tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55831601354968247012024-03-05T09:08:48.534-06:00My So-Called Crafty LifeAn Introverted Girl's Notes on Life, Crafts, and Books!Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.comBlogger351125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-72721107985591852502014-05-11T19:53:00.000-05:002014-05-11T19:54:03.499-05:00Art Journaling Progress & A Quick Hello <p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>I thought I'd drop in with a quick hello, a few thoughts and some progress. First things first, Happy Mother's Day to all you mommas, aunties, pet owners, crafty people, etc. I think this day is a meaningful one for a great deal of women - ranging from utter and complete bliss to heartbreaking despair and grief. It always shocks me how people say "Happy Mother's Day" to all women of a certain age - as if it's a given that you have a child. Mother's Day has become somewhat like Valentine's Day in my eyes - despite the fact that I celebrate the many women in my life that are mothers - it is one more reminder of what my life lacks and most likely will always lack. <br><br>Which got me thinking (always a dangerous endeavor)...I do have a cat - and I am her momma though I think she might argue that I am, in fact, a member of her staff. If I take the time to go a little deeper, I can give a list of things I've "given birth" to (in a much less painful way); crafting projects, art girls, words strung into sentences, jokes, etc. It's a joyful moment to realize I am a mother of sorts. For me, it makes this day sting just a little bit less. However, I know that it will not bring solace to all - so I believe there should be a ban on giving random happy sentiments to people you don't know. <br><br>Anyhoo...I didn't plan to ramble on nearly as much about that subject. Sorry. I want to give a quick update of my artsy pursuits. I've got a few projects in progress right now. I will share two today and one fiasco on Friday. The first page was an early attempt at spray misting, stenciling, and general artsy messiness. The background was done months (maybe even a year ago). I added the circles and girl in the past few weeks. She's taking a rest right now as I decide on my next step.<br><br><br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbi0VgY3RQM3fCPLnsA2tAYCIEqybb8l2YORkv5aqRTeeV-Ooan5GLdS0gVlad2GhKWWekkA3xh-mBob17S1pIR-KJxx4zeBjHzjbpIlIP0SP_JZ-vOeHMbk-lTGJAfQXpMTUH_icHNXU/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>I love so many things about this girl. I love that I drew her - head to shoulders. She is definitely heavily influenced by <a href='http://www.willowing.org' target='_self'>Tamara Laporte</a> and <a href='http://andrea-gomoll.de' target='_self'>Andrea Gomoll</a>. I love the wind-swept hair. I love the transparency of her skin tone. I love her. I think that's why I'm stuck. I'm terrified to eff her up. <br><br>The second project comes from an assignment in my <a href='http://www.willowing.org/life-book-2014/' target='_self'>Lifebook 2014</a> class called "Tree of Life." It's also not done. It needs a quote badly. I'm trying to find the "perfect" one - there that word is again...perfect. I tried to change my color palette but have come to the realization that coral seems to be my fall back palette lately. I will most likely be adding some teal and navy at some point. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZe-7Sn3D0cvpGAr35SKUPpygOHIkzrEMaB92BaF8kkvJkkgXNqGDFczrlLF3OvmcREr_c9aMumDuz_jmv7jQQ2-ty-acBDBqQ8eRxeDwYQdt1VurlLSI6itZ-3B4KdCU58gT0RapZtDE/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>I'm a little irritated with that doily. I think it splits focus and is reflective of poor planning and composition. Mind you - I know very little about proper composition and focal points - but still it seems to be a major issue. Another thing to work on...<br><br>So that's it for now. I have a short list of things I'd like to work on in the upcoming months. I am determined to learn how to draw/paint natural hair. There are some really great examples out there but not a lot of information on how to do it. I can't wait to have pages and pages of horrid attempts...lol. Just when I'm starting to be slightly impressed by my ability to accept imperfection - a new thing to learn comes round the bend sure to ignite great turmoil and gnashing of teeth in my household. I'm sure the walls of the house will turn blue with the color of my language on those "practice" days. I CAN--NOT wait. Moving on...I hope everyone's had a lovely day. I'm working on a surprise project and think I might have overdone it a bit...but that's life and art. I hope you've had a chance to express yourself today in whatever pursuit you enjoy. Happy Sunday! Until then...<br><br>BTW: For those of you wondering when I starting using words like "igniting" and "endeavor"...don't worry - I just have <i>Pride and Prejudice</i> (2005) on in the background. </p>Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-70501589916463938762014-04-21T16:31:00.001-05:002014-04-21T16:31:39.973-05:00Artful Beginnings - Wrap Up <p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>Yesterday was the final day of my 40 day creative project - Artful Beginnings. It was heavily inspired by the work I've done in the last several months through my online classes. Both teachers, <a href='http://www.willowing.org' target='_self'>Tamara Laporte</a> and <a href='http://andrea-gomoll.de' target='_self'>Andrea Gomoll</a>, are an inspiration and I feel blessed to have found each one. I did a similar project last year with a focus on scrapbooking - it completely jump started my mojo and I had a really productive year on the memory keeping front. I'm happy with the idea of this project (that coincides with Lent) and will do it again next year. <br><br>I thought I'd take this opportunity to share my last project and some of the things I've learned in the last forty days. I'll start with the picture I shared in Saturday's <a href='http://so-calledcraftylife.blogspot.com/2014/04/two-weeks-gone.html' target='_self'>post</a>.</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwih5mCBLduxufKcyJOvuG4lckSRJqRdPceorg6HNoxoOE70ocTyLf4_ystjDpIFmpF6Sou-QRDd4uPaIEw5Wq_oktI0goKhymFr3lhxh5NLgfm0KyD7csBIeVpv-Z7tlu-2T7arjUFSw/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1eUGHeu2zWUO7Nmoqe7nUKZUl2P5nfBal8zAFiCZyDXfFD4yweQ2q_9TorkVMSseT9JxakLNtWr5mFfVNNpF3dUn-GzKegZVkLZgNpi4DyIzIPf1XbvOL_29_mj2JdsBXupTDIGCiHM/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>I really loved the doily in her hair - but didn't particularly like the loss of definition between the yellow portion of the page and her hair. So I added a line.</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ry7k7um2xfcYAMW_RWRjgc7-ih4k92dh01F6uAkW_x149MrwB40cnzjE_WA7nvpbg5W2aPfov4gtMYf5hSaHqxX5Ay84oypVPl0St3O3JMguusDx21J43k2IfisjuwkchFYuL9YVOVA/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>This is the final piece (with the line added to her hair) - I'm still not sure about it...but that's okay. The words are the first paragraph of the poem <a href='http://www.poetryfoundation.org/poem/178948' target='_self'>"Caged Bird"</a> by <a href='http://mayaangelou.com' target='_self'>Dr. Maya Angelou</a>. It's my favorite.<br><br>So here's a quick round-up of my project.<br><br>11 Artful Girls<br>4 Two Page Spreads<br>9 Art Journal Projects<br>8 Art Mediums Used (Gesso, <a href='http://www.liquitex.com/Ink/' target='_self'>Ink</a>, <a href='http://www.fabercastell.com/design-memory-craft-us/products/gelatos' target='_self'>Gelatos</a>, <a href='http://www.fabercastell.com/design-memory-craft-us/products/stampers-big-brush-pens' target='_self'>Big Brush Markers</a>, Paint, <a href='http://www.carandache.de/en/1539-neocolor-ii-watersoluble' target='_self'>Watercolor Crayons</a>, <a href='http://www.dickblick.com/products/derwent-inktense-pencils/' target='_self'>Inktense Pencils</a>, Modeling Paste)<br><br>I'd also like to share a few things I've learned.<br><ul><br><li>Modeling paste does not adhere to gelatos. I peeled it completely off the dress of one of my art girls.</li><br><li>Take your time - originally I had planned on doing 40 girls which was totally nuts and impractical. Sticking to the rule of working on one project a day was a revelation for me.</li><br><li>I prefer a mix of <a href='http://www.dickblick.com/products/derwent-inktense-pencils/' target='_self'>Inktense Pencils</a>, <a href='http://www.carandache.de/en/1539-neocolor-ii-watersoluble' target='_self'><a href='http://www.carandache.de/en/1539-neocolor-ii-watersoluble' target='_self'>Watercolor Crayons</a></a>, and <a href='http://www.fabercastell.com/design-memory-craft-us/products/gelatos' target='_self'>Gelatos</a> to create my skin tones. I'm still in the world of trial and error - but I prefer those products.</li><br><li>Use everything in your arsenal - I've used stamps for facial features and I've drawn my own and that's okay. I don't beat myself up about it.</li><br><li>Be careful with paint pens - they will burp (letting out too much paint) and alter your project.</li><br><li>I prefer working in an art journal. Separate watercolor pages don't really work as well for me.</li><br><li>Large binder clips are a must when using an art journal. I couldn't work without them.</li><br><li>Be easy on yourself - this is a process. Have fun.</li><br></ul>So that's it for now - my wrap-up of the last forty days. I plan on extending my project through the end of the school year and then evaluating my progress. I think this project will be ongoing as long as it's fun and playful. I love where I'm at now in my artful journey. I look forward to my next project. It's a good feeling. Anyhoo...that's it for today. I hope everyone is having a great Monday filled with crafting and fun. Until then...</p>Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-47259460630098203762014-04-19T15:28:00.001-05:002014-04-19T15:31:25.549-05:00Two Weeks Gone... <p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>I'm so sorry. I have fallen quite short of my goal of posting weekly about my face painting progress. I was going to call it portraiture but who the eff am I kidding. I've made some progress in the last two weeks. As time has went on, I have learned that making one face a day is not really for me. I need time to think, layer, and erase mistakes - specifically with gesso which takes some time to dry. I also need a lot of practice attempts to get the skin tone right. I've learned a lot and am pretty happy with my later pieces. I PLAN on doing a post about the things I've learned during this challenge later on this week - since it actually ends tomorrow. Nevertheless - I thought I'd publish a quick post of what I've been doing over the last two weeks. I even have some process pictures for the more curious. So without further ado...first up is my tree of life project from <a href='http://www.willowing.org/life-book-2014/' target='_self'>Lifebook 2014</a>.<br><br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpclfa4UnURhnY3K0F2_BeH3C8B66fQqDF2T6OsO6uJzAkms1TLXS52wVtHysKd1aWrHO0zjCpa0kqEAw5UjrR36FyE2F2JmbMZ2Xu1ofaDHx-dyo1iwrI-WFltTdp_7F5dlkNmvutWh0/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>She took a lot of tries. I had a lot of stops, starts, and restarts. I think it's because I overthought it and let some of the elements of the assignment overwhelm me - like the swing. The swing was definitely my nemesis. I learned one major thing - I love scrubbing paint into paper. There's something cathartic and haphazard about it that meets my need for chaos with the utmost respect for order - does that even make sense? <br><br>On to the next girl...I've been working on her for more than a week.