Missy Sue Hanson - Vintage Designer and Stylist

Prioritizing.....

2008-02-18T14:05:00.000-08:00

....is a scary word for me. I've always been one to live in "organized chaos". Though I've done my best to be a list-maker and keep everything wriiten down and scheduled, it never works out that way. My bank account balance, errands and to-do list usually resides in my mental notes and hardly ever gets committed to paper.

That's going to have to change. This is why.....I'm opening my business, organizing products and wholesale arrangements, getting everything ready to build a house by the start of Spring....oh, and let's throw in a wedding to make it even more complicated, lol. Yes, that is the timeline.....set up the boutique, break ground on the house, then get married (I want to wait for a fall wedding).

I think I might just be having one of those days. I don't feel well....something has been going around and I sit here typing with a Vapo-rubbed chest and achy joints, holding a kleenex up to a nose that feels like it's on fire from rubbing it so much. I think that with the pains, the stress of just simply thinking about it all has come crashing down on me because I hate being sick, especially when I have this much to do....I feel like my world has hit a standstill and I don't particularly care for standstills (I'm not a very patient person).

I think I'll just go rest and hope that with a new day, my body will be back to regular health and my mind will be ready to tackle anything! Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Finding a Home.....

2008-02-07T20:50:00.000-08:00

This is where I live (or part of it). 62 beautiful acres. If you look at the photo and imagine slightly to your left.....that is the spot that my fiance and I have always planned to build our "nest". We've looked for house plans for three years, and we either come up with nothing we like or it just got pushed aside until later. Well, it looks like the time has finally come. We have found a house plan that we both love and if everything goes as planned, we will be in our "nest egg" by the end of this summer.

This is a better pic of the area the house will be in. The horses will have a different pasture by then, of course, lol......but just in front of those pine trees, where our gentle giants are grazing, will be our house. And (insert drumroll here).........

Here it is!!! It's called The Azalea Crossing and we found it at Don Gardner. The porch is enough to make me drool. It's been a life long dream of mine to have two things in a house 1.) a wrap-around porch and 2.) an attic. This one has both. And what's even better is that the attic space is above the garage and my darling, sweet and wonderful man has promised it to me for my studio!!!

This is the first floor. Looking at it, I still can't believe it! I keep wanting to pinch myself!

This is the second floor and a pic of my "proposed" studio space!!! I am so excited I just wanted to share!

My Manifestation....

2008-02-07T18:05:00.000-08:00

From the post before......I forgot to post a picture of my "manifestation", lol. This is my man in all his glory (along with my little man), complete with the goatee that he keeps just for me (he really hates it and would not have one if I didn't like it so much). He's eight years older, which is one of the things I remember writing on my list, I wanted a mature man. Up until I met him, I had never dated anyone over the age of 22, so needless to say, he swept me off my feet, lol.

I still remember when we met. I was out with friends and from across the room and coming through the crowd....all I could see was a cowboy hat. Here's a little history....I grew up in the country with horses and had an uncle who competed in rodeos. But, we had drove about an hour to a different city to go this particular location.....so there was nobody there in a cowboy hat. Suffice it to say that when I saw the hat, I thought...."oh, someone in my element" lol. I approached him....can you believe it? I had never done that before. Now, here we are, five years later, planning a wedding and building a house. Life is just unbelievably miraculous!

"The Secret" and "Love Lists"...

2008-02-06T20:32:00.000-08:00

Louise Hay, Author of You can Heal Your Life and ambassador of "The Secret" way of living.

I want to share a story with everyone. I've always believed that life is a circle, a big reeling sphere that goes on and on, but what I didn't realize was that I am the creator of that sphere.

The story begins with my search for marketing possibilities for Signature Vintage. I had just picked up a recent issue of Romantic Country and in it, I saw an ad for Make Mine Pink. I made a note and later that day, visited the site. I joined the forum and contacted Joyce Lucas for a design quote and for further information about joining Make Mine Pink. After emailing, Joyce contacted me over the phone and I was struck by her kindness, her ability to make me feel instantly at ease when I had been so nervous to talk about my business and what my plans were for it.

As we talked, I felt like I was speaking to a friend, which made me divulge information that I probably wouldn't have shared with anyone else. I told her of my fears, of how most of the people in my life were not very supportive of my choice to start a business and that negativity was a daily hardship that I felt I was constantly beating back. She asked me....."Do you know about The Secret?". I told her that I had seen the book, but that was the extent of my knowledge of it. After explaining some of the key aspects, she said that she had an extra copy and would be more than happy to send it to me. She also told me that I had to begin a vision board. The idea of a vision board had always been something on my list....the list that never got tended to...the list that had items on it such as......"buy yourself a new pair of jeans" or "do something just for you today".

After talking with Joyce, I waited slightly impatiently for the book to arrive and when it did two days later, I sat down and read it from front to back the same night. After reading it, I knew it would change my life, but little did I know how much it had already affected my life.

That was about two weeks ago. Today, a family friend came to visit. In the midst of chatting, she (out of the blue) announces that she is watching Oprah today because there is a special topic that she just can't miss. I love Oprah, but I couldn't tell you the last time I watched it, so I inquired about what was so important that was on. Sighing as if she was getting ready for me to laugh at her, she told me that she had recently read a book called "The Secret" and that the show would be about it. Gasping, I relayed my story and we both laughed. Convinced it was fate, she stayed and we watched it together.

In the show, they talk about a "Love List" that is featured in this moth's Oprah Magazine. As I was listening to this "list" theory, something kept nagging at me. Call it a voice, a feeling, whatever it was, but it stayed with me throughout the discussion. When you get into "The Secret", it talks about the universe's law of attraction and that everything you put into the universe, you get back in multiples. Committing things you want onto paper or into the universe and focusing on them, gets you those things.

There are untold stories of women making these lists and after, finding their perfect partner. I do make lists like these, especially since I read the book, so I thought that I was getting that "familiar feeling" just because I agreed with it, because it made sense to me. It was not the case, lol. Could've been part of it, but definitely not all.

So, after my friend left, my sweet and darling boy approached me because he wanted to go to the store and spend his allowance. I said yes and we hopped in the car and headed out. Standing in line, my angel holding his precious toy, I look over and see the magazine that was talked about in the Oprah show earlier. I thought, "Oh, well now I can read the "love list" article for myself." We made our purchase and journeyed home. I sat on the couch and curled up to read the article.

And out of nowhere it hits me. Memories of the house I owned .birthday.....and my fun-loving room-mate buying me a gift. I open the gift and it's from one of my favorite places......Borders. It's a kit. A SOULMATE kit. See where this is going? We sit down, light the candles like the instructions say and I write. On a piece of paper that is pink, I write qualities that I will find in my partner. I try to be objective and remember that whatever I wish for could very well come true so I make sure that everything I wish for is explained. "He will be tall.....but not too tall." He will love me.....but not suffocate me." I use all five sheets of paper that the kit supplied, and as the instructions say, I place the papers in a dish and while rubbing a pink stone, I wish with all of my heart. Just as the directions say, I wait until I feel I am ready and I light the papers on fire. As they burn, I am still wishing.

Yes, folks.......I asked the universe for it, and can you believe it, a year later, I found him? That kit at the time was a bit of a joke (or so I thought). Back then, I didn't think th esimple wanting of something could manifest it. And, I believed in the power of the mind before, but it hadn't really hit me until today. Until I was shown proof that in my life, if I ask for something and feel gratitude for it before it's even there......I manifest it.

I made that list about a year before I met my fiance. I had forgotten about that list that my friend and I had had so much fun with probably a couple days after the fact. Now, over five years later, I realize that I put something into the universe and it answered me.

Updates......

2008-02-03T11:20:00.000-08:00

Things have been super crazy with the setting up of Signature Vintage, then the midwest was hit with a major snowstorm which slowed things down a bit. I had planeed to take pics and make flea market rounds, but the snow kept me inside all weekend. So, I've been over at the SigVin Blog, getting that set up and am having a blast with it!

A give-away is in the works for the SigVin Blog, which should be lots of fun! Some of my signature pieces will be included in the prize pack, so it's going to be a good one! I'll be sure to post here when I've gotten that set up!

Wild Oak Design

2008-02-01T23:26:00.001-08:00

Wow.......all I have to say is that if anyone ever needs a website built, the best person to go to is Trudy of Wild Oak Design! I was already impressed (as one of my earlier posts clearly conveyed) and I didn't think I could get much happier with the whole process until she emailed me and told me that she was finished installing the site!!! It took her all of maybe 3-4 days to finish my site.....and most of that was due to my late response times with my emailing her back.

Amazing. And so nice!! I think I've not only found a fantastic professional for all of my graphic needs, but also a great friend! Check out Wild Oak Design if you haven't already!!!

I'll give you a sneak peek at all of her hard work....keep in mind....this entire site was designed from scratch (with no help from me, lol) and installed in 3-4 days!!! I'm still setting up, but stop on by Signature Vintage and see how incredible Trudy is!

Typepad bummer......

2008-01-30T08:16:00.000-08:00

Ok, all......I tried out typepad and have decided I don't like it one bit. Everything was just way too confusing for me. Which is a big bummer, because I love the professional look it gives blogs, but I'm just way too comfortable here at blogger. Old dog, new tricks, ya know, lol??! Anyhoo, I've set up the Signature Vintage blog here on blogger.

