaten egg mix well
add in milk ,oil and mix well
add chocolate chips and vanilla mix again
place mug into microwave and cook for 3 minutes cake will poof up like a souffle and collapse down and end of cooking time. cool and eat.

Just listed on Ebay

2010-03-22T12:42:00.000-07:00

I have just listed the 2 music box art dolls for sale on Ebay under my other selling ID french prairie prims I have added links to these auctions. please check out!

We're all mad here!

2010-03-19T15:41:00.000-07:00

I am beginning to feel a little like the mad hatter, my studio is in chaos again. sigh! I just can't seem to keep it clean . I like having everything within arms reach when I am working especially when I am starting to assemble pieces that require bits of lace, ribbon, crepe paper. The next thing I know I am drowning in STUFF!!
Is it really any wonder my husband stands in the doorway to talk to me rather than coming all the way in? He's probably afraid he'll be covered in the bits and pieces of debris that cling to every surface of my room at the moment........ on the up side, he leaves me alone to create and forges for he's own lunch.
I just finished 2 new pieces that are a bit different for me . I purchased a pattern from Rebekah Holloway a couple of years ago and would pull it out on occasion a place it in the I really want to make that pile, then when I clean my studio it ends up back in the pattern cabinet. I finally pushed myself to make it and I love this pattern! It was a combination of soft sculpted body with a clay sculpted head and shoulders. I gave them a whimsical twist and ended up with 2 music box art dolls. Glory is a patriotic piece that stands on a drum box music box was added and play America the Beautiful. Glory's pants and umbrella are navy blue with white stars, her coat is warm and natural with tiny red pom pom accents. The brim of her hat and her collar are red crepe paper that has been fringed. Her tutu is layered gathers of red tulle for that foo foo look. She carries a cone filled with moss and paper flowers. Overall height is around 11 inches .
The one is called Live Joyfully, she wears all warm & natural with deep pink accents, her layered gather tulle skirts are the same warm pink as are her collar and hat trim. This piece is larger than Glory by about 2 inches. Live stands on her toes , she carries a matching pink umbrella in one hand, and a mask cover in ultra fine silver glass glitter in the other.
The box she stands on is wood covered completely in warm and natural fabric, with vintage faux velvet ribbon and antique lace . The banner is made of crepe paper trimmed in silver glitter and the phrase Live Joyfully. Her music box plays Edelweiss. Measures 13".tall.
I will be listing these pieces to night on Ebay. That's all for now, thank you for peeking in ! ~Susan~

Alice figures just listed.

2010-03-13T18:37:00.000-08:00

The four completed figures are now up for adoption on Ebay. I have posted new pics of the completed pieces. The Three figures are mounted securely to a vintage child's block with 4 four vintage pictures of Alice scenes one on each side of the block .
Flutter has a combination of vintage laces and ribbons with layers of tulle. Her hands and Polk a dots have been dusted with extra fine glass glitter. After all butterflies have to have lots of color especially if they live in Wonderland! Alice wears layers of gathered tulle and tied with a vintage velvet ribbon and if you look on her wrist she wears a tiny key. ..... I wonder what it opens?
the Queen of hearts is wearing a gathered skirt of crimson wired ribbon to achieve that royal ruffle. Her ornate crown is dusted with ultra fine ruby red glass glitter and faux crystal. She carries her baby flamingo with her everywhere.
The last piece is the Mad Hatters Teapot which features the White Rabbit watching over the door on the front of the teapot. I was asked if it is a actual working teapot. The answer is no this a a sculptural art piece for display only. But I am happy to know it looks real!
Well off to make dinner ! Thanks for stopping by...~Susan~

Sneak Peek

2010-03-07T19:20:00.000-08:00

Finally I have a peek for you of the things I have been working on for Aha's Alice In Wonderland Challenge. In the back is what I think the toddler Queen of Hearts might have looked like. Dress in her Red and black outfit complete with Crown! Next is a magical teapot with a door that might just lead somewhere in Wonderland but you would have to use a drink me potion to get through. Flutter is a magical butterfly from the looking glass world. Finally Alice, dressed in frilly tulle with blue satin ribbons. She wears a bracelet with a key on it . I wonder what it opens?
I hope to add the mad hatter, the Caterpillar and the Tweedle bros. rabbit and the cat! We'll see how it goes.. But for now these little cuties are just waiting bases and few props. That's all for now! Thank you for stopping by!

WooHoo!!

2010-02-20T16:42:00.000-08:00

My new banner is beautiful! Created by the very talented Sheryl Parsons of a Mothers Dream! Sheryl worked with me to create a truly one of a kind banner and even gave me the third column I was looking for!

For anyone who is html challenged as I am, Sheryl has been a gift. I highly recommend her as an artist and a creator of beautiful blogs! Now I just need to get some work done to post on my blog. My Alice in Wonderland figures are coming along , I will try to post some WIP's pics tonight.

And the Winner is....

2010-02-15T13:44:00.000-08:00

The randon number generator has chosen 115 so my winner is ......
The winner is Sassy Pack Rat!!! Congratulations to you and thank you all for taking the time to leave comments and visit with me.
If for some reason the winner doesn't contact me by 17 th I will choose another winner. Thanks again Susan

ONE WORLD ONE HEART GIVEAWAY

2010-01-30T11:50:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my blog! I hope you enjoy your visit with me today. I have just baked some fudge nut brownies and have a pot of cinnamon orange tea brewing ,hmmm can you smell the cinnamon? yummy! Come in and visit for a while. While your here please feel free to participate in the One World One Heart fun!

One World One Heart Giveaway has begun ! This brilliant idea came from and was created by the hostess of this event is Lisa at "A Whimsical Bohemian". The idea is for bloggers all over the world to visit and connect with one another. Swap ideas, share our stories and encourage our peers.

Last year I spent many enjoyable hours visiting all the different blogs, and decided to join in the fun this year.
For my blog giveaway I will be offering one [1] Victorian Santa ornament that I designed for The Artistry of Poland Design contest. My original work was recreated into a hand blown glass ornament. The winner of the blog giveaway will receive one signed ornament.
To enter it couldn't be easier, just leave a comment on this post... that's it! Oh! be sure to leave your name and your email address, should you be my lucky winner.
All this fun ends on February 15Th when the winner will be drawn at random. If for some reason the winner does not contact me within 3 days , I will draw another name. thank you for visiting today and good luck!~Susan~

Alice in Wonderland FUN!!

2010-01-29T11:24:00.000-08:00

I am so excited I can hardly wait until Tim Burton's version of
Alice in Wonderland comes out! The color and imaginary on the Disney official website captures my imagination! So much so that I have started creating Alice figures.... baby style. Alice is almost complete along with a wonderland butterfly baby. I have already sketched out my ideas for the Queen of hearts baby, Mad Hatter , and the Caterpillar. So much fun! Watch for the WIP's I hope to post some today. ~Madly in Love Susan~

Finally Done!

2010-01-18T14:50:00.000-08:00

You should know that I am doing the happy dance right now! My studio is CLEAN!!! yes I finally beat it into submission , after numerous hours of painful sorting , tossing, and general cleaning. I am sure when my husband goes to clean the vacuum out there will several unhappy expletives coming from the garage, but I'll just hum louder to drown him out!
I am pleased to note that I remain , Galadriel, I mean Susan, I passed the test. I tossed everything that was readily replenished like the massive toilet roll collection,the bits of material too minute to really do anything with but thought I could use it for something??
Paint bottles that contained the tiniest bit of paint known to mankind, paint brushes that had 2 scraggly bristles left ,assorted bits of broken pottery .... well you get the idea.

with a bright newly cleaned studio I am ready to get back to work, actually play, can you really ever call art work? And good news I found my remote for my Ipod system AND my tv which been missing in action since the holiday rush to finish everything up. Which means I can be surrounded by music again,oh happy day. Life is good when things are clean and every thing is in its proper place. many happy sighs! Susan

Your invited!