</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN2IyQ9MAw5lOs-n_801QsnlYEkAC96tFYPYNNJzgacuDOZLo92S-m83UZQOMGAi4mLBoiyjfmFrJAXNs30p_Cymh_gUMtpPDUuERjM-29pnHS7vTWbtRReEteB-dx9PaCcNFUO3zYcGI/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>I was definitely inspired by the work of <a href='http://www.willowing.org/blog/' target='_self'>Tamara Laporte</a>. I loved the idea of wind in the hair. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-pK48XpAfxdXl9rXsfvdCKGupQSzuZU1eFDEpEOdkALrwHHfKVrXrTNboz67Yk9K0BZmVFyy7KoUenpkgkTN-VX5xO-keQNzH4pzmDuruI_7AyNX0Uavz2WWcYI5qeEvspsBjufwRgjc/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>I call this the crazy muppet stage. I hate this stage. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFM_0j1a_wpi27WjgXBGXAUNiEcjLNR8uEktUMqAG933msHqLY1Jmf6UDoIhg937kJ-dckme1jA2nkYoGyXYUqCvLI8iQjQuldpndWp9s_Y4Z__JyKVtjmtOqhftfb7VNK7HSqCIKiYA/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>She's definitely starting to take shape. I love her hair and dress. My plan was to put a stanza of one of my favorite poems in the open yellow portion of the page spread.<br><br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKf-QmFSpiBxwCspECzogETLRCY7gcW1NOxk5EWDf9X9sy6K6XmQVS7Ny3k6RTVZfqQpQCR99t0_xMgW2zCFLHHCQ8hmdZHpW1Tm8GKrkuFHN5xr81NRmjHULrLmONtBaV0NE1BRJ_IbY/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>Started to add some texture to the background with some stencils and paint.</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_OFxlnbZSZD0CbgqXljnFBMWuVrTNfItq3zSV-bDiEly5_fq4XmA4WwI1U5ZJXFG51eoiz4JjPQGfWXyKMFv8BUmq89zyTCUmxdYagIBYusR5vAN3uiwpzRIjl5XqQ1PCTtkPSJrzA8Y/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>Had to redo the middle after a disastrous attempt to use my own handwriting. I really ended up liking the marble effect created with <a href='http://rangerink.com/?product=tim-holtz-distress-paint' target='_self'>distress paints</a>. Also - notice I got rid of the bird. I've started to work on the poem stanza and painstakingly added every letter of the stanza in tiny letters. It was a good lesson though. I'm not reading to try hand lettering on my pages - I know I'll get there...just not yet.<br><br>So that's it for now. I hope everyone is having a lovely Saturday. I plan on doing a round up post on Monday and finishing up this girl in the next 24 hours. I'm hopeful. Hope you're spending the day doing something you love. Until then...</p>Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-23860666072870838042014-04-06T20:38:00.001-05:002014-04-06T20:38:19.927-05:00Fear and Loathing in My Craft Space <p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>Happy Sunday! I wanted to do a quick update on my progress on the painting/art journal/mixed-media front. It definitely has not been an easy week on the crafty front. I got one piece done that I'm fairly happy with.</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbOiMClvoM4GH1YVBy6R9ENNzrwOj0aAGWr8OForV9jUAFMxYoH9H9Dhl0g8ir3TT3UvJIEtgVpLvrPCzryG6G95zSw8TxsVwt_v5DAJb3yT4uYErdINyxOfzqSOrW7ALPmASRkt41PHQ/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>I drew this girl from start to finish. I think that this is the thing that held me back the most. I did not want to mess up the eyes or make her look like a rabid Muppet. I find that it's much harder to finish a piece when I'm responsible for the facial features. It seems to be the most scary part of the process for me. It's something that I'll be working hard to push through in the next few months. I plan on practicing in a sketchbook so that I improve on my facial features, and more importantly...my confidence. Speaking of scary, I tried to do two different assignments from <a href='http://www.willowing.org/life-book-2014/' target='_self'>Lifebook 2014</a> and this is my progress…<br><br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnnQx_W4BItkOeafGM8Jc3skFecMOhyphenhyphen5YWJ_uD63Wq9ru4zk0yX-Z2A9HxtUqBoGIJEGNYf7nAxQm1deMcFErTKodJdRd4jTpFoI32EuJxhchYwXa38lDroB9LvGddyyQYSS2wGAOMQQ/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>In all fairness, there were problems from start to finish. The clear gesso did not react well to my graphite pencil. I was totally mystified by making a 3-D swing. And I'm having the hardest time with proportion. It was definitely a "draining my will to live" kind of situation. I don't know if I'll be going back to these assignments anytime soon - but I hope that I'll be courageous enough to revisit them before the class ends in December.<br><br>Anyhoo… That's it for now. I hope everyone has had a really great weekend. I also hope that everyone has a really great week full of creativity, crafts, and fun. Until then…</p>Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-43466555827216980592014-03-30T22:33:00.000-05:002014-03-30T22:33:00.720-05:00Sloppy Beginnings - Learning to PaintI've never heard a single solitary soul utter or even insinuate the ease of beginnings. I don't believe anyone has uttered the word easy in reference to beginning something new in the history of the entire world. I know it's a bold claim, but anyone who even breathed the word easy in regards to beginnings must have been high. I have to say I'm experiencing that times three months right now. I'm loving the process and my classes - but somehow these fingers and brain cannot output what I want or need right now. There is nothing I can do to change this - no easy fix. However, I also know wholeheartedly things get better. I've seen myself get better - just not good. My progress for this week has been slow coming. I've started to take my time and do very small increments of creative work when I notice my frustration mounting to unmanageable peaks. I remind myself that this is supposed to be fun - to feel the brush in my hand and the sensation of the paint meeting the paper and sometimes, when I'm focused...I remember. So not a lot of pics for this week. Just know that I've worked each day to create something new and better. This girl was a happy part of my week (for the most part).<br />
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In other news...I'm still battling with this abomination. I have loved her then made mistake after mistake in the finishing touches stage. I cannot stand her in this moment - in most moments. I keep plugging away remembering this fun - even when it blows. I think I'll name her False Starts - she fits that name perfectly!<br />
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This is the best picture I got of this hag. Pardon my anger towards her. You can't look directly at her or she doesn't look right and frankly I'm fed up. She's like Medusa. Don't look her dead on or it's a little like dying...just kidding (a little). That's why her eyes or closed - no need to risk eternity as a statue for this sad girl. So that's it for today. I hope you had a nice Sunday. I had a minor thing happen - I turned 37. I spent the day doing my favorite things - visiting the bookstore, Target, Michaels, and Chili's. I spent it as most solitary creatures do...alone. And it was perfect. There are celebration plans in the works for this upcoming weekend. A quick picture of my swag...<br />
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My plan is to make 37 figures or whimsical portraits this year. I had planned on coming up with 37 things or goals for this year, but who am I kidding? So excited about my haul. Just in case you were wondering, the book is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Figure-Out-Beginners-Drawing-Christopher/dp/1933027800/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396235858&sr=1-1&keywords=figure+it+out"><u>Figure it Out</u> </a>by Chris Hart. I hope to get <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Figure-Out-Human-Proportions-Christopher/dp/1936096730/ref=pd_sim_b_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1SEXHVRPBT0MT8BNSRZN">this book</a> soon as well. The author has a whole series on drawing and I'm pretty excited about learning more. Right now my goal seems like a little thing, but it makes me happy. I could make a goal to read 37 classics or listen to 37 audiobooks but those goals don't reflect where I'm at right now. Not to mention, they're things I already incorporate into my daily life, albeit I wish I did more. I'm going to take this first week to think about it further...but I'm happy with my one goal. Again, hoping your day was great. Until then...<br />
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P.S. I used my <a href="http://andrea-gomoll.de/">Andrea Gomoll's</a> stamps on my first girl's facial features. I freehanded the second girl using the stamps as a guide. The stamps come with her Facecinating girls <a href="http://andrea-gomoll.de/classes/">classes</a> - I highly recommend volumes <a href="http://andrea-gomoll.de/facecinatinggirls/">one</a> and <a href="http://andrea-gomoll.de/facecinatinggirls2/">two</a>. <br />
<br />Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-48853864770205718782014-03-23T15:13:00.001-05:002014-03-23T15:13:23.178-05:00Art Girl Project: Lent 2014 - Progress UpdateSo I'm not going to lie - this process has not been easy at all. After my last post, I almost gave up. I thought to myself that it was okay to give up...I'm not up for this. But then I remembered why I was doing this...and what Lent represents...and I decided to go for it. These were just growing pains. I decided to take baby steps and make sure I worked on one girl a day. Sometimes that meant five minutes - other days it meant five hours. I have to admit I've had my doubts over the last two weeks. However, this girl is one of the reason's I've kept pushing...<br />
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I was really happy with this girl. She looks a little different now due to paint dripping on the page from other projects - but I'm still totally happy with her. I used the stamp set from <a href="http://andreagomoll.typepad.com/">Andrea Gomoll</a>. I can't say enough good things about her stamps and the beauty of NOT having to draw the details. It makes life so much easier. <br />
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Next up...I tried my hand at drawing the details...<br />
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For this girlie, I was inspired by the wonderfully talented <a href="http://www.twinkletwinklelikeastar.blogspot.com/2012/11/from-artist-to-etsy-resolution-kept.html">Kristin Van Valkenburgh</a>. She's a really talented artist and my attempt really pales in comparison. I really love her <a href="http://www.twinkletwinklelikeastar.blogspot.com/">blog</a> and she shares her mixed media work on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/twinkleartist/my-mixed-media/">Pinterest</a>. The most important thing is using the inspiration and doing the best job you can. This represents my best work in that particular moment and time. I hope someday to get better. I could go on and on about the problems. The scale of her face is all wrong. Her eyes are too far apart. I really wish I would have done a two page spread. Her chin and cheek bones are a minor disaster. However, I love the colors. I think I did pretty well on the lips and her hair isn't a total loss. <br />
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My next art girlie got a two page layout and was inspired by this <a href="http://www.pauletteinsall.com/blog/2012/09/just-another-manic-monday/">painting</a> by <a href="http://www.pauletteinsall.com/">Paulette Insall</a>. There are a few photos to show you some of my process. I made a few mistakes so this girl took me about a week.<br />
