The Mother Mary Machine

Cleaning the Craft Room

2012-01-26T16:43:00.000-05:00

What HAVE I been up to? Spending 5+ hrs a day tackling my monstrosity of a sewing room. When I work I pull out everything I need and spread it out on the floor around me. Then when I have to go to work or downstairs for dinner, I leave it there so I can easily pick up where I was later. That coupled with the fact that I have so many hobbies has contributed to THIS:

That spot barely visible above the pink suitcase is where I sit to work. Watching some hoarders episodes along with nesting has finally given me the kick in the ass I need. Every bead, ribbon, scrap of paper, and paperclip is being sorted through and it's all getting a new home. I have bags and bags of stuff I know I will never use and that is being donated. Believe it or now, what you see below is PROGRESS!

Getting rid of so much crap will make this room easier to handle and make craft times more efficient.

Goodwill Cat

Now here it looks like a step backwards but I swear it's still progress. This is 4 days into the project:

When I have some "After" photos available I will post some tips for tackling the worst messes. You wouldnt believe my downstairs is really nice, but it is. I don't need a hoarding intervention- Just a craft supply hoarding intervention!

Veggie Tales- salad recipe and peeing carrot

2012-01-23T13:00:00.000-05:00

I am a total snot factory. Today is the tail-end of what was a nasty cold (i think) consisting of sneezing fits, sore throat, loss of smell and taste, tiredness, and mass quantities of boogies. I'm surprised I succumbed since it's been years since I've had one of these common ailments even with my compromised immune system. I guess it's the hit my body took with the additional lowering of the immune system you get being pregnant and the stress of being a very worrisome person. It didn't last too long though on part of eating 5-9 servings of fruits n veggies on a daily basis.

I may have posted this recipe before, but I'm always making it just a bit better. Right now this is how I make my favorite salad dressing for my favorite salad (that I eat about 7 times a week!):

I have a super cute glass salad dressing bottle from walmart but you can easily do this in a jar- which is great for giving it a good mixing shake.

Trader Joe's Balsamic Vinegar - #1 ingredient. more of this than anything else. i give it a hearty pour

Trader Joe's Extra Virgin Cold-Pressed Olive Oil- little bit. i do like a couple tablespoons or less

Pomegranate Molasses from a Middle Eastern or Eastern European Grocer (I've seen this in specialty shops too)- yummy stuff. its concentrated juice and wonderfully sweet and tart. maybe 3 tablespoons

The juice from a container of Mandarin Oranges- use as much as you want but it will make for a thinner dressing

dash of salt and pepper- optional. i usually forget, honestly. you can also add cayenne pepper or garlic powder

I literally drink this stuff straight sometimes. vinegar is so wonderful. when i make this i start with a small batch in a bigger jar so i can taste test it to perfection and add more of whatever is needed. Olive oil is the ingredient I usually put too much in.

Refrigerate your concoction. If you pull it out and there's weird things floating around- it's probably just the olive oil solidified from the cold. It's fine, let it sit on the counter for a bit. Now for the ensalada!

Kale- WONDERFUL for you!! I get it pretty cheap at BJ'S

Spinach- will i EVER go back to iceberg?

Goat Cheese- Trader Joe's has great prices for this

Beets- canned is easier to mess with than fresh. i dont get pickled, just regular sliced beets in a can

Mandarin Oranges- I don't go with canned or with ones that come in syrup, just juice

Organic Trail Mix- (THE BEST!) Pumpkin seeds, toasted soy nuts, sunflower seeds, cranberries, dates, dark raisins. I buy this in a 1 lb container from BJ's Wholesale and it is MARVELOUS.

This salad will make you fall in love. Don't be surprised if you get wet at first bite. Ok, just kidding.

And here is a picture of a carrot I ate that made me laugh because it looks like it has legs and is peeing a nice long yellow stream:

Peeing Carrot

Now to make my 50th cup of tea in three days and make my lunch salad!

Putting on the Pounds

2012-01-15T17:34:00.000-05:00

Exercise has quickly fallen away from my daily schedule- as was horridly illustrated by a brightly lit dressing room mirror yesterday right before I hopelessly struggled to pull a pair of size small maternity pants up over my thighs. Ugh, they were tight even around the ankles. A lot of factors added up to produce a pretty bad attitude- pale, pale thighs; the kind of unnaturally bright light one would require for destroying a nation of vampires at once; what from my angle of viewing looked like cellulite from my ass down to my knees; unstretchy fabric not suitable for pants; an idiot salesperson talking me out of the one thing i was there to buy; and not having showered thinking i was just making a quick produce run. All these things at once made me feel like a hideous beast. Oh, and I wasn't even wearing makeup.

A lot of it is that it's winter. Who looks slim under so many layers? When I'm at home in dim light and the heat is cranked I look quite lovely in a vintage black slip with the cups actually well-filled for the first time. But I feel like that marshmallow man from Ghostbusters when I step out:

And putting boots on requires a little rolling around on the floor.

I did end up getting the maternity band for my jeans I needed. I can wear my larger jeans as long as they aren't buttoned or zipped. Stupid lady at the maternity store said no, no, that's not what I want- it's only for the first trimester. It's actually for the duration of your pregnancy AND afterward. So I just paid full price for it at another store.

Another thing I've found so disheartening is how every Prenatal Yoga video is so sub-par and even offensive. The instructors talk to me as if I've regressed to being a 4 year old. With high pitched narratives, giggling, and stupid comments like, "Now reach down to your toes. can you see them? *giggling* well not for long!" "say hi to your baby! hi baby!" Shut the hell up!!! Instead of finding yoga relaxing and concentrating on my body and the stretches I find myself becoming enraged and imagining hitting these women over the heads with shovels. Visualizations of violence are not meditative. The models they use are ugly and dressed so frumpy. They don't use the pose names like I've never practiced before.

I ended up doing regular yoga and began to chill out. I tried to avoid what was probably bad for me and felt super afterward. I need a great yoga video for this pregnancy. One that treats me like I'm still an adult and didnt lose my brain to inane googliness and pink rubber duckies.

Oh, the two that come to mind are the Gaiam Prenatal Yoga DVD and the Crunch Mama video. If you've never worked out before and were super into baby crap before you were pregnant and happened to lose most of your brain in a tragic accident- maybe you would enjoy these.

In other news, I broke a three day constipation spell by releasing into the wild a Loch Ness in a local Irish pub. Yup.

2011-12-17T13:08:00.000-05:00

My sister brings me all sorts of goodies as she travels around the world and I then deface these national treasures by putting holes in them to make Jewelry, hooray!

I also recently found a secret, favorite spot to photograph my items. The mix of nature and rustic hardware are a perfect compliment for most of my pieces. I try to be as original as I can in the designs and even when I take the pics and name them- unfortunately not everyone is so cool. Some people copy to the point where the pieces, the pictures and even the names are too similar to be coincidence then try to make profit from it. Everyone should be encouraged to develop their own personal sense of style and let that flourish. ANYWAY,

I totally lost my shark's teeth and missed having these in the shop. I bought them in a funny little town in the mountains of NC. The bullet casing is a rescue.

I found a whole key ring with a bunch of these little guys. Sometimes I wonder what these used to open...

Mr Husband helped me take all my pictures and even keep me organizing while doing so! Isn't this a GREAT idea he came up with?

Assisting in Photographing

Modeling

Should have worn a bra

I'm getting pretty annoyed with how often commercials refer to buying the perfect gift as being the path to the true meaning of Christmas. Even non-Christians can agree that family and thankfulness are far more important than a new Lexus and diamond earrings. I also don't understand why nativity scenes are so controversial but Santa isn't. If you aren't a believer, then Jesus is just another fictional character and the rest of the gang should be no more offensive than elves and flying reindeer. I'm not Jewish and have no problem at all with stars of David and menorahs. In fact, it'd be nice to see more of them around. People are just getting so sensitive.

It's also really horrible to see another murder-suicide on the news every day. Not that anyone dying is wanted, but I'd rather these all be just suicides. I keep reading that I need to stay away from the news while pregnant but it's hard.

Ok, no more bitching!

My friend Christina owns and operates an amazing place where she has a spa, fitness classes (including pole dancing), and a boutique! I wish I knew of such a cool place here in NC. Here's a pic of me from when I'd help her out:

Be Studios

I've been getting bigger so I'm glad I have some pics to look at to remember all this bloat will one day go away.

Ok, enough random babbling- time to clean clean clean!

ProCATstination

2011-12-08T15:16:00.000-05:00

I have a million things to do right now! So I decided to stop reading blogs.... and start posing with my kitties!! This is my herd:

Chi (Childlike Empress)

Mishka

Millie (Millennium Falcon)

Falcon (Millennium Falcon)

Sprinkles (adopted her from my sis)

Because I'm So Mature

2011-12-03T10:02:00.000-05:00

Cock flavored soup, Mmmmm, tasty! (Watch for pubes)

Steer clear- it may be contagious!

Just so you remember where your butt is.

Oh yum, what a delicacy!

Sitting in bed drinking chocolate milk awaiting my breakfast of super fat omelets stuffed with cheese and mushrooms. Perfect! I've planned a super fun morning before I begin the hours and hours of cleaning in an effort to catch up since I've been so busy. As donuts have been dancing through my head for days now and I dreamed about them last night, we'll be making a run for some boston kremes before checking out the mexican flea market. Also in my dream last night was an amazing necklace that I really want to make- I wish I could record dreams and play them back later. There are so many awesome songs and accessories that I would love to bring into the world that, upon waking, only exist as faint fuzzy memories.

(Cat just inserted a paw with litter stuck on it in my husband's mouth, HAHAHAHAHA!)

The finest tasting poop rocks ever

A quick update...

2011-11-26T01:33:00.000-05:00

I just worked black friday, immersed in the mass consumerism that has wrongly become the focus of Christmas as people scramble for the deals that, honestly, pop up at least once a month at the mall ANYWAY. And though I wake up in less than 7 hours for another round of mall merriment and my neck and head are aching- I just had to stop in and update. There was one purchase I DID make- a 5 foot long, furry, cheetah print pillow for just 10 bucks. So cuddly. I think it will be my pregnancy pillow. And in the spirit of not acquiring too much I forced one of my old ones on my sister who could actually use one.

Saturday's show was GREAT! And best of all I am now prepared to do any shows that may come up:

My husband was a pretty big help assuming the role of Art Bitch and taking on all heavily lifting as well as procuring some amazing empenadas for nourishment. And my friend brought a special delivery of lasagna, donuts, and cider! Oh yeah.... When not running around for me, he sat patiently reading his book:

I've also recently realized this may not all be due to constipation (see pic below); somewhere in that squishy mass is a baby the size of a prune (which i've been downing at rates rivaling the consumption at your local senior home)

fatso

Now that my inventory is up and the show is over, I've been working on putting all those wonderful items I made online! Here's a few pics. I've really got to get to bed now. Feeling crappy and sort of heartburny.

Upcycled Vintage Jewelry with Freshwater Pearl

Upcycled Bullet Casing Earrings

Traveler's Companion

Awesome Exotic Hood

Designers Downtown Market

2011-11-12T19:39:00.000-05:00

This Saturday I'll be set up to vend at a show downtown and it happens to be the same day as the Christmas Parade!

I know it's too early to announce anything, but whatever

2011-11-10T20:59:00.000-05:00

So apparently, this pinto bean-sized fellow is chilling out in my uterus which should be about the size of a grapefruit by now:

8 week old internet fetus

I've already devoured so many books and of course spent tons of hours on blogs throughout internet land.

