Knee Deep Studio

Altering Reality

2011-10-17T19:36:00.000-04:00

I've spent some time over the past several weeks working with some photographs, altering them so that they often look nothing like the photograph I actually took. Here is the first photo I worked with... it's one that I took a couple years ago and saved because I knew I would eventually do something with it.

I did some experimentation in my photo program and a design program, and then simply worked with a variety of changes and layers to create the new altered look. These changes took hours of sitting in front of the computer, sometimes deleting what I'd done, sometimes starting over, but always working and working to get the right look that I wanted. When I felt pretty good about how things were looking, of course I saved my files and began listing them in my Kneedeeporiginals on Etsy shop. Here are a couple of the altered photos I made from this original shadow photograph... which is me, by the way, taking a picture of my shadow.

Here are some other photos and their alterations.

This coathanger with waterdrops became a Raven and Heart photograph.

And then it became these birds...

This photo was taken at Chateau Morrisette Winery... chinese lanterns under their big outdoor tent. I turned it into something entirely different.

And this flower petal, in a heart shape, fell to the ground and became yet one more bird image.

You can find all these images and more in my Etsy shop by following this link. Until next time, make the most of your reality and if you can, find ways to make it better!

Excitement in Chicken Land

2011-10-13T19:04:00.000-04:00

Holy smokes... we've had our chickens since April, watching them grow from tiny little fluff balls living in our closet to tiny chickens moving into the chicken coop to sizeable pullets roaming around in our garden. Today they became laying hens!

We've been waiting for the past 6 weeks for an egg to appear, and I'd just about given up hope, thinking they wouldn't lay until next spring... but today, I went out in the drizzling mist to let them out of the coop, give them their morning snack, and fill their bowl inside the coop with grain and mash. When I opened the side door, wowza... there sat a beautiful egg in the corner, large and brown and just waiting for me to reach in and grab it. Oh my gosh...was I ever excited! So was John, who, after admiring it, cooked it for his breakfast.

This evening, we went out to the garden, as we usually do, to let the chickens out to stretch their legs and peck around, carrying our glasses of wine and the dinner I'd fixed for the girls. John had been gone for most of the day, making damascus steel with his knife-making buddy, and he'd brought home some guacamole and chips from our favorite Mexican restaurant. We took that with us, and we had to shoo away the chickens who thought they were entitled to a share. After a while, I saw Lucy go into the coop, but she didn't come back out. I poked my head in, and she was laying in the corner in a little burrowed out area, so I knew what was happening. I was beside myself with excitement and curiosity! I kept peeking in through the stained glass window, trying not to disturb her. Alice, however, wasn't worried about disturbing Lucy, and she marched up the ramp and went into the coop. We have never heard such a ruckus from our chickens. Lucy got up fom her nest in the corner and barked at Alice, who promptly hurried out and scrambled down the ramp. A little bit later, Lucy came out, and John and I looked in the side door, and there was a brand new egg. It was still warm to the touch. I'd been wondering how long the entire event took... about 30 minutes, give or take. So Lucy came out into the yard, wandered around a bit as if to say, "Okay, I've laid my egg... now where's my supper?" I got the hint and gave them their snack of persimmons, shredded potato, mushrooms, pizza crust, and corn and mash.

What a day... one to mark on the calender! This was a first for me, and I'm quite excited about it. I'll be having that egg for breakfast tomorrow.

Until next time, enjoy what you have, sing a little song, and let the good times roll!

Mid-October Goings-on

2011-10-10T16:31:00.002-04:00

I have been busy busy busy with music events, family visits, a craft show, and other projects, and I have been ready for a little down-time. So today I decided to relax by spending some time on the computer, catching up on things, looking at some shops I haven't seen in a while, window-shopping so to speak, and gathering ideas for holiday gifts. I also decided to respond positively to an invitation to join the Etsy Treasury Team and I made my first ETTeam treasury... YooHoo... Christmas is Coming!

In light of my window-shopping, today I want to share some wonderful, affordable gift ideas by Etsians whose work I have purchased and can personally vouch for.

For the dog-lover on your list, these wonderful little treat bags by thedoghouse make great gifts. I use mine on a regular basis because my pups expect treats at various locations on our walks around the mountain. Those are two of our dogs in the second photo here.