2010-01-12T15:53:00.000-08:00

Amelia's Sweet B Folk Art and Lori from Retro Rudolphs are hosting a birthday! Clink the links to the right to be included in the fun! We will celebrating these two talented ladies birthday's! ~come join us in wishing them both Happiest of Birthdays! ~susan~

The De Santafaction process begins!

2010-01-04T19:59:00.000-08:00

Well, I procrastinated as long as I could, the taking down of Christmas trees ,wreaths, Santa's is always a sad time for me. Tucking away all my favorite beaded ornaments and collectible figures I have founde over the years.
I love the way our home glows with soft twinkling lights, sparkling ornaments , and my Santa collection displays. I would leave them up all year round if it weren't for the dried up Christmas tree and people thinking I was just a little odd. LOL who am I kidding, people already think I'm odd!
I managed to clean out my laundry room today, which is a catch all for things that don't have a place or in this case , wrapping paper, tissue, bows, plus several finished gourds and just plain old junk! Throwing things away has always been hard for me , everything has possibilities for future art projects, however I have come to realize if I don't start throwing things out I will be up to my blooming arse with this stuff! I'll be like the people who pass away leaving 100's empty milk cartons or some such stuff for others to deal with. Besides there's always going to be new things to replace them. Maybe even better things! hmmmm.
Tomorrow, I tackle the most dreaded room of all.... My studio! music should be playing here, the scary dum.. dum... dum.. the one that plays right before the unsuspecting victim opens the door to the spookiest room in the house. This would be my studio. I started to clean it last week, moving things around but its still out of wack. I need my studio to make sense to me. I let it take on a life of its own and now my beast has to tamed again. So I will have to rearrange furniture and just plain put things away before I can do anything creative in there.
I can't have fun until my work is done! Phooie! Wish me luck as I go to do battle~ Susan~

Making an effort!

2009-12-30T20:59:00.000-08:00

I promised myself I would do several things differently this upcoming new year.
1. work on my blog more
2. concentrate on putting more work on Esty & Ebay maybe have a selling site.
3. take few classes to learn new techniques
4. Clean my studio, which is a total wreck, actually that should be number one!
5. and finally get rid of excess junk.

I am sure those of you who are artists, will understand number 5. The "I may be able to use that" attitude that keeps me from throwing away anything I think might have use for somewhere down the road. Since I am a cancer this is even worse for me as I can't seem to part with anything! I currently have broken pottery, thinking I might be inspired to do a mosaic of some sort one day. hmmmm yeah that ain't gonna happen!

I have been saving toilet issue rolls for some time now, and while I do haul them out and create some darling little 4Th of July pieces and Halloween candy tube thingies , let's be reasonable here , how likely is it that I would experiance a shortage of those?

I have tons of floral picks, I hate flower arranging, what was I thinking? I save boxes, tissue and packing wrap. I have patterns that I haven't even opened. I 'm thinking spring cleaning craft sale on EBAY.
My husband, who is a notorious neat freak, refuses to place one toe into my studio, he totally doesn't understand how I can work in such utter chaos and to top it off , I have been sorting through material so the guest bedroom is sort of disaster too. Now I am getting the LOOK. If I don't start getting the guest room in order I am sure I will soon get the Look and the complaints! Sigh! I have successfully put him off for now as I have told him that I gathering things for end of the year donations. oops! almost outta time on that one! Guess I really need to kick it into high gear tomorrow! Off for now! ~susan~

Time to take a breath!

2009-12-29T17:35:00.000-08:00

First, let me just say Thank God! I don't have to fly anywhere to spend the holidays with my family! Now that things are settling back down, I've spent the last few days reading the Twilight Series. I am not a fan of the vampire genre, however, I couldn't put these books down. The writer captured my imagination on the very first page.
I will continue to read everything she writes from here on out. I only have a few authors that I would crawl over burning sands to buy their books, my favorite being Jayne Ann Krentz, Stephenie Meyer will now be added to that list. And Robert Pattison will always be Edward to me now that I've seen the first movie...... Oh if I were only younger! sigh! But there's alway Johnny Depp.....
Winter came to Salem Oregon today we received 2 to 3 inches of snow, our weatherman was wrong again! Shocking! Although it did make for a wonderful day to snuggle down , drink hot chocolate with lots of whipped cream, or in this case cool whip, and watch old movies. I had no where to be or anything I had to get done. The perfect day! I hope your day was uneventful and peaceful. ~Susan~

Done at last!

2009-12-12T12:54:00.000-08:00

At long last I have completed all orders, last weekend was the final show so now I can sit back and enjoy the Holidays!

HA ! that is if you don't count the Christmas shopping I still have left, which is almost everyone, the Holiday baking I haven't even begun to start and decorating my house!
I used to be so organized , shopping was all done in early November, baking was done by December 1 st. and my entire house ,including the Christmas tree, was up and decorated before Thanksgiving.
I do have excuses though. OUr family spent Thanksgiving in California, doing Disneyland , Knott's Berry Farm and finishing off with big family gathering at my in-laws house!
Since this all was my brilliant idea, I offered to cook both turkeys at our condo and bring it out to the in laws house.
AH HA HA ,what was I thinking?? I had it all planned out in my mind , it was perfect . We brought 2, 23 lbs.plus turkeys, disposable roasting pans and my Grammies secret stuffing ingredients with us on our 14 hour journey from Salem Oregon to Anaheim Ca. All 7 of us in my daughters, Suburban, with her focus driven husband at the helm. Each of us armed with the lastest in travel necessities, IPODS, DVD PLAYERS, PHONES and lots & lots of snacks .
We only stopped for the all important potty and gas breaks, other than that we traveled at lightening speeds of 85 plus the whole way. My son-in-law has extraordinary luck, he wins every contest he enters, gets free stuff all the time and never ever encounters the highway patrol while driving way over the speed limit, which is good because we are always running late when we go places as a family.
Once we arrived in California, we enjoyed the warm summer like temps of the mid 70's and of course the Wonders of Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm , which by the way is a much more family priced place to visit, about a third of the price of Disneyland for those who would like to do both.
I had planned to cook one turkey Wednesday morning and other on Wednesday night while we were sleeping. However, the oven at the condo didn't have a timed baking featured, which I had not figured on in my ingenious plan, this place was brand new, and hadn't figured on them cheesing out on the appliances. Oh well, I am flexible , well, sort of. Since I knew we would not be returning back to the condo until probably 11 pm, which would the turkeys unattended for 12 hours, I was left with a decision. Either bake one when we arrived back at 11 PM and try to cook the other before we left the next morning or I could cook them both at the same time, at the low temperature 225. Yes, that would work! It had to work. Figuring that 50 plus lbs of turkey wouldn't cook completely even with several hours of cooking I was golden. Wrong!!
When we arrived back at the condo,the aroma of turkey scented the hall way. I didn't hear the smoke alarm but was fearing the worst . The only thing I could think of was the scene from Christmas Vacation when the turkey sort of exploded from being over cooked and was as dry as the Sahara.
However, the turkeys were more like slow cooked ribs , the meat was still on the bones only because the skin was holding it there! There was so much juice that it had spilled over the side and on to the floor ! Small price to pay though as long as I didn't ruin the turkeys! Still it worked out great. The meat was moist , easily cut, and since this was a family gathering of over 26 ,we didn't do the big turkey presentation thing, so it all worked out fine. I hadn't ruined Thanksgiving! YEA!
I actually finished my house decorating today, so all I have left is shopping and baking. Fortunately I have all next week to shop and my grand kids are wanting to help with baking so once again I should be Golden!
This time of year, is such as wonderful time of Blessings and Love , I am thankful for all my family , my friends and colleague's, I pray all of you have a wondrous and Blessed Christmas Season! For those that are struggling I pray for God's Blessings for you, I know God answers prayers, He will answer yours too! Blessings and Peace ~Susan~

New creations.