I'm busy making products lists, researching taxes and filings, and getting my site set up......updates on that as well.....Trudy from Wild Oak Design has been at hard work getting my design set up and installing it. This woman is amazing. Not even a day after I contacted her, she was emailing me a design concept...and I hadn't even paid her yet!!!! Amazing...everything about my experience with her has been outstanding and I recommend her to everyone. Even though she really could charge much more for her designs, her prices are super affordable. I was able to pay for it on my own without dipping into my investor funds.

So, the site should be installed very soon, then all I have to do is work at getting it ready to open! Ok, off I go to set up the blog and take care of more things to come!!! Have a beautiful day, everyone!

Typepad here I come!!!!

2008-01-22T17:53:00.000-08:00

Okay.....the move to Typepad is official! My new blog is up, but not quite running as of yet. It's alot different than blogger so I'm still trying to get the hang of it, which I might not focus on it too heavily, considering I will be getting a blog design to match my site. Anyhoo, I hope to see you over there and I will keep you posted on whether or not I will keep this blog going. I was thinking I could use it for my personal blog, but I'm hoping I'll be too busy with orders and such to maintain two different blogs, lol!

Updates and Move......

2008-01-21T21:26:00.000-08:00

After long debate, I have decided to move my blog over to typepad. I'm a little scared about typepad, given I've never used it before, but I think it will give me a more professional look and approach which is exactly what I want. I will be sure and include the link here, so that everyone will know how to find me. I believe I'll be implementing it tomorrow.

And......yes, you guessed it....I have changed the name and logo once again. This one I think I will keep. The logo above is the new one I've worked up and is, as always, tentative depending on my site design. Which, I have contacted Joyce Lucas with Cottage Collections to give her the go ahead for the site, so I should have exciting news about when my site might be available soon!

It seems everything has been a whirlwind this weekend and I'm still trying to figure out where all that time went.....spent a good portion of it purging un-needed and unnecessary stuff from my studio....who knew I'd find a rubbermaid container full of two year old fabric scraps that I've never touched since I put them away???!! ok.......gotta make like a bee and buzz off.....lots of work to do!!!

Pin Corsages

2008-01-17T21:46:00.000-08:00

I will have what I plan to call pin corsages offered at my site when I get it open and this is just one I made to go with an outfit I have (obviously not the one I'm wearing, lol, that's my Blues Traveler tee.....hehehehehehe).....anyhoo, just wanted to share it with you! I've seen a major comeback with these.....girls are putting them on their purses, their coats, business women are putting them on their lapels.....I think they should be a hit!

Oh, I have yet another update on the site....I've decided against the word "boutique" in the name and have replaced it with "collection". I think it's a little more fitting for what I plan to be offering. So, now it is

"Nouvelle Vie Collection". Above is the business card I've been working on, I'm hoping to get it sent off to Vistaprint here sometime in the next century! I'm getting on my own nerves with changing things everyday, but I guess that's what happens.......gotta try everything till you know it's right!

More Doodles......

2008-01-16T15:41:00.000-08:00

These are just a few doodles I did today while waiting at the bus stop for my son. I carry a doodle pad and sharpie with me almost wherever I go so that when I get bored, I'll have something to do. You know what they say about idle hands, lol.

Ok, I think I've finally settled on the font and style for Nouvelle Vie Boutique. You can get a good idea from the logo at the top of the blog, though when the site opens, the logo won't be exactly the same, but I think I need to just stop messing with it for now, lol. I love the shoe....it adds just the touch I'm looking for. I wanted something different and I think it's just the ticket.

I'm still working away on my order, though I do have a few new things to introduce later tonight. I'm really excited about this new line of wearable art I'm cooking up. The line will have pin corsages, bracelets, necklaces and hair accessories. I love making these, because there's so much flexibility and (although I don't wear many), I love accessories. I'll incorporate my obsession for glitter, ribbon, wire, glass beads and flowers into all of them.....I do think they'll be quite unique. So, off I go to continue the work (and watch my beloved Gilmore Girls, lol).

My "dot com" brand.....

2008-01-15T21:16:00.000-08:00

This is the brand that I will be putting on my shirts when I open the shop. The site isn't open yet and I have to add the word "boutique", but I really like it. The brands will go on the backs of the shirts at the neck, they won't be big....just enough to say who it's made by.

Can't seem to get it right.......

2008-01-15T16:47:00.000-08:00

A new logo I've been working on......what do you think?

Requested Pics.....

2008-01-14T21:24:00.001-08:00

Some of you have requested more pics of my projects and these are some I got done last night. These are jewelry I plan on selling at Nouvelle Vie when I get up and running. The bracelets are my fav. I am so addicted to glass pearls and nothing is better than dainty silver wire combined with glass pearls! I hope everyone likes them!

Weekend Updates

2008-01-13T21:59:00.001-08:00

I hope everyone had a very lovely weekend. Mine was ok, except for the sore muscles I have from helping my gma and gpa move on Saturday, lol. I'm tellin ya, if it weren't for the "grand" status I'd be calling them and complaining! This just goes to show that I will never ever voluteer to help anyone move ever again. I can't take it anymore, I'm too old!

Oh, in case you were wondering, I just included the pic of the Eiffel tower cause it's pretty, lol. No significance to the post, whatsoever. Anyhoo, I am yet again thinking about changing the name of the shop....I haven't sent it off to get the fictitious name register yet and I didn't even think that I might be stepping on some toes with the french name. I don't know, it's something I'm mulling. I will give you a definite tomorrow (I plan to stew about it all night and do that whole laying in bed but never really fall asleep thing, so I should have it covered, lol)

I have some interesting people lined up for features on the party blog, and I will be sure to announce it real big and fat here once I open it. I did add some business resources to it, though that could be helpful reading.

And, as before, I apologize for the lack of pics of the stuff I've been making lately, but I can't share any! As soon as Jennifer has them up at The Old Painted Cottage, ya'll (yes, I'm a bit of a hick)will be the first to know!

And, I've contacted Cottage Collections for an estimate on the website for the new shop....I am so excited! I should be talking to her Monday, so this is good! It seems that even if the brick and mortar part takes me three hundred years to accomplish, I can have a kick-ass website in the meantime!

CafePress keeps pulling me back!

2008-01-11T12:33:00.001-08:00

I am opening my CafePress again. I still have setting up to do, but I was so excited with some of my designs that I didn't want to wait. I have t-shirts that have the slogans "Pink Pride" and "Pink and Proud of it". My mugs read "I don't want the worm and I'm not a bird" (a pun for that earlybird saying. I plan on having a bunch more, as soon as I get moving along with everything else. I've ordered a mug and t-shirt, can't wait til I get them! I think that's why I can't stop...it is just way too much fun to design something and be able to buy it in merchandise form! Just click on the button below and you can check it out!

Nouvelle Vie

2008-01-10T16:06:00.000-08:00

Okay, I checked on the correct terminology for "new life" in french and with the research I did, it all came up as "Nouvelle Vie". So, I think that is what I will stick with. And, as you can see, I changed the logo to reflect it, lol! Ok, got some good news....went to check out some spaces today for the shop and I liked them......I will be sharing all the info on my new blog, Nouvelle Vie Boutique later tonight. I'll have links to a website where you can see the floor plans to what I visited today. I plan to share all the ups and downs of opening the shop at that blog, so it should be exciting!

Nouveau Vie

2008-01-09T23:07:00.000-08:00

I have been researching for years now to find out all I can about opening and running my own shop/boutique. I've written and re-written the business plan about a million times.......and I've always stopped right there. I've never tried to acquire investors.....hek, I don't even talk about it with my family. It seems it's always been that impossible dream. The one you always tell yourself can never come true, but you just can't let go anyway. I've been working on my negative thoughts and I really do believe that what you put into the world comes back to you. Everytime I catch myself in a negative thought, I correct.....spend ten minutes correcting it, lol.

Anyhoo, I've been struggling with the name forever. Tonight, I came up with Nouveau Vie. It means "new life" in french. I thought it appropriate, considering that's what it would be for me if it ever happened, and I'd be giving vintage things new life. WHat do you think? Does anyone else have it? It seems too easy, so I'm hoping I haven't stolen anyone's name! If I have, I apologize right now! I googled it and no compnaies came up, so I figured I was safe.

What do you think of the graphic? It's just something I played around with tonight. Tomorrow I will be having lunch with my aunt, who just happens to own a boutique (a metaphysical one) so that I can really talk to her about what the first step I should take is. I feel as if I don't get off of my booty, it'll never happen....but, boy, am I nervous.

My Doodle Designs

2008-01-08T13:50:00.000-08:00

I owned a different business about a year ago. I sold my doodle designs which I called "versatility designs". They came in pdf file. Here are just a few I thought I'd share with you. One of my favorite things to do is doodle.....might have some more recent ones here in a few days for you to look at. I've always wanted to try the whole stamping thing, turn my doodles into stamps, but I have no idea how to go about it.

I am Marianne

2008-01-08T12:28:00.000-08:00

Take the Quiz here!

You've got to take this quiz!!! It was lots of fun.......but I wish I knew more about Marianne....lol, I know, it's a sin???!!! Don't hate me!