For the bird-lover or chef on your list, here is a fabulous idea: handmade potholders by PineNeedleDesigns. I have a set of these in my kitchen, and I truly love using them. They have wonderful designs and are well-made.

For the seamstress or crafter on the list, DorothyDomingo makes gorgeous clay buttons as well as other lovely ceramic pieces. I purchased some bird buttons for one of my favorite wool sweater-coats, as seen in the second photo, and I've received lots of compliments.

For teachers, co-workers, favorite cashiers or bank tellers, here is a simple little gift that is unique and useful: fabric and leather key fobs by GimCarry. Everyone who received one of these from me last year truly loved it. And it won't empty your wallet either!

For the bicyclist on your list, or for anyone who enjoys a good t-shirt design, darkcycleclothing creates some great stuff! I bought one for my son, and he loves it.

For the eco-minded grocery shopper on your list, ohlittlerabbit creates some lovely produce bags. I bought these for two of my grown children last year. There are many design choices and they're made so well.

If you have a writer or journalist on your list, phofun sells lovely handmade journals, photo albums, and more. I purchased two of these, one for my daughter and one for myself, for my songwriting.

Gadget pouches by KaraMiaSofia are perfect stocking stuffers or gifts for anyone with cell phones, cameras, or ipods. I have one myself and it's beautifully made with lovely fabric that's bright and easy to spot when your counter or desktop is cluttered.

And finally, vegan laundry soap by showertreatsoap is perfect for anyone on your list... and it's so much better for your clothes and for you. It's all I'll use, and I highly recommend it.

I hope you've found something here that might be perfect for someone on your list. If not, feel free to look in my Etsy shop or any of the many, many shops on Etsy. Just remember to buy handmade and support artists!

Come September

2011-08-21T18:53:00.001-04:00

Lucy, our Redhead.

It's late August and the hot summer is waning, and we are patiently awaiting our first eggs from our hens. Each day we check, but no sightings thus far. We were told that September would be the magic month, and we're counting on it. John tells the chickens they need to earn their keep, at this point. They are spoiled rotten, with special treats in the morning and in the evening. These tidbits include of variety of items... blueberries, pasta, potatoes, mushrooms, tomatoes, cooked beans of the green and black varieties, and other such sundry foods... whatever is "leftover" in the fridge or whatever has been a part of our dinner. Each evening we sit with our girls in the garden while they stretch their legs, running around after bugs and flapping their wings. It's a good time to relax, enjoy a glass of wine, catch our breath, water the remaining tomatoes, peppers, and okra, and simply just be.

Our four girls on the loose, Lucy, Ethel, Alice and Flo.

Life has been good this summer, and the chickens have been amusing, offering much entertainment for us. So I decided that this blog post, my first in about a month (!), will celebrate these wonderful critters.

I found some really cool things on Etsy to share with you.

One of my most favorite pieces of chicken art... Chicken Lover by chickory

A sweet little vintage chicken basket sold by simplychi

Rooster shirt for kids (though I might want one!) by happyfamily

Fun little earrings by lizzglizz

Chicken sisters from recycled sweaters by 4EweDesigns

Rooster by hartart13

A wonderfully cheerful vintage box sold by VintageStarrBeads

Welcome sign by cottageartshop

Chicken pendant and necklace by HeatherKent

Lovely rustic yet chic pillow by Samantha2818

Aged garden art by mountainiron

Chickens in wood by bestlovedchild

And a funky chicken with tattoos by corelladesign

Until next time, keep smiling, keep singing, and run barefoot in the grass, y'all!

summer days, dog days, cooling in the shade days

2011-07-25T19:11:00.000-04:00

These late July days have brought some major heat and humidity all across the country. Some days I find it hard to do anything but stay inside and be still. The older I get, the less I can take of these high temperatures. But some good comes of it, and Lord knows I ain't complaining because I love the summer with its sun and light and long days, and I am NO hurry to get through with this season. So this afternoon, I made this fun little treasury on Etsy as a way to cool my heels while waiting for the evening to descend when I'll go out and let the chickens roam in the garden and sip on a cool glass of white wine.

I've been painting several times a week, and this morning I worked on this painting, Moo Cow, which I've listed in my Etsy shop. You can find it here.