I've found Google to be my best friend:

wearing nail polish while pregnant

yoga poses not to do while pregnant

how much does labor really hurt (32x)

how big will your boobs get while pregnant (aw yeah!)

morning sickness cures

There is a lot of excitement but also a few, small, personal tortures. Not being able to scoop cat litter?! I have FIVE indoor cats and Mount Cat Shit has proven to be a far more arduous endeavor than my poor husband anticipated. On the rare day I'm home and one of those monsters makes a deposit in the poop bank, I have to go upstairs to escape the horrible smell as I now have a super human nose.

Speaking of torture and poop- I've been craving protein and fruits which is awesome, and yet so very not awesome when I have an 8 hour shift and work in a high end fashion store with other ladies. Once a day I announce suddenly that I'm going to take a "5-10 minute walk around the mall" for no particular reason and rather than pull that twice a day I later warn coworkers "If you're gonna have to pee any time soon, you'd better go now. Because I'm about to poop!" Luckily our bathroom is well stocked and as I sit there I preemptively febreeze myself then lysol afterward. I do prefer the mall toilets as they are far away and somewhat more private but whatever.

I also fart in the dressing rooms. Take that, rich ladies!

Everyone around me is pretty happy as they gush over my belly and unknowingly pat what is actually probably just a super full colon as I've been eating A TON. The only "bad"thing I've been eating a lot of is ambrosia salad and chocolate ice cream with cherries, whipped cream, and caramel sauce. Mmmmmm, actually I think it's about time for my nightly bowl.
yeah, i gotta go now

A long day of chores ahead...

2011-10-13T10:33:00.000-04:00

I did end up making the Chicken Enchilada Recipe from my last post and it was VERY good. I think I've heard somewhere that tomatoes in a can become tainted because the citric acid leeches impurities from the metal. So I used two Roma tomatoes (bought three, oh well) and a jalaepño as a replacement. I guess pesticides aren't much better but at least i get a chance to scrub at those suckers.

And here is a shot of the fabulous soup! I wanted more of the enchilada sauce so I just added the ingredients I had on hand like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, red pepper, and onion powder. Also did not use the crock pot because I attended an impromptu picnic in the park followed by a session of thrifting. Cooking on the skillet then putting it into a pot works just fine. It kind of looks like you work at a fake puke factory but try not to focus on it.

And I finally started making some winter neck warmers again! My stash is really low and I'm going to try and make something everyday to try and build up for the holiday inventory.

Soup is my FAVORITE.

2011-10-07T08:08:00.000-04:00

I have a long to-do list but though now would be a perfect time to get in some morning yoga and start laundry, how could i disturb this beautiful relaxing, purring kitten nestled underneath my arm with her head on my chest?

On that list, is making the Chicken Enchilada Soup recipe I found online yesterday:

photo from so tasty so yummy

I've made a Fall To Do list which includes activities such as making caramel/marshmallow swirl apples, cut-out colored leaf garlands, and a grand list of soups. I'll be cooking some of them for the first time this year like the above, split pea, italian wedding soup, and barley & mushroom.

Earlier this week I made a pot roast to celebrate our 40's/50's temps at night and it was amazing! I filled the pot to the brim with a large chunk of meat, potatoes, mushrooms, and carrots adding all sorts of madness from the spice arena. Cinnamon, Turmeric- what ever looked interesting. The next night we (he) toasted a loaf of Everything (poppy seeds, onion, sesame seeds, etc) french bread, slit it lengthwise and into portions, loaded on the roast beef while pouring a bowl of the soupy part sans veggies for a Roast Beef Sandwich au jus. And there was mayonnaise and mozzarella! And then big bowls of praline carmel swirl ice cream. So you see the importance of being on par with the exercising.

(loud purring just switched to a deep sigh as kitty goes night night)

I feel like thrifting, but oh! so many household tasks await! Plus, I need to post the cowls I've been making before spring comes.

Productive Fall Day

2011-10-06T23:06:00.000-04:00

After a super busy early-fall, I finally stopped procrastinating and went up to the studio to make some pieces (even did some yoga!). I put together some awesome necklaces using vintage bits and had a GREAT time digging around in my treasures.

Vintage Feminine Charms

I then spent hours working on the balcony. My tomato plants (sadly fruit-less) were the first to perish in my fall clean up spree. I ripped those babies right outta the dirt with disregard to that thick, green, struggling stalk and a few promising blooms. It's October, guys, give it up. I cut down the basil and started harvesting seeds, and caught a mold situation early on. I'm recycling the old dirt with roots and other goodness for composting. Anyway, I swept, dug, tugged, and spider-checked all afternoon so I'd have a nice backdrop for photo taking as my goal was to post an item on etsy.

Star Wars Day of the Dead

art over the couch

husband wearing a handmade leather cuff

I'm excited for the fall and to wear my new "cool weather" boots, but I did have a fun time over the summer and celebrated its departure with a trip with friends to an NC island:

Happy Birthday to ME and Happy 5 yr anniversary!

2011-08-08T10:30:00.000-04:00

Golly day it's been a busy and super fun week! Dinners, presents (handmade!!), crafting, drinks, hugs, AND my husband's band Gringo played Saturday night, whew!

I have photos but the festivities must go on as today is the culmination of our 7 day celebration and I have yet to shower.

August 5th 2006

I love this photo of us- it's been such a wonderful experience to grow with another person and through that gain patience and a deeper understanding of a loved one and ultimately yourself.

Now here's me just being pretty:

Birthday Girl!

Happy Birthday!

2011-08-02T11:24:00.000-04:00

I spent my first half hour of the day, fueled by a coconut iced coffee, making this happy birthday bunting. As the place is already pretty festive with a giant piñata hanging from the vaulted ceiling and tons of strands of christmas lights, i made a simple hanging to inform everyone of this grandeur occasion. Maybe we'll even get some strangers leaving gifts of 6-packs at our door.

I didnt have construction paper but was able to wrangle a random blue sheet of cardstock

Today my husband turns 38 yrs old; in two days we celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary, and two days after that is MY birthday. We're kicking off the 7 day extravaganza with an afternoon crafting each other's cards and gifts. I've already got the best idea for a pop-up card and made some sketches last night!

I love the way he looks in my jewelry:

Weekend Fun with my Crafty Sisters- Cleveland Style!

2011-06-13T08:49:00.000-04:00

For a good time, call Cleveland AA!

Soon after arriving in my favorite neighborhood of Tremont (and taking a small wine break), we walked over to Lincoln Park to hula hoop and watch some fire dancing. There was a good sized group and all were welcome to join in.

Faith, of Rockstar Rehab Clothing, teaches hula hooping at Cleveland School of Exotic Dance and also performs.

Mind you, as all this was going on I was just standing there lazily swinging my hips round the hoop as keeping it up was the extent of my ability. Though I'm excited to see what the scene is here in Raleigh.

As dusk fell, you could feel the heat of these torches.

There was also the gifting of handmade goodies! Like this bullet casing necklace made with a personal memento for K.t.:

With wine in hand we trekked all my favorite paths through the neighborhood- stopping in vintage stores, cafes, plucking mint from yards, and making great aerobic use of this jungle gym. And all the while looking so fabulous I got called a princess at Target by little kids. Thanks, Maxi Dress, because despite unshaved legs and wine stained shoes you still present me so well.

And nothing gives me a kick in my crafty ass like visiting Faith's studio which always makes me ask myself, what are you doing with yourself?!?!

Girl is so hooked up! In the week that I've been back I have definitely benefitted from this renewed fervor by organizing (not all the way) my own crafty spot and looking for some shows to do. This the season of the craft fair, after all.

We left her place on foot and stopped off at an Asian Market where we gathered a feast fit for a random, city picnic on an abandoned loading dock. Delicious!

And of course there was then the Red Giant 20th Anniversary Show!

So now I'm back with all these wonderful photos to remind me of my amazing art family in Cleveland.

...and that will also tempt me to move back. Every day here is a virtual paradise, though, and I'm determined to keep up with making things and I've met some pretty awesome ladies. What price can I really put on the fact that last winter was the first in YEARS that I wasnt so cold and wet all the time- cursing the white devil. Snow is nice, but not 5 months in a row. And I just love Sweet Tea.

Cheap and Easy Planters and Plant Stand

2011-04-14T19:34:00.000-04:00

As seedlings emerge and their roots outgrow their starter pots, I find myself in massive need of containers. I've always gardened on apartment balconies and so while decorative for some, a good pot becomes the only ground I can sow and an absolute necessity to ensure I always have home grown herbs and veggies. A couple of summers ago, I had great luck with my seeds and had 50 basil plants alone!

So earlier this week I found myself down to my last pot with 7 plants still to go. I visited a local high school plant sale on their last day and so everything was 50% off

Herb Medley $2.50, aw yeah.

And after going up, down, and all around twice- I settled on this recent find. It's a woven basket discovered at a long abandoned fruit stand. I'm sure it was once filled to overflowing with wonderful, seasonal treats but it now had a spider living in it.

Lonesome Basket

I didn't want all the dirt I just bought (less than $4 or FOR FREE outside. Use a spoon like i do if you no have shovel) to fall through the holes of the open weave so I grabbed some cotton shirts from my box of yucko and lined the bottom of the basket. I tried to get the sleeves (both long) to lay up the sides which you can also place there as you add the dirt.

Old cotton shirts from the Goodwill Box

First layer- will hold in dirt but allow rainwater to drain.

Then you just start adding dirt. Do this over a box top so you can catch the dirt that misses the basket. It also makes the clean up quicker.

Going up to just above sleeve level.

Then you put your plants in!

I've read that people use chicken wire and moss to make planters but i dont have those items. i had shirts and a basket already so this cost me the $2.50 for plants and used a small portion of my $3.something bag of dirt.

You know what? While I'm at it...

Did I tell you about this most amazing planter I rigged out of a chair I found at the dumpster??
It had nasty rotting wicker so I pulled it all off while I was by the trash (and inspecting other goods) to reveal a VERY decent frame. I had intended on redoing it but as it sat on the balcony, plant season came before refurbishing season.

Chair from Dumpster

I had gone by the drugstore and there were a couple planters I really wanted. One was shaped like an urn vase with a detachable pedestal and I thought, man I hope I'm here when they're half off. And a week later I was!

So it turns out it the lip part is wide enough to suspend on the seat frame.
I filled it with dirt and planted little "volunteers" that grow long tendrils to drape over the edge and framework of this wonderful, simple chair.

The volunteers I found growing out of the ground below my mom's plant. I've seen those cascade down a few feet.

This is when they were pretty small. Hopefully I have a picture of them in late summer to compare it!

This would be at about one week's growth.

Chair was free, dirt was from a yard, plants were free, and the pot was $3.50

Also, dont be afraid to buy beautiful tea pots because their lids are missing. This one I used for cilantro:
I got it for free

37 plants so far, and way more after this weekend's Herb Fest.

Time to start converting some more planters for the bounty.

Sunday Hike in the Tea Garden Tank

2011-03-14T14:10:00.000-04:00

A gorgeous day, becoming of Daylight Savings and a great preview of Spring which is just one week away! Had an amazing time visiting the local Farmer's Market and having some fried fish which came with the best Hush Puppies I've ever had. There were so many vendors with herbs that I later planted my basil seeds, seeing how they're all so far ahead of me! Then we went for a great walk through the woods, along a creek, and around a pond.

A true lady, I was sure to have matching wedge heels for our journey. And though a sign suggested we turn back and not trudge the uncertain terrain ahead, we went for it! Every time we came to a spot where we needed to cross the creek, we joked about who would be the one to fall in and, of course, the last one we come across (where there was a family of four hanging out to witness) I totally take the plunge. Lucky I only screamed out, "Oh, Shhhh-(glance toward parents watching the scene)-oooot! See! I don't cuss!" With squishy shoes and bits of leaves floating around my toes we trekked back to the car.

A super day indeed and I got to test run my new top made from vintage fabric and trim with the sleeves of an upcycled shirt.