Updates and Worms.......

2008-01-08T12:10:00.000-08:00

LOL.......above is something I say to people when they give me trouble about my late-night habits. I absolutely can not stand it when I hear "the early bird gets the worm", so I came up with this cute slogan. I am adding it to my cafepress store and buying a mug for myself, lol. I'm switching up my cafepress, but as soon as I'm done, i will let you know......I have some great things in store!

Sorry I haven't shared any new creations lately, I've been working hard on my order for The Old Painted Cottage and I, of course, want those creations to debut with Jennifer over at her place.

I also have something else brewing that I'm so excited about. It's another blog that will be dedicated to women entreprenuers and artists and their wares. I will be conducting interviews, posting great finds and articles and giving out awards and such. I, will also (of course) let you know when that is ready! In the meantime, if any of you great artists/business owners would like to contribute, email me at missysuestudio@yahoo.com!

Quotes: The Color of My Mind

2008-01-07T00:37:00.000-08:00

"I've dreamt in my life dreams that have stayed with me ever after, and changed my ideas: they've gone through and through me, like wine through water, and altered the colour of my mind."
Emily Bronte, Catherine in Wuthering Heights (1847) (p120 in the Penguin 1995 edition)

"They who dream by day are cognizant of many things which escape those who dream only by night."
Edgar Allan Poe, Eleonora (1841)

"Those dreams that on the silent night intrude, and with false flitting shapes our minds delude ... are mere productions of the brain. And fools consult interpreters in vain."
Jonathan Swift, On Dreams

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."
Mark Twain

Gilmore Girls and that damn thing called Reality....

2008-01-06T23:17:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I'm obsessed. I have been extremely busy these past few days with a great order (thank you, Jennifer), and while I'm working away....I must have some noise or goings-on in the background. Well, my routine for setting the scene for hours of creating is to go to the video store and get movies...most of the time it doesn't really matter which ones because all I do is tune it out anyway (yes, I am weird, never denied it). Anyhoo, this time I thought I'd switch it up from CSI to The Gilmore Girls. What a big fat mistake that was. I am now completely and utterly obsessed and I'm pretty sure the dang program went off the air like two years ago....am I strange or what?

Anyhoo......I liked the program before, I just never fit the time in my schedule to sit down and watch it. Well, look out now, cause I'm armed with the latest Family Video membership and a bonafide 30 days of half-off rentals. Lord, help me. As I'm clipping and trimming and ribbon-ing away on the crowns for The Old Painted Cottage, I'm sub-consciously being whisked away to Gilmore Girl-land where everything is hilarious and Lorelai (the mom) is so much like me that it's actually kinda frightening. Caffeine addict, organization-aphobic, millions of unfinished projects. The list goes on, my dear friends.

And it only gets better.....because there I sit, fantasizing about living in Stars Hollow (which, for the record, I have always wanted to live in a town exactly like that) and swooning over how Luke (Lorelai's soon to be love interest) is so dang dreamy. When did I graduate high school? Or middle school for that matter? Aren't I a little too old to be doing this, I think to myself. Then, I start stressing....am I the only one that does things like this? I know I've always been a dreamer and always had quite a slippery hold on reality (and sanity, but that's a whole different issue), but sheesh.......seriously.

When the last episode of the last tape went off and I lifted my head from the mass of pearls and ribbon strewn haphazardly around me, I actually flinched....and had no clue where I was for a second. I was so involved in Gilmore land that reality scared me. I might need some professional help, does anyone know of a great therapist or doctor who can perform an illegal lobotomy? LOL.......am I the only grown woman who does this...please someone come forward, put my panic at ease!!!

2008 - Oh, how beautiful you are........

2008-01-04T18:39:00.000-08:00

The first week of the new year has already proven that now is my time, that this year holds so many new ventures, promises and achievements. I met a wonderful friend who not only honors me with the opportunity to sell my art at her shop, but who also believes in my talent and tells me so. There's another big piece of pie in the sky that I can't exactly disclose details about just yet, but I do have to say, for me, next to the birth of my son, will be one of the proudest moments in my life. I promise to give you the full scoop as soon as I can, I just had to say thank you to 2008...........she's full of new life, new inspiration and endless possibilities! May everyone feel her grace, her love and experience all the beauty a new year can bring!

Remembering Oma

2008-01-04T18:01:00.001-08:00

I made this dress form using some of the jewelry my precious Oma (danish for Grandma) left to me when she passed away. The pieces are so lovely and I've always kept them wrapped up tight in a box in my armoire, my secret treasures. But, I got to thinking how wonderful it would be to have some of those heirlooms out in the open, for me to look at and remember my Oma, the lady who smelled like Oil of Olay and peppermint and who said "uffda" instead of oops. She was such a riot, Florence was. A dear, sweet lady who loved me unconditionally. So, this is a homage to her.......Florence Hanson aka "Oma".

Throw a "ME" Party!

2008-01-03T22:08:00.000-08:00

If I've learned anything the past year, it's the importance of taking care of yourself. I've learned hard lessons about how much good we do everyone else when we don't do any good for ourselves. It was my belief that being a single mom meant that my personal health, whether mental, physical or emotional, should be shoved to the side. I've since figured out that when I take the time for myself, I'm much more apt to take the time for my son.....and I'm happier to do it. I'm relaxed and when I am, my son benefits from it just as much as I do.

So, every other weekend when my son visits with his dad for the night, I plan my "reverie". I go to the video store and rent CSI and Gilmore Girls re-runs, buy junk food especially for me, then head home for a bath before I sit back in my comfy jammies and just give myself some lazy time. This recipe is what I use in my bath and wow.....I love it. Be careful when getting out, though...it tends to make the bottom of the tub slippery (make sure you rinse the tub out as well since these are home ingredients, don't want any buggie friends ruining your "me" party).

Brown Sugar Scrub

What you'll need:

1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup oil (coconut or olive)
10-15 drops fragrance made for skin usage (essential oils, most craft stores carry these)

Mix these ingredients in a bowl and voila!!! Your very own skin smoothing scrub.

*Tip-I like to get creative and add things around the kitchen like oatmeal and other time-tested ingredients. Get crazy with it and experiment, that's half the fun!

The Old Painted Cottage

2008-01-02T18:37:00.001-08:00

I am in such shock right now!!!! I just got off the phone with Jennifer, the Owner and Proprietor of The Old Painted Cottage. There are no words to describe how elated I am right now!!!! Jennifer made an order for some custom pieces and I am so superb-ly, unimaginably honored!!! From now on, my crowns and some of my pieces will be exclusive only to The Old Painted Cottage. At a later date, I can tell you which of my types of creations I've decided to make exclusive, I just had to brag my booty off about this! Jennifer was just incredible to talk to and made me feel very comfortable (at first I was extremely nervous). WOW......ok....got some work to do!!!! Have a beautiful night, all....I know I will, I have an order!!!! hehehehehehehe

New Banner

2008-01-02T13:18:00.001-08:00

Ok, I have the new banner up. This was also done in a hurry this morning, but I like it (for now, lol). It will probably change in about a week...so beware!!!!

New look coming soon.......

2008-01-01T21:58:00.001-08:00

When I initially made this banner (look up) for the blog, I wanted something simple and quick (it was in the height of Christmas rush). Now that I might have a little extra breathing room (though not in these pants, cause I been eating like it's the holidays), I'm going to be changing it. Can't wait to either. I love making graphics. When I had my site, I would change the graphics almost every month (no joke). But, since I closed the site and decided to focus on my designing more, I haven't been on the computer much (except to talk to you). Anyhoo, thought I'd fill you in on my latest upcoming adventure...it's going to be a graphic one.....teheheheheehe.....

A few new things......

2007-12-31T15:55:00.000-08:00

A brief and fuzzy pic of a fun chandelier I just completed for a friend's shop.

This is one of my houses that I'm planning on including in my spring collection that I will be submitting for licensing. It's not completely finished, but I wanted to share it!

A girly Victorian-like barrette I made that looks SO lovely when you put in hair that has been pinned up (my sis wore it the other day and it looked fabulous with her shirley temple curls).

On to other things........

Ok, so my computer has been acting very funky lately....have no idea what the trouble is, been running super slow and sounds like a train engine. At times I find myself glancing over at the tower, wondering if I should make a break for it.....death by computer is not how I want to leave this earth and it seriously sounds like a massive explosion is in it's near future. Which will be a big bummer for me, cause there's no way I can afford a new one.

New Year.......2008....WOW. I hope you had a great and safe one. I spent mine in the comfort of my bed with the most amazing man in my life........my son. (Had ya'll going there, didn't I?) He of course insisted on watching the new Simpson's movie. That movie is something, let me tell ya. He spent the whole time repeating what Bart said, but replacing the bad words with words that are acceptable in our house. He's just the most amazing thing I ever did. And I'm so thankful to be starting another year where I can watch him grow (too fast) and where mommy still "rules". I hope I always "rule".

Christmas rush has come to a close...........