It's a 9 x 12 watercolor on Kilimanjaro 140 lb cold press, acid free watercolor paper. It was inspired by a trip we took yesterday to our favorite nearby winery, Chateau Morissette, up near Floyd, Virginia and just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. There were several fields of cows grazing and lolling about in the heat. Ever since I was a little girl, that has been one of my favorite sights... it makes me feel relaxed and peaceful. Of course, the wine helped too! Those little specks in the background of this photos are cows.

Here are a few other souls who were feeling a little relaxed yesterday afternoon. This cat came to visit our patio table and she took a nap at my feet. Quite endearing!

A dear friend of mine who was our designated driver but who had fun anyways!

His lovely wife. They recently celebrated an anniversary, as did we, so Cheers!

And my handsome husband who definitely is a laid-back kind of guy.

I'll leave you with a few more sights from yesterday afternoon. Enjoy, and raise your glass in celebration of summer and love and friends and all things good!

Summer Birds... Swirling with Life

2011-07-19T14:44:00.000-04:00

Summer Birds Series, No. 1... 9 x 12

A new series of watercolors / mixed media, these have been much fun for me. I love the colors and the swirls, and I'm envisioning many more to come, and other series with this same style.... kitchen appliances? food? garden goodies? Any suggestions, anyone?

Summer Birds Series, No. 3... 4 x 6

Summer Birds Series, No. 2... 4 x 6

Summer Bird Series, No. 4... 4 x 6

New Watercolors... Finally!

2011-07-06T09:57:00.001-04:00

I'm having a hard time adjusting to the fact that it's already mid-summer! What a busy one it's been! Between the garden and the chickens and music and bands and gigs and a solo art show in a mountain town and generally just enjoying the sunshine and warmth, I have found ways to avoid my paintbrushes. But sometimes it's good for me to take a break and step away from the studio. When I come back to it, I'm inspired and ready to get to work.

Here are some of the new watercolors I've been working on. If there's a link attached, it means, of course, that they've been listed for sale.

Season of the Butterflies, a 9 x 12.

Crow Over Banner Elk, 9 x 12.

Music of the Sun, 9 x 12.

Banner Elk Morning, 6 x 10.

Stormy Sea, 8 x 10.

Dream, 6 x 6.

Wren at Morning, 5 x 7.

Chickens in the Corn, on 6 x 6 paper with white edges.

Says Who? 4 x 6 in frame.

Sunrise Over the Lake, 4 x 6.

There's no doubt about it... the summertime colors have inspired me! Until next time, keep on the sunny side and live in the sunshine.

Around the House

2011-06-15T14:47:00.001-04:00

Visual artistic endeavors have been minimal of late for a few reasons: 1) I've had some shoulder issues and have been trying to let that heal and using my arm for painting and scrimshaw doesn't allow for healing; 2) I've been spending more time on music and have been practicing with three bands, all quite different; 3) it's summertime and that means I've been spending lots of time outdoors in the garden and with the chickens; and finally 4) I have a solo exhibit in Banner Elk that I'll be hanging on June 25 with a reception that evening, so I've been preparing for that. Preparations have included creating promo materials as well as a slide show presentation, which will include some of my music.

In light of that month-long exhibit and show, I'll be closing my Etsy shop for several weeks... so if you're interested in anything, now's the time to buy... before it all gets carted further up into the mountains of North Carolina.

While my other activities have kept me busy, it's hard not to work visually, so that means I've been taking photographs of things around the house and in the yard. Because I feel that I gain insight into others by how they decorate and what they collect, what kinds of things fill their homes, I decided I'd give you a little view of what you might see if you stepped into my home. And yes, there's dust.

Kitchen Windowsill... wine cork from Bully Hill Vineyards in New York

Coffee Time

Glass Objects in Dining Area Window

Lizard (a gift from a wonderful friend) and The Boss

Clay Lizard and Leaf in the Kitchen/Dining Area

Ummm.... Kitchen Sink

Mike Mussina (my daughter's), Bottles Awaiting Hanging in the Bottle Tree, and a Lizard Plate (another gift)

More Windowsill Objects with a Flower Made by My Son

On the Back Porch, where we spend most of our down town in the summer, Potted Flowers

And One of Many Rock Cairns

In the Living Area, Chinese Lanterns

I'll continue to share bits and pieces of my home in the next post. Until then, enjoy life in the summertime, kiss the ones you love, and share a smile with a stranger.