I have a lot of these shirts and dresses to sew but unfortunately I also have a lot dishes that need attending to. I might compromise and just do enough so I can cook dinner then paint my nails.

New Necklaces and my fave Vintage Dress

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

When I went to bed last night and when I woke this morning I knew I would have made multiple sales. And this morning when I checked online, I'd sold three things within a few hours. How bout that?

This is one of my newest pieces and it just sold though I think I have enough to do one more:

Descent into Morocco

My mother doesn't know it, but I'm stealing her planter because I am in love with how it looks in pictures.

Gorgeous weather is on its way and I've already started stocking up on sun dresses. For the moment I've been wearing my vintage gear since the polyester keeps me warmer and it ain't that nice yet (though it's comparable to a Northern Spring/Summer).

This is one of my favorites and you can totally see my tiny Beer Belly poking out in front (and my beer in my hand). Guess it's time to get more serious about exercise, too!

Vintage Dress and Beer Belly

Heaven is a Flea Market

2011-03-02T11:14:00.001-05:00

I should have set up to sell but it was a crazy day with a lot tentatively going on so I went for a look. I recently got some beautiful tea pots from my mother in law that are like 50 years old but none of my 70's brown and orange mugs looked good next to them. I needed a saucer for carrying my tea up to the studio loft (spills) and a place to rest my sugar spoon and of course this all had to be done with the most feminine design. So I came across a guy selling all his grandmother's dishes and I'm lucky (though I feel UNlucky) that I only brought limited cash.

I got two from him for $2 (one for me, one for a friend):

This one has a wonderful floral design- Reminds me of what you'd see sketched to illustrate a children's book in the Victorian era

Ladylike Tea Cup and Saucer

This one is my fave color:

Fuchsia and Gold Tea Cup

And this I did not buy but it got wrapped up into the box anyway. I'll use this small platter for cookies.

On the way home I passed a locally owned thrift store that was in danger of being closed down so everything was half off to try and catch up on bills. I've always hated Goodwill's pricing system and that they don't have 1/2 off days so I thought I'd go in and show some support.

Now my husband can have tea with me! Maybe it's for expresso, and maybe I'll let him drink coffee out of it, but I'm calling it his Tea Party Set. It's blue though it looks purple here.

For a Manly cup of tea

I also scored this wonderful tea set that came with: pot, cream pitcher, sugar dish, butter dish, storage container, and salt and pepper shakers. I really don't need it and will sell it or gift it. I just couldn't let it go to someone who may not have appreciated it.

Shroom Tea Pot

And to add to my collection of religious imagery, I found Moses himself with the tablets of the Ten Commandments. I love it because it's my first statue that isnt the traditional Holy Family or a saint. Also, it's not just Christian but Jewish.

Moses

And then I saw this! I kinda looked around to make sure no one else had seen it as I quickly made my way to it. Oh, sweet Jesus, thank you for such pleasures in small treasures. It matches TWO of my favorite dishes that I got from my mother in law AND it's my only dish that's divided into two sections. Half Off?? I quickly put down the leather and fringed fur moccasins that were to be my big purchase of the day and ran this up to the cashier for safe keeping.

Freaking Awesome Pyrex

And so now, it's time to UnSpendingSpree by selling stuff!!

Recycled Hardware Crosses

2011-02-03T17:47:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I finally made a cross that had been in my mind for a while. It was made using only items from loved ones that have passed away recently. A hammer handle from our friend Joel, an engraved wrench and tiny tacks from my father-in-law's tools, and wire from my artist friend, Stella. It came out looking great though I hadn't taken photos yet and it inspired today's craft session:

This is my new fave craft.

A day of procrastination

2011-02-03T12:37:00.000-05:00

When I cleaned and organized the studio I took my yoga mats up there to the loft envisioning practices at 6:30 am lit by candles followed by awesome productivity. It more turned into going a few weeks not exercising, whoops. I lay in bed from 6:30a til I dosed off again around 7 trying to will myself out of bed but the warm, comfy down comforter won. So for the last couple of weeks I've been plagued by back and hip pain, a scary week long bout of iritis (inflammation of the iris), and stomach cramps whenever I eat or even take a drink. Getting back into routines can be so daunting but it only takes one day to turn it all around. Today is not that day. Rather, I slept in much later than is forgivable and spent much of the morning googling tattoo designs.

I have a couple behind my neck and the Mexican Coat of Arms is tattooed on my lower back but I know I could do better. Id love to turn my left arm into a sleeve (after getting my Virgen de Guadalupe shaded) and add some more to my back.

Mexican Coat of Arms

I spent some of the morning researching what happens to belly tats when pregnant, not because I have any plans, but because millions of people were born despite the pill, an IUD, and condoms and taking these early precautions will ensure not having f'ed up tats that get stretched and run through with stretch marks. Anyway, I'll be sticking to my arm, sides, and back for now. Never for the face and I don't know how I feel about leg tattoos for myself yet.

At least I've been keeping up with listing new items on my Etsy!

I am loving my new batch of evil eyes. Maybe I'll make something today...

Just a quick update

2011-01-21T15:13:00.000-05:00

I've hit a plateau in progress- Hello, dirty dishes. I've been skipping doing yoga but now that I'm not even cleaning that's not cool. Just sitting here with a small glass of Port.

I paid the bills this morning and did the grocery shopping so I'm not too worried. Productivity of any kind deserves reward.

The last couple of days were spent finally uploading pics and listing new items on Etsy

This one's just for fun. Modeling at a show for Faith from Rockstar Rehab

Random Pics

2011-01-15T11:12:00.001-05:00

Meow, Meow and Good Morning!

Falcon

Even though it's the weekend, I'm about to go up into the loft and continue cleaning and organizing. I really wish I had a before pic of the studio but imagine a room with a spot to sit with the diameter of 3 ft on the floor surrounded by boxes of fabric, bottles of bullet shells, and months worth of sewing and jewelry projects laid out. I would sew and bead on the floor despite there being a few tables in the room seated in a cross legged position as that was all there was room for.

Here's a couple necklaces my husband wore to a show made from recycled hardware:

Here he is playing:

I have way more of these rosary pieces than I realized and now that I have all my religious charms and pendants together I can't wait to do even more with them. I already made a few cool ones but I have no way of posting the pics til i find those chargers. i may just buy a third.

I love this quilted runner/shawl/meditation cloth I had made a few years ago and right now i use it as a table cloth for my coffee table so that the wood underneath is protected from cats knocking down glasses of water, incense dropping ash everywhere, and all our dinners. Luckily its all cotton and has been through the wash many times since sometimes the cats like to sleep on it.

And that is all. Just taking a moment to post some random pics.

Early Spring Cleaning

2011-01-14T13:58:00.000-05:00

Week 2 of major Clean Up

In keeping with my resolutions and in an effort to completely de-clutter my home, studio, and mind I am leaving no box of random mess untouched. It started with cleaning out the fridge- throwing away empty containers and leftovers that (how can i admit this) have been there for months, wiping down every shelf and putting all items in jars or steel canisters. Then I tackled my dreaded to do list. I have realized that the things I put off are actually never as bad as I perceive them to be and so instead of wasting time putting it off it feels better and its better for the situation to deal with things in a timely manner. Making small goals helps. I achieve two goals a day that before seemed too daunting when on such a long list and then I give myself a break by not worrying about anything else. Tomorrow is another day to be productive and doing too much at once still causes a lot of stress and can tire you out too quickly.

Although I've gotten rid of a lot of things (especially when I moved here to NC from Cleveland) some items I know I should toss yet can't. Will I really need every paper I wrote in high school and college and all the rough drafts? Some voice in my head says, Yes. Even business cards from people I will never meet again and stores that have long closed- what do i need them for? But slowly I go through and each time I do I find I can toss a little more.

There are small setbacks that I try not to dwell on, like The Avalanche. After much work organizing every scrap of art paper, rick rack, ribbon, paint, and so on into their own little boxes and using my childhood Tetris skills, I got them all on a shelf about up to my head. Going through a box packed in haste a year ago I noticed a slight twisting of the shelf and quickly set it straight. As I left to get something heavy (a coffee can of bullets) to hold it better CRASH!!! The boxes tumbled to the ground spilling their contents everywhere. I gave myself the smallest moment to be pissed and feel helpless, took a break for some tea, then redid all that work again.

While I've been cleaning, I've been thinking about a logo and finally getting nice business cards instead of these tags I've been using that I accidently ordered 20,000 of. 2011 and specifically the age of 31 will be full of progress, development, and many changes. More regular yoga and meditation, even fewer prescription and OTC drugs, another amazing garden, professionalism in my work, and a general focus on myself. I'm feeling exceptionally optimistic and am enjoying each day and its labor.

The cleaning itself Im sure has a couple more weeks to go but for such a thorough job and the effect it will have on my life it's definitely worth it. Plus, I've lost two battery chargers that I'm determined to find (though theyve been missing for a couple months) so that I can put up pics again and list all the new things I've made. In the meantime, I will leave you with a couple images I have here on my computer that serve as inspiration.

I can hardly imagine what it will be like to be able to find anything and everything!

I found shark's teeth, arrow heads, coral beads, vintage corduroy.... All items I wasn't using because everything is such a mess. The effort will be so worth it. Plus, I'm looking forward to practicing yoga in the studio in the mornings since it has some great lighting and i'd like to impart peace and inspiration to this room.

Here's another pic from my decor ideas folder that keeps me inspired to clean, purge, and decorate. A little bit of paint and fabric can completely change a place

Winter Wonderland

2010-12-30T17:44:00.000-05:00

Though this area doesn't usually get snow, we weren't the exception to last weekend's storm system:

Having recently lived in the US Tundra (cleveland), I was well prepared with this awesome snowsuit:

I was also well prepared to pelt my husband with my awesome bucket of war balls:

Then we used the bottle caps from our beers for eyes when making this guy here:

but now its melting away and temps will be in the 60s this weekend. There's much to be done- preparing the shops for 2011, getting a good system going, and all the usual resolutions.

Watching episodes of hoarders has got me wanting to do a big clean of the condo- new year, new organization!

2010-12-21T12:51:00.000-05:00

Here I am wearing my wonderful, recycled, Yoga Shrug from Rockstar Rehab. After a 9 hr drive, K.t. and I went to Faith's studio where, amongst an army of industrial sewing machines and a work table that makes you insanely jealous yet wet at the same time, we participated in an evening of candlelit yoga. It was so relaxing and I think I might adopt the practice. Though I'd have to start eating less at night or waking up earlier to do it.

We then took a lovely drive to the local mart for wine which paired well with all the amazing food she had prepared! After detecting a hint of garlic in the kitchen we were presented with a Vegan Feast. Hummus, pita, couscous, vegan burgers, luscious sweet snap peas....

She then gifted me the shrug that I had been using during our practice:

Kt is also wearing an angora recycled sweater neck warmer I made.

A great time was had by all at the Red Giant show. Cleveland was covered in snow yet the entire front row was made up of our closest friends. They played songs from the new album, Dysfunctional Majesty.

Then there were lots of people dressed as Santas so I took a pic with a couple of them:

Hello, strangers, I'm Drunk!

Fun Fun Times. And now I have a lot of stuff to clean up after our weekend adventure as well as last minute Christmas gifts yet to be made!

Recycled Sweater

2010-12-15T15:55:00.000-05:00

I have a really nice, chunky, wool sweater that's a darker beige than this shawl shown:

and it's so big it makes me look about 6 sizes larger though the sleeves are 7 inches too short. It has lovely vintage wooden buttons that I will save for something. I was trying to imagine what I would turn it into and in the past used felted wool sweaters for purses, scarves, arm/leg warmers and neck warmers. But i never used a large bulk of the sweater and with such a nice pattern I want to use as much of it as possible on the one piece. After searching for maybe hours on etsy and ebay looking for the perfect shaw one night, I realized I could have spent that time MAKING one. I really like this one knitted by reunasilmukka.