2009-10-21T12:41:00.000-07:00

Fall Celebrate 365 is out! Yea!

2009-10-07T17:08:00.000-07:00

The Fall issue of Celebrate 365 is out ! One word comes to mind, Amazing!!! Beautifully done Connie and Lori ! If you love Halloween, you don't want to miss this magazine issue .
It is filled with beautiful collectibles, interviews with the artists & collectors and a peek at their collections and the artists at work. There is still time to subscribe and single copies will be available for purchase too. Check out Connie's website and make sure that you receive a copy of Celebrate 365 next week too!!! Congratulations all of our AHA Group being featured in this months issue

This one is going in my library!! It's a keeper! ~Susan~

Celebrate 365 !

2009-09-24T19:58:00.000-07:00

Celebrate 365 by Connie Porcher Editor is featuring an article on my art at http://www.celebrate365.com if you have a moment please visit Connie's online site featuring collectible ornaments & holiday themed art. Thank you Connie!
Susan

Artistry Of Poland Ornament Arrived!

2009-09-18T18:48:00.000-07:00

Today the completed version of the Victorian Santa arrived! I was so excited I could hardly open the box! Here is the first official viewing of the finished ornament . I think he turned out wonderfully! My heartfelt Thanks to Sue for her patience and help and thank you to Connie P of Celebrate 365 her continued support & help! Cindy your ornament goes out in tomorrows mail. YEA!! Susan

And the winner is.........

2009-09-12T15:03:00.000-07:00

The winner of my Ornament giveaway is.......................Cindy of Pywackit Primitives! thank you all for taking part in the giveaway, I really appreciate all the wonderful, kind comments! ~Susan~
off to work....

OOPS!

2009-09-07T09:13:00.000-07:00

Sheesh!
I forgot to post the pictures yesterday! I am trying to figure out how to reconfigure my blog a little and got distracted! Too many things to think about not enough hands! Any way here they are! I really appreciate you taking the time to stop today!
If you have the time please visit our other blog
www. americanholidayartists.com ~Blessings to you and yours! Susan~

New Santa Gourds

2009-09-05T17:32:00.000-07:00

I thought I would give you a sneak peek at a few of my finished Santa's . All were created from gourds, ranging from small 16" tall to a huge 28" around. The Santa smoking a pipe was a bit of a challenge for me because I knew I wanted to create a large hood without using tons of clay. I found this stuff that reminds me of the old plaster cast material with plaster already infused in . All you have to do is wet it and form into desired shape. It worked really well, still need to work out the bugs but I can see this being a plus for some things I have coming up!
The Gold Santa is a little different too, I used German blown glass eyes, and micro beads for the holly on his clothes. I really love his face, so much character !
The smoking Santa has a real corn cob pipe that I covered in clay then painted. Would you look at that nose! He has a BOB HOPE nose! The little is a sweet little Santa dressed in red and black with handpainted details.
There is still time to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of the Victorian Santa just leave a comment with your email address! that's it ! Off to work ~Susan

Victorian Ornament Update !

2009-09-02T10:37:00.000-07:00

Ship date for the ARTISTRY OF POLAND ORNAMENT is September 15th, I have decided to extent the contest for another week giving you all a chance earn another entry for this drawing.
1 entry for leaving a comment
2 entries for mentioning this contest on your blog [ please let me know if you have done this so I can verify this]
3 entries if you would like to become a follower of my blog!

Please scroll down to original Giveaway posting to leave your comments,

Be sure to leave your email address so I can contact you should you win! ~Susan~

Bloggy Fun!! giveaway!

2009-09-01T18:14:00.000-07:00

Bloggy Fun

Flora of Boneheadstudios.blogspot.com is having a giveaway of sorts, Which I was lucky enough to get in on. This idea was started with Marie Patterson of "Marie Patterson Studio"

NOW FOR THE RULES... please read carefully as this does get passed on :
Now YOU can receive a treat from ME!
All you have to do is leave a comment on this post, and I will draw 2 names and send you a surprise!( You see this is where my fingers got in the way of my brain because I didn't read on, you should though....:)leave an email address so I can contact you !

However, you must know that it will then be YOUR TURN to do the same.
Re-post this on your blog with a link back to MY blog and send your treat to 2 people.

Your prizes may be ANYTHING that you wish to give and can be very simple.
Marie said that the whole premise was a simple gift for 2 people, with an emphasis on simple !
I will change the rules just a wee bit, in that I will collect the names of whoever wants to do this and draw 2 names from them, if there are only 2 then that's good too, but then they have to do the same in turn.
I decided that this idea could be a simple gift, a small tag-like ornie. They will be done in a few days then I will post pictures for whoever is interested in joining this kinda giveaway.

However, you must know that it will then be YOUR TURN to do the same. Re-post this on your blog with a link back to MY blog and send your treat to 2 people. Your prizes may be ANYTHING that you wish to give and can be very simple.

PS!!! Flora still might have a couple of tags left. so visit her blog at boneheadstudios.blogspot.com
and leave a comment for her as well!

New Items on Ebay

2009-08-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

I wanted to give you a sneak peek at my upcoming EBay listings. First is The Felonious Frosty. This guy makes me smile! We lived in Woodland Park Colo, when our kids were growing up. Now if you are not familiar with this beautiful place , it is 8500 ft approximately above sea level Pikes Peak was the view from our front window.
To say we had snow would be a understatement! We usually got dumped on! My kids used to have to wear snow suits over their Halloween costumes. My daughters birthday is Oct 16Th and every year it would snow about 3 ft. on or about her birthday, which was a mixed blessing for her , no school, but no party either cause no one was going anywhere!
Anyway I remembered we always had snowmen in the yard for Halloween and it got me thinking about what would happen if Frosty would have gotten a bewitched villains hat instead of a silk top hat? Enter Felonious! The treat stealing Frosty running down the road grabbing treat bags from unsuspecting trick or treaters! I think there might be a children's book in there some where!
Anyhoo, Felonious is caught in the act of stealing a trick or trick container of goodies and away he runs. Notice the maniacal look in his eyes! I get that look sometimes around chocolate!
Even the pumpkin and candy corns are scared look at the candy trying to escape! And he's even dropped some on the snow covered hill! that's just not right!!
The next piece is a gourd that has been sculpted to resemble a antique German piece that I couldn't begin to afford , so I recreated it with my unique twist. The gourd was hollowed out so that the battery operated candle lights his eyes and mouth. Both are now available on EBay use aha art ID seasonalwhimsies...
Susan

New Giveaway for one of you! CONTEST

2009-08-14T12:39:00.000-07:00

Starting today you can enter to win one of the completed Artistry of Poland ornaments that I designed.
To enter please Pick one of the two versions shown you prefer left or right image, with your comment, and email address so I can notify you if you should win. Winner will be drawn from at random from slips of paper place in bowl. Only entries with email addresses will be entered in drawing.