2007-12-27T08:56:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone's Christmas was warm and cozy and filled with laughter, love and memories in the making. Mine went by in a blur, as we usually have to pick up and go to five different places over the holidays. And I think I've come to a decision. Next year, my Christmas will be spent at home. I love to see everyone and love the atmosphere of a packed house, but it kills all of my holiday spirit to have so many obligations. I will have a Christmas with all the trappings next year and if people want to see me and mine, then they will be more than welcome to come to my house. I just can't do all the running anymore, it leaves me no Christmas.

When I was little, I would get so depressed after Christmas. I think it might have had something to do with anticipating it for so long and when it was over, i was left with the question..."Well, what am I supposed to look forward to now?" I still sort of feel that childlike innocence in me whenever I feel the holidays coming to a close. Almost as if the kid in me is telling me it doesn't have to be Christmas for me to feel like it is everyday. So, on that note I think I might have come upon my New Year's Resolution quite accidentally, which is to live each day as if it is Christmas, then I'll never have to say goodbye to it again!

Fun Hairstyle

2007-12-21T10:54:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I have five minutes until I have to leave for my son's Winter party at school.......but I just had to share this fun and quick hairstyle with ya'll. It's simple...put your hair up in a ponytail, seperate your ponytail into different strands, curl. Following the curve of the curl, bobby pin them into place around the ponytail holder...and voila!!!! Have a great day, everyone!

Believing is Seeing....

2007-12-21T08:03:00.000-08:00

Yes, Virginia.....There is a Santa Clause....

"DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old. "Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. "Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.' "Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?"VIRGINIA O'HANLON."115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET."

VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there.

Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding. No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

Holy Smokes!....VIE CHAOTIQUE

2007-12-20T18:51:00.000-08:00

I am SO not believing what an awesome night I've had. What turned out to be a day filled with sinus problems and a crick in the neck from sitting in my studio until 3 am last night......has quickly become a gem of days.....a total gem, worth more than diamonds.

A little backlog (if you will) - I consign with a local shop here but don't consider it "that big a deal" because, after all, the shop is owned by my aunt. Who knows if she really likes my stuff or if she just feels weighted down by that teensy nepotism thing, lol. Anyhoo......I have never been asked to consign for a shop, ever.

UNTIL TONIGHT!!!!!!!

I belong to the forums at Victoria Bliss, a beautiful magazine which I just discovered and absolutely adore....and got to chatting with a woman on the boards. Well, she left me a private message and asked if I would consider consigning with her lovely shop, VIE CHAOTIQUE.

I visited and it is just gorgeous. I am so honored that she would actually want to carry my designs. And if I ever wanted to consign with a shop, it's never been this bad......I love the whole "feel" of it and their philospohy....."C'est la vie chaotique, From Chaos Comes Beauty"....that is SO perfect for me and I am keeping my fingers crossed for this new endeavor. Merry Christmas to me! ((((Hugging Santa tight)))))) My Guardian Angel must be working up quite a sweat, because I'm telling you, i feel like a dream I've had since I was a little girl is finally starting to come true!

A quote that gave me chills....

2007-12-20T12:00:00.000-08:00

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be?"

–Nelson Mandela

I was yet again perusing when I stumbled upon Heather Bailey's blog. Very interesting blog and I went to the link that is labeled "Even More About Me" on the right hand side and was taken to her bio at the Freshcut Fabric site. A great find.......and wow....what a great quote.

Finished Dressmaker's Mannequin....

2007-12-20T08:56:00.000-08:00

My crazy version of a Spring dress as a mannequin.....rofl. Sort of french-inspired, dontcha think?

Quick idea for Victorian flair for the Holidays.....

2007-12-19T15:53:00.000-08:00

I know that this might be an idea millions of people have already had, but I thought of it and made myself one and am in love with the way it turned out. This is a very simple, quick, easy and affordable way to add the right touch of victorian flair to your wardrobe this Christmas.

What you need.....
1" satin ribbon in color and length of your choice.
Flowers or vintage charms, or almost any embellishment you might have lying around.

What to Do........
I took a piece of ribbon approximately 18 inches long and attached smaller ribbon, flowers and pearls to the middle of my ribbon. The flowers were wrapped around the ribbon with the wire that was attached (floral wire), the pearls were hot glued into places among the flowers. After I was finished, I simply wrapped ribbon around any ugly parts that were showing (hot glue and wire) and tied it onto my neck with a fluffy bow in the back.

I will be wearing my hair up with a shirt that sweeps just below my shoulders, so that the necklace is the focal point and doesn't cause a war with the rest of my outfit. I'm also thinking of re-creating the ribbon hairstyle that was in the recent Victoria Bliss issue.....Tasha Tudor's antique clothing line.

I just loved the way this turned out and wanted to share it...it was so easy and simple, not to mention affordable and it will give me a very unique style for the holidays!

Introducing Sally, The Spring Queen

2007-12-19T15:35:00.000-08:00

I know the pics aren't that great and I'm sorry once again, lol! This is Sally, she is another addition to my Spring Collection. She is made out of paperclay, has her own felt flower basket and is covered in shimmery, glittery sparkle glaze for a really neat vintage finish. Hope you like her!

Kendra Binney and Daniel Merriam

2007-12-19T13:53:00.000-08:00

Holy Smokes!!!! I just found the most soft, ethereal, dazzling, miraculous and wondrous paintings by a very talented artist. You've got to go check her out! Amazing....I am SO putting some of her prints on my "to get" list. Vists Kendra Binney!

I've also found another superb artist, Daniel Merriam. Not only is his work beyond words, but his bio is so open and honest, you feel as if you know him. Great site and such a great artist to look up to.

Sentimental Gifts at Christmas

2007-12-18T21:07:00.001-08:00

Are you the type of person that likes to get something sentimental....especially from your hubby or significant other? See, I'm thinking of taking a poll....maybe go to Bravenet and get one of those poll meters to find out how many women find the "sentimentality" of a gift from their loved one very important.

Call me old fashioned, but I do. I would rather receive a card that makes me cry than something that my fiance thinks I "need". Because, really.....I can buy myself whatever it is that I "need". Who wants a gift from their fiance that they "need"? Ok, well, I do, I guess....but one little thing...one piece of sentiment thrown in among 10 things I "need" would be great.

I'm ranting a little here, and I'm sorry for it, but I have to go somewhere, lol. The thing is, I just got off the phone with my significant other and during our conversation he tells me that he has bought me several things he thinks I "need". With my fiance, this is bad......this is really bad, lol. I'm sure among some of those things is a tire-changing kit (the motivation being he doesn't have to come change it).

Anyhoo, when I asked him if he got me anything that would make me go "aahhhhhh"......he said no. Which, I figured he'd say, but here's the clencher.......he then says......."You know me, I'm not really the sentimental type." We've had a huge prob with this in the past, so much so that it caused me to move out, so when this comment was made, I felt defeated and disappointed. I thought we had made such great progress over the last few months. And I still think we have, but c'mon....lol.

So, what I'm wondering is this........Am I being too much of a ninny? I do appreciate the time he has taken to buy things I "need", I really do.....but am I asking for too much when I want just a hint of sentiment? Is that a selfish request? I really don't know....I don't feel like it is, but there's always two (or three or four) ways to look at something. I'd like to hear your way of looking at it!

New stuff........

2007-12-18T20:35:00.001-08:00

This is a painting I did as a commission. It's for a woman I met at the library, oddly enough. We got to talking and she ended up asking me for a piece....one that signified hope and freedom. I hope I did it justice....guess I'll find out when I meet her for lunch tomorrow!

This is one of the bunnies in my spring collection. He's not fully done yet, I still have to add his base. I love the little guy, I've added sparkle glaze to give him that vintage easter look.

This is a piece that I might include in my spring collection. I thought I could dress up the "mannequin" as an easter dress......incorporate the spring style somehow. The "mannequin" is paperclay on a wire frame that I made (which really made my arthritis unhappy, lol).

Sledding Fun

2007-12-18T20:24:00.000-08:00

We had a blast this weekend sledding in all the snowy white goodness!!!! Even though I got smacked so much in the face with snowballs that I eventually had to take my glasses off......they kept landing at my feet....rofl.

Sometimes What You're Looking For is Right Where You Left it.....

2007-12-17T20:28:00.000-08:00

I have loved this movie since it came out. Not only for the eye candy (Josh Lucas) below.....but for the humor and real-life quality of it. I get tired of seeing movies where everyone is glitz-ified and glammed out......every once in a while I need a good down home country fix......and I pop in this movie when I need one. Another reason I like it so much is that it reminds me alot of my fiance and I. We broke up for awhile and this story just makes me realize even more just how lucky I am. Oh, and did I mention I like to look at Josh Lucas, who plays Jake in the movie??? LOL.......anyhoo, ya'll.....if you haven't seen it.....I highly recommend it, one of my most fav movies!

Christmas Past

2007-12-17T19:58:00.000-08:00

This beautiful young lady is my mom. She'd kill me if she knew this picture was on my blog, so let's keep it our little secret, ok?? This was taken when I was about two years old. I went shopping for her today, and let me tell you, if you knew my mom, you would know what an impossible chore that is. The woman wants for nothing. Except for maybe coffee and her beloved cigarettes (which nobody can talk her into quitting, been there, almost didn't survive that, lol).