I can't believe I have not come across a tutorial to turn a sweater into a shawl yet! i figure cut up the sides, cut open the arms, sew each arm edge to a bodice edge and maybe leave an opening for arms. I ll keep looking but may just use the bottom half to make the above.

I'll take my time before making that first cut though. In the mean time I'll straighten up the studio; it literally looks like an episode of hoarders in here.

The darkness of the morning

2010-12-15T12:14:00.000-05:00

A cloud made its way in today. Maybe through the cracks around the door that let in a bit of light and cold air; it condensed on its way through then expanded back to its dark form. Slowly meandering down the hall and through the kitchen I was completely unaware of its presence as I lay in bed cuddling a kitty and wondering how to do my hair today. Yet by the time I lifted my head off the pillow it had made its way to me and I instantly entered the fog of despair. Lightning bolts of doubt and worthlessness shocked me to the core and I was electrocuted into a paralytic state. Many things will come and go into our lives but our sense of worth and purpose is like the air to our soul. For an hour or more I was suffocating on this putrid air that was filling my lungs. Every negative comment I've ever gotten immediately took attendance in my mind as the lyric "Dear God, I hate myself" cycled through my mind. Alone, one can easily become lost and fighting our way out of this phenomenon becomes tedious and confusing. While we're down, an army of negativity takes advantage by sending in line after line of dark soldiers.

What rescued me? As my mind went to places it rarely dwells, I knew I needed to turn around and run though left with little strength I simply reached out my hand... to someone on the other side of the spiritual quick sand that was rapidly engulfing me. With loving and encouraging words they guided me through and as heavy as this blackness sat on my heart, I almost immediately felt my soul freed.

I believe in yin for yang, angels for demons and that though we were made in a holy image with great talents and gifts to fulfill our purpose and serve those around us- there are forces in the universe that would act in contradiction to this. I believe some people have dark souls but that many of our enemies are unseen.

I made a ton of last minute Christmas cards- all out of recycled materials but cannot find the plug for the battery recharger since my batteries (and backup batteries) are dead. Sometimes it feels like something is hiding things from me- some otherworldly game of hide and seek using the things I would very much like to use. I also can't find any hole punchers though I own three and one is the giant three-hole kind.

Since I can't add anything new, here's a pic of my husband. At least I know I'll always have him as a fan!

Mojito the Drunken Whale

2010-12-02T17:52:00.000-05:00

My brother's child's mother has been in labor all day as I have been laboring on this stuffed whale design. I'm glad I did a small version before the large pillow I want to do because there are things I'd like to change as far as the shape. He's super cute though and has a floppy tale. Technically I could never sell this as a child's toy because of the button eyes and regulations require that all toys have a tag as to the contents. That's why this is an adult toy or room decor.

Not such a great pic, but it's from my phone:

Vintage Button Eyes

Hello, December

2010-12-01T15:29:00.001-05:00

All sold out of my lovely coffee sleeves. I havent made any in a while and mine was accidentally tossed out but at least I had it for years before it suffered such a horrible fate. I love this one pictured, because it's recycled denim and corduroy I got from a friend who passed away.

I think these sold so well because of my model's nipples. Sex sells, baby.

Ooooh, and here's another fave! I just found this fabric, too, after being separated from the bulk of my fabric collection

I'm also out of tea wallets but the to-do list is already so long.. .

Other than running out of stuff, the only other thing I have going on is chasing down a pack n run. I had items on consignment at a local shop and, when driving by last week, the shop was completely gone! I searched on the internet for a long time before finding a number that wasn't disconnected and that person claimed to have called me. A couple weeks ago I got a call from a number I didn't recognize, but they hung up after a few rings, before I got to it and left no message- thought it was a wrong number. I was told the owner gave them two days notice to pack up and vacate and was given his number but I've left two messages already. I hope I get these items back they were really nice and a lot of it was sterling silver. Plus, I could be selling them since my inventory is so low.

Hopefully he calls me soon and hasnt thrown my items away. Who's the patron saint of artists?

Cross stitch Peacock

2010-11-29T15:34:00.000-05:00

I havent cross stitched in maybe 15 years but suddenly got a hankering for it after finding my embroidery thread from middle school yesterday. After searching through so many "grandma- themed" patterns, I settled on this awesome peacock pattern from 1742. I love that someone hundreds of years ago was working on the same image and with the colors I have, it should turn out awesome.

I couldnt find a quilting hoop though so my hand started cramping from holding the fabric taut for even just half an hour. I'm using a square of wool as opposed to cross stitch fabric so i dont get to see where the corners of the squares should be, but estimation works just fine. I see this one as a practice run anyway to get my groove back:

workin up a mess

2010-11-21T13:08:00.000-05:00

Mess Mess Mess

I pulled out all the christmas decor before cleaning up around here and before even starting on setting up the three trees, im really tempted to make some more stuff out of the coffee bean bags i have. ugh. every few weeks i transition from jewelry making to sewing then back and this usually creates even more chaos than usual. plus im trying to get my studio completely organized. oh well. here are some photos from a couple days ago.

today im gonna work on the trees and making a masculine bag for my husband to put his guitar cords, extra pedals and other such music macabre in. right after i tidy up the brows.

from the studio- they live in this little drawer and occasionally i open it up to say hello to the little family. i have more members but theyre somewhere in the closet.

i recently rescued a lot of art and can't wait to put it up on the walls

9mm Luger and carved wooden skul

Leather Bracelets

2010-11-11T13:24:00.000-05:00

I went into my studio to make rings out of old leather scraps when I made these bracelets instead:

This key one is unisex and I had my husband try it on. Although he said it would be bad for guitar playing, he did like it. I used leather and a key I found.

Here are the three I ended up making:

I love bracelets with "tails"; danglies make things much more awesome

Yoga and Ulcerative Colitis

2010-11-11T12:19:00.000-05:00

"Yoga is one of the effective forms of treatment for ankylosing spondylitis"

Good to know. I woke up this morning hardly able to move without horrible sharp pain in my very lower back. Not a surprise since I was up so many times through the night and suffered yesterday as well. Unable to switch into any position to relieve pain and being practically immobilized anyway- I lay awake, occasionally writhing from a sharp, shooting pain until I passed out again. Sleeping next to someone is its own special torture. I lay his hand on my back for the warmth which even if not soothing, was comforting but every time he moved it made me move with the slightest twist or turn causing much discomfort. And also, I wanted to switch sides of the bed to avoid being moved as much when he got up to pee (he's usually against the wall) but this backfired!! A couple times he came back to bed and almost lay right down on top of me forgetting we had rotated!

When I first started having arthritis it was so baffling as I thought it was just my muscles. Isn't laying down and relaxing supposed to help? Fetal position, flat on my back, rolled into a ball and sleeping on my shins and forehead- NOTHING felt good and it all caused so much pain. At the time I was an advil fiend (walmart brand anyway, cheapo) yet this did nothing. As I've come to learn, it's usually worse in the morning and can ease up through out the day and with movement. Knowing this I did do some yoga yesterday however they were modified movements at time and some stretches I right out skipped being extra sensitive of any signs my body gave me.

I also suffer from arthritis in other joints (another kind of arthritis all together) and occasionally have problems with my knees, elbows, wrists, fingers, hips, and shoulders. The worst is when I think that maybe my crafty lifestyle causes the pain in the wrists and fingers but I do try and do stretches that combat carpal tunnel and knowing everything else I do about my body I doubt the pain is from my artsy endeavors.

The internet is so great for research but I do extensive reading because there are varying theories and sometimes conflicting information. I take it all in, contemplate, and take from it when I can. I also read a lot of books about herbs, Ayurveda, nutrition, etc. Not one person can be right, I know this. But I can find what's right For Me. The more I search, the more I find. When you know what's going on, there's an essence of comfort.

In addition to arthritis, I find I will sometimes develop inflammation of the iris of my eye, experience extreme fatigue, form super painful canker sores, and can succumb to malnutrition. The difference between regular canker sores and mine is that instead of going away in a week, they have lasted over a month and instead of one, I sometimes get patches of many. It gets extremely painful to eat, sleep, talk, smile, drink, and just EXIST!

It's nice to know that there's an answer for these things I've experienced and focuses my determination to find relief. Through yoga, meditation, stress relief, awareness, and diet I find I "get sick" less frequently- though in the midst of a "flare up" I have to catch myself when I start getting scared and upset.

I've had more, longer periods of remission since making a determined effort to get a handle on my health and disease and that to me is progress.

As far as drugs are concerned, I don't take my NSAIDs and doctors think I should be on steroids. A lot of health practitioners would maybe say I'm wrong and hurting myself. If I found a doctor that actually listened to me and heard my concerns I would consider what they said but so far I've had a lot of bad appointments and have left in tears feeling so alone and ignored.

NSAIDs come in two categories- Selective and Non Selective. One is more known for causing internal bleeding and that's what I got for the arthritis! Why would I take a drug that makes the disease that causes the arthritis worse? Numbing the pain with these drugs would only surge the CAUSE of it! How much sense does that make??? When I asked about a local support group or a way to find one I was told there were none- must ve been a lie to mask his ignorance.

One form of solace on mornings like this is research. Reading others' testimonials, checking up on new studies and possible causes- it pulls things into perspective and into something I can handle.

All in all, everyone's got something. There are tons worse diseases and situations than Ulcerative Colitis.

With the recent passing of a friend, the stress of traveling so much, and a couple weeks of sparse yoga- I'm sure I know the cause of this discomfort. At least I have my beautiful, new, yoga mat to inspire me to get back into my routine!

Dia de los Muertos 2010, Dream Catcher

2010-11-11T11:06:00.000-05:00

My camera mysteriously died and then came back to life again hours later so I didnt get too many pictures of the Cleveland celebration of Dia de los Muertos. Also, I was busy leaving Stella's memorial, to pick up lobsters, to swing by the celebration, make a quick stop in Wall Eye Gallery, and then on to a friend's house. This is indicative of a typical Cleveland weekend. Always something to do and always (usually) crappy weather.

I've always wanted to make a dream catcher and looked up some instructions online. I made this one, but out of wire so you can tell it took me a while to get the twists right. Oh well. It hangs from leather and is accented with gemstones and glass beads.

Makin n Makin Some More

2010-11-03T20:38:00.000-04:00

An herb bouquet since my flowers are dying. Rosemary and African Blue Basil:

A display is never finalized. Any time I've ever sold somewhere, I've had a totally different set up. Here Im using a drill bit box to display lower priced earrings:

The weekend show went really well and was profitable. Im glad Ive been making so much lately!

Another necklace I dont want to part with. It reminds me of an Egyptian Princess. Though who knows if they even had princesses. I used recycled jewelry here and turquoise.

And I finally made a tote bag out of one of the bean bags! I got these from a local bean roaster and I've recycled one into a nice tote with an interior pocket and brass, magnetic snap closure. Really perfect. I know I have to many bags, but how can I not keep this one?!

I also made a couple yoga bags for my old and new mats.

I graduated from my mat I bought at Walmart some 5 years ago for a nice one from Gaiam. I'd been looking for a couple of months and shopping around price wise. I was familiar with the thicknesses, designs, and other features like being made free from toxic chemicals. I went with a reversible 4mm (wanted 5 but compromised for the color) grape/mauve sticky mat. I love it so far however its hard to put in the back because of its anti skid features! I had to add a nice thick strip of vintage fabric to the purple corduroy just to wiggle it in.

Last of the fall flowers...

R.I.P. Stella Salamone

2010-10-27T10:53:00.001-04:00

My heart has ached for the last few days upon hearing you were in the hospital. I hope you felt the many prayers I sent your way. I should have been there with you and tried to stay up all night but I passed out between 3 and 4 this morning and just woke to learn that you passed early this morning.