Contest ends Sept 1 st . Winner will be drawn Sept 2nd. Tell your friend! Good Luck! ~Susan~

News from the Artistry Of Poland

2009-08-14T12:23:00.000-07:00

Yea! the final piece has been created, the finishes have selected and now are in the process of being completed! In honor of this momentous occasion I have decided to share my success with one of you! I will giving away one of the final ornaments to one lucky winner! Here's what you need to do to enter:

I have posted several pictures of all the finishes I was given to choose from let's see what you all think!

First Pick which version you like best then leave a comment with your email address so I may contact you if you are the winner. The contest will start today and end September 1st!

Good luck! ~Susan~

Progress Report

2009-07-14T08:02:00.000-07:00

It's been over a month already since I last stopped in! I can't believe how time is slipping by so quickly.
I received a new picture of the Victorian Santa piece a few weeks ago, Mirek's new version of my piece is still a little too robust, so more tweaking is needed. Hopefully I will hear something soon.
In the meantime I have been experiencing a sort of manic creative spell. I find myself in my studio early and only coming out for the occasional snack or ice water break. My studio is a disaster, snips of crepe paper, clay ,wire and paint occupy every surface including my sewing machine! I am confident I am NOT the only one who does this. At least I hope not. YIKES!
My husband will only peek into my space at this point, he being very organized, orderly and a total neat nick views my creative space as more of a environmental assault on his well developed sense of order and cleanliness scale. He just shakes his head and wanders away.......
He has also been working away on the darling little antique dressing table we found several months ago. One of the drawers needed a bit of my help as a bit of the wood detail was missing. I just love paper clay!
I will post pictures as soon as he is done. His space , of course, is well ordered, clean, organized everything has a place and can usually be found in its place immediately upon completion of its task. I tread carefully through this space, because I only have to appear for a moment and my mere presence can cause something to fall to the floor, or paint to leap onto my clothes. I usually just shake my head in amazement and retreat back to my chaotic haven .
I have lots of pieces waiting to be finished so I am off for now! Will be posting pictures in day or two !
From one procrastinator to another "get off the computer and go play in the clay!!" ~Susan

HUH??

2009-06-01T16:23:00.000-07:00

On Saturday Sue, from the Artistry of Poland, sent photos of the artist Mirek's rendition of the Victorian Santa. Imagine my surprise when I received these pictures shown in white. These were his sculpted version of my piece.
HUH?? The only thing I could see that looked like mine was the hood! I'm thinking Holy Cow did he even look at my Victorian Santa or did he not like it and decide to do his own version instead. I, having no experience with this type of process was at a loss to say the least! I didn't want to be critical , it is obvious that he is a talented artist in his own right, but sniff , it didn't even closely resemble my piece.
I finally decided to print out a copy of his work and sketch my changes over it. Thinking to myself that he should save that one for another Santa in the series and start over on mine completely.
Sue, just contacted me, she sent him the wrong picture! She was wondering why his Santa looked like a Andy Warhol version of mine! lol ! Yay! I was really feeling intimidated by his version!
What a relief!! She has sent him the correct pictures now and should be on track for the August completion date. Hopefully will be done by next week. ~Susan~

The process begins

2009-05-22T07:58:00.000-07:00

Here is a email from one of the owners of Artistry Of Poland explaining the process for recreating the Victorian Santa I entered into the Design Like a Star contest. I can't wait to see Mirek's clay model! This is so exciting ! This success is largely do to the efforts of Suzanne Urban encouraging the members of our group American Holiday Artists to seek out these opportunities, something I would never have done on my own. Thank You Suzanne!

Hi Susan,

Sue Myal here. I am half of Artistry of Poland located in sunny Tucson. Sue Sprunk (business partner) is in the San Francisco area--and leaving Sunday for 3 weeks in China.

So I guess it will be me that guides you through the ornament production. First of all we LOVE your design and it has inspired us to continue with a collection of Santa Heads. Who knows where that will take us.

Now to work. Your design as been emailed to our workshop in Krakow Poland.Our sculptor (his name is Mirek) will take your entry and carve it in clay. I should have a carving photo in about 2-3 weeks.
This first step is very important as once you approve the clay model there will be no mold changes accepted. Be sure it is exactly what you want at this point. Mirek then makes a plaster mold and then the foundry makes the final metal mold. Several pieces will be blown to test your paint colors. If you have PMS colors available it always helps as the workshop has a PMS book for color comparison. Color changes are usually not a problem. The important thing is that the finished product is what YOU want.
I am anticipating the shipment of your ornament leaving Poland August 20th-arriving here in Tucson about the first of September. I will then send your 10 free ornaments to you via UPS ground.

I can't wait to see the finished piece!! ~Susan~

2009-05-21T17:27:00.001-07:00

Connie Porcher of Celebrate 365

2009-05-13T20:08:00.000-07:00

http://www.celebrate365.com/

To my shock and amazement, Connie Porcher, publisher of Celebrate 365 magazine , notified me today that I won the Design Like A Star contest! I am still in shock and a tad bit nervous . I have never had anything I have created reproduced, so this will be a completely new experience for me.

I want to thank you, Connie, for the opportunity !! Please visit the Celebrate 365 online to learn more about her wonderful magazine. Celebrate365 has provides its readers with up-to-the-minute ornament news as well as carefully researched articles of interest to ornament collectors.

A premiere magazine for the year-round ornament collector featuring : Artistry of Poland, Christopher Radko, Bethany Lowe and many other designers and manufacturers. ~Susan~

2009-04-30T16:47:00.000-07:00

Finally it is starting to look like spring around here ! The apple trees with their delicate pink and white blossoms and the flowering weeping cherry tree ,which I call my fireworks tree because the branches turn downward and are covered in pink blossoms too.
Sadly we lost our dwarf cherry tree and our multi fruit bearing tree this winter ... way too much snow and fridge temperatures for them, I guess.
I have been busy getting things ready for Spencer's Alley tent sale this weekend, cutting it close like I always do. My kitchen has exploded with boxes and package peanuts! arghh!! I hate those things. All my orders were delivered today one right after another much to my chagrin...... makes it easier on me and husband's heart if things are spread out a little more. I know he's afraid to ask how much I spent.... probably better if he doesn't ask, I believe in a firm policy of don't ask me and I won't tell!!!
I have finally listed three new Halloween pieces on Ebay . Woo-Hoo! one that note I will say bye for now.... I have a hundred hang tags to make up still for my items for sale. ~Susan~

2009-04-04T17:07:00.000-07:00

Hooray!

2009-03-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

Okay EBay was on top of things so that what could have been a nightmare turned out to be a positive experience. So there's one Hooray! Maybe I should say Hip Hip Hooray! Because several of the members from American Holiday Artists [aha] made it into the Celebrate 365 quarterly magazine as well as my offering Spring Chick featured here on my blog. Spring has been featured on the front of the magazine along with many other wonderful artists work ! I feel very humbled to apart of such wonderful and creative artist. Other artist from AHA were Suzanne Urban designs leader of AHa [suzanneurbandesigns.com, Sheryl Parsons co leader of Aha [merelyamothersdream] Melissa Valeriote [queenofholidays] Amelia Schaefer[sweetbfolksart] Shannon Martinez [originalartdollsbyshannonmartinez]. To see the cover and more of the magazine visit Celebrate365.com or americanholidayartists.com .
Congratulations to everyone who participated ! ~Susan

Ebay ID thief

2009-03-14T12:58:00.000-07:00

Very Scary stuff happening today. I was just notified by Ebay someone hi-jacked my Ebay account and listed 165 items there. Fortunately EBay was on top of things and caught what was happening. I still need to check my Paypal account since I am not sure what the point of listing all these things were if they can't collect the money. I have now picked a strong password and ID application and added it to my account . Please check your accounts too their are some really evil people out there! Hugs Susan