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If you look at the first picture - I wanted my girl to have a word. I love the word soulful. I thought it was perfect for her (at first) then I thought about changing it to soar and adding a bird; as you can see, none of that happened. When I added the word on the bottom I went to work on another part of the project. My arm ran through the black paint and I pretty much lost my mind. I then went to my modeling paste and got to work. I painted it all over her dress and then colored it with <a href="http://www.fabercastell.com/design-memory-craft-us/products/gelatos">gelatos</a>. I am so satisfied with the result. I would love to leave you with this - because I truly love this girl. However, I thought I'd give you a quick glimpse of my new nemesis.<br />
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I have painted this piece of paper more times than I can count. The sun started out as radiating circles with a melon background. Then I tried my hand at a sunset (so not there yet) - and finally changed the circles into one smaller sun. I wish I would have taken pictures. I've just gessoed her face again and am waiting for it to dry. Then I am turning the page and doing something new. I need a break from this girl. She's driving me nuts. We are definitely on a break. <br />
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So there it is...two weeks of progress. One somewhat happy "artsy" girl. I'm not even close to ready to call myself artsy in any kind of real sense. The important thing is I'm having fun and plugging away. It's making me happy and that means so much. I hope everyone is having a wonderful Sunday. I will keep you updated on my progress. Until then...Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-35079144303898627072014-03-08T20:18:00.002-06:002014-03-30T22:33:19.335-05:00Artful Beginnings: A Tale of Me and the Girls<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
As part of my challenge for Lent in 2013 - I chose to do something creative everyday. Specifically I worked on creating scrapbook pages. On some days, I cranked out multiple layouts. And then, on other days I worked slowly - placing a card or choosing a picture. The really beautiful thing about that journey was that it reignited my love for scrapping and being creative. I found that I enjoyed the creative process more and wasn't addicted to the need for lots of words. It was an epiphany and a pleasure. I think that was due in large part to the fact that I had been scrapping for six years at that time and I was trying to get the spark back - that little thing that keeps you going and moving towards being a creative being.<br />
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Cut to 2014...I had taken a few classes and started drawing faces aided by the lovely and talented <a href="http://andrea-gomoll.de/" target="_self">Andrea Gomoll</a>. Her online <a href="http://andrea-gomoll.de/facecinatinggirls/" target="_self">Facecinating Girls class</a> comes with a stamp set that includes eyes, noses, and lips. It made things so much easier and I really felt successful. I decided to take the <a href="http://www.willowing.org/life-book-2014/" target="_self">Lifebook 2014</a> class sponsored by <a href="http://www.willowing.org/blog/" target="_self">Tamara LaPorte</a> at <a href="http://www.willowing.org/" target="_self">Willowing Arts</a>. I've been doing one or two projects a month since the year started and am really focused on faces. <br />
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So I decided that I would do a face a day for Lent this year - I've already changed this. Last year I made the goal to be creative each day in my scrapbooking. I realized a girl a day was a little too much. I'm going back to my previous model...I will be working on one mixed media girl each day with a focus on learning to shade darker skin tones. Tutorials for shading people of color are in short supply pretty much everywhere - so I'm really winging it. This is my fourth day - and truly this is a frustrating task. I realized this morning that it's because I'm a beginner. I know what I like and I can't produce it yet. And it drives me nuts. So instead of waiting to show my great work...I decided to show you my progress so far. Prepare to be underwhelmed and in one case horrified. </div>
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I want to be totally honest...I had a guide for the shading on this one. I will not be sharing that guide because it is truly unfair to the artist that worked so hard to put her class together. I'm a beginner and it shows. I used the stamps from <a href="http://andrea-gomoll.de/" target="_self">Andrea Gomoll's</a> <a href="http://andrea-gomoll.de/facecinatinggirls2/" target="_self">Facecinating Girls Vol. 2</a> class and did the rest by myself. I've made a few changes since then - but this was the basic look. I made more hair scribbles in multiple colors. I wanted to throw up after this first try - so horrified. <br />
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On the second day - I decided to try distress markers and inks. I was really motivated and inspired by the work of <a href="http://www.brettweldele.com/" target="_self">Brett Weldele</a>. I used the stamps from <a href="http://andrea-gomoll.de/" target="_self">Andrea Gomoll's </a><a href="http://andrea-gomoll.de/facecinatinggirls/" target="_self">Volume 1</a> class and got to work. I actually think this went well. There were only a few major problems. I used very cheap watercolor paper and it started to break down pretty quickly causing some color discoloration and curse words from yours truly. I was pissed at the time but actually like her a lot now. There's a lot to be said for taking a step back and chilling out. <br />
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So for those of you thinking - holy shit what did this girl do this time. I'll explain how this poor, sad, hideous girl came to be. My intentions were great. I wanted to use the same materials from my previous girl without the wear and tear on the paper. So I tried gesso and went to work again. I feel sorry for this girl. She's a disaster. She's an 'F." She's a failure - or should I say...the project was a failure. Remember this is just gesso and the EXACT SAME markers and ink. I could go on but there's no need...I decided to do a comparison photo.<br />
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OH....one other thing...I drew this girl. I got overconfident and drew the face in ink before I stamped the eyes. I will not be repeating that mistake anytime soon. I just can't handle mastering two skills (sketching and painting) at one time. The difference is huge and makes me love the other girl so much more. At this point I wanted to give up...but I decided to push forward.<br />
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This is my latest catastrophe. I used acrylics and a recipe of sorts. I completed this part of the piece yesterday and finished her up today. This is a really great way for me to work. It takes the pressure off. I was really shocked by how she looked last night - I was calling her the ugly creature from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fraggle_Rock">Fraggle Rock</a>. But I'm so much happier with her now...<br />
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I'm having trouble with proportions - admittedly. And her lips are an abomination. I kept on screwing them up and making them bigger and bigger. Don't even get me started on the friggin' eyebrows. However, she's SO much better than the eery muppet from before. She's a reminder that things DO get better.<br />
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So why this long diatribe...I just think it's important to document the beginnings. Beginnings can really suck. In my case it includes cursing, crying, and gnashing of teeth. I often lose the will to live. I often lose the will to make art ever again. I think my supplies should be given to someone else with just a little tiny amount of talent. Then I come to my senses and remember beginnings suck and this is just the growing pains of creating something better. I'll get there. I have the scrapbook pages to prove it. <br />
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So here are my new guidelines...</div>
<ul>
<li>I will use <a href="http://andrea-gomoll.de/" target="_self">Andrea Gomoll's</a> stamps - I'm not spending energy on drawing AND shading. It's too much right now.</li>
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<li>I will work on a mixed media girl each day. This can range from painting and stamping an entire girl or just painting an iris. </li>
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<li>I will share my work here weekly.</li>
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<li>I will share the materials I use when the shading and coloring is successful (by my standards).</li>
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<li>I will keep my girls in one place as a chronicle of my journey.</li>
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<li>I will use high quality watercolor paper when using uber-wet mediums. </li>
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<li>I will be easy on myself. I will relax. I will try to have fun.</li>
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Here's hoping it gets better. I hope everyone is having a lovely Saturday! Until then...<br />
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BTW: The pictures with additional art was edited using <a href="http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2013/12/a-beautiful-mess-photo-app-video-tour.html" target="_self">A Beautiful Mess' photo app</a>.Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-42863508058871355552013-08-18T15:52:00.001-05:002013-08-18T15:53:55.577-05:00Comparisons: Distress vs......Distress?Hi all! I decided to do a little comparison today with a lovely stamp that found it's way into my stash yesterday. It's one of <a href="http://www.rubbernecker.com/">Rubbernecker's</a> watercolor stamps and it's whole purpose is to create beautiful imperfection. Since this post will be image heavy - I'll try to keep the chatter to a minimum. Let's start with the image from <a href="http://www.rubbernecker.com/">Rubbernecker</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rubbernecker.com/watercolor-poppies.html">Original Source: Watercolor Poppies</a></td></tr>
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If you click on the link, there's a pretty great demo video available. I personally love this set and was super excited to work with it! While the demo tape uses <a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress-products/">distress</a> <a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress-inks/">inks</a> and <a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress_markers/">markers</a> to color the images, I thought I'd give <a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress-paint/">distress paints</a> a try as well. In each picture, the <a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress-paint/">distress paint</a> image is on the left and the <a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress-inks/">distress ink</a>/<a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress_markers/">marker</a> image is on the right. The final image is colored with <a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress-inks/">distress ink</a> and <a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress_markers/">markers</a>.<br />