I pray your soul made it quickly to the other side and you will stop in to say hello. Please send strength and angels to your husband who is horribly broken up.

I'm gonna miss you so terribly much!

The airwaves won't be the same without our Thrash Queen

I'll miss your always open door and the invitations to dinner or just to stop in for a beer to watch YouTube videos. We always looked out for each other no matter what tragedy the day brought. I miss cook outs with you. I miss your unique style and your great art. I miss your blunt honesty which made you such a true friend. And I dearly miss your laugh. How can anything be the same?

My only solace in this moment is that I will see you again and you are finally free from all that pain

Day of the Dead part I

2010-10-22T14:42:00.000-04:00

In case anyone wondered what the Mother Mary Machine actually is-

A Marshall full stack with Our Lady of Guadalupe on the screen. Here is an artist rendition:

This time of year always makes me reminisce about Dia de los Muertos and how much fun it was in Cleveland last year! There was such a great community festival with a lot of artist involvement.

Here is the entrance to the graveyard where you could leave messages for the dead:

Many artists, myself included, had the honor of creating ofrendas or shrines within the church. There was such a great variety of interpretation it turned out to be a very spiritual night.

Here is a couple from the parade that went down the street

This was a great, life size Mary

All of these were handmade!

This is part of the shrine that I made. It was in honor of my grandmother, my cat Chango, and Our lady of Guadalupe. We built the display and filled it with paintings, drawings, a quilt, and mementos.

The air was filled with incense and music

This was the main altar made by Dante Rodriguez in honor of his abuela. I love the housecoats and they reminded me of my own grandmother!

Here is another close up of mine:

This is a view at night when the sun was down and all the candles in the room had a magnificent glow.

This is from another artist.

What a great time! A shame to be missing it this year, boo.

TangledArts Crocheted Beret

2010-10-19T13:31:00.000-04:00

It took me a couple days just to decide on a color,

TangledArts from etsy has so many great options! I figured grape would go best since I have a lot of wine, grey, and army green in my wardrobe. I thought this would compliment it rather than just blend in.

I'm already loving it and look forward to warming my head once the weather cools!

nouveaute vintage supplies

2010-10-19T13:01:00.000-04:00

Opened up the second shop finally! I counted over 200 cards of vintage buttons that I bought from a retired seamstress's son. As much as I love having these in my possession, they deserve to be USED! I do keep some things just to look at and I will save a few buttons for myself and personal projects but seeing as I have a suitcase of these and a ton of lace and rick rack also acquired during that transaction... Perhaps if I wasn't also a crocheter and a knitter, a sewer, a jewelry maker, a day of the dead altar maker, and just a renter- maybe then I would keep it all.

Besides, how else could I validate still buying supplies were I not destashing!

Frida Kahlo Necklaces

2010-10-14T11:50:00.000-04:00

I made these earlier in the summer while thinking of Day of the Dead and Frida. They're exactly the kind of necklaces I love- something that goes with a tank top and jeans and makes all the statement you need.

There's a connection between expression and your joy in life. To be free to dress in whatever manner truly reflects how you're feeling and love that look. I think Frida is someone who stepped out and wore a true expression of her artistic passion.

Inspired by Frida Kahlo, these necklaces are bold and made with the vision of traditional Mexican folk art. The vibrant array of color provided by turquoise, gemstones, porcelain, and wooden beads is a celebration of life and and an expression of inner joy. Each bead is wire wrapped to the next for sturdy construction.

I've got three potential shows coming up and so far I've been very productive and actually sticking to a schedule. Regular trips to the post office, time set aside every day to make things, and yoga is finally starting to stick. Hooray!

Male Models, Meow!

2010-10-11T10:41:00.000-04:00

I'm so lucky to have married someone who doesn't mind modeling for me. Plus, he wears my jewelry anytime we go out or he plays a show. And it's nice to get a guy's opinion on some designs and also use his neck as a gauge for length. I pay him in jewelry. And lovin.

Another plus is he finds me really cool pieces while he's out at work like that cool metal cylinder in the necklace above. And it was a good buddy of his that supplied me with so many bullet shells!

I guess he couldn't have been better for melibeli unless he also crocheted!

Sunday Service Etsy Treasury

2010-10-10T12:58:00.000-04:00

Been playing around and making Etsy treasuries. Here's one I did late last night:

'Sunday Service' by melida

Getting primped for Sunday service is sure to be an event with these accessories! From a flattering and feminine vintage hat to hand crocheted gloves, you'll be looking your best. You're sure to turn a lot of heads on your way up to sacrament!

fabgabs $38.00	humboldtstreet $32.00	spacepearls $10.00
23stien $55.00	theothermagdal... $51.22	nudeedudee $145.00
TheZenMuse $24.00	thecherrychic $7.95	natureinspired... $70.00
ArtsNcharms $10.00	yasoknitting $15.00	LittleFlowersG... $15.00
tracyhibsman $70.00	unapam $9.99	sonshineleathe... $95.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

New Items for Etsy

2010-10-06T08:05:00.000-04:00

In one day I changed the whole look of my etsy site. Spent the morning putting together some pieces then finally scouted out a perfect picture taking nook in the new place. Thanks to this small vintage toolbox I got just the look I wanted:

All of the pieces I've added lately are recycled and I'm finally getting through my large collection of bullet shells.

Maybe now I will get working on the huge pile in my "to-sew" basket...

Fun With Recycling

2010-09-23T11:52:00.000-04:00

Show Set up/ Clipboard Canvas

2010-08-15T20:48:00.000-04:00

It's always nice to have new things to get you really excited about a show! This sign was painted the morning before Wake Forest's Art After Hours by my husband as I madly dashed around packing and wondering what to wear. Luckily acrylics dry quickly and it was a super hot day.

I spend a day or so organizing my pieces to try and minimize how much I carry as well as use all the space as best as possible. I typically take a lot of time setting up and each time is different. In the name of efficiency its time to pick a layout and stick with it.

Then I felt like painting, but alas, I was not about to spring for a new canvas. So what's around the house that I can paint on....

Perfect!

And it even hangs on the wall!

The candelabra I have is more for looks as taper candles make the biggest mess. So I took all the colored glass candle holders I had with handles and beaded them onto the candelabra as a stand.

Been doodling a lot lately as well.

Handmade Soap

2010-07-28T20:50:00.000-04:00

Making your own soaps

As a reminder, your skin is your largest organ and so many toxins are brought into the body through it. Sometimes it's environmental and hard to shield ourselves from but often we slather chemicals and many artificial ingredients on without realizing what we're doing.

Upon death, women are found to have built up a significantly larger store of toxins and it could easily be attributed to our lifestyles and the beauty routines we keep. Daily, from morning to bedtime, we have the rituals of creams, sprays, makeup, and cleansers all harboring artificial scents, colors, and chemical combinations.

By replacing some of the products you use, you could reduce the toll on your body and maybe even alleviate some allergy symptoms you weren't even aware of.

So check out the link above to get some tips!

Iced Coffee At Home

2010-07-28T13:58:00.000-04:00

Very tired of spending so much on iced coffees and other amazingly yummy drinks. Since I make all my chais at home, decided to take on iced coffees. Really, I find that what makes shop-bought so awesome is that they add a lot more sugar than I would at home.

Here are all the ingredients you need:

-Simple Sugar
.....in a saucepan (or in the micro, it's just that mine is unbelievably gross at the moment) heat half a cup of sugar and half a cup of water, stirring until it is all dissolved. I keep this solution (chemistry term, go high school!) in an old jam jar in the fridge for future coffee drinks or mojitos

-Cold Coffee
.....after the morning, whatever hasn't been drunk goes into a jar and right into the fridge. since i really can't do caffeine (and my husband's coffee is horrendously strong) it helps that you can dilute it a lot with the ice and milk
-Milk
.....or soy/rice/coconut/almond milk. you know what you can have
-Ice
..... that stuff that you make in the ice cube trays

first mix the coffee and simple sugar (when ice goes first it's hard to stir), then i fill the glass 3/4 up with ice and milk to the top. again, a lot of sugar is the secret to any dunkin donuts or mcD tasting iced coffee

Recent Etsy Purchases

2010-07-15T15:31:00.001-04:00

When there's money in my PayPal account, it doesn't stay there long!

As I journeyed deep into the shops of Etsy last night I came across The Healing Leaf who sells herbal teas and other goods. The ingredients are organic and with each listing she has some information on how the herbs can be used as remedies for common ailments. I read through her many positive reviews and placed an order for some Lady's Mantle, Yarrow, and Yerba Santa- how could I not when shipping is so much cheaper on multiple purchases? She shipped them out today and I am anxiously awaiting making a great pot of tea!

I still continue my search for alternative medicines and grow increasingly frustrated with pharmaceutical ads on television and in magazines. It's such a joke to mask your symptoms while never addressing the true cause AND to do damage to your bodies with these drugs!

There are so few out there who want to help you be truly healthy and some of them are pursued by the government (FDA) because a cure to anything would diminish the profits of many billionaires. As the presidents of organizations such as the American Cancer Society drive around in mercedes and jaguars do you think they'd give up their money, lifestyles, and that of their children to replace these ongoing treatments with finalizing cures? They don't want you to buy one med and be cured. They want you to buy your pills every month for the rest of your life and be scared to stop.

And best of all, many times the cure isn't even a manufactured product- it's an herb you can grow in your garden or simply an issue of a nutrient deficiency. How can they make money on that?

You must also be wary of those who present themselves as altruists but are really looking to profit from those seeking true healing. An example would be Kevin Trudeau- though I found many great truths and advice in his book, the majority of it was political and of course there was the To Be Continued aspect so that you need to buy all his books. Please go to the library. The books I have are from the goodwill, various thrift stores, handed down, or bought on sale. This should be shared knowledge and our health should not be a for profit operation.

Wow, I really just wanted to say I'm excited to get my teas!

Last week I purchased some great items from Blood Pudding Press

I was very pleased with the art supplies I ordered and it was very cutely packaged! Please check out both shops and as much as possible support artists and one of a kind products. Even when something is more expensive, there's no need to be a materialistic society that thrives on the swelling amount of possessions we can attain- an item we save up for will be cherished and passed on with more sentiment than any bauble we'd get at a Target. Plus, who wants to walk around and see 50 other people in their city with the same item?

Red Giant's Dysfunctional Majesty

2010-07-13T23:05:00.000-04:00

Another Art Announcement:

The 4th album from Red Giant is due for release in September from Small Stone Records.

This is what the trip to Boston was all about!

AA Revival

2010-07-13T22:58:00.000-04:00

I'm so very proud and yet jealous of my dear friend K.t. because she has kept the soul of Artisans Alliance alive and is the needle that threads together the best, most eclectic group of Cleveland artists. As I sat here missing being surrounded by such amazing people I came to the realization that it's about time to start AA-Raleigh!

I began participating in local art events and although I've enjoyed it and done well I'm so damn lonely.

This week will begin the postings searching for artists and the search for a cool meeting place- I'd use my new apt but I'm really not looking forward to being robbed and murdered by strangers.

In Etsy news, I created my first treasury entitled: Just lay back, Doll featuring a darling burlesque outfit, an ostrich feather boa, Nipple Jewelry, a vintage brothel token and many others! Dirty, dirty things!

Purse Photoshoot

2010-07-11T21:39:00.000-04:00

Had some stuff made but I really dragged my feet on getting it online. Been busy and and procrastinating. Lost a bit of my inspiration and motivation. Finally last week I went "downtown" (on my usual tuesday excursion) and brought a suitcase of crafty items with me. After grabbing my beloved iced chai and walking a couple blocks I spotted the most prefect rusty building.