Diaima of the Deepwood

2009-03-08T15:43:00.000-07:00

Diaima of the Deepwood is a new piece I have just listed on Ebay.
Diaima of the Deepwood, is the oldest of the Christmas fairies. It is her gift to bring twinkle to Christmas lights, she adds the sparkle to the newly fallen snow and the dew drops that sit on fat green leaves in the first wee hours of the morn. She captured small fallen stars way back when the universe was new. She quickly gathered the stars before they fell on to the earth and died out. Each one was carefully fastened to her fairy wand, keeping them safe they show their gratitude by sharing their light as she passes over head to shake their twinkle over the snow and water where twinkles look best.
In her wand she carries the magic of dew the precious droplets are capture in the round clear crystals of her septor. The sparkle of a million stars that glitter like diamonds, were gathered from the dark velvet skies at midnight and now crown her fairy septor. This has been her job for hundreds of years, the lines of her face have soften ,her blue eyes still see sharply, her wings still carry her over the long miles of country side with the vigor of a newly born fairy. The sweet smile on her face show how much she loves her job, bringing the joy of fresh fallen snow, the magic of twinkle and the dew drops of new life and new hope.
Diama is a paper clay and soft body sculpture. Her head was hand sculpted using paper clay, no molds were used in the making of this piece. For her body I created a wire armature, for body I used warm and natural cloth. Her fairy crown was created by using handmade bugle & seeds beads leaves and tiny ribbon roses with bead accents in the center. Tiny moss green ribbon was used for accents of color. Around her waist is a band of different satin threads, fringe loops and large sheer ribbon roses adding more magic to her clothing. Her ballet shoes are sculpted paper clay with more tiny ribbon roses and rose ribbon for her laces. More lace was used for her bloomers and the sleeves of her outfit.
Diaima's clothing is a combination of vintage lace for her wings and bodice, rose & pink tulle, loop fringe for the skirt with tiny rose and ribbon accents on the tulle. Color and texture abound on this 9" tall piece. The colors are in ivory, dusty rose soft bieges and mossy greens.
I hope you love her as much as I loved creating her. Diaima is a art piece and not intended for use as a toy. Appropriate for ages 14 and up. She comes ready to hang or could be seated.
Diaima of the Deepwood will come to you signed by the artist Seasonal Whimsies by Susan V 2009
I am a proud member of the American Holiday Artists [aHa art on Ebay and Art Doll Sculpture Group [adsg ] Please visit our other members for more one of a kind art offerings. Thank you for supporting handmade art!
Thank you for visiting today!
americanholidayartists.com
seasonalwhimsies.blogspot.com

Diaima is currently up for sale on Esty!

And the winner is.........

2009-02-27T13:40:00.000-08:00

The Holiday Queen Melissa !!! Thank you for all you kind comments and for entering my blog giveaway. ~Susan

Valentine Giveaway Redrawing

2009-02-27T13:23:00.000-08:00

I will be redrawing for the Valentine Giveaway, unfortunately the person who won hasn't responded to my messages. I will announce the new winner later today! ~Susan

Knee deep in legs and arms! Yikes

2009-02-14T10:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day!
My daughter's anniversary and as they go away for a romantic weekend to Gleneden Beach Resort. a surprise awaits them in their suite. I have ordered chilled wine with keepsake wine flutes & cheese, fruit, meat platter , finishing off with chocolate covered strawberries to be delivered to their room.
In the meantime, I am swimming in material trying to get ready for the Blackberry Junction show. I have disassembled doll and bunny parts everywhere! I am creating prim dolls that are a combination of cloth and paper clay. A technique I learned by taking Gritty Jane's awesome work shop! I highly recommend her class it was fun and informative, the technique she uses for turning tiny arms and legs was worth the price of the class alone! Thank you Jane!
I will be offering prim bunnies, fluffy garden bunnies, dolls, and cottage furniture for the Old fashioned Easter area . Plus aged iron pieces hanging baskets, doorknockers, garden art for the Rustic Potting Shed area of the show.
As usual I am behind , but I will get it done I am determined to have everything done in time . I have a month sooooo I am thinking I should get going this morning instead of playing on the computer! So I say adieu

Señorita Pil: the One World~One Heart giveaway

2009-02-04T16:11:00.000-08:00

Señorita Pil: the Wonderful art piece love the colors too. please sign me up! Susan V.
VISIT MY BLOG FOR A FREE GIVEAWAY TOO OF A SCULPTED GOURD!seasonalwhimsies.blogspot.comOne World~One Heart giveaway

2009-02-02T21:44:00.000-08:00

Finally here is the actual prize I am offering in my Valentine Giveaway. Two Hearts beat as one Penguin. He is about 8" tall ,he carries a heart for his Valentines. This little cutie is up for grabs just leave a comment on this blog and you will be entered in the drawing. Winner will be by random draw of names. Please leave a way for me to contact you if you are the winner of my drawing. GOOD LUCK!! HUgs Susan

VALENTINE'S DAY GIVEAWAY!!

2009-01-30T20:41:00.000-08:00

In honor of Valentine's Day I am having a giveaway!! Starting today through Feb 7Th. Winner will be drawing at random. I will be giving away a sculpted penguin gourd in a Valentine theme. I will be posting a picture on Monday of the actual gourd, I am currently cooking for the Oregon Crusaders and won't have time to get a picture up until then. Poor planning on my part! If you scroll you will see a Christmas themed Penguin Valentine will be similar to that sculpt with Valentine accents.
Please leave a comment on today's blog ,remember to include your name and email address! That's all there is to it!! My sisters at AHA art on EBay will be hosting giveaways too. Visit their blogs to sign up for their giveaways too! Winner will be drawn at random.
Hugs, Susan

New Creation

2009-01-28T20:22:00.000-08:00

Our kitchen remodel is done ! yay! The new floor went in quickly which was great because all of our den and kitchen furniture was store in my living room and dining room [turned into library room]. Our Disney collections had to be taken out of the safety of their large curio so it could be moved, so the lined my book shelves until they could be moved back into the entry hall again. That was pretty unnerving for me, I am a klutz so moving all those pieces was a very slow and careful process! Not one piece got broken, thank heaven. So I can breath easier.
The guys that installed our new floor looked like teenagers to me,[ is this what is called getting old? will I be calling them sonny soon?yikes} but they were very good at their job, except for the chalking around the bases boards. My husband is obsessed with chalking, oh and did I mention I am married to a perfectionist? I have always joked that he is Felix Unger [from the odd couple] and I am Oscar? is that right? Anyway, I am not that bad but my husband is pretty dog gone close to Felix. So the next day he couldn't stand it and re chalked the entire thing. He could hardly walk the next day but it does look good.
The real kicker was the granite, which I thought would be the easier part [which I shouldn't do when it comes to things out of my area of expertise] First the men who came to install the granite were Chinese they didn't speak hardly any English. Which was kind of scary not being able to talk to one another but thankfully the owner came and stayed through the whole thing. Four days later we have an amazing new kitchen. The good news is I was able to get some real work done during this turmoil , that makes me very happy.

I finally finished my first Easter piece for 2009. Her name is Spring and she stands 8 inches tall. She is a paper clay sculpted piece. This is the first time I have used doll eyes for one of my pieces at least mechanical open and close eyes with lashes!! I have given her a tiny woven basket in which she carries tiny hand made flowers one German mushroom from spun cotton green Polk a dot top , one pink Easter egg and one purple. I love her skirt with it's full tutu style! The tiny flowers are plumerias made from clay so cute! I will be listing her with weekend on EBay.