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A few notes - I really prefer the <a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress-inks/">distress inks</a> and <a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress_markers/">markers</a> for this image with one exception. I really liked the vibrancy of the first image on the left. I think the pinks are much more vibrant. The blue image on the right is my hands down favorite of them all. I think I might have enjoyed the painted version more if I could have done a better job of lining up the second stamp and would have had the exact same colors. Sadly, <a href="http://timholtz.com/prod_cat/distress-paint/">distress paint </a>is not available in <a href="http://www.simonsaysstamp.com/servlet/the-21310/2010-Tim-Holtz-Ranger/Detail">tumbled glass</a> or <a href="http://www.simonsaysstamp.com/servlet/the-45266/teal-Tim-Holtz-spring/Detail">peacock feathers</a> so I was working with a pretty different color palette. I might give white a try as the base on my next run. If you want a better look at each sample, click on the picture.<br />
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I absolutely can't wait to do more with these sets and play around with a few more solid/brush stroke stamps I have in my stash. I also have a great idea for some existing flower stamps I have that are outlines. I'll keep you posted on how things progress. I'll also start providing full supply information when I've got a better handle on things. I hope everyone's been doing really well. Until then...Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-9649977351681352852013-08-02T12:38:00.001-05:002013-08-02T12:38:14.475-05:00Am I Crazy? <p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>I might be crazy - but I still think I can do it. I can read 50 books by December 31, 2013. I'll just need to do a few things, like...<br><br><i>Turn off the television.<br>Stay awake and present.<br>Take lunch breaks to eat healthy (to keep me awake) and read or write.<br>Abandon books that don't interest me - no more hanging in there until the end. They have fifty pages to get it together.<br>Pay my library fine - then I can rent books with a deadline attached...more motivation.<br>Determine my true priorities.</i><br><br>I still might be crazy - but there's a plan there. I just need to decide if reading 50 books is a "true" priority. It's so hard trying to decide what's important. I will never get over how I've been in this body, mind, and heart 24 hours a day for the last 36+ years and still have no idea what I really want. It just doesn't seem possible. But here I am...Strange how things work. I'll keep you posted on my decisions.<br><br>Quick update: I think I've finally narrowed down my CHA picks (maybe) and will be going forward with that post in the next few days. Hope everyone is having a great Friday. Until then...</p>Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-52489871773475120382013-07-28T13:34:00.001-05:002013-07-28T13:34:26.993-05:00So...I Didn't Forget <p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUQOGOEYnLN6oawZOlO0l3-2FRw-SdDCYXM13SYm2IRtIAJSSyqimYi_v9Pu_ShYIUWN1ncSazjkucKeidvMEVJn5m6X9IC-fQD1rtD1mLRbkYreQND4bpUhEL4ERr4rQb3LPopzvQaR8/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>Real quick: I did not forget about <a href='http://www.craftandhobby.org/eweb/DynamicPage.aspx?WebKey=6F38E337-4505-4B74-BFF6-81AA541C74D8' target='_self'>CHA</a> or my promise that I would do an ENTIRE week of posts on my favorite new products. I had every intention of doing those posts. And then I saw <a href='www.pinterest.com' target='_self'>Pinterest</a> and other blogs and how beautifully they summarized the new crafty lines and the show and wondered if my voice was needed. And that, my friends, is why comparison is the thief of joy (not sure who said that). So - my plan is to do a post at some point this week. I loved a ton of things - so I'm narrowing it down to eight. I know it seems like a random number - but it's my favorite number and I need to reign it in - so eight. <br><br><b>Right Now</b>: I'm working on scrapbook layouts for my sister about my nephew. I'm using ideas and content from <a href='http://aliedwards.com/' target='_blank'>Ali Edwards's</a> class, <a href='http://aliedwards.com/2013/07/hello-story-begins-today.html' target='_blank'>Hello Story</a> (registration for this class is closed). I'm trying to recover from a string of social activities. As a strong introvert, my energy is completely depleted at this point. I refused to leave the house to get coffee today. I might do a little art journaling. I made a spray mist background yesterday. My only other plan is to rest, with a capital R. Tonks (my beastly kitty) will be resting along with me. Hope everyone is having a great Sunday! Until then...<br><br></p>Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-12540722304982055012013-07-23T12:12:00.001-05:002013-07-23T12:12:28.490-05:00My Thoughts on Living with Chronic Illness <p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>I know I'm shifting gears. This is a crafty blog after all - my identified niche so to speak. But - I think it also serves as a memory keeping tool. It's another way to tell my story. So I've decided to do some documentation here on the blog about my battle with weight and chronic illness and my current attempt to get from under the muck.<br><br>I have an auto-immune disease. There are a wide range of diseases and conditions in this category - my particular condition mounts a pretty sophisticated attack on primarily my joints and connective tissues - which doesn't sound horrible until someone tells you that your have an unstable C-spine (neck). Then that shit gets real. I've had it sixteen years and have seen a lot of changes in both my body and treatments. I was only nineteen when the symptoms started - two months shy of my twentieth birthday. Within four months - I had a diagnosis. <br><br>I'm not sure people understand what a gigantic blessing it is to have to wait such a short time to get some answers. I've seen posts and read stories about men and women struggling for years to find a name for their pain. They have somewhat similar stories as mine. Negative rheumatoid factor. Bi-lateral pain in multiple joints. High levels of inflammation in the body. Overall body weakness. Insomnia. I was one of the lucky ones. I had quality medical insurance from my parents after my eighteenth birthday. I had the ability to go home to see a local specialist in the area where my parents lived. I had an experienced doctor capable and willing to use x-rays to diagnose my condition. He didn't mess with the negative factor. The downside was that I had developed an arthritic pattern of destruction in my joints which could be detected on x-rays in four short months - still I'm pretty lucky.<br><br>My first treatment protocol included immune suppressing drugs called DMARDS, pain medications, and prednisone. At the time, I had no idea what taking these medications would do to my body or what they meant for long term functioning. I do now.<br><br>In the last sixteen years, I've experienced a lot in terms of my illness. I've had great days - almost pain free. However, these are pretty rare. My immune system was pretty good at destroying my joints in the early days causing degenerative arthritis in my feet and hands. My body began to both destroy and fuse my joints at the same time. I've had one surgery - on my right foot - and am in desperate need for another on the left foot. Unfortunately, I had a pretty rough time of it the first go around and am in no way ready to leap into another surgery experience. I've been through several advancements in treatments and now get regular infusions to suppress my immune system. <br><br>I've had days when I've shrieked with pain the moment my feet have hit the floor. I've had to hold on to walls to get down the hallway at my work place. I've had terrible side effects from medications which have required additional specialists and as you might have guessed - more pills. It takes approximately 31 pills to keep this body running each day, 42 on Sunday. I've gained over a 100 pounds in the first few years after my diagnosis, partly due to long term prednisone use and extremely poor eating habits. I've dealt with depression secondary to a medical condition. I've had to endure the blank stares of people I know and love as I explain RA and that it is not a direct result of my obesity. I've had to listen to people talk about how my RA will go away if I lose weight - like my immune system will magically heal itself (a story for another day). I've faced the never ending process of not knowing what each day will bring. However, I'm learning new and promising things all the time...<br><br>I started listening to a nutrition podcast recently which talked about the link between nutrition and autoimmune conditions. I've been doing some research and it turns out that most of your immune system (60-80%) can be found in your digestive track - specifically your small intestine or gut. There are some that believe the key to treatment, reduction, and elimination of symptoms lies in healing the gut. And this is where it gets a little confusing. I've heard a number of different recommendations on what nutritional approach is best, including:<br><br><b>Gluten Free Diet<br>Gluten Free, Casein Free, and Soy Free Diet<br>Gluten Free, Casein Free, Soy Free, and Corn Free Diet<br>Paleo Diet <br>Paleo Diet (auto-immune protocol)</b><br><br>In addition, there are different protocols and in some cases it includes eliminating a variety of kinds of food. When I contacted my doctor regarding trying a Paleo diet, he had never heard of it. Unfortunately, there is not a lot of scientific, empirical research out there on nutritional treatments for many autoimmune conditions. However he did have some patients that had experienced success with a gluten-free diet. I bought <a href='http://www.amazon.com/dp/1936608758' target='_self'>this</a> book and have started to read it. I also have books on gluten-free eating. I started a board on <a href='www.pinterest.com' target='_self'>Pinterest</a> devoted to Paleo and have bookmarked several blogs. I've actually thought about going gluten free for approximately two years - but I just can't imagine doing it. I don't cook. I love cupcakes and Bread Co. How am I supposed to live my life without gluten - that IS the question. Don't even think about getting me started on casein free, soy free, and corn free. It's information overload. It seems unlikely at best...if it weren't for this one thing.<br><br><b>Do I love cupcakes more than mobility? <br>Do I value food more than my family or myself?<br>Do I want to get better? What exactly do I have to lose from giving it a try?<br>What if doing this meant I could do the thing I thought I couldn't? What if it changed everything?</b><br><br>So I'm bound and determined to at least try out this new way of eating. It's going to require A LOT of changes. I'm not sure anyone believes I can do it. I'm not sure I believe I can do it. I'm currently in the contemplation stage of change. I could try to delude myself into thinking I'm in the preparation stage; however, I'm currently reading and researching as I drink a Venti Soy White Chocolate Mocha with no whip cream. Can you see the irony? I have quite a long way to go. To be completely honest - I have no idea how I'm going to start.