I've been looking online and see some awesome upcoming art events but everything happens on weekends which are perpetually unavailable.

poop.

here's my lovely afro lady:

I burned on top of my sunburn for 4th of July weekend and this week it has turned into tan. This is the darkest I've been in YEARS AND YEARS. Normally I'm super sensitive to sun and really limit exposure (plus I lived in Cleveland- the "where the sun don't shine" of the US in more ways than one, heh heh). But damn if this state ain't so sunny I went 4 shades darker in less than two weeks.

Here I am with yet another bag I'm gonna miss so badly:

I'm reaching for those dreams! But only half heartedly and with a firm grasp on my bag, cause one cannot arrive at the top to find they are horrendously unaccessorized.

A darling choice of bag for shopping with your friends or hanging outside random buildings. Vogue.

Where'd I put those darn tampons?

I'm feeling awfully faint from the heat. I'm fetchin for my vapors.

THE END

Crocheting Octopussies

2010-06-15T15:46:00.000-04:00

Got bored of making the flowers all the time and one day as I was starting yet another, I thought, what else can I do with this circle? And so began my family of octopuses. Super easy to make though I think they need to be single crochet so the stuffing isn't showing. I messed with the faces for a while, starting with button eyes yet settling on yarn.

They could be baby toys or tied onto string to make a cat go INSANE! The long legs would be sure to cause a cat tons of excitement.

In addition to gardening, I've made a point to walk the town every tuesday to get exercise and familiarize with the town. I love small, locally owned shops and you see so much more by foot. We walked the train tracks and talked to local historians along the way. I've always found that the east coast is so rich in culture and really appreciate the historic landmarks.

At a local restaurant, above the daily special, was written:

Stop organized crime, don't re-elect politicians.

My next venture will be in the making of Lebanese Iced Tea. It was such a delicious treat at a recent trip to La Shish that I've been on the hunt for rose water for the last couple of days. I have seen it in the stores so many times and of course now that I want to buy it, no one around me has it. A trip to a persian grocery store is on my to-do list this week and so very soon.... The food at the restaurant was great but the waitress was was having a bad day and was sorta bitchy. Luckily the food was good enough for a second try and so I haven't written them off just yet.

The recipe I'm going with is this one that I found online:

NewOrleans.com
Lebanese Iced Tea
(...)
One of the most refreshing and surprising drinks is Lebanese Iced Tea. Nothing too fancy, Lebanese iced tea is composed of basic sweetened iced tea, and stirred together with the intriguing flavor of rosewater, just a splash. The heady aroma and floral flavor are exotic and refreshing. When done right, the taste is subtle and not too perfumey. Nile Café’s version hits the spot to perfection. Their iced tea has body, good hearty flavor that’s mildly sweet, a slight tang from lemon, the softest whiff of rose and a garnish of crunchy pine nuts for texture and a tasty, rich contrast.

Lebanese Iced Tea
6 ounces of freshly made iced tea sweetened to taste
1/2 teaspoon of rosewater
1 teaspoon raw pine nuts

Pour sweetened iced tea into a tall glass filled with ice. Add the rosewater and stir to combine. Sprinkle with pine nuts and serve.

Ours didn't have the nuts so I'm debating adding them.

Herb Pitas

2010-05-04T13:19:00.000-04:00

I'm not a chef by any means but I do love to grow herbs and so when it involves my plants, I do like to make some eats. This recipe is super simple and there's a lot of room for creativity and for using what's available. I went out this morning with my apron and clippers to see who was ready for a little trim. I snipped some basil, blue african basil, dill, cilantro, chocolate mint, lime mint, lime thyme, marjoram, and some green stuff with red veins. Each time I make this it's a little different because each morning a new plant has made a bunch of leaves that need pruning. I suppose you could also try and juts use the ones you'd think would taste good together.

So I rinse them off in a colander and set them aside. Also, check for little spiders.

My sis and I were at a Jewish bakery and that's where we found this pita. You can get it at any grocery store or even use tortillas if you'd like. We just happen to have a large bag of these giant pitas so it is my bread of choice at the moment.

My favorite vinegar to use is balsamic but I have this red wine vinegar I gotta use up. Apple cder vinegar is also good to use. Any ole olive oil is good.

I love love love goat cheese. If you hate hate hate it, you can also use mozzarella or your fave crumbly cheese. I got this log at Fresh Market.

You can put the pita on a cookie sheet and toast it in the oven or toaster oven, but to make it super simple, I tear the pita into quarters and toast them in the toaster! This also keeps from over heating the house if you live in a hot ass state like I do.

Once the pita is toasted, I drizzle on the olive oil and vinegar making sure I evenly coat it. The vinegar is the best part because its tangy zing keeps me from using any salt of which I am a huge fan. I pick the pieces up off the plate and move them around so the edges are covered too.

I then remove all the stems from the herbs and begin ripping them into pieces. As you put it on the pita you will notice some spots will have sage or basil or a lot of mint. This makes each bite a surprise and super tasty. What will your mouth savor next?!

Then I use a fork to make cheese crumbles and sprinkle these on top. You can also put on tomatoes if you have some or sprinkle salt and pepper although I don't. The herbs give it such great flavor and Ive been trying for a while to not be such a salt fiend.

And there you have it! A super healthy snack using the fruits of your labor. I'm already dreading fall and winter when I will lose such great plants right on my back porch.

Not Suitable for Young Sweet Tooths

2010-04-19T19:09:00.000-04:00

In preparation for a party, I had a lot of baking to do. I got a box of chocolate cake batter, followed the instructions, then poured the mixture into the pans. You really need to do a good job greasing the pan first and make sure there is enough in the tip as that is the part most likely to cook too fast and be so thin it sticks and stays in the pan.

I made an icing out of powdered sugar, water, and vanilla as I knew it would give me the color and consistency I needed. Beware of adding too much water! I ended up making 20 times the amount I NEEDED. Start off with minimal amounts of water and by this I mean like a tablespoon. I added about half a cup of water to a bowl and needed cups and cups of sugar to thicken it up.

After arranging them on the platter, I put on some coconut pubes and gave it a jizzle drizzle. The tray was also good for some candy making. I melted bags of chocolate for this one in a makeshift double broiler.

Success!

And my husband thinks I can't cook...

Bird Houses

2010-04-12T13:47:00.000-04:00

Visited the Arboretum where they were having a bird house competition. There were a few categories, Adult Serious, Adult Fancy and children were divided into age groups. I took pics of some memorable entries.

This was in fancy and was a great tiled pieced. You got a ballot slip and could mark the best in each grouping.

This was my #1 for fancy. Like a great vintage piece of furniture

This was all wood and was an incredible example of modern design

This was in the children's 7-9 age group and it was very creative. Sometimes you could tell the kids had a lot of help from an adult, but there was one in particular that just screamed out, "i did it all by myself and in only 4 minutes!"

You can't really see in the pic, but they DID cross out the word tissues, and they used masking tape to get that popsicle stick perch on. Off in the corner a dad was consoling an obviously upset child, telling him to look around at the other's to get some ideas for next year. HEE-HEE.

Hippie Headbands

2010-04-09T15:15:00.001-04:00

I have this great vintage Macrame book I've owned for decades and after admiring the images for so long I settled on a few pieces I wanted to master. One was a sweet bikini and the other was a great headband.

After trying FOREVER to get down macrame basics I finally started to make one only to find out you need MASSIVE lengths of hemp and I ended up with just enough knotting for a choker. Since I have a million crocheted roses I was making pins and barrettes with, I just made them into the hippie headbands I was craving for so long.

I have a pic of myself from when I was about 4 with a piece of leather tied around my forehead and it was such a good look then, I'm gonna go with it. Seems to be "in" anyways. Plus these can be worn 4 ways. As a regular headband, hippie headband, choker, and wrist corsage.

I'm having so much fun adding the beads to the end for finishing touches.

I have about 30 of these made and I've got to get around to selling them. Started posting them online and I have the opportunity to sell at an event today but I miss having Artisans Alliance with me at craft events. Selling Solo is like mama bird throwing me out of the nest.

Cookout Recipes

2010-04-03T15:52:00.000-04:00

My arm is still itchy and feels like a bruise where the idiot wasp got me. I told my sister to torture it for me when she catches it.

I forgot to get a final pic of the ceiling tiles I painted for a local eatery, but this was taken the day before completion. I fixed his hat to be a sombrero. Here, it's more Asian than Mexican. I also put the details in the roses before handing these in.

Today I made some sides for a cookout and started transplanting seedlings. What I think is spinach is doing AMAZING!

My favorite cookout recipe: Pasta Salad!

Two boxes of tri-color rotini pasta, cooked according to box directions
One cucumber diced
Two roma tomatoes diced
Half an onion diced
Can of black olives diced
Jar of green olices diced
2 cup bag of shredded cheddar cheese
2 bottles of Italian dressing

I add the cheese LAST because the warm pasta will melt it. Also, I add one bottle of dressing to let it soak in and the second I will add just before serving so it has a nice coat. It was pretty cheap since I got everything from Walmart.

Then, I made the Carrot Salad. For this I bought:

Bag of carrots

Box of raisins

Can of pineapple

I send the carrots through a food processor but you can save time (just not money) by buying it already shredded. Super simple, mix ingredients to your liking

And of course, the Southern Favorite of Banana Pudding, Hooray!

Bananas

Nilla Wafer Cookies

Vanilla Pudding

Milk

Prepare your pudding according to box instructions

Slice yer bananas

Begin lining your casserole dish

I do round side down so you get a nice flat surface for the banana to sit upon.

Now after you've covered the bottom of your dish, add a thin layer of pudding:

I use the back of the spoon to smooth it out being careful not to disturb my first layer.

Then you start another layer of cookies and 'naners on top of this. When you do your second layer, you can do the sides as well but using only cookies.

You continue to do this until you have filled your dish or run out of ingredients. I used two big boxes of pudding, a box of cookies, and three bananas

For the finishing layer, I just did a layer of bananas yet neglected to photograph it. At the moment I am in my room nursing a belly ache from eating so many of the ingredients of all my masterpieces. Gotta get better before the main event!

Owie!

2010-04-01T21:25:00.000-04:00

I felt a weird sensation on my arm, like a bite. I didnt see anything and upon further inspection found a wasp crawling on my dress. Ow! The warm weather is still worth it. Tank top dresses, sandals, and growing herbs. My sis and I looked up wasp bites on youtube and promptly put a freezer pack with a teddy on my arm after not seeing a stinger.

Maybe it was the one I smacked from earlier.

Stumbling Blocks

2010-03-29T18:33:00.000-04:00

I wore my new crocheted rose hair clip out today and I am just so in love with it.

When we moved, I got rid of 4 shelves which had held my fabric. I'm barely getting along without them. Most of my material is still in boxes and it makes it so difficult to go through and work with my inspiration. Plus, the boxes don't stack so well since they are from such different places and of varying sizes. Right now my machine is on the floor in the family room and my supplies are upstairs which makes finding matching patterns hard. Everything I've made since I've been here has been from the same pieces. Oh well. So much else has been going in my favor. Once Easter comes I'll have to push it off to a corner since people will be staying in that room. Frustrating...

I love how many hippies are here in NC. I drove by a couple of them today and they had a sign looking for a ride to Greensboro. Had it been my car, I probably would have picked them up, just for the adventure and to explore a new place. Instead, my mom locked the doors.

After thinking I had killed off my seeds by planting them too early, today I spotted growth!! Finally something identifiable as Purple Basil cannot be mistaken for cilantro or chiles.

Tea Party

2010-03-28T19:56:00.000-04:00

Gorgeous Weather, Blooming Peach Tree Branches in vases, Cherry Plates, and some delicious pie on sale at Target all called for an afternoon tea party. This tablecloth was a clearance find at a Target as well but from the end of last season. Man, I like collecting stuff. The dishes were not mine, but maybe someday will be my inheritance, hee hee.