I will posting pictures of the kitchen tomorrow, after I de-clutter them, getting ready for a show so things are stacked the kitchen for pricing. Bye for now.

Look what I found!!

2009-01-09T16:05:00.000-08:00

Today, my husband Terry and I ran errands which is usually a chore. We are in the process of a kitchen redo, replacing the yucky flooring with wood flooring and counter tops ,With, dare I say it, granite!! yeah! So we Had to pick out a new under mount sink and hardware. Which was pretty painless and I am happy to have these little details done so we can proceed next week.
Silvia from Granite & Cabinets, came to measure everything and she discovered that there will be a nice sized piece left over so we can do our powder room too. It just keeps getting better and better, I had originally wanted to include the powder room in our makeover but my husband pooh poohed it. Now we can have it done too. Anyone living in Salem Oregon or surrounding areas thinking of granite counter tops should check them out the prices are really reasonable! Here's the best part of the whole thing ,I won't have to cook for about four whole days !
After our errands, we had some time on our hands before meeting friends for lunch at the Teriyaki House , so I drug my hubby to Goodwill to peruse the used furniture. We found a antique dressing table and drop leaf coffee table !! Usually it's hard to find one piece that Terry can transform into a cottage treasure but 2 that's amazing. . .. I also found two footed glass and metal vessels and this darling blue pedestal vase.
After that I was ready to have lunch. I ordered the Tempura plate which included scrimp, sweet potato,broccoli, asparagus,cauliflower [all dipped in Tempura batter} rice and small salad. I couldn't help myself but in my defense look at all the veggies!! Any way it was yummy. Terry was much better than I, he had the Spicy Teriyaki plate which is grilled chicken with veggies and white rice. Probably a third of the calories of mine. I ate all my veggies though!! I was hungry that's my excuse and I am sticking to it. I'll have a light meal tonight. Yeah right, I am already hungry again<>
Terry is really talented at bringing vintage pieces back to life, check out the 106 yr. old piano I found at the Union Gospel Mission .It was a steal, even though neither one of us play the piano, hummm maybe I'll take lessons... Yes that will justify the purchase of a old piano. It was in pretty good shape over all but the finish was way gone. At first Terry looked at me like I had lost my mind, he hasn't figured out that happened a long long time ago. Silly Man! Once he resolved his mind that the piano was going to sit in HIS garage for a very long time if he didn't refinish it for me . He finally got enthusiastic about the whole idea. It is turning out so pretty, I can't wait to have it moved into the house. Terry added the pretty trim pieces to the front it was really plain without them. Now I have added to his Honey paint list, I probably won't be seeing him much during the day. However, this works for me because that means I can spend more time in my studio and catch up on my work. It's all good.

Please let College Football be over!!

2009-01-02T19:36:00.000-08:00

Let me just start with I actually like football, pro football......Die hard Bronco fan sadly. I am not however interested in the 400 and 44 thousand college bowls that are currently streaming across our TV .... it's been like 7 days of this now .
My husband has been glued to the television set since these games started. Granted television officially sucks right now, there's not a new show in sight and our weather has been horrible, but he had the nerve to question my extended time on the computer!! Ha!
Apparently his 10 hours of back to back football watching is more esteemed than my 10 hours of blog reading! Foolish man....he has no idea about the things I have learned, the creations I've viewed or the dreams I have shared with my sisters in blog world. Aw well , I will continue to ignore his queries about how I spend my free time at least till this weekend , then I retire to my studio, with new sketches in hand and begin to start my new pieces for spring. At which time he will need to start the new tile flooring in the upstairs guest bathroom. Yay! Time to go my fav show Ghost Whisperer is on, even though it's a rerun !

2008-12-23T12:33:00.000-08:00

Well it's official this storm is the worst since 1968! For those of you who have lived in Oregon you already know that the snow stays mainly in the higher elevations , but this snow has delivered approximately 24" . Even the beaches have snow! For those living in the East and Mid west this is nothing but to Oregon this is a major event!Most of the city has been shut down and the kids have a 3 week vacation instead of 2. Today is our window of opportunity to run last minute errands before Christmas as another storm is lined up to hit us tonight.
We are loving all the snow, reminds me of Christmas in Colorado, it's been years since we've lived anywhere that has had a accumulation of snow like this. Although the downside is for the people attempting to leave town. The airport has been closed since the weekend , and the highways have been impassible too.
Hopefully stranded travelers will have the opportunity to leave today, the airport has reopened and the rodes are much better today. I pray everyone arrives safe and sound to their destinations!
The new pictures are our neighborhood, and the sky is exactly the color it shows in the pictures. I thought it would be fun for you all to see what we feel is a major snow storm!
Merry Christmas to all ! Susan

2008-12-21T17:31:00.001-08:00

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Dec. 20th Snow Storm
Winter has finally hit Salem Oregon. Normally we have gray skies and rainy weather. on rare occasions a small snow storm will wander our way and leave an inch or two of snow that quickly melts by the next day. But this week something unusual happen. The Pineapple Express [that's warm moist air from Hawaii ] met fridge cold Arctic air from Canada and decided to dance together right over Oregon. We have snow, real snow, that has been piling up since Monday. This new storm has decided to stay awhile and Oregonians all over the state are sliding across rodes in entertaining fashion. Those intrepid souls that venture out after dire warnings of black ice,slick frozen roads, and the need for chains before getting out on the highways. Now I have dealt with snow having lived in Colorado up in the mountains near Pikes Peak, and I have seen lots of strange things. People abandoning their cars in the middle of the highway, people stalling their cars when driving up the pass, which of course causes everyone to then slip and slide in the most undesirable ways, but I have never seen people slide sideways up and down the rodes quite like we Oregonians do, and to add to the mayhem are our fearless news media standing in the streets to show us all how hazardous the rodes can be . As a vehicle slides pass them slamming into the curb or guard rail, the reports are always shocked ! Really?? Do you think by standing in the middle of the street there might be ,oh I don't know, maybe cars coming down a slick hill might have an issue with reporters in the street? We live in the hills in West Salem and it's beautifully snow covered, there's about 8 " on the ground now, and it's beginning to look alot like Christmas. Everyone has their Christmas lights on, kids are sleding, inside our house is dimmly lit by sparkling tree lights ,ribbons and my favorite Santa's. Sipping on deep chocolate cocoa and freshly baked cookies, the fireplace has a nice warm fire burning and all is right with the world! Merry Christmas to one and all. May God Bless this Nation and all who believe in Him! Susan

2008-12-21T12:51:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxqVYcdFD20

Dec. 20th Snow Storm

2008-12-20T17:10:00.000-08:00

Winter has finally hit Salem Oregon. Normally we have gray skies and rainy weather. on rare occasions a small snow storm will wander our way and leave an inch or two of snow that quickly melts by the next day.
But this week something unusual happen. The Pineapple Express [that's warm moist air from Hawaii ] met fridge cold Arctic air from Canada and decided to dance together right over Oregon. We have snow, real snow, that has been piling up since Monday. This new storm has decided to stay awhile and Oregonians all over the state are sliding across rodes in entertaining fashion.
Those intrepid souls that venture out after dire warnings of black ice,slick frozen roads, and the need for chains before getting out on the highways. Now I have dealt with snow having lived in Colorado up in the mountains near Pikes Peak, and I have seen lots of strange things. People abandoning their cars in the middle of the highway, people stalling their cars when driving up the pass, which of course causes everyone to then slip and slide in the most undesirable ways, but I have never seen people slide sideways up and down the rodes quite like we Oregonians do, and to add to the mayhem are our fearless news media standing in the streets to show us all how hazardous the rodes can be . As a vehicle slides pass them slamming into the curb or guard rail, the reports are always shocked ! Really?? Do you think by standing in the middle of the street there might be ,oh I don't know, maybe cars coming down a slick hill might have an issue with reporters in the street?
We live in the hills in West Salem and it's beautifully snow covered, there's about 8 " on the ground now, and it's beginning to look alot like Christmas. Everyone has their Christmas lights on, kids are sleding, inside our house is dimmly lit by sparkling tree lights ,ribbons and my favorite Santa's. Sipping on deep chocolate cocoa and freshly baked cookies, the fireplace has a nice warm fire burning and all is right with the world!
Merry Christmas to one and all. May God Bless this Nation and all who believe in Him! Susan

Hans Zimmer Cry (Holiday soundtrack)

2008-12-16T19:28:00.001-08:00

It's been a long time !