My mom left my paternal father when I was about three months old. He was an alcoholic and she knew that my life (and hers) would be better without him in it. So, my mom has always been a single mom, though she's been married since, it never mattered. If I needed something or someone, it was my mom that I counted on. At Christmas, my mom would go to elaborate measures to make sure I had the best Christmas. On Christmas morning, everything would be wrapped in paper I had never seen before (she'd drive two towns away to try and get paper that was not available where we lived) so that I would have the "santa was here" feeling as I nervously anticipated the treasures that awaited me.

She never asks for anything....never makes nonchalant statements proclaiming that she could really use this or that. So, I'm stuck. In previous years, I've made her something or wrote her poem and had it framed, but this year I feel as if I just can't figure it out. I guess it's back to the drawing board and different stores tomorrow so that I can walk up and down each aisle and wonder if the stuff I'm looking at is anything she wants, lol. I know that there is nothing I can do to make any Christmas as special as the Christmas Past she's given me, but I'd sure like to try....if only I knew where to start.

Preview of my Spring Designs

2007-12-14T08:29:00.001-08:00

Sorry about the mess in the background....my studio is an absolute nightmare right now, lol.

New CafePress Designs

2007-12-13T19:28:00.000-08:00

I have finally decided to re-open my CafePress Shop! The two designs at the top are what I currently have up! Hope you'll stop by!!!

Fun Quiz

2007-12-13T17:56:00.000-08:00

I found this quiz on one of Luxe's designer's blogs, Tricia Arlington. I never have any quizzes or really fun stuff....so I thought I would add it!

1. your rock star name (first pet & first car). Maddie Regal

2. your gansta name (fav ice cream flavor, favorite cookie). Vanilla Bean Peanut Butter

3. your “fly girl"? name (first initial of first name, first three letters of your last name) Mhan

4.your detective name (fav color, fav animal). Brown dog

5. your soap opera name (middle name, city where you were born) Sue Belleville

6. your Star Wars name (first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first). Hanme

7. superhero name (the? + 2nd fav color, fav drink). The Green White Zin

8. nascar name (the first names of your grandfathers). Wayne Clifford

9. stripper name ( the name of your fav perfume/cologne/scent, fav candy). Warm Vanilla Sugar Hershey

10. witness protection name (mother’s & father’s middle names ). Jean Jean (lol)

11. tv weather anchor name (your 5th grade teacher’s last name, a major city that starts with the same letter). Peffer Pennsylvannia

12. spy name (your fav season/holiday, flower). Fall Vinca

13. cartoon name (fav fruit, article of clothing you’re wearing right now + “ie" or “y"). Strawberry Sweatie

14. hippy name (what you ate for breakfast, your fav tree). Corn Pop Birch (rofl)

15. your rockstar tour name (the + your fav hobby/craft, fav weather element + “tour"). The Altered Rain Tour

Christmas Wish List

2007-12-13T13:03:00.000-08:00

My fiance has it in mind to buy me a whole new wardrobe....since I constantly complain (apparently) about the clothes I own now, lol. Well, he asked what I would want for Christmas if the sky was the limit, so here are just a few of the things I would buy if I could......

Vintage Outfits by April Cornell

Anything from Sally Jean

I will be adding to this list over the next week......basically for my own enjoyment, lol!

Scrappy Design Team Calls

2007-12-13T10:24:00.001-08:00

I was at iScrap this morning, just browsing and I decided to check in on the design team calls. I submitted to a few...but one call really interested me. Paper Trunk put out a design team call and the thing that had me so excited was that

1.) they were looking for an altered art or mixed media artist
2.) they wanted you to send in a personal statement, no formalities, they only wanted you to be yourself. You could write about anything you wanted that pertained to your life.

So, I jumped on the opportunity. What many of you might not know about me is that in a former life, I wanted to be a writer (and actually pubbed a few books), anyhoo......I thought, how fun would it be to just talk......not have any formalities to follow, just be yourself. So, I entered and I want to share with you my poersoanl statement that got sent it.......here goes.......

Altered Ulterior Motives..............

I live in rural Missouri, where you can find a good fishing pond almost every mile and where the weather can change in 20 seconds. I have a passion for helping all creatures (people and animals alike, though sometimes the people can be animals, lol) so I have three horses and one pony (none of which are suitable to ride), three dogs (none of which do anything but stink up my studio and lay around) and a chicken who doesn't lay eggs.

Among the manuer smell in my studio, you can also find the stench of my six year old son who refuses to bathe. He's the absolute best thing I ever did, but sometimes I worry that the best thing I ever did smells like a pig pen.

My dreams are big and bright, so much so that sometimes they blind me. As I sit here and write to you, I have collections upon collections that I have designed that I can't quite work up the nerve to submit to any licensing companies. That is my dream......to design collections for the home, whether it's paper items, cloth items or ornamental.....I'm there.....and I want to create. So, I work up these collections and when I'm all done, I lay them all out on my crowded and disorganized work table and scratch my head. The courage and conviction of saying (and believing) that I am an artist is coming to me and at this point in my life, I couldn't feel luckier or happier. After alot of years drifting, I've finally found my calling. A passion that keeps me awake at night and a fervor to just simply "be" who I am.

So, that is my personal statement. Oh, one more thing......a quote I came up with........"Magic is what the soul craves from a lover or friend, but what it expects from art."

Advice and failing faith...

2007-12-13T08:25:00.000-08:00

I got advice from a very dear friend yesterday, but instead of the advice leaving me feeling satisfied, it kind of upset me. My friend has worked for two of the most prominent corporations in the United States. She's a very savvy business woman and so smart about business matters that sometimes she gets on my nerves, lol.

Her advice was given after a conversation in which I told her my plans for licensing some of the collections I have been making. I told her that I've received great response from my posts (and pics of my creations) on forums, my blog, my site, etc. She then advised me not to share pics or details of my collections with anyone if they are something I plan on licensing and profiting from.
Disappointment hit me hard. I was disappointed in her at first, that she would actually imply that the great artists I meet in cyber space would maybe do something like steal from me and then license them as their own before I did. How could she say something like that? Then I remembered that she works in an office where if you say "good morning", there's most usually a reason behind it.......to get the scoop on you so that they can talk behind your back or to give you the dish, to enable that never-ending carousel of gossip.

I do fully understand that if I were to take the chance to share my creations online, I must also take the chance that some of my concepts (or whatever) will be used elsewhere.....frankly, I find that a huge compliment. If someone thinks that much of my stuff, I must be doing something right. That's just my thinking, anyhoo.

But, I sit here and wonder what our society has become. Have we really gotten to the point where we hoard our passions and our happiness so that we can merely be selfish and keep it to ourselves? So that nobody but else benefits from the beauty we create? I think not. That is the reason I create.........to share. To spread what is in my heart and from my hands and hope that it touches someone else's life.

Soldered Ornaments and a Treasure Trove.

2007-12-11T08:09:00.000-08:00

These are some of the soldered ornaments from the same collection I've been showing pics of. It's all blue, silver, and glittery crystal. I surprised myself with this.......I'm usually not "girly-girl". With anything, actually. I've never really like the soft muted or pastel colors and have always been drawn to deeper, darker shades.

But, something has happened in the past few weeks. I find myself slobbering over soft feminie colors and trinkets. For instance........I was running errands yesterday at the zoo they call Wal-Mart (at this time of year, anyway), when I was browsing the magazine aisles for some crafty inspiration........and there I saw it......one magazine in particular caught my eye.

Victoria stood proud, her regal front cover shining, almost blinding. Carefully, as if I had found a secret treasure, I picked her up and gently flipped through the pages. The pages of an article leaped out of me and I found pictures that made my heart melt. The new issue features the antique clothing collection of Tasha Tudor, unimaginably graceful and intricate dresses dating back to the early nineteenth century. Be still, my beating heart........I felt the color rise in my cheeks, almost as if I was embarassed to be so delighted by simple pages in a magazine. But, I couldn't stop the reverie. I stood there in the aisle of my insanely busy Wal-Mart and was transported back to a time where I would've worn dresses such as the ones I was looking at. Where I would've batted my eyelashes over a pearl-handled fan as I was being wooed and courted by some slick gentleman who kissed my hand and stood up whenever I left a table.

Needless to say, I bought the magazine, lol. And as soon as I got in the car after impatiently waiting to check out, I sat and poured over the feature once again. I'm glad I bought the magazine, or saw it for that matter, I never knew I would be so touched or moved by a Victorian magazine. If I had known the effect it would have on me, I would've subscribed long ago, lol.

The magazine also opened the world of April Cornell up to me. She has the most darling and unique clothing I've ever seen. I'm in love with her London line. I hope you visit the links, and while you're perusing, I hope you will be whisked away as well, into a time of romance where pretty things were an everyday necessity.

Why I've been busy......

2007-12-10T15:50:00.001-08:00

This is what I have been doing........I have more stuff to take pics of. I didn't get outside in time enough today to get all of the pics taken before the sun went down. I just can't beat the lighting outside.....I seem to be horrible at taking pics of items. If it's people or scenery, I tend to do fine, lol. Anyhoo.....I'm going to see how these pics turn up inside and if it goes good, I'll be back to share more!

The crowns are made of wire, which I have fallen in love with. The stuff is so fun to bend and twist...you can make almost anything! I think I might donate a few of the crowns that I did to the children's hospital, I think a little girl would be thrilled to have their very own crown!!! Now I just have to think about what to do for the boys, lol.