<br><br>I just know that I need to do something else. I can't continue to let the pills and pounds pile up. I want to be able to walk with my nephews and niece. I want to be able to run after them. I want something better...and maybe, just maybe, that is worth more than a cupcake. I sure hope so. It's time to be a more active participant in my treatment plan. I plan on doing periodic blog posts as I begin to travel down this new path. My first goal is to provide relief to my digestive track. I'm not thinking about the extra weight at this point. I think it's a good start. Actually, I hope it's a good start.<br><br><i>Please note: I will be doing a series on my struggles with auto-immune disease. These entries are reflective of my experience only. I am not a medical professional. Any content should not be treated as a recommendation or endorsement.</i> <br><br><b>Crafty Update</b>: I haven't forgotten about CHA week. I'm just trying to wrap my head around how to categorize all of the fabulous products. I'm also trying to wrap my head around the fact that they won't all be coming to my house - no matter how much I might want them too. I wish there was a scrapbook fairy - wouldn't that be fantastic? Anyhoo - hope everyone's having a great Tuesday. Until then...</p>Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-89834577276528604892013-07-21T11:51:00.001-05:002013-07-21T11:53:22.065-05:00Sunday Confessions <p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>Please draw your attention to the post below. Please look closely at the picture. Notice the distress markers located right next to the 2 liter of Sprite Zero and then guess what I found in the refrigerator eight hours after clearing the table. Yes, my distress markers. I can't even begin to wrap my head around how this might have happened. I'm not sure how I didn't notice the big bottle of soda on the table when I walked by multiple times. I don't know how I didn't notice the difference in weight when I was walked the markers into the kitchen. I just know that I was in complete shock when I found my distress markers on the top shelf of my fridge. And then I was pissed, why? Not because my full set of 24 distress markers were in the fridge, but because my soda was warm. So I shook it off with a whatcha gonna do attitude and drank some warm soda. Hoy vey. Life is weird sometimes. Gotta love it. Hope everyone is having a great Sunday! Until then...<br><br>BTW: I'll keep you posted on whether the distress markers are effected by their time in the cooler. I did check to make sure one of the markers still worked. Lord, help me.</p>Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-65132078664664085972013-07-20T11:48:00.000-05:002013-07-20T11:48:31.629-05:00My Craft Desk (otherwise known as the dining room table)I wanted to do a quick post to show what my crafty space looked like after my fiasco yesterday. I'm considering calling it my triumphant fiasco - as in I conquered it. I should totally play Conquest (one of the main USC songs) when trying new crafty techniques - it could totally change my frame of mind. I digress. So here's a quick picture...<br />
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Please note: there are some organization issues with the table. The box on the upper left is filled with miscellaneous crap that needs to be organized, boxed, and put in the closet. The big bottle of Sprite Zero belongs in the refrigerator and the mail and newspapers need to be recycled. Oh, and the comb needs to put away - but everything else was part of the frenzy of crafting. I would say 2/3 of the table. I just wanted to share to give an idea of what this space looks like when I go into battle. I hope it makes someone feel a little better. Hope everyone is having a lovely Saturday. Next week, I will be sharing my favorite CHA finds (so far). It'll be a week of product lusty goodness. I'm so excited. Until then...Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-14384426267195260692013-07-19T23:16:00.001-05:002013-07-20T11:25:15.499-05:00Friday Fiasco - The Late VersionToday is my good friend's 50th birthday. Being a self-proclaimed recluse, only big occasions seem to get me out of my house these days. You would think that with all of that time on my hands I would have had a card prepared before 6:30 pm the night of her birthday dinner...and you would be oh...so...wrong. <br />
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Picture this...me in a complete relaxed state watching videos mulling over what new technique I'm going to try on my friend's birthday card. Picture me choosing <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCprzJARI78&feature=c4-overview&list=UUJhHyzSGkdrU2RR6DWjlkiA">this</a> very cool technique from the uber-talented <a href="http://brittaswiderski.com/">Britta Swiderski</a>. Picture me reminding myself that things could get dicey BUT IT WILL BE OKAY. Then picture me sitting down at my craft table to do said technique and basically just losing my shit. Why? Because there's a learning curve and no matter how much I prepare myself mentally, I'm never going to be okay with a piece of paper that looks like this...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1W67W2OZA3R07bbz1bSXtomEPxWkRTNwFrS_a_UejXjJyQ7-gsjLrT2auNuTc8SR1tbNimUJTRE41XCdyDOOlJ_tzbRPmLfa_thzenOCxgQB7xeID0Cq2gfF-EMJftqTaU-srrXIRQEQ/s1600/DSC02620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1W67W2OZA3R07bbz1bSXtomEPxWkRTNwFrS_a_UejXjJyQ7-gsjLrT2auNuTc8SR1tbNimUJTRE41XCdyDOOlJ_tzbRPmLfa_thzenOCxgQB7xeID0Cq2gfF-EMJftqTaU-srrXIRQEQ/s400/DSC02620.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is my very unfortunate first attempt. I decided to give <a href="http://www.fabercastell.com/design-memory-craft/products/categories/gelatos">gelatos</a> a try instead of distress ink to change it up a bit. Rule #1: It is not the best idea to "change it up a bit" when learning something new. I was frustrated but I pushed on going back to the original instructions. I ended up with this...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgULefT1SSMo-QbkFT7ak6shu_p_QkaZ-cQKEjurYdIMq5rOIZaDyn17OddIE-2nmqkDCF4_mFrPZFfcLIuEYASIAwPBtY2xDc78xJeMvqG-OaEr_DeNRA7JRXlsNxWVj5_54n3IMVkdUQ/s1600/DSC02619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgULefT1SSMo-QbkFT7ak6shu_p_QkaZ-cQKEjurYdIMq5rOIZaDyn17OddIE-2nmqkDCF4_mFrPZFfcLIuEYASIAwPBtY2xDc78xJeMvqG-OaEr_DeNRA7JRXlsNxWVj5_54n3IMVkdUQ/s400/DSC02619.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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In my opinion, there are a few things that went wrong here. My color choices were not strong enough. I really wanted colors similar to the ones used in my first try but I don't have those colors in distress inks. My friend loves pink and I'm a teal girl - so I was a little stuck (part of the reason I reached for the <a href="http://www.fabercastell.com/design-memory-craft/products/categories/gelatos">gelatos</a> first). I choose to use a yellow spray mist - which really cancelled out the pink and reds I had added from my <a href="http://rangerink.com/?product=tim-holtz%C2%AE-distress-ink-pads">distress ink</a> stash (spun sugar and worn lipstick). I'm still not sure what color spray ink to use on a pink project. My spray mists are uber-saturated and bright. I thought about throwing in the towel at this point. But I moved on...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqFNLsgDSiZ12uG0TRUyKhFrch7opPpazCWIKHT3iz_sDt7qbq4dxzE4caB1sXA9g9VvNneKneqDLHls5l0ntE3Es_JQYRWqaFjpqWISX1jO04cpcEpTW1f9mD53HIaK6U1UyA04-GsRc/s1600/DSC02624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqFNLsgDSiZ12uG0TRUyKhFrch7opPpazCWIKHT3iz_sDt7qbq4dxzE4caB1sXA9g9VvNneKneqDLHls5l0ntE3Es_JQYRWqaFjpqWISX1jO04cpcEpTW1f9mD53HIaK6U1UyA04-GsRc/s400/DSC02624.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The paper was originally slated to be part of the background of the card. I had already chosen to use the <a href="http://unitystampco.com/shop/she-was-a-daughter/">SHE was a daughter</a> stamp from <a href="http://unitystampco.com/">Unity Stamp Co</a>. I decided to shift gears and make it the pattern on the dress. I wasn't so happy with this choice but I REALLY wanted to try and make it work. Pretty soon I realized there wasn't enough contrast. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYEWqpO6E425zSlXHW0G-5BH7mmIClPmdESx7155oGU8nfy1I5OWwjSTONbBR7dJZhb5flwnL2apYf4hjK_yM7T7K3P63oHlGqTeq11lpGC1lScIL_GM9KHKxrIml8npqG65WZdQNIWY/s1600/DSC02625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYEWqpO6E425zSlXHW0G-5BH7mmIClPmdESx7155oGU8nfy1I5OWwjSTONbBR7dJZhb5flwnL2apYf4hjK_yM7T7K3P63oHlGqTeq11lpGC1lScIL_GM9KHKxrIml8npqG65WZdQNIWY/s400/DSC02625.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlleqLjzTz1wyPBoeZsWG5IHDA0ZJ1mVdGztESIEW_wSbHwBX1_1Xeb91kBWQ1oDj9QpAX68A5lJ8fNclX1JKJXntTnFU6lRXroqcWmolzPofXbWxS5IDX-LuFIrJNjTRFephOTKJodE8/s1600/DSC02627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlleqLjzTz1wyPBoeZsWG5IHDA0ZJ1mVdGztESIEW_wSbHwBX1_1Xeb91kBWQ1oDj9QpAX68A5lJ8fNclX1JKJXntTnFU6lRXroqcWmolzPofXbWxS5IDX-LuFIrJNjTRFephOTKJodE8/s400/DSC02627.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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So I got out my trusty <a href="http://www.fabercastell.com/design-memory-craft/products/categories/gelatos">gelatos</a> and tried to deepen the contrast and even add a little pink and red to the mix. I wasn't successful in bringing out the pinks and reds - but there was a little more contrast between layers of the dress. I was somewhat satisfied. I then moved on to putting the pieces of the card together. By this time - I had maybe 15 minutes to get everything done so I had to work fast. <br />
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And there it is... the finished card. Surprisingly, I am really happy with it. There isn't a strong resemblance to it's original state. However, I was able to make it work which is really all that matters. If I had to do it over again - I would stamp the image and color the dress with <a href="http://www.fabercastell.com/design-memory-craft/products/categories/gelatos">gelatos</a>. Unfortunately that wouldn't have been nearly as fun as sweating it out to the finish line (in this case). There were a number of other different errors - the card was too big and I ended up sticking it down and letting it flow over the edges. I also made a mistake while writing and ended up having to cover the inner part of the card...<br />
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Notice the extra portion of the card in brown on the opposite page. I could not find any envelopes. I had to put the card in one of those small brown paper bags you get when you buy something small from your LSS. I stapled it and stamped a birthday balloon on the front. Done and done. <br />
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Anyhoo, before I head out for the night, I want to leave you with a few things I learned today.<br />
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<li>Being a beginner sometimes means following directions...EXACTLY. </li>
<li>It's okay to accept your beginner status when trying new things even if you've been doing some other version of that hobby/craft/activity for years.</li>
<li>Sometimes you have to accept the mistakes and move on. Cutting the front of the card down would have been a much bigger mistake than having a 1/4 inch overflow on two sides. Weigh your options.</li>
<li>When things go wrong - reinvent. I could have totally walked away from my orange background - but I pressed on and I think it worked in my favor. </li>