2008-11-24T19:18:00.000-08:00

Okay let's catch up, I finished all of my Halloween projects and shipped them off to their new homes. yeah!
I was already to really concentrate on my favorite things, Santa's, snowmen, tiny decorated trees and ornaments, I carefully sketched,
planned and organized all of my projects fully focused on the task ahead. yea right! I tripped other one of my dogs and broke both of my wrists!!! yea! I am not sure which one of my small doggies was the culprit, both were sitting in their beds with wide eyes and looked really guilty as we hobbled off to the hospital. I have a new appreciation for my husband who did all the cooking,cleaning laundry, and dishes! My husband has never put a dish in the dishwasher,and here he is doing it all it been heaven!
I did manage to convince my doctor that I need as much of my hands exposed, so he allowed me to have my right fingers exposed to mid palm, however the left was broken in 2 places so that one got the whole cast treatment. As I sat in my studio, I decided to try painting a completed sculpted gourd, figuring that would be an easy project to do,I am in total denial at this point , after all I have my fingers exposed! I carefully squeezed the paint on to my foam plate, took about 2 minutes because I didn't have any strenght in my fingers because well my wrists were broken. I pushed on, I fought with my brush to get it into a workable position, dipped my brush in the large pool of paint, accidently tipped it over ON TO MY LAP!! Of course I couldn't grab it because my casts wouldn't let me reach around to pick it up. Yay! That was the high point of my first day back to work in my studio.
I'd like to report things did get better, I have been able to do some sculpting keeping my projects scaled down, still have trouble keeping hold of things but all in all not too bad.
My casts came off Thursday, I have to continue to wear splints for another month,but hey is all good! AND my husband contiues to cook,clean,and wash dishes! It's a Christmas Miracle! Life is good!
Happy Thanksgiving !!

Sunday Musings

2008-09-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

Time continues to fly by, as I work on a hundred and one projects in my studio. I have dolls waiting for arms or clothes, sculptures that are waiting to be sanded, paint waiting to be applied and the online art lesson I purchased from Marilyn Radzat to start, as I sit here typing on my blog. Every minute I sit here typing is one less minute I have to finish Halloween pieces. But it's Sunday and I feel like procrastinating, I feel like baking instead....... or maybe searching EBay for tiny treasures. I could certainly use a few warm cookies to munch while I search for treasures!
Multi tasking at it's best! Maybe peanut butter cookies and a large glass of ice water haha you thought I was going to say milk but milk fills me up leaving less room for warm cookies so water it is besides I am trying to healthy!
It's football season, my team lost, my husband snores softly from the couch and I feel like a being lazy so off I go to bake some cookies, spend some money on EBay, pretend all is well , before the Monday craziness kicks into full swing. Today is mine to spend how I choose, I choose to ignore the gas crisis,the bailout and the endless parade of snippy commericals for candidates that all seem to be self serving liars. I choose a day for me and if my husband is nice I will share my cookies with him!

Spooky Times Ahead! Beware

2008-08-23T11:06:00.000-07:00

The winds begin blow, leaves are being to blush hinting that change is just around the corner. Days are shorter, signaling the best of holidays lay just ahead. In my studio things have taken a spooky turn. Summer has left my studio for the darker colors of Halloween. Take a peek at my spooky endeavors, they will appearing at an EBay auction near you......S

Tires of Fire

2008-07-27T16:33:00.000-07:00

Well the drama continues for Our Oregon Crusaders they have now blown a total of 5 !! tires. All on different vehicles caravaning to their next destination Chippewa Falls WI. They have a important performance tonight GO OC!! From there they travel to McKenzie TN. for another performance on August 1. Then to Henderson Tn. Aug.2 . August 3 Dayton Ohio performance August 5 Michigan In. Then the biggies the National competitions Bloomfield IN on the 6 8th and 9th.
I'm sure the rough beginning to their trip has tired everyone out but the kids have been working up to this moment for 7 months, they are ready, they are fighters, and most of all they are talented YOUNG musicians! Thank GOD there have been no accidents, and the OC adults have planned for every possible event.
I on the other hand have spent the last 2 days cleaning my studio, when it was originally set up I thought I knew how I wanted it but for several months now I have been feeling frustrated, the room wasn't working for me and didn't make sense. I am a p-i-g- when I work so if things don't have a permanent place I have a tendency to pile things up. I finally gave everything a place, I expect to make amazing things now that I can find my things. lol the true test tomorrow morning.

Fairy names

2008-07-24T20:29:00.000-07:00

Your fairy is called Feather Saturnglow

She is a trouble maker.

She lives in high places where the clouds meet the earth.

She is only seen in the light of a full moon.

She wears pale blue like the sky. She has delicate pale pink wings like a cicada.

Get'>http://www.emmadavies.net/fairy/default.aspx">Get your free fairy name here!

And their off!

2008-07-24T18:16:00.000-07:00

The kids are finally starting their tour! Few oops along the way, our cook trailer hasn't made it out off the state yet it broke down in Pendleton OR. So they rented a refrigerated Uhaul moved all the cold foodon to it and started off again. Then the van had a blow out arghhh! So our little band of Drum Corp members are trudging their way to Dubuque Iowa slightly behind schedule , but troubles side, the kids got to have McDonald's twice now. Since they haven't been allowed "junk" food I am sure they didn't mind too much. We have done all we can to send them on their way with 20 prepared frozen meals that may or may not be cooked since the cook trailer is about 1700 miles away from the Corp buses and vans!
I have been working on my Halloween pieces all week and finally see some progress. Today was get out of the studio day by going out to breakfast yeah! But then over to Spencer's Alley to work on my boothes. My hubby helper came too, which was awesome because he can reach those really high places ! I rewarded him [and me too] by getting Panda Express for dinner. Yum.

I have two really awesome ways to raise money for the Oregon Crusaders that doesn't cost anyone a dime. The first is Goodsearch.com & Igive.com.
If you would like to help us raise money please use these to websites the first one is a search engine that you log on to it will ask you to type in your charity hit the verify button and start searching like normal every search you make adds money to our cause. The other is IGIVE.com you log in ,set up the charity name, verify and then pick from hundreds of stores that participate including my fav's EBay, amazon, Sears etc. every dollar you spend with these stores will donate part of the sale to the charity you choose. please choose Oregon Crusaders Drum & Bugle Corp. oregoncrusaders.org

Well it's time to transform into my nighttime persona "the couch potato" It's been a long day! Is it bedtime yet?

Another creative Day.!