It's a Drizzly Day....

2007-12-08T19:22:00.001-08:00

Sorry about the quality of the pics....it's sleeting and very dreary here, so outside pics were impossible!

Okay, I have done nothing these past few days but work on the collection I'm wanting to submit for licensing. I've had a blast, but my neck hurts because I've been crashing into the studio floor every morning around 2 or 3 am and sleeping right where I lay....lol. The first pic is of an angel I'm working on, I had a few vintage doll pieces I wanted to use for something, and the cone was laying there.....so I put two and two together, lol. I'm surprised with how it turned out.

The second pic is of one of my wire crowns, I absolutely love making these, but my fingers are so torn up that it actually kinda hurts to type right now, lol. I will be adding a few more to the collection.....because let's face it......a girl can't have too many crowns! I'm off to the table again and probably have the studio floor to look forward to later. I promise to share pics of all the other stuff I've gotten done as soon as weather permits a better pic! Have a beautiful night, all!

Holiday Collection for Licensing

2007-12-06T13:37:00.000-08:00

Okay.......I got my camera up and running (I haven't the foggiest what was wrong with it). So, I was able to take pics of a seperate holiday line I've been working on. This is one I am designing for a specific licensing company I have in mind. I have more done in the collection, but here's a start.....

Above is the back view of the Wonderland house.

Side View of my unique Santa. He is polymer clay.

His "jolly" bubble is soldered and hangs from the tip of his hat.

Here's the cute couple.

This was from my pink line that I wanted to take pics of the other night, but couldn't. My version of a pink holiday cupcake.....sprinkled with glitter.

Camera Caput

2007-12-05T21:30:00.000-08:00

Well, I think my digital camera has bit the dust. I've changed the batteries four times now and nothing happens. I was planning on sharing more pics of my holiday line, but I can't because the dern thing hates me. That camera has had it in for me since day one, I'm tellin ya. It's almost not worth it to try and take it back and see if I had a warranty. I hope Santa's good to me this year and gives me a fancy schmancy new camera, cause without a camera....I am lost, lol.

Sneak Peek at Pinkish Whimsy

2007-12-04T07:40:00.000-08:00

A few of the ornaments in the collection.

The top of the Blessings piece.

The enclosure of the blessings piece. A flower with a glittery leaf, a star jutting out of it's center is inside.

Full front view...sorry about the pics. I really need a new camera. The one I have is good, but not for product pictures. Thanks for taking a peek!

Holiday Line

2007-12-03T10:49:00.000-08:00

I've been SO very slow in starting my holiday line this year. Since I'm getting more serious with my art (I'm going to be focusing on more of the licensing and line design side), I wanted this year's line to be spectacular. I wanted an idea so immense that it kept me up all night and made my brain hurt from all the inspiration flooding in. So, I've been sitting on the holiday line, biding my time, waiting for that all mighty powerful muse to whisper the sweet and soft (although sometimes urgent) ideas into my ear.

The wait is over. Last night, as I sat with my son, me with my hot cider and him with his marshmallows and hot chocolate.....it hit me! BAM...out of nowhere images invaded me and I sat there for a minute, staring into space. My son woke me up with..."what are you doing, mom?". I got up.....did a happy dance (one in which he delightfully was my partner) and threw my hands up in the air. Free at last, free at last, thank God Almighty.....I'm free at last.

The visions that came to me were of a sparkly world, one in which modern and retro style fell into place beside vintage eclectic reverie. A world where Santa can look just as I wish....a world that was precious and feminine. A world that the little girl inside me would've created long ago had I had the ability (or idea, lol).

Upon the ending of this post, I will close myself off in my mess of a studio and get to work. I should have something for you to see by tonight. I love this feeling....the nervous-ness and jitterbugs in my stomach.....the anticipation of beautiful things to come. Off I go to revel in it and create.

Soldering Fun

2007-12-02T18:05:00.000-08:00

i had a little soldering fun today. i made this for a friend and hope she likes it. it's been a while since i picked up the iron. back a gazillion years ago when i first started dating my fiance (about 5 years, lol), he got me started with the soldering and welding. i enjoyed it for while, but then, i prolly moved onto something else. i'm glad i got to do this today, i might make a few more for gifts this year! now, if only i can get just a tad better, cause i'm thinking that solder looks a little on the "help me" side, lol.

studio and hermit living

2007-12-02T10:36:00.000-08:00

My new studio............

JUST KIDDING........hehehehehehehehehe. I promised a month ago that I would be sharing pics of my studio move in progress......and I would have had some, if I had been making any recognizable progress, lol. But, as it seems, I just can't get it done. I find projects to dally with, ideas to form, lunch to make, etc, etc and so on and so on. It still sits in disheveled disarray, incomplete (with supplies missing in action upstairs and all over the house) and neglected. I think half the problem is that I move from room to room with my projects (in order to spend time with my son as I create). So, I have paints and papers in my room, fabric and styrofoam on the kitchen table and magazines and sketches in my son's room. I should be ashamed. What type of mother creates a mess in their son's room and leaves it sit for a day or so?? Shouldn't I be reciting the proverbial "if you don't clean up this mess....." and wagging my finger?

At times I feel bad for being the so-called "unconventional" mom. I don't constantly yell at him to clean up his room, I don't blow a gasket when he spills a little milk on the floor. But, because of that (I think), my boy (at 6 years old) can sit in his room (on the carpet) and paint with his mommy's acrylic paints without making a mess. What a glorious feeling it is to be this type of mommy. I do, however, make him take a bath and incur all of the motherly duties that make me a mom.......protect, enforce rules (to a certain extent).

There are times where I see a glimmer of hope for my disorganized and messy alter ego......a couple days ago, my son was talking to one of his friends after they got off the bus and the little boy made a comment that his mom got mad when he made a mess and without hesitation, my son said (with a smile on his face) ....."shoot, my mom is always making a mess, so she never yells at me, cause she knows how it is."

Ah, the blissful assurance of the young. How is it that they tend to say all the right things to make us feel better, or at times, worse?

I will get my studio straight at some point and I will try to incorporate all my projects into one area. But, for now......I'm happy being the "messy mommy".

I've also realized that I am living like a hermit....only going out of the house to get my much needed soda (I'm addicted) and any supplies I might need (which I am also addicted). I like the hermit life, but I also like to get out, go to eat.......maybe go somewhere dressed in something other than sweatpants. Hmmm....have to work on getting my booty up and motivated.....

An Enchanting Shopping Trip

2007-12-02T09:20:00.000-08:00

This sign is for my aunt's shop. Her shop is located in the Historic District of St. Charles, smack dab on Main Street and a stone's throw away from the river. She sells spiritual and inspirational merchandise as well as handmade jewelry. I love her shop and every time I go in, I feel like I float from one pretty thing to another. This was our first stop on our Main Street shopping stroll.

How cool is that owl man? This setup was so lovely, I had to take a picture of it. This was from one of the many other shops along the way.

I have a thing with dressmaker's mannequins and forms, so this was something that caught my eye. It was in a room that shimmered with silver and icicles dripped from the ceiling where they had been strategically placed along with silver tinsel. It was breathtaking. And if you look closely, you can see one of the glitter covered reindeer on the right. I bought myself one of those, lol.

Another setup that had me wanting to take a pic, sorry it didn't come out too great!

Handmade ornaments and goods hung all over the trees in this shop and it was brain overload....everywhere I looked, there was something else to examine and appreciate.

Need I say more? Can you see all of that handcrafted goodness???

This is a sign from one of the galleries on Main Street. It's lovely, but a little too "fu-fu" and fine-art for me.

My Friend with the magical digital hands......

2007-11-29T21:34:00.001-08:00

I have to give a HUGE thank you to my friend, Michelle at Digital Collage Sheets once again. She is a master artist at altering photos and has the most beautiful (and affordable) vintage collage sheets I've seen so far. Not only is she amazing in these ways, but she agreed to let me hand out brochures for her site to the students in my class. When she said yes, I was super ecstatic......now, imagine my get up and click-your-heels GLEE when she sent me the brochure that is complete with all of her site's info and FREE COLLAGE ELEMENTS that my students can use right off of the brochure.

Amazing gal, I'm tellin ya.........

oh, and sorry for all the yelling, lol.

Digi Collage

2007-11-29T20:39:00.000-08:00

This is something I played around with tonight. For some reason, I felt like doing a digi collage. I used my ephemera and different pics I've picked up to create it. I'm a big fan of "ghostly" and misty-type collages, so I almost always end up with something soft and a little out of focus. Seems more romantic and luring, I guess, lol. Anyhoo, I think it might be time to hit the hay......my eyes are starting to burn, which can't be a good sign, rofl.

Designing Clothing

2007-11-29T13:14:00.001-08:00

Today, I was asked to design a line of clothing geared towards the teenage girls market. I'm super excited about the opportunity, but also very nervous, lol. The company is a new one, just trademarked and is looking for a junior's line to add to their workout line. They have a wonderful concept in mind and are pretty much leaving it up to me.......come up with some prototypes and see where we go from there. I'm thinking I want to create some clothing that has alot of sloppy stitching. I know that the 80's style has come back in (Lord, help us, lol) and I think I can accomplish some great things with free rein, but I'm still nervous!!! I wonder what colors would be best to go with these days for a hip and styling teenager??? Food for thought.