<li>As always...it's okay to mess up. It's okay to lose it sometimes. It's okay to just say screw it and throw your experiment in the trash or to push on and see where it goes. Both options have value. Only you can decide what choice is right. In this case, I had no time and I'm really glad. </li>
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So there it is...two fiascos, lots of steps, and one finished card. I'm totally ready to try the technique again - staying closer to my own chosen color palette and see where it leads. I will post the results here. I hope everyone is having a great Friday evening or Saturday (wherever you are in the world). Until then...Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-47820964360399000712013-07-17T20:58:00.001-05:002013-07-19T23:17:06.444-05:00Disappearing Acts<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
It pretty much goes without saying that if I'm missing from this blog - I'm experiencing some kind of creative block. Thankfully I pulled out some pictures and really thought about some of the stories I've wanted to tell. I've been trying to create cohesion in my albums and there was a big hole in my nephew's story.<br /><br />On the day Kai was born, I had the forethought to take a picture. I wanted to document my feelings about the birth of my nephew with a picture of the two of us. Since he lives on the eastern side of the country and I'm smack in the middle of the heartland, it wasn't possible to get a picture together. Luckily someone had flipped the switch on to my brain that morning. I took a picture in the car on my way to work. And then he was born and my heart expanded. I'm not sure why I've waited almost 11 months to scrap this story. I'm just glad I've finally did.</div>
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One of the things that I love about the <a href="http://https//www.americancrafts.com/default.aspx?PageID=49&CategoryID=489" target="_blank">Lucky Charm</a> line is the use of the "You are My Sunshine" lyrics. It is perfect for expressing how I feel about Mr. Kai. I would like to say this layout was easy - but it would be an absolute mother-effing lie. I was constantly trying to make things fit into the rule of thirds, mixing colors, getting the story on the page, etc. I wanted to pull out my effing hair. And then it finally just clicked. Some people refer to that as serendipity...others call it luck...and I call it grace. Grace to be able to tell the story. Grace to be able to quiet the overly critical voices in my head long enough to do something creative. Grace to be blessed with such a beautiful little baby in my life - despite the distance. Just grace...<br /><br />And I leave you with that and a quick update. Since my fiasco and futile attempts to make cards (which never happened), crafting has pretty much come to a complete stop in these parts. Thankfully I got my ass in my chair yesterday and took another spin today. The success is posted above. Today was nothing short of a cluster@#$!. Plenty of fodder for a fiasco post. I'm going to do my best to be around here more for the second part of the month. I hope you're all doing well. Until then...</div>
Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-35633128702969114632013-06-28T19:28:00.001-05:002013-07-19T23:17:26.895-05:00Friday Fiasco also known as The Time I made an Amalgamation of Crap<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
I have made the decision to devote Friday blog posts to total effing fiascos and/or failures. Yesterday I mentioned plans to make <i>fifteen</i> cards in a messy, imperfect style by Sunday - clearly showing that I had lost my friggin' mind. I got to work pretty soon after my declaration. These two pieces of paper are the product of my first attempts at mixed media cardmaking.</div>
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At this point you might be wondering what products I used. I'm not going to tell you - I think it's a real disservice to the manufacturers. I would feel they were totally justified in telling me to cease and desist in discussing or using their products. I actually like the polka dots on the right. We'll see if it goes on any project. <i>I promise I will share products if and/or when they make the cut.</i><br /><br />In the past, I would have thrown in the towel, shook my hands at the heavens, and swore to never pick up another crafty material ever. I would have started to make mental lists of which friends would get my supplies while calling my good friend and cursing her for directing me towards this crafty journey. I am so thankful God has a sense of humor. He must look down at me and laugh or at least I hope...<br /><br />Moving on...I did not throw in the towel. I made another attempt today. I decided my project on the left fell victim to overly ambitious color choices and should be seen as a a simple mistake, not a complete failure. This is progress people. So I decided to go monochromatic...and then changed my mind (like an idiot).</div>
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I stamped a variety of images and it looked okay. And then I decided to add yellow. I was thinking of the paper I planned to use on the cards - and thought it was a GREAT idea. It was not. The paper was saturated with water at the time I took this photo - and maybe even now. When I saw the yellow - I knew I had made a mistake. I tried to correct it by overstamping with the other colors - I don't think it worked. I'm waiting for it to dry and reassessing before declaring it a catastrophe. <br /><br />At this point you might be wondering when the bitching and moaning is going to end. But here's the thing, most people don't take the time to show their failures. My first attempts suck pretty much unequivocally. Sometimes it takes me years to try something new let alone actually like what I do - I'm really not about the imperfection. And there was a time I would have thrown in the towel and went back to what works for me. The problem is...nothing changes that way - I don't learn anything new. I don't grow or evolve. This is no longer acceptable. So I've decided to share and move forward because I will "master" this...it just might take longer than a few days. Guess what? It's okay. It has to be. Hope everyone is having a nice Friday evening. Until then... <br /><br /><i>P.S. I will be going back to the "old" way to finish the cards for my friend by Sunday. I'm just not giving up on my mixed-media journey.</i></div>
Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-78053300649188578952013-06-27T13:00:00.000-05:002013-07-19T23:17:54.861-05:00Your Mission: Choose to Accept It <div class="bloggerplus_image_section">
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I've been home for almost two weeks. I had a very kind friend take care of my beastly kitty while I was away and I've been planning on getting her a gift or even better making something. Handmade is always a good thing. The problem is...I won't get off my keister and do it. It's a pretty simple thing really. Right? <i>BTW: I'm horrible at this kind of thing. I haven't even called to check-in. It's terrible. </i><br /><br />So this morning, I collected a large group of stamps. I was thinking more about being creative, having fun, and coming out with a bundle of mixed media cards for my friend wrapped in twine with a bow. Simple. Yes. Unfortunately, simple and I don't seem to be acquainted...at all. Did you notice how many stamps I pulled out? Many of these images are stamps I've never touched OR I've "simply" thrown in the towel after a particularly dastardly craft session. Many of these images have never seen the light of day on any kind of project. It's a shame. To be fair, five of these sets are relatively new - did I just say five? Sheesh! Moving on...<br /><br />So this is what I'm working with...some might say there are far too many choices. I think it's plenty. I won't be getting up to get more stamps and I have a very loose framework in mind. Make them messy, imperfect, and pretty. I've never done this style before...which makes this mission precarious at best. I'm not sure if it's even my friend's style now that I think about it - but I hope it works out. I plan to use a bunch of my coloring mediums; distress inks, paints, stains, markers etc; inktense pencils; spray mist; watercolor crayons and so on. <br /><br />I plan to start today by my very efficient visitor (I call him Dad) already has a list of errands to run. He has promised a day spent at home tomorrow. We'll see. So this is my plan or mission. Make 15 cards. Print out a variety of sentiments in pretty fonts, cut them into strips, bag them and put them with the card bundle. I don't usually put sentiments on my cards unless they are part of the set. So I want to give my friend choices. It's the first time I'll be doing it this way. Bundle the cards in teal twine and put in a cute box with a glue stick. Present to friend with apologies for being a gigantic ass and not calling immediately. My mission deadline is Sunday...I'm choosing to accept it. I might make a few changes to stamp images or color mediums but for now I'm pretty happy. Hope you're still having a great day (two posts in one day). Until then...<br /><br /><i>P.S. I just counted and there are 25 sets of stamps on that table - I've lost my mind.</i></div>
Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-18412138619906659202013-06-27T09:38:00.001-05:002013-06-27T09:39:43.484-05:00The Pleasure of Your Comapny <p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><a href='http://mrg.bz/QVmNRv' target='_blank'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIvCG3bFYEpyt-jCSCHzU0HaCJ50Rk4Zk_Iy_94014kVJVyAj1U582eMJLHOmEH3dUgQOnVhG0NqJsUhLQFxMJf_8I1C3D2qfqWDYK_A3Fhlg8UuyqsRdmIA7OtrPiMKGE6XLEgtDv_JE/'></a></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>Sometimes it's easy for me to forget. It's easier to keep my head down, avoid eye contact, and not notice the person next to me. As an introvert, I often pride myself on being a loner. Still, I forget. I forget about the opportunities to learn more about people - I constantly miss them. <br><br>This reality smacked me right across the face yesterday when I visited a local diner. It's one of those hole in the wall, wonderful gems that everyone has in their neighborhood. Being a consummate loner, I didn't find out about this gem for almost EIGHT years. It's a tiny place. There are only four to five tables, two counters, and really great simple, greasy, diner food. <br><br>Yesterday, my father and I went to this little gem for the second time in four or five days. It was clear we were surrounded by regulars, people greeting one another, and having a generally grand time. Eventually, we ended up next to two older adults chatting about all kinds of things including; military service, Vietnam, the Cuban Missile Crisis, Muscular Dystrophy, Lake Tahoe, road trips, rental cars...and the list goes on. This is in large part due to my lovable, affectionate, extroverted father and our two lovely neighbors being willing to chat.<br><br>As I sat there nodding, listening, and chiming in occasionally, I realized something important. This is the stuff of life - this is the story. I immediately knew I wanted to tell this story. One of our neighbors - an older woman - said she would maybe see me again if I came in to the diner in the future. What a kindness - just this one small thing. Someone who doesn't even know me - commenting more than once on seeing me again.<br><br>It's okay to be a loner. I'm proud of my introverted personality and try to respect it as much as possible. I just need to remember to get out...to talk to people...to look them in the eye....to nod and listen. Because these moments are the stuff of life. They are the opportunity to feel connected and part of a larger whole. It's worth the risk. I'm glad I got a chance to see that yesterday. I hope I continue to go there and chat with other customers. It's a small thing but it could be great. Hope everyone's having a great day. Until then...</p>Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-21329746871520525242013-06-26T09:30:00.003-05:002013-06-26T09:30:41.780-05:00Foodie Fiction Love<div class="bloggerplus_image_section">