2008-07-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

WooHoo! a really good day to create. I love it when things come together. Finished a huge gourd Santa and started on a small ornament sized seahorse. I have wanting to get this piece out of my head for a while now and today was the day. It's hard to wait for things to dry when a piece comes together so easily. That doesn't happen very often as many of you may know, hopefully it will be dry by the morning and I can start the sanding process.
My hubby and I were at Lowe's yesterday and I found the most amazing clematis . It's called the little duckling and it's just as cute as it sounds. I will try to add a picture tomorrow it's sort of a small bloom with thousands of petals. I love clematis and have several around the yard but nothing like this one. I should post some of my garden as well.
Want a new delicous recipe? Try this one :
Anniversary Chicken
2 tbl oil
6 chicken breast boneless/skinless
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or cheddar Colby jack
3 stalks green onion chopped
3 ounces of bacon bits I just used 4 strips of regular bacon cooked
oven temp 350
in large skillet heat oil over med. heat add chicken breasts and saute 4 to 5 minutes on each side until lightly brown
place browned chicken breasts in baking dish / pan Brush with teriyaki sauce then spoon on ranch dressing. sprinkle with cheese green onions and bacon bits. bake for 25 to 35 min.
yum! we like stuffed baked potatoes so I cut chicken in to bite size pieces before adding all ingredients then coat the pieces as directions indicated. bake as directed bake your favorite potatoes , slice open add sour cream and this mixture and dinner is done!
This is one of our Drum Corp. recipes.

2008-07-17T21:33:00.001-07:00

Here are some new pictures !

Been Gone a long time!

2008-07-17T20:36:00.000-07:00

Okay it's now mid July I have been away so long that I forgot where my actually blog was! Yikes !
I guess it's time to catch up. Summer has finally come to Oregon. We went from the low 50's to over 100 in the span of a couple of days. Needless to say that caught us all off guard. But the sky is blue again, the flowers are gorgeous , and there are hundreds of Oregonians marching around in shorts daring to show off their blinding white legs and arms, out gardening ,planting and mowing their lawns.
Oh did I mention that I live in Hobbiton? We are the lovers of trees and all manner of flora and fawna. Marionberry bushes are growing at a frantic rate, and soon will deliver the most amazing berries ever. For those who are not familiar with these berries, they are a cross between a Blackberry and a Boysenberry. They grow wild here and should be fat, plump and beautiful blue black looking fruit, the berries should be full of sweet juice because of the massive amounts of rain we had this year. I can't wait to go hunt berries with my grandson Christian.
I have been working on my commission pieces for months now, along with volunteering for the Oregon Crusaders Drum & Bugle corp. My daughter and I are the cooks for the Corp. making 400 meals a day that's breakfast lunch and dinner plus snack.
We have one more week before the kids go on tour/ competition heading to Indiana for finals. If you are not familiar with DCI [ drum corp international] check out their website its way cool . For more information on the Oregon Crusaders Drum & Bugle Corp go to oregoncrusaders.org.
I can't say enough about the great experience it is for kids that love music and marching or that are into color guard. These kids are a dedicated group!
We spent a week up in Seaside Or. cooking and playing tourist for the 4Th of July, the weather was great, the water frigid, the fireworks amazing. This little coastal town was bustling with visitors, food and fun! The beaches here in Oregon are some of the most incredible you will ever see. Remember the movie Goonies? shot here in Oregon. The Goonies house is in Astoria, it's a private home but can be seen from the main street running through the town. Fun place to stay and investigate.
Well I am really tired so nighty nighty all!

Where did February go?

2008-03-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

February was a crummy one! I had that mysterious bronchial flu going around. I HATE being sick so accordingly I take tons of vitamins. I immediately grabbed my Zicam and starting using it. My husband also was coming down with this thing. This is important to note because a week into it HE is doing great , I, on the other hand was sliding down hill so fast I was actually thinking about crawling up the stairs! 2 weeks later I am coughing and hacking around with a head that feel like it was going to fly off my neck and go rocketing around the room like a balloon does when you let it go.my husband checked my bottle of Zicam and it had expired 4 years ago !!! He couldn't have done that ,oh say ,a week or two ago. He likes the spray . I like the swabs. ahhhhhh screwed again! Anyhow 6 weeks later finally feeling like myself. Zicam really does work ...when it's not expired!

I finally am back to work . Here are a few of my recent pieces. Some of these pieces are up for on EBAY . Please check out AHAO on EBAY.

Our grandson Britt, who is 17 yr. He is a awesome kid, he has overcome pulmonary hypertension, learning disabilities and autism to carry a 3.8 gpa, he lettered in wrestling, now on varsity, received the coaches award in wrestling!
Took our 7 yr old to return in pop cans, yuck! what a sticky smelly mess! I wish we could just turn them into the state for them to use for homeless or schools . I hate throwing them away but i is so yucky. Mr. Pooey {7 yr. old } likes to do it and he will taking the $7.00 to contribute to his school drive for leukemia cure. We had to go to Baskin Robbins to help us get over the stinky smell! Yum hot fudge sundae!
We are back to the OC this weekend with our granddaughter , lots of cooking to do, and kids to feed. The kids are sounding great can't wait to see the whole show. Oregon Crusaders is always looking for donations to pursue additional instruments , food , uniforms etc. We are a non-profit group so donations are tax deductible. If you would like to find out more please visit Oregoncrusaders.org If you have musician in your family ages 15 to 20 yrs. live in the Washington , Idaho, Oregon area please contact our director for information we have openings for trumpets and contras.

New Beginning 2008

2008-01-16T21:23:00.000-08:00

This past year just flew by! I have been missing in action from the ornament group I am thrilled to belong to. Now that things have calmed down I am happy to start creating for EBay again. Especially for AHAO the American Holiday Artist Ornament group. Each member is a true treasure and I am so honored to belong to this group of talented artists. I am currently working on our Valentine challenge ornament as well as a commissioned order and bringing my booth spaces at Spencer's Alley up to current holiday status. I refuse to bring home any of the left over Christmas things so have rented a special booth for clearance hopefully that will finally sell and I can use the new space for my OOAK items.
We the spent last weekend cooking for the Oregon Crusaders Drum & Bugle Corp. My daughter unwitting volunteered to oversee and organize the cooking staff last year ,which turned out to be us! Neither my daughter nor I have ever cooked for more than 20 people, but we hit the ground running and now are quite comfortable cooking for the 90 plus people that belong to the OC. If you have never heard of DCI you have to check out their website DCI.org .
Our granddaughter is in the OC she plays the mellophone sort of like the french horn , the corp relies heavily on volunteers. The kids attend weekend camps once a month to learn their music. These are called move ins . We all literally move into to a school from Friday night and leave around 5PM on Sunday . During that time the kids spent somewhere between 12 to thirteen hours on Saturday and 8 hours on Sunday learning their program for the DCI competitions in August. During the move ins they develop not only their musical talents but friendships ,teamwork , they are taught be to leaders, work hard and to watch out for each other. Their ages range from 15 to 20 , they age out at 21. In the meantime we the cook staff cook over 400 meals a day . The kids devour enormous jars of peanut butter and jelly which is sort of a backup stable. We serve balanced meals , for example Italian mac & cheese , salad, fruit , veggies with dip. The kids love everything we make, but then so does the staff ! I have never met a more polite group of kids in my life. We just love them all.
Please check out the OregonCrusaders.org. Dr Phil. is our executive director, posts pictures and information on that site. There is also a little clip of the kids playing the new music from just the first camp back in November. Anyone who is intersted in more information check out the website. We have kids from not only Oregon but Washington , Idaho,last year we had one from Japan. Our next camp is Feb. can't wait!