In the name of gardening, some branches must be pruned away- but their beauty cannot go to waste!

This is the vase from my bedroom I brought down for the day. I acquired it from a church yard sale.

Gorgeous!

I began setting the table with hand-sewn pot-holders and set an array of teas on a plate. The plate stand came from a store just this week and was half off. Oooh lala!

There are random containers of these branches all over the house.

The peach-raspberry pie was amazing as was the strawberry shortcake. I wash it down (and the cookies) with about 5 glasses of tea, so I expect a lot of bathroom breaks tonight.

I finally acquired a copy of the long-sought Herb Book by John Lust. I even got it for free! Major score. The herbs have begun springing in the yard yet not so many of my new seeds. I think I should have obeyed the package and waited til April/May to plant them, but I was so anxious in March. Oh well. Something is doing very well, but I neglected to label them so I have no idea what it is. At least my beans are doing well!

I'm about to transplant some spearmint from the ground into a pot to start an indoor garden. I also bought more seeds today but I'm waiting to plant them. At least the Herb Fest is right around the corner and I hope to buy lots of things!

Nostril Piercing

2010-03-25T13:52:00.000-04:00

I REALLY want to get a nostril piercing. I had one before but Im too touchy feely with my nose (picker) and was with someone who was very conservative so I took it out. I like the look of a stud but apparently the best jewelry to start out with is a ring and you should leave it in for months til it's all healed. After having had 14 piercings, I still always think I could be that one weird, rare case. I could deal with the ring but being a hypochondriac I've been googling piercing PROBLEMS. Oh, and images as well.

Whoo Boy!!

"It comes after research estimated one in 10 adults in England have piercings in places other than their earlobes.
More than a quarter have had complications while 13 per cent have had problems so serious they sought further help.
Almost one in 100 piercings among young people aged 16 to 24 led to them being admitted to hospital.
Among this age group, 31 per cent of piercings result in complications, with half of those requiring medical attention."
I'd like to know my chances of developing a "bump" or horrible scar tissue. I'd love to be able to see my face in the future and know if it was a good choice. Amidst pictures of gorgeous, Indian jewelry and medical oddities, I came across this cool blog:
http://www.whiteindianhousewife.com/

It was a nice mental break but back to reading about pus, compresses, and keloids....

Also,
I have been featured on Dollar Store Crafts, hooray!

Once in a million tortillas...

2010-03-25T10:13:00.000-04:00

Some have said it is the face of Jesus. While cooking up a great mexican meal, this guy appeared on one of the tortillas:

Super happy, despite his ultimate fate of being devoured alive at dinner. It took a lifetime of making these for my mom to be graced by such a miraculous apparition.

My grandmother said it's the devil. But I think he only makes appearances on Devil's Food Cakes and the oh so sinful creme brulee.

On my list of things to make today, is a skirt with an appliquéd giraffe. I drew inspiration from this great book I got on clearance at an antique/junk shop yesterday. It has pics of clothing and articles from the 60's. Here she is, the "Gay Day" Giraffe, made in South Africa.

I eventually want to try making the plush toy as well, but it's number 138 on my to do list. Today is for skirts.

B.O.M.B.

2010-03-21T17:30:00.001-04:00

Before I left Cleveland, I got a tattoo with my bestest friend, Bonnie. She sews leather accessories and clothing and has gone by B. Original (even though some time back I saw this show on tv where the girl went by this, Bonnie has had this name for a much longer time so Bonnie is THE B. Original) for decades. Since my site is MeliBeli and I have an awesome flag that was made with this, when we join forces we are B.O.M.B. (B. Original MeliBeli).

I miss her like crazy and as awesome as the South is, I don't think I will ever have such a great group of friends like I had back in Ohio. At one of our first shows together, our two friends modeled in the gallery window for us and here they are:

*Sigh*

Now whenever I fly, if I'm asked if I have a bomb on me, technically I do!

Crocheted Flowers

2010-03-21T16:54:00.001-04:00

Spent some time crocheting these flowers for the hair. Some will be attached to headbands and others onto barrettes. Luckily these go easily into my thick hair but I wanted some options so that those with finer hair could still use them. My favorites are the ones with skulls but I'm trying to only take one or two for my own personal use.

I'm using vintage buttons as well as cool beads for the center pieces

They are 100% cotton in most cases and I've really got to get them for sale in my shop.

They're flowers you can place behind your ear that will never wilt or fade. Well, maybe if you wore it every day for YEARS the natural fibers would have their color fade a bit... but they'll last a hell of a lot longer than their real counterparts.

At the moment I am making black beans. I've never successfully made a batch of beans that weren't from a can so we'll see. As much as I love black bean soup, these will be just normal beans since they will be complimenting chicken tacos.

Mmmmmm, tacos....

Muddy Days, Planting the seeds away..

2010-03-15T11:14:00.000-04:00

As you can see, I had quite a productive day outdoors:

I think I need another pair of Nomad rubber boots. Maybe in red this time. A pair for mud and a pair for rain.

So I have a lot of high expectations for the coming season. So far I've mostly planted herbs but I do have squash, beans, cumquats and spinach in pots as well. The thing thats growing the best so far is the garlic I got from my sister's fridge because it already had an inch or so of greenery and a decent root system. Having done well in dark, cold conditions I expect it to flourish in sunlight and dirt.

I also worked on some of the outdoor decor and hung random thingys around that I had made:

Then I saw what looked like a jumping rock, and after chasing it down handed it off to my husband so I could run in for my camera:

Then after chasing a squirrel, one of the cats followed suit and actually CAUGHT it for me. He released it and then chased it up a tree. He set up vigilant watch at the base of this tree for quite some time despite my many attempts to distract him and let the poor squirrel run away.

Despite such muddy conditions, I took a stroll round the woods

After coming inside, I played around with my magnificent, recent acquisition of a nepalese, hand carved set of Mexican Milagro stamps.

Milagros are small metal religious charms found in many areas of Latin America, especially Mexico and Peru. The word “Milagro” means “miracle”. They are also used in Europe, where they are often referred to as Exvotos (Offerings). These small charms, often depicting arms, legs, praying people, farm animals and a wide range of other subjects are typically nailed or pinned to crosses or wooden statues of various saints like the Virgin Mary or Christ, sacred objects, pinned on the clothing of saint statues, or hung with little red ribbons or threads from altars and shrines. They are also carried for protection and good luck

I want to mail small, stamped cards with online purchases to send off good luck and prayers around the world.

And I finally got my earring holder up. It was made by The Sign Guy from Tremont in Cleveland and was originally a piece of wall art however now it is utilitarian wall art.

Art Weekend

2010-03-13T10:29:00.000-05:00

Last night's event was fun and my first since moving south. I got to meet some other artists which was great and selling always feels great. I then came home to see even more sales from online- hooray!

Today I check out a local craft event which looks like it'll be really nice. It's the

The Designers Downtown Market and it's partially hosted by a local bead store. I hope to meet some area artists that would be interested in bartering or letting me know what other events are going on this summer.

Art is an Alliance- the goal of our Artisans Alliance

This is part of a piece done by Becky Gammon in Cleveland Ohio. Her link is to the left.

She is multi talented as a photographer, web designer, jewelry maker, and 3-D collage artist.

Quick Update

2010-03-11T19:44:00.000-05:00

So much going on I will have to elaborate in a day or so-

Fell in love with bean sprouts. Got excited to grow them myself. Then heard of a link to salmonella and e coli...gotta look into this more because they're good and super good FOR you.

Preparing for Art After Hours tomorrow where I'll be a feature artist. Nervous since its my first event and I wish I had made more but you gotta jump in at some point. Im excited that I'll be at a tattoo shop, wheee!

Made 8 tea wallets and doing some sweet bags right now.

Saw peacocks and donkeys today. Cool.

Upped my tea intake which is nice except for the increase in pee breaks.

Taking such a break now and then back to sewing!!

Spring Weekend

2010-03-07T14:24:00.000-05:00

There's a great place here that will clean out your garage/attic/storage place FOR FREE and whatever you want to get rid of, they donate, recycle, or sell at their shop which is like an indoor garage sale. Found some AMAZING things for cheap and I loved the electronics room where they had such beauties as these televisions:

I ended up buying vintage suitcases and a few bottles of Lugger bullet shells. The weather was great so we also went around to some green houses to start planning the gardens. That's where I met this interesting fellow.

I think he was made by NC State students. The guy had to spend the night in jail for stealing city property but the publicity was worth it as now others have been putting in orders for these Construction Barrel Men. Here you can also see my new fave boots, the rubber Nomads I got a few months ago. I merrily tromped through mud and puddle and walked under some waterfalls with them.

The people that own the greenhouses had the most amazing yard and had created waterfalls on the property.

Later we built a fire in the backyard and whenever the flames waned, we pulled out the gas powered leaf blower to get it going again:

I caught fire once but it was only a smidgeon.

Mother Mary Machine

2010-03-05T12:22:00.000-05:00

Site is resting comfortably in its new home and now I just need to go through and find whatever may have been left behind in the hectic move.

For anyone that may have wondered-

Mother Mary Machine: A Marshall full stack with La Virgen de Guadalupe printed or painted on the screens.

Here, you can see the matching Les Paul accessory to such a set up:

And here, we have the matching wife tattoo.

Glitchy Boo

2010-03-03T11:53:00.000-05:00

In an effort to speed along a process, I acted too hastily and now my main site is down til possibly Friday. Depending on whether Yahoo has a 5 or 7 day business week. Super Frustrated. After hours and hours of work I get this period of time where I can do nothing and I get nothing.

I want a bat and smashy things.

Spring Decor

2010-03-03T10:03:00.000-05:00

These are images I had collected when I was planning the wedding (took about a month) and I'm loving them for spring/summer decor. This year, I actually have a yard and I'm super excited for an outdoor dinner.

Candles are one of my favorite things to have- right next to glass. I hate throwing away any jar and I have many colored glass bottles lining the ledge of my windows.

White beans would also work at the bottom of the jar. The cheaper, the better!

All this decorating talk makes me miss Domino. First they take away Sassy Magazine, then Jane. And when I fell in Love with Domino and the amazing rooms within, of course, the curse comes back into play. I'm afraid to admit how much I adore Bust lest they leave me as well. Lately the magazine aisle just isn't what it used to be. I may pick up a Cosmo or a tattoo mag but only to flip through for a moment. Domino was beautiful on every page.

As soon as I get a cardboard egg carton I'll start my seeds.

-Purple Basil

-Sweet Basil

-Cilantro

-Spinach

Tons of herbs are already growing wild in the yard so I anxiously await bountiful harvests!

Interview today. Thought I'd get some spending mula but I'm wondering if a 45 min drive will be worth working in an awesome store with no required uniform where creativity is strongly encouraged. Plus, the discount may end up breaking me even since I always make a purchase there.

(Virtual) Moving

2010-03-02T14:10:00.000-05:00

The Arduous Task of Switching Hosts

Hours and hours and days later things seem to finally have hit a smooth patch. After struggling with a dropping connection, enduring an endless software update, downloading and then uploading a decade's worth of images and pages, setting up new email accounts, going through 1,000 emails and forwarding the important messages one by one I think I'm close. And by that I mean hopefully by the end of the day I say SEE YA! to Yahoo!

These pictures were on some site of mine when I was still in college and they still make me smile to this day. Odd little internet finds of the day. Perhaps the process of the move has been somewhat hindered by my nostalgia and going through images taken back in the 90's.

Mutated Antlers, Horseback Riding

2010-02-28T11:46:00.000-05:00

Once again, a piece I don't want to part with. As much jewelry as I make I rarely actually ever wear it; I'm a hoarder. I just want to own it though it will get minimal use. If they were all out and readily accessible maybe they would get chosen as I quickly grab an outfit to get ready for whatever it is I'm late for. Lately I've been using deer antlers to hang the husband's necklaces from (he's always fabulously accessorized) but I'd need a horrendously mutated deer to produce antlers with enough hangys for the number of necklaces I own.