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I prescribe to the 8-year old theory postulated by <a href="http://www.craftcast.com/blog" target="_self">Ms. Alison Lee</a> of <a href="http://www.craftcast.com/" target="_self">Craftcast</a> fame. I don't actually know if this theory is her brainchild or not - but it's excellent. My own interpretation of this theory is that if you want to connect with what you truly love - think back to when you were in second or third grade and you'll find some really great clues. This idea has worked great for me when it comes to connecting with what I REALLY love. When I look back on those times, I base my age on where my family lived. We hoped around our town a few times when I was in elementary school - so second and third grade are pretty clear. <br />
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Between first and second grade, I visited the classroom of my sister's godmother and found those old school SRA cards and was immediately sucked in. I wanted to read all of them. When I entered the second grade, I remember begging my favorite teacher of all time to let me read those cards - not realizing at the time that they weren't specifically geared for me. She finally gave in...but I had sort of moved on. I think this is around the time I was reading the Ramona books. I loved this year - this class. Coincidentally, it's also the year I remember feeling inferior at coloring and art. I envied the artistic abilities of some of my classmates. And being a little perfectionistic - I wrote myself off as ever being any kind of artist...a longer story for another day<br />
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In third grade, my class studied China and I loved everything about this year long project. We did tons of reading, researching, coloring, etc. My teacher made the whole subject come to life. I loved it. I remember the school library and loving the books there. And then there was the bookmobile. Over the summer, my sister, cousin and I would bike down to the local park and borrow books from the traveling library known as the bookmobile. That place was heaven...basically a food truck for bibliophiles. And I definitely was a bibliophile. <i>BTW: I've put a picture of a supercool bookmobile at the top of this post. This was NOT my bookmobile. I wish - it's quite cool. </i><br />
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Twenty eight years later and I'm still in love with books. I could go into it more - but this post is already getting quite long and after three long paragraphs, it might just be time to get to the point. As time goes on, our passions and interests evolve. It's a natural progression of things. I find that my reading is often filled with what I'm loving in my real life - cupcakes, scrapbooking, books, art, etc. So it comes as no surprise that my newest love is foodie fiction. <br />
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I'm currently reading this...<br />
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I'm absolutely loving this book. Prior to this book, I read <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/school-of-essential-ingredients-erica-bauermeister/1100037275?ean=9780425232095" target="_self">The School of Essential Ingredients</a> by <a href="http://www.ericabauermeister.com/" target="_self">Erica Bauermeister</a>. Loved it. Previous to that, I read <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/from-the-kitchen-of-half-truth-maria-goodin/1112689792?ean=9781402279485" target="_self">From the Kitchen of Half Truth</a> by <a href="http://www.mariagoodin.co.uk/index.html" target="_self">Maria Goodin</a>. Loved it too. I can't wait to read <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-lost-art-of-mixing-erica-bauermeister/1112220369?ean=9780399162114" target="_self">The Lost Art of Mixing</a>, <a href="http://www.ericabauermeister.com/" target="_self">Erica Bauermeister's</a> follow-up to her previous novel (listed above). I've definitely fell down the rabbit hole and want to read and see more of this hybrid genre. I've found a number of resources on Foodie Fiction and other possible reads. So excited. I also have a lot of books on my Kindle and Nook apps ripe for the taking or reading as it may be.<br />
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It's a funny thing really. I wouldn't consider myself a foodie - although I do love food. I spend most of my money on books and craft supplies so there isn't much left over for extravagant meals. I call myself a cupcake connoisseur, but that will all be changing very soon. It has come as a little bit of a surprise that I love this sub-genre of fiction as much as I do. There's just something about these books that make me happy. Maybe because food is such a sensual experience? I just know that it's my new obsession. I plan on keeping everyone posted on my reading exploits in the fictional foodie world as time passes. Can't wait to read more.<br />
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Today I have plans to get a few errands done, eat at least two meals, drink lots of water, and stay dry. We've got a path of strong storms traveling towards my area. Praying that everyone stays safe. Hopefully I'll get a chance to do some crafting and reading. I have some cards to make for gifts to a very helpful friend. I bought those stamps from Monday's post yesterday. I'm a hot mess. I have the impulse control of a gnat. Anyhoo...I hope everyone is having a great day. Congrats on making it this far down - rather wordy I was today. :) Until then...</div>
Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-53906019936314655322013-06-24T09:31:00.000-05:002013-06-24T09:55:31.032-05:00Product Love: Stamp Your Story <p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>Pardon my nostalgia - but today's product love brings me back to the very humble beginnings of this little blog of mine. One of my very first product love posts was devoted to <a href='www.heroarts.com' target='_self'>Hero Arts</a>. I've loved their company for quite some time. As my stash has grown and the number of super cool manufacturers has gone along with it - I sometimes need a little push to remember where it all started. I'm so glad I got that chance recently...which brings me to this week's post.<br><br>Last week, I came upon the new <a href='http://shop.heroarts.com/c/shop-by-catalog_stamp-your-story_daubers' target='_self'>Hero Arts Daubers</a> and almost lost my mind. How in the world did I not know about this product? And then I saw <a href='http://heroarts.com/blogs/club/2013/05/27/brush-stroke-stripes/' target='_self'>this</a> card. And a few days later watched <a href='http://heroarts.com/blogs/club/2013/05/27/brush-stroke-stripes/' target='_self'>this</a> video and knew it was time to make a visit to one of my favorite stamp manufacturer's site. I was greeted by this lovely image (please click image for source). </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><a href='http://shop.heroarts.com/c/shop-by-catalog_stamp-your-story' target='_blank'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZcM-4wiZ7IDC2OXk7_5ebt1FA0T8kbvSemg5_nVTcYY6-P56K-tF-wYMhwFLPnZgIuZhke4r1rHJ0tSXe4C8ryPJbhgraeCLh9hUE5Js1bMkdfXjDGtasboe-mJNbSmMu_WlJwc4m9w/'></a></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>I want you to take a moment to look at that tag. It is exactly the kind of breezy, painterly effect I long for on my pages and cards. I had no idea <a href='http://www.heroarts.com/' target='_self'>Hero Arts</a> had a new set of products or that they were this effing cool. <br><br>So I found my two must-haves for now and am trying to figure out a way to finagle these two products and <a href='http://www.bigpictureclasses.com/hello-story.php' target='_self'>this</a> class into my budget. Another MUST-HAVE in my book. After a few attempts to get a decent picture of these stamps - I have thrown in the towel entirely and am giving the links instead. The two stamp sets I am loving right now are <a href='http://shop.heroarts.com/p/not-perfect/shop-by-catalog_stamp-your-story?pp=25' target='_self'>Not Perfect</a> and <a href='http://shop.heroarts.com/p/limited-stock-brush-strokes?pp=12' target='_self'>Brush Strokes</a>. The cling set is definitely my favorite. There is an entire category on the <a href='http://heroarts.com/blogs/club/' target='_self'>Hero Arts blog</a> devoted to this new product line <a href='http://heroarts.com/blogs/club/category/stamp-your-story/' target='_self'>here</a>. I plan on taking a closer look today. I'm so stoked. I hope everyone is having a great Monday. Until then...<br><br><i>P.S. For those of you thinking about <a href='http://www.aliedwards.com/' target='_self'>Ali's</a> <a href='http://www.bigpictureclasses.com/hello-story.php' target='_self'>class</a> (mentioned above) - there is a really great preview on the <a href='http://www.bigpictureclasses.com/' target='_self'>Big Picture Classes</a> site which personally turned a maybe into a HECK, YEAH for me. I would definitely take a look if you're even thinking about taking the course.<br><br>One more thing...I'm not affiliated with these companies or people in any way (I wish!), I just love great content and products and none of these companies/people disappoint. :)</i> </p>Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-68430851129754227832013-06-15T08:00:00.000-05:002013-06-15T08:00:02.271-05:00Random Musings: Pinspiration<div class="bloggerplus_image_section">
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I just looked at my boards on <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.pinterest.com" target="_self">Pinterest</a> solely dedicated to layouts - meaning they actually have the word "layout" in the name. I have forty seven. Forty seven. Let me explain - I had boards with hundreds of layouts - they were of NO USE to me. I couldn't find anything - so I slowly started making changes. I started dividing my boards by motif, product, techniques, manufacturers, number of pictures, etc. It took a while to come up with the right mix but I finally feel like I have a place for 98% of the layouts I want to pin. Yet 47 does seem excessive. But here's the thing - I have groupings!</div>
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<li>Arrows, Banners and Triangles</li>
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<li>Circle and Grids</li>
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<li>Confetti, Bursts, and Speech Bubbles</li>
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<li>Map & Wood Grain </li>
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<li>Stars and Hearts</li>