2007-11-28T12:39:00.000-08:00

I am now in the process of setting up my class page at my website..........I love the little house pic I found. Wouldn't it be so lovely to curl up in this house with a few wonderful women and do nothing but laugh, create and drink coffee (or tea, lol) all day long??? I'm missing female comraderie....I need a little bit more of it in my life, which is one of the reasons I'm so excited about the mixed media classes I've introduced to this Micheal's.

If all goes well, I will be planning a workshop retreat and one of the places I think would be absolutley fab for it is Trout Lodge. The facility is just amazing and I love the emphasis they put on single parenting. It's run by the YMCA and at special times, they offer super-low discount rates for single parents and their families. They offer scrapbooking retreats and such and do really good on them, the scrapbooking class is already sold out!! So, I will be calling later today or tomorrow to see about reserving a special "Mixed Medium Divas" retreat workshop! It will be one of my dreams come true!

Altered Art Canvas Class

2007-11-27T15:04:00.000-08:00

This is my example piece for a new class I have coming up at Micheal's. I used a ton of different techniques and mediums and was quite sure Michelle, my event coordinator, would flip a gasket once she saw my material list, lol. But, she didn't.......in fact, out of all the classes I had lined up for the month, this was her favorite. My canvas is 18x24, but the students will do a 16x20. I have really high hopes about this class. I think it will spur a whole "mixed media" brigade within the class-goers. It's something they've never done before in this area, a class where.....there are no rules. Can't get much better than that, lol!

Christmas Trees........

2007-11-27T14:46:00.000-08:00

Getting a Christmas tree has always been a tradition. The weekend after Thnaksgiving, we all head out to the same Christmas Tree Farm and engage in the search for the "ultimate" tree. Hiking through the trees, my son is yelling..."see, I knew we would have to walk miles out here!".....which made me have a flashback of the Griswold's driving to the middle of nowhere and dragging their children through the forest in Nat'l Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.

Luckily, my son didn't end up suffering for too long, lol. We found a tree fairly quickly, too quickly in my opinion, since the scnery was so lovely I wanted to hang out all day!

Updates......

2007-11-21T10:07:00.000-08:00

I was recently asked to be an advisory board member at a new site called JaMuse. It's a creative community that allows artists (of all types..photographers, digital, illustration, even dancers) to upload their portfolios and then, through their MuseWorx system, they can share files with clients and collaborate. It seems like a wonderful new site and another avenue for artists to get their names out there and get noticed.

They launch in a month or so and are internationally recognized, so if you're an artist of any type, go check it out!

2007-11-18T10:21:00.000-08:00

The start of a mixed media piece that I think will be the catalyst for some new classes for the crafty kids at Micheal's. Really, I can't think o fmore fun than to sit in a room with a bunch of kids and tell them the only rule here is to make a mess......lol. My event cooridinator wanted something different and fresh and I have to say that a mixed media class for kids is the best way to go (at least here). In this area, they've classed ornaments and little "cutesy" projects to death....I think it might be time to introduce the "darker" side of scrapbooking, lol. This is not to say that I don't love the "cutesy" projects, but I was asked to do something different and I think this will be just the ticket........wooohoooooo. LOL

2007-11-18T10:10:00.000-08:00

This is a commissioned piece I did for a friend of mine's daughter. Her daughter is very much like me. Her mom worries when she shuts herself off in her room and "hibernates" as she reads and draws. I try to tell her that that is who she is.....and that I can relate to it so very well. That's why when she has a problem (the daughter), she mostly comes to me. When I gave her this piece, she preceded to ask me about what she should do if she had a crush on someone. Keep in mind, she is a freshman in high school. This boy is a junior and she talks to him "sometimes". So, I told her what I wish I would've known at that age.........make sur eyou know him before you idolize him. Talk to him, be yourself, be as bold and brass as I know she is...and she'll find that either the boy is worth idolizing, or that crush will (for lack of a better word) be crushed.

It's amazing how you can worship someone from afar and then get to know them and wonder what the hell you were thinking, lol. Ah, teenage years....I wouldn't live them again for all the money in the world.

Greeting Card Universe

2007-11-13T15:46:00.000-08:00

Great news! My art is now available as greeting cards at Greeting Card Universe! I'm still adding lots more art I have and should have LOTS of Christmas stuff here in the next few days. This place is really neat! The cards are cheaper than what they would be in the store....and get this....they send them to your recipient for you! No writing, stamping and putting it in the mail! I think it's awesome! Hope you do too!

So Much Fun!

2007-11-13T08:57:00.000-08:00

At my new friend's site, I found a great Visual DNA link. I've seen this before, but now, for the holiday season, they have a fun little visual test you take, then it pulls up a description of you and a holiday gift list. I have to say that it was right on where I was concerned, check out what my description says! I had lots of fun taking it too, there were some really pretty pics! Find all kinds of cool visual DNA fun at Imagini.net!

New Work

2007-11-13T08:29:00.001-08:00

New Collage Work

2007-11-13T07:36:00.000-08:00

I completed these the day before yesterday. I love the Queen layout. I think it might be the colors or how perfectly an old vintage letter written on blue paper fit in to it. The pics for these layouts came courtesy of Digital Collage Sheets. The rest is from my personal collection of ephemera. I wanted to leave the pink layout a little sparse (this is a little different for me, I tend to cram something in every nook and cranny, lol). Hope you like them!

I plan on selling these collages as prints. I haven't decided whether I'll sell the originals or not?? Hmmm.......

I Will Never Give Up

2007-11-11T20:49:00.001-08:00

This piece is one I had lots of fun making. I had no real design or destination to it all besides the fact that the woman's body is from Stampington's Tempting Template. I did it as sort of an homage to the struggle of achieving dreams and that in order to get there...to that long awaited destination....there will be struggle and heartbreak to overcome.

I'm not quite done with it yet, I still have the back to do and some other little trinkets to add. I'm thinking this might be something for a submission somewhere......

And let me share a little something special about the piece that really spurred the whole thing.....do you see underneath the woman....can you read the words? If you can't....they say, "FREE SOUL". I was watching Saving Grace the other night and the said something on the episode that really struck a chord with me. If any of you watch the show, you know Grace has some serious issues.....not all of them I can relate to, but some I can......like being unorgamized, ignoring family phone calls....etc.

Anyhoo, most everyone who knows Grace (particularly her family) thinks she needs to grow up or be more of an "adult" I guess you could say...or maybe "get her shit togther"....whichever you prefer.......be that as it may.......during the episode she asks her "G-pa" why he never tried to change her that way everyone else did, why he never got on her about the things she did and didn't do....and this is what he said......."Because you're a free soul and you're going to do what you want no matter who yells at you."

Well said.....and how wonderfully put.

Great Find!!!

2007-11-08T17:46:00.000-08:00

I was browsing through Etsy and came across this lovely shop called the Lady's Closet....then I followed the link to their website..... Digital Collage Sheets. They offer two sheets of free vintage images and after printing, I'm in love with this company! I've never seen such beautifully enhanced images! Take a peek, I'm telling you...it's well worth it!

"Hated"

2007-11-08T16:02:00.000-08:00

These are some pics of the second piece for the V-day show at darklight. I'm pleased with how this one turned out and, as funny as it is.....everything turned out pretty good. Yippeeee!

And can I just mention how much I HATE my camera???

Yes, it could be user error....but, c'mon!!! aarrgghhh

Photography

2007-11-08T15:47:00.000-08:00

This slideshow is a sample of some of my photography....told ya I had a thing for sepia tones, lol!

Fall Fun.....

2007-11-08T15:26:00.000-08:00

These are a few of the pics I've taken so far this fall. All of my photography is in sepia tones....I love the feel it gives to the pictures.

Vintage Images are ready for purchase!

2007-11-07T18:48:00.000-08:00

I am SO excited! I have gotten through only some of my vintage collection and have three sets now available for purchase! Take a look at my ETSY store or email me for purchasing information!

"Mated"

2007-11-06T10:21:00.001-08:00

This is one half of my entry for the Valentine show at darklight Art Gallery. Each artist is invited to submit two pieces, one for the more rosy side of love and one for the other side (the dark side, lol). This is my "hapy" piece which I named "Mated". I tried to convey that the crows in the trees were two souls that were finally coming together.

My second piece will be named "Hated" and will be dark and probably very gothic. I've started on it and have decided to make it a mixed media collage piece. I can do so much more that way than with just mere paint and this piece is one I want to really put some work into. I'll keep you posted on the progress of the second piece!

Studio in Progress

2007-11-05T14:42:00.000-08:00

Here is the brand new studio space in progress. It's in the basement, and I know I won't particularly care for the "dungeon" atmosphere, but at least it's space and it will be my own. Before, I had everything stacked and crammed into my bedroom. Getting clothes every morning was a chore since there were about 10 rubbermaid containers full of my stuff blocking the way. I think my back will be thankful it doesn't have to move and then move again those heavy containers. The wine glass looking container thing in the middle is my favorite aspect. My fiance gave it to me (can't remember what for) and it was full of flowers. It was pretty neat looking. But, I've decided it will be my glistening catch-all for little trinkets and pretty supplies that I like to look at and keep in the open.