So if there are any mad scientists willing to take on this project, e-mail me. Otherwise I may try and plaster one up myself.

Laundromats are always super fun. In Cleveland you could (not legally) buy a 40 next door and enjoy it while waiting for your 7 loads to finish. Here, there's horseback riding!!

Bracelets and Puppy Diapers

2010-02-24T18:00:00.000-05:00

My brother is back from helping out in Haiti and came for a visit with his new puppy! She poops a lot indoors so they bought her puppy diapers but they were too big.

She played well with our kitten. She'd grab a toy and start the bell ringing so Millie would run at her to get the mouse and then the puppy would run away, toy in mouth starting the cutest relay races around the house.

Been making a lot of bracelets to get my jewelry mojo goin again. Since I've started doing yoga, I was inspired to use a lot of natural materials/ colors. Hippie Stuff. My brother gave me one he made- I guess it's a military style and I like it a lot. Here it is (top bracelet) modeled on the arm Stella found in the trash for me!

Look at that greenery in the background. Ahhhh....the south!

Pico de Gallo

2010-02-21T18:19:00.000-05:00

At a cool, hidden thrift shop I found a Navy keychain that I loved. Since so much of my family is in the military (and it was A BUCK) I bought it to put on my fave chain.

To celebrate the amazing weather, we put together a cookout and made Pico de Gallo:

Diced Tomato

Onion

Jalapeño

Cilantro

and fresh Lime Juice

It's great as a salsa and a topper for anything from burgers to eggs.

Perpetual Groove

2010-02-20T21:14:00.000-05:00

There's no better way to acclimate to a city like experiencing their public transportation. A scary thought in Cleveland, it was a lot of fun last night, making our way into the heart of Friday night action downtown.

We met up with a jam band, Perpetual Groove and the place was packed! During the second set my husband went up and sang Roadhouse Blues by The Doors and it was great!

We met lots of nice locals and people in the music scene. Eventually, we worked out a ride home stopping at Steak n Shake on the way and spending some time at the river around 3am.

Cut, Cut, Chop, Chop!

2010-02-18T12:13:00.000-05:00

I found this image of thinly sliced tofu on http://veganyumyum.com/ but I still haven't found what I'm looking for. When I was in Boston, K.t. bought a ready made vegetarian meal that featured tofu so thin it was like sheets of paper! The textures were amazing and it really allows the flavors to get in there. I've found a lot of hints for slicing, but none with the result I'm after.

I've also been experimenting with the art of Bangs. My inspiration is Emma Stone from Zombieland:

I've been thinking about it for a long time and recently invested in some shears. My only fear was looking like I was three again:

In the end, I was happy with the result although I must stress that bangs should be cut dry. You really cant account for how much hair "shortens" when it dries; especially wavy hair. I'm thinking that with a week's worth of growth, and a quick trim I'll be extremely happy with them.

A bit of cleaning then right back to where I left off at 2am; making gardening aprons using my great-grandmother from Mexico's pattern. I'd have pics but I was so inspired that I kept working til I was tired and mentally drained from so much inspiration.

Healthy Habits, another tea bag wallet

2010-02-16T18:45:00.000-05:00

Found The How To Herb Book at a thrift store today and picked up salad fixins at the store. Replacing one meal a day with something healthy has been pretty easy and it's keeping me on track to my ultimate goal of having 70% of what I eat being super good for me.

Sauteed Tofu

Avocado

Spinach

Flax Seed

Dried Cranberries

A seed mix

Cucumber

Goat Cheese

Mandarin Oranges

Black Forest Ham

Can't get much healthier than that!

I've also been perfecting my tea bag wallets:

And as far as my fitness goals, today was the second day in a row I practiced Yoga. It may not seem like a milestone, but it was an effort that resulted in a goal realized. As I sat through one of the poses I realized that at least I did it.

Even if you miss a day, you can't focus on what you didn't do because you're really just where you would be anyway. Every day I wake up and stretch out on my mat I'm succeeding. Every day I DONT, isn't a failure, but a day like any other. I think this attitude will make it easier to return after a break and help keep positive thinking going.

So many of the health books I've been reading put a real emphasis on not only the diet, but our thoughts. A spirit of giving and love is important and being forgiving not just toward others, but yourself. If I go a few days without exercising, I'll just try again tomorrow.

I'm still not trying fish, though. Blech!

Hello, NC!

2010-02-15T19:41:00.000-05:00

Had some great help for the move! She not only spent the night after the party to get a good head start on helping us load the truck, but she brought over a great vegan humus dip with whole wheat pita and her own hemp seed granola to help fuel us during the packing and move. We did it all in one day to outrun the huge snow storm.

I can't wait for her cookbook to come out!

We arrived at about 5:30am so all four cats slept throughout the trip, thankfully since I never got around to picking up sedatives from the vet. Two slept in my lap and two in carriers. All 6 of us were in the cab of a Budget truck!

It's great going around the city and getting to know the spots around town. At one eatery, Woody's, we found my husband's band on the juke!

And what trip around your town would be complete without a trip to the local Krispy Kremery to see baby donuts being born?

Can't wait to start doing shows around town and I may even start doing small web pages and print design again.

More Birthday Gifts

2010-02-06T17:31:00.000-05:00

Sterling Silver & Pearls

Sterling Silver and Swarovski Crystal

The Sign Guy a.k.a. The Dirty Bird

2010-02-04T18:11:00.000-05:00

When I first moved to Tremont, I would wander around the neighborhood exploring boutiques, stores, and the parks. I began seeing so many pieces of art suspended on telephone poles, on the tops of trash cans, and bolted onto trees. It gave our surroundings great character and spotting a new one was always a thrill.

You could collect his art by swinging by a gallery during Art Walk or carrying around bolt cutters.

I own a couple of pieces of his and they are definitely going up immediately to remind me of this great eclectic, art community.

These pictures were taken at a gallery event:

All his materials are scavenged.

Homemade Gifts

2010-02-02T18:28:00.000-05:00

This month I celebrate the anniversary of two of my friends passing through the birth canal:

Bonnie and K.t.

My lucky friends get the best gifts. I hand knit this shawl in 3 hours (huge needles and doubling the yarn). It was supposed to be one side of a large tote bag but upon completion of this side, I pooped out, sewed the sides together and made a shawl.

I also made her necklaces and the purple, web bracelet.

Hand made gifts are the best but you have to make sure the recipient is someone who can appreciate the thought and uniqueness of the piece. I still have sweaters my mommy made me in elementary.

So Long, Hearing Ability

2010-01-31T15:11:00.000-05:00

Husband played a great, loud show last night at the Spitfire Saloon, conveniently located right next door to a taco bell that is open til 4am. Woke up with a pocket full of FIRE sauce and laying on top of some lettuce.

Red Giant

It was a great break from all the packing and nonsense back at the apartment. Cleveland rockers are the best to hang with.

Goodbye Joel, Goodbye Cleveland

2010-01-29T20:59:00.000-05:00

I dont even smoke and I love making ashtrays.

A good friend of ours died recently, while we were out of town and I just came across some pictures we took at his home not too long ago. He had a great piece of land with a tire swing that hung from a branch a couple stories high and he had chickens.

He also always had Coronas and a lime on him.

this is my husband goofing off on his property.

When we leave Cleveland there will be much to be missed. Most of all my great friends and of course the amazing places to eat and shop, like Phnom Penh. Ive eaten there MANY times and have only ever had the 54B; i highly recommend their Original Khmer with Chicken.

Crazy things to see around every corner.

Votive Holder Craft

2010-01-26T13:22:00.000-05:00

A convenient little catch all. Use it to store tacks, wash your body piercings, light candles, catch light in the windows, hold bobby pins, as a Barbie spittoon... IT'S USEFULNESS WILL NEVER WEAR OUT!

Supplies:
Old Nail Polish
Paint Brush
Cheap Votive Holders
Elmer's Glue or Mod Podge
Magazines/ Wrapping Paper/ Catalog....

Super Easy!
Step 1- Paint the exterior of the holder with your selected color/ colors
Step 2- Cut out cool images that will fit on the surface
Step 3- Use the paint brush to apply a thin layer of glue, then apply your images, and seal with another layer of glue.

If you use these for candles, put tea lights in and keep an eye on it. Technically paper and nail polish are flammable.

Dinner Napkins

2010-01-23T18:57:00.001-05:00

I love having cloth napkins but because I rarely get around to laundry, I have to have a LOT around or else I have to resort to napkins within a few days. I made some super simple dinner napkins that would work well if you had guests so everyone knows which is theirs and a mixing of cooties is avoided.

These guys were very popular and I sold out of them.

U can purchase plain napkins to embellish or use your own fabric squares. The different moods can be paired up with the appropriate guest.

Super simple and fun to make.

Gallery Events

2010-01-21T22:41:00.003-05:00

Busy day tomorrow:

First, I've got to support local artists and friends by attending these fabulous events-
Fragmentation: Seed, Spore, and Polyp

William Rupnik Gallery

Jonah Jacobs produces works of art using unconventional materials in ways that challenge one’s perception of found objects. In altering ordinary consumables and using them to create semblances of organic formations, he seeks to not only introduce the public to a new aesthetic possibility, but also to highlight the intrinsic processes incorporated in nature. Cardboard remains, frayed shoelaces, and bits of string are combined and assembled to create sculptured collages which emphasize texture and the inherent nature of art. While not his intent to create pieces that are exact representations of biological structures, Jonah's artwork is a paradigm of an advancing species, with each new piece cultivating a new habitation.

Wall Eye Gallery
On Friday January 22nd , 2010, Wall Eye Gallery will present Boldfigures, featuring works by Hannah Verbeuren, Ken Nevadomi, Dante Rodriguez, Barbara Konrad, and Claudio Orso-Giacone as part of Wall Eye’s latest exhibition. Boldfigures is a group show of artists from the northeast Ohio region working in photography, painting, drawing, and printmaking who use the human figure as their main subject or inspirationfor their work. This collection of paintings, drawings, prints, and photographs display a strong emphasis on the human form or animal figure through exaggerated forms, bodily actions, or boldly delineated lines by the whim of the artist’s brushstrokes. Whether searching for personal meaning, documenting current state of affairs, or expressing everyday life, these artists share the recognition of the endless possibilities and potential of the human figure.

And I also am in the midst of a major cleaning of the sewing room. Imagine a room where you can only take two steps in before encountering stacks of art supplies as tall as yourself and then you step on a bead, ouch! only to fall backward into precariously leaned bolts of fabric which then tumble down knocking over bowls of beads and my box of glues. Spent a few hours in there today and I can actually stand in the middle!

So now it's time to lay in bed and watch movies til my cats and I are fast asleep. I'll be dreaming of new tattoo ideas. How sweet would this be?

All of my tattoos are either religious or Mexican.

Rings n Herbs

2010-01-20T14:41:00.000-05:00

When I first started making rings and toe rings, I would find objects around the house similar to the size I needed and use them for sizing. chapstick was a favorite for toe rings.

Now that I have a mandril, I'm able to know what the sizes are and I love it.

Been making a bunch of small things to put online for sale that arent too complicated since I've been in and out of town a lot this past month.

My favorite center pieces right now are vintage beads and buttons.

Abalone Shell

The black bead in the above picture is a vintage, hand-cut, glass, rosary bead and the middle, light grey is a vintage find from a random box of shoulder pads.

Ive also been perfecting the tea wallet design with magnificent results. And now I am off to walk downtown in search of the perfect herb book. I've had my eye on John Lust's The Herb Book but we'll see what I find in the local bookstores and main library.