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Notice these groupings don't always make the most sense. But I have them to keep things underwhelming. The things one goes through to make everything simple can be quite complicated. I've heard things about the answer being simple but the question being complicated and vice versa. This feels like that in some ways. It's a simple concept - but the execution is a little more complicated. <br /><br />So I'm wondering how you group your pins when it comes to layout inspiration. Do you make a large number of boards to keep small, meaningful groupings? Or do you have a small number of boards with large, meaningful groupings? Which way works best for you? Just in case you're interested, my boards can be found <a href="http://pinterest.com/craftylouie/" target="_self">here</a>. I hope everyone is having a lovely day full of fun pinning. Until then...<br /><br /><i>P.S. Funny thing...I sometimes write my posts early. I had 47 boards at the original time of this post. I now have 48. Someone help!</i>Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-48646790246549736452013-06-13T23:01:00.001-05:002013-07-19T23:18:11.893-05:00My First Love<div class="bloggerplus_image_section">
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I have no delusions of having a large audience on this little blog of mine...none. However, I know that many of you know that I'm an avid reader. Or that at least, I'd like to be. At the start of the year, I made a pledge to read 70 books which was a bit of a joke. I lowered the number to 50 within the first several weeks of the calendar year. And then, I pretty much gave up the ghost. At the end of May, I had read six books. Six. But something else amazing had happened...<br />
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My creative self had blossomed. I was making layouts again. I was being creative, playing with products in new ways, embracing my new role as auntie to Mr. Kai. I started to feel okay about the fact that I hadn't done a lot of reading. Still - reading is a part of who I am. I honestly can't remember a time I couldn't read - which should absolutely be chalked up to a bad memory not an early aptitude for word decoding. <br />
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Despite bloom being my word for the year, I yearned for balance. During the school year, it is very difficult to stay focused and self-care is a huge part of my profession - an area I'm working on. But no books get read at the end of the year...and very few layouts get made. The focus is on closing out the year and allowing my body enough rest and relaxation to get it done - period. It's the nature of the beast - at least for now. <br />
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So after the school year ended and I flew to visit my sister, I was confronted with a unique idea - a way of reframing this goal for my year. Reading is definitely part of my past - a huge part really. Scrapbooking and memory keeping is part of my present. They both are really. My life feels better when I'm in flow with these activities. It's utterly ridiculous to have these two really lovely parts of my life working as forces against one another. So a new pledge was born - the number is still 50. However, my plan is to add my crafty and reading accomplishments together and have them total the number 50 for the year. <br />
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I'm doing well from that point of view and am super excited to have this fresh outlook. Eventually I might want to add blog posts or journal entries to my number - but for now I'm keeping it super simple. I'm already close to the number 30 and am satisfied with this new, improved plan. Who said you can't have both. So that's it for now - just a few random musings on reading, crafting, and pledges. Hoping this day is finding you well. Until then...<br />
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<i>BTW: For the source image, click the picture above or <a href="http://mrg.bz/50ptax" target="_self">here</a>.</i></div>
Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-30726266556399851472013-06-07T13:43:00.001-05:002013-07-19T23:18:40.581-05:00Friday Fill-Ins<div class="bloggerplus_image_section">
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Here we go...<br /><br />1. I remember <b><i>holding my nephew for the first time and being filled with joy and love. I never could have imagined he would turn into this cool little thrill seeker - crawling, standing, and desperately trying to take his first steps.</i></b><br /><br />2. <i><b>Cold rain</b></i> is showering down <b><i>in New Jersey</i></b><br /><br />3. <i><b>Queensland</b></i> is a place I most want to visit.<br /><br />4. <i><b>NCIS</b></i> will mostly likely be on my television this week. <br /><br />5. I was inspired by <i><b>the beautiful decor and cupcakes at <a href="http://www.mollyscupcakes.com/ny/home.php" target="_self">Molly's Cupcake's</a> in the West Village. I loved the Kahlua, Cake Batter, and Cookie Monster cupcakes. This place has definitely went to the top of my favorite cupcake bakeries list!</b></i><br /><br />6. <i><b>My iPad, Fiona (yes I name them), is the perfect traveling</b></i> companion!<br /><br />7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to <i><b>hanging out with my sister, brother in-law, nephew, and parents</b></i>; tomorrow my plans include <i><b>spending time with my baby K's (Kayla, Kyle, and Kai)</b></i>; and Sunday, I want to <i><b>enjoy the blessing of my sweet nephew, Kai.</b></i><br /><br />P.S. I've been wanting to do this for a while. Unfortunately the <a href="http://fridayfillins.blogspot.com/" target="_self">Friday Fill-ins blog</a> appears to have stopped. However, I did find a <a href="http://www.robenmarie.com/blog/2013/6/7/friday-fill-ins.html" target="_self">list</a> on the wonderful <a href="http://www.robenmarie.com/" target="_self">Roben-Marie Smith's blog</a>. I have decided to take her lead. I hope you are having a great day and staying dry, warm, and safe. Until then...</div>
Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-31168840816584117342013-06-03T16:03:00.001-05:002013-07-19T23:18:54.960-05:00Product Love<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
I know I've been down and out for a bit - but I have not forgotten this place. I've flown the coop so to speak and am in babyland. Babies are precious, wonderful, tiring, and throw a huge kink in my daily flow. It is quite lovely (and I mean that with the utmost sincerity and sarcasm). So back to the "regular" programming, as if there's been such a thing. I bring you product love...</div>
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I love these folders and little bits. I can't imagine for the life of me what I would do with them - but I'm going to give it the good old college try once I have a chance. I'm sure there is a perfect project they can be used for...or I can just enjoy looking at them. Either way, it's a win on both counts. These beauties are from <a href="http://www.allisonkreft.com/" target="_blank">Alison Kreft</a> for <a href="http://www.websterspages.com/" target="_blank">Webster Pages</a>. I got the original source for the image <a href="http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/shop/websters-pages/141054-composition-color-alison-kreft-mini-folders-card-set/?filters=websters-pages%2Fcollection-676-composition-color-allison-kreft" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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<a href="http://www.allisonkreft.com/" target="_blank">Alison Kreft</a> is amazingly talented and I've admired her work for years. I'm glad she's doing work with other companies. So that's it for today. It happens to be rainy where I'm at today. After a few blistering hot days, it is a nice reprieve. I hope everything is well where you are at today. Until then...</div>
Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5583160135496824701.post-47208197876348480342013-05-15T06:20:00.000-05:002013-05-15T06:20:00.389-05:00Challenge Love: Sunday Sketch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now that I'm part of the <a href="http://studiocalico.typepad.com/">Studio Calico</a> club - I decided to go on over to the <a href="http://studiocalico.typepad.com/studio_calico/2013/05/sunday-sketch-1.html">Sunday Sketch challenge</a> and see if anything there piqued my interest. When I found this sketch I was initially a little befuddled.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://studiocalico.typepad.com/studio_calico/2013/05/sunday-sketch-1.html">Source Image</a></td></tr>
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First, I don't do double page layouts. Next, I've never been good at rocking the grid - although I might give it a try the next time I have 3X3's in the house. Third, for some reason the left side of the sketch read like a card to me. This is most likely due to my inherent need to layer things. Finally, the example layout superimposed both sketches and I just couldn't wrap my head around it - despite the fact it was friggin' cool. Then I scrapped four layouts and posted them on the blog. A few hours later, my mind was still going and I was ready.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWaTxGMpbkW16T8_i45F3sQLe3ooTIOV6K4W-kKPG6IHDgzOCWQJQ0ceM_8hsS22dyTzfnZwOwCJgvyAji3uXt19F_cGw38JFGsv_4COqyiOd0LB4s-mTLxjJN2DiepyeGFvjDTOXOUE/s1600/DSC02598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWaTxGMpbkW16T8_i45F3sQLe3ooTIOV6K4W-kKPG6IHDgzOCWQJQ0ceM_8hsS22dyTzfnZwOwCJgvyAji3uXt19F_cGw38JFGsv_4COqyiOd0LB4s-mTLxjJN2DiepyeGFvjDTOXOUE/s400/DSC02598.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Supplies: Patterned Paper: American Crafts, Crate Paper, My Mind's Eye; </i><i>Ink: Heidi Swapp, October Afternoon; </i><i>Washi Tape: Target</i></td></tr>
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I decided to stay with the basic foundation I used all day on Sunday. I sprayed the <a href="http://www.heidiswapp.com/items/color-shine-mint-green/">Heidi Swapp Mint Green Color Shine Mist</a> and really liked the results - finally a positive departure from the splatters (that I love by the way). Then I went to work. I decided to do the left side of the layout combined with the bottom third of the right-hand side of the sketch. I thought I'd just set down the pieces and move on to something else - but the crafty bug had hit me...and I didn't stop until I was finished.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjzb3NM2AoPIDi_Ax8r2HStsKrJzOZ0SXdEeJ0zHwtH6CmAIly-Wfyno5C7Pgs2msGcXt9RvkYtmwDEftrWbmyVvi1bK5GgcteEra9tg83WWPoPS_1S_i5CHLEjCEyfONEa5si1hicTPo/s1600/DSC02601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjzb3NM2AoPIDi_Ax8r2HStsKrJzOZ0SXdEeJ0zHwtH6CmAIly-Wfyno5C7Pgs2msGcXt9RvkYtmwDEftrWbmyVvi1bK5GgcteEra9tg83WWPoPS_1S_i5CHLEjCEyfONEa5si1hicTPo/s400/DSC02601.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Supplies: Patterned Paper: American Crafts, Crate Paper, My Mind's Eye; Washi Tape: Target; Stickers: American Crafts, October Afternoon; Chipboard: Heidi Swapp; Ink: Heidi Swapp, October Afternoon; Pen: Sharpie; Other: Buttons</i></td></tr>
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A few notes - the top line of journaling was added last - which should explain the weirdo spacing. I just had to have that sentence there. I know odd numbers rule the world of design, however, there are 8 buttons to represent the months this boy has been in our lives. I used three stickers from the <a href="https://www.americancrafts.com/default.aspx?PageID=49&CategoryID=489">Dear Lizzy Lucky Charm Line</a>. There are three hearts - counting the one in the middle of the square sticker. That first sentence is driving me crazy. I digress.<br />
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So that's it for this week (for now). I hope everyone is having a great Wednesday. Until then...<br />
<br />Craftylouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431454904996296565noreply@blogger.com0