My fiance jokes that he knows no other person that looks at everything as either a new project or something to store stuff in for other new projects. I told him that was because I was the only artist he knew, lol. I'm excited about this new space, though overwhelmed with finally having my own "domain". I've always sat on my bed, lol. So, this should be a new adventure for me. When I get the goodies all set up, next will come my radio and TV. Gots to have some noise most of the time!!!!

Serenity

2007-11-05T14:06:00.000-08:00

What do you think about the box? I love the whimsy of it. I'm thinking I might include it in a goodie package that I'm planning on sending a new friend of mine. I'm having a hard time getting my pics any better. I think I might have to break donw and buy a great camera one of thses days, instead of the cheapy Kmart camera I have now, lol. Hey, you know what they say about starving artists!!!

Enchanted Kingdom

2007-11-05T09:24:00.000-08:00

I was in the Christmas spirit last night and as I laughed at Chevy Chase in the movie National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, I made this little dandy. I'm having too much fun with these collages. I will be posting them for sale on Etsy in a bit. I'm lagging behind because I'm in the middle of moving my studio to a bigger (and quieter) part of the house. Is "quieter" even a word? LOL.....anyhoo, I will share some pics of the new space as soon as I get all of my precious junk moved!

Unique Nature

2007-11-04T18:37:00.000-08:00

This is a collage I did yesterday as I sat around the house. I have to say, my favorite thing about collages is I can mess it all up! I don't have to be perfect, and in fact, it's only better the sloppier I get with them.

Home Painting

2007-11-02T15:04:00.000-07:00

2007-10-25T13:53:00.000-07:00

This is the painting I did last night. I'm a little pleased with it, but not much, lol. I had no clue what I was painting pretty much the entire time, but, hey........I was painting more for release than anything else. Too much damn stress and a paintbrush does my body good.

Ho, Ho, Ho Everyone!

Dumpy DOOS

2007-10-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

Progress.......oh, how I hate that word. They say Taurus (the zodiac sign that I am) hates change and I don't know if every Taurus is like that, but I am a walking billboard for the sign. I'm an unwavering friend, I'm very earthy and can dig my heels in like there's no tomorrow when arguing. And I HATE change. My loathing for the process of change might stem from moving every single year while growing up.

Making friends was never a problem, it was keeping them. And, last night feeling particularly down in the dumpy-doos, I realized I had nobody to call. Except for my fiance, of course, who is always supportive and does what he can, but for some reason, I longed for a female voice. And as I pondered which female friends I had in my life, I realized that none of them were the type that I could cry to, or give a hug to. Most of the females in my life are acquaintances and when I talk, they interrupt or just plain don't give a damn about what I have to say.

I did get some painting done last night, though......creating is always the best therapy. I think I might go out today and get some supplies to try out the idea that's been bumping around in my head.......shrink plastic jewelry! Instead of metal frame and metal wiring....I thought that since the shrink plastic makes paper hard as wood....I could make charms and things and maybe use some sort of classy vintage ribbon????!!! Worth a try.....any idea always is!

Jezebel Funnies!

2007-10-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

I found this awesome boutique while perusing through one of my favorite artist's links..... Daphne's Cottage. Too awesome, then I visited the blog and laughed so hard my sides still hurt. I think I might have found me a gem in the form of southern humor and sass. Visit the BLOG and hear Elizabeth tell her hilarious stories!

Best Quote

2007-10-23T12:38:00.000-07:00

"Women are meant to be loved, not to be understood."

~Oscar Wilde

Teaching....Who would've ever thought?

2007-10-23T12:32:00.000-07:00

I hated school. Well, high school to be exact. I think i was okay until I hit that dreaded freshman year. On the day I graduated, I had never been more happy, the only moment in my life that rivals walking across that platform was the birth of my son.

So, I never thought I'd be a good teacher. But, I'm starting to teach my clay classes at the local Micheal's store and I love it, every bit of it. I especially love working with the kids and seeing their eyes light up when they make something they thought they didn't have the talent for.

After a while, I'm going to approach the idea for an assemblage class and see where that takes me, the ideas for that are endless! I'm feeling good today, I think I might have found a perfect job that enables me to create and make $$$$. LOL

Cobwebs

2007-10-22T19:27:00.000-07:00

This is my first attempt at the Encaustic technique. I loved how it turned out.....and I loved working with the beeswax. I used to make candles and it felt good again to smell the familiar scents in the air of the wax heating and then to incorporate my love of both the wax and collage into one. Next time, I just hope I can find my Creative VersaTool to use for a mini iron, because I don't think I'll ever use a regular iron again.......ROFL!

Am I Pretty?

2007-10-19T21:56:00.000-07:00

This is a collage that I made on a whimsy one day last week. I had an old issue of Vogue that I had been using for inspiration for some of my illustration sitting out and for some reason, had the overwhelming urge to cut it all up, lol. Fueled by my frustration of looking at women who have the waists of five year olds, I cut out anything that would make me feel better about my body. Hence, "Natural Tastes Better"......could be misconstrued into something vulgar, but, hey....who cares?

"Chic" Whimsy Collection

2007-10-19T21:47:00.000-07:00

Here is my latest and I should say first polymer clay collection. I've never done this many sculptures with one theme in mind. I was aiming for a bit of chic thrown in with whimsy and folk art, lol. I have no idea how I did, but I know that my favs are the "WinterGreen" (the green girl with wavy metal arms and gloves) and the witch. I had fun making them. They took me about a week to complete and tonight, I sent pics of them off to ESC Trading Company........fingers crossed. I think the only thing they have going for themselves is that they are different, lol.

From here to there....

2007-10-15T19:45:00.000-07:00

I've often wondered what made an artist an ARTIST. Back when I used to hide my art from people for fear of not being "good enough" or being viewed as crazy for wasting time on something so not "usual", I thought that the difference between me and an ARTIST was ....

1.) Schooling. Who knew that the majority of ARTISTS never took a class until they began sharing their art with the world?

2.) An innate ability to believe in themselves and to truly know deep within their souls that they weren't being "greedy" or selfish to want to create art, to carve time for it everyday.

3.) Effort. Creating art takes effort. For some artists it's an uncontrollable almost inconsolable NEED to create something. But it's still effort. I've always made the effort, but still thought my art wasn't good enough, creative enough........

I'm learning how to get from here to there....it's quite a journey.

Patricia Dibona of Dibona Designs

2007-10-09T06:56:00.000-07:00

Patricia DiBona of Dibona Designs will be joining us shortly to give us some insight into her thriving and mystical business. Patricia is not only an artist, but a spiritual speaker as well. I can't wait to hear what she has to say and am humbled by her willingness to grace my blog with her techniques. We might get a sneak peek into Patricia's "Pollage" workshops!!!

2007-10-09T06:50:00.000-07:00

It was a another wonderful weekend at Branson. We took the boat out and went to Silver Dollar City, which is always a family favorite! I didn't bring any supplies with me, so when i got back home, I was ready to create!

2007-10-09T06:45:00.000-07:00

Here are a few new paintings I've done in the past few weeks. I'm playing with a new style and loving every minute of it. My aim is to combine both my love for contemporary and whimsical into my love for folk art (dirty, heavily shaded areas). I think I'm doing pretty good! I'm also half done with my piece for the Valentine show at darklight. I really like this one and I think Amanda (the gallery owner) will too.

Back on Track

2007-09-25T15:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had one of those horrible days. And if you're an artist, I'm sure you know what kind of day I'm talking about. Horrible days for artists are those days when nothing goes right....nothing you paint cooperates....you feel not good enough...and your insides even get on your nerves, lol. With me, the old myth that artists are fickle and prone to whims is completely true. BUT, I had a great day today!!! Got two paintings done and I love each one....meet Whitley Winkle and her bunny pal who is in love with the moon.

2007-09-20T20:35:00.000-07:00

This is a mini clay sculpture I played around with last night. I've contacted a few of the local Micheal's stores in my area about teaching classes and I figured I'd get started on more examples of my work. I was hoping the pics would turn out better and the nasty orange color of my kid's table doesn't do anything for it, either, lol. I'll try and take some pics in the daylight today and share them later!

Under the Weather and Over the Hill

2007-09-12T16:41:00.000-07:00

I feel old....VERY old. Especially since I caught my son's sickness. Standing at the store while waiting for his medicine was like torture. My muscles ached, my eyes burned and it was all I could do to keep from swooning, lol. Peanut strated kindergarten a couple weeks ago and when a note came home from the teacher last week, informing the parents that there had been a case of strewp throat in his class, I gasped out loud and knew he would get it. It was just a matter of time before those ugly symptoms started popping up.

I'm feeling slightly better today and after two days of staying home from school, Penaut was able to go to school today for picture day. Yeehaw.......let's just say that I can bet you $100 my son was the only kid in school who had spiked up red hair and his fire/skull t-shirt on, rofl. I bet his teacher is seriously rethinking my head-room parent status, lol. Can't wait to go in there for "Volunteer Tea" with my ripped up jeans that are so many different colors from many hours of painting wear. Most of my clothes are stained (or have skulls on them), so even if I wanted to give a different impression, I couldn't. C'est la vie.........