Look What Came in the Mail!!

2011-06-06T16:02:00.000-04:00

My husband had some chores to do this morning, one of which was a trip to the post office, and when he returned home, he came in bearing a much-awaited package, dressed in a very pretty aqua blue! I couldn't wait to get it opened. It was even better than I imagined, and I can't express how glad I am that I made this purchase. I love shopping on Etsy, but I am also selective with what I buy, especially now when my sales have been slow. But when I saw this lovely screen-printed tee in a treasury, I knew I had to have it.It came from the shop of angeldamico on Etsy, and it is so, so soft and lightweight. The color is a rich teal green, and the V-neck style and longish, hip length is often what I look for. But the original design with birds in flight...well, what more can I say?

But wait... look closely....

Not only are there birds in flight, but there are constellations, and they are named! This shirt's design is called Night Birds, so of course... the night sky and birds. A combination that speaks to me since out here in the rural woods, I see millions and zillions of stars on a clear night and so many different kinds of birds throughout the day.

I like how angeldamico's shop is set up as well. It is sectioned with sizes, so you can go immediately to the size you would wear and view the various designs and styles. She's got great selections. I love the Evergreen Trees and the Deer and Trees designs.

I'll be wearing this shirt next time I leave the house. Those who know me know that I am rather a hermit who stays busy at my home in the woods with songwriting, music, painting, gardening, chickens, dogs, and such, but I'll make a point to get out in my new shirt soon!

How Does My Garden Grow

2011-05-31T11:41:00.000-04:00

Summer is upon us, at least with the temperatures... hot and humid 90s. Though I'd rather have 80 degrees, I'll take what we've got, after that long, hard, and very cold winter!

Here are a few shots from our current garden scene. First, fruits; next, flowers; then, veggies; and a few accessories.

June Apples

Blueberries

Strawberries

Daddy Long Legs

Daisies

Hydrangea

Hostas behind the house

Lettuce and Snow Peas under a shade cloth

Green Beans and Tomatoes

Snow Pea Blossoms

Yellow Squash

Zucchini

Four Rows of Corn

Birdhouse

Old Bones in the Flower Garden

So far, we've been enjoying wonderful fresh greens and snow peas in our almost-daily salads, and we're really looking forward to fresh tomato sandwiches!! Of course, with luck, good weather, and diligence, there will be much canning to be done. Our motto: eat what you grow, grow what you eat. Not a bad way to live.

The Girls Have a New Home

2011-05-23T15:16:00.000-04:00

After three weeks of having chicks living in the big bucket in our utility closet, and after a long week of coop-building, we finally moved our four girls into the new home, located within the fence of our garden. The coop features the first stained glass window I ever made, as well as an elevated nesting box for when the chickens are old enough to lay eggs. They have a roosting bar, which you can see in the photo, and their feed and water are served in elevated dog dishes under the nesting box. Chickens are not the cleanest of critters, so this way, their feed stays a little cleaner, as does their water. On May 12, John finished the wiring around the coop, and the next morning, we maneuvered this rather heavy home into the confines of our garden space. The chicks lived inside their new cozy home for a week in order to get adjusted to this space before we let them venture out into their own little yard. We kept a light on for warmth at night, and they always huddled under it. Now, it seems that it will finally be warm enough in the evenings and they are big enough that they will no longer need the lamp. I will, however, miss that light because it made the stained glass window glow which looked very cool indeed out there in the garden at night.

Last Thursday, on May 19, I opened the little door leading from the home to the ramp and the outer yard. They were curious, but not sure what to do. The ramp proved a little steep for them, and they did a little sliding around and there was much flapping of wings. I added some grass to the ramp, thinking that it would perhaps help them make their way down. I quickly discovered that they liked eating it.

Finally, with some hands-on help, they made it to the ground. It took them a couple days to get use to making the trip outside, but now they do it with ease, all on their own. So they spend the better part of the day outside, and I often visit them, sometimes sitting in a chair parked next to the coop where I will pass some time reading and enjoying the sun and the antics of my girls. Foster also likes to visit.

Now that I have been out amongst the chickens on a daily basis and they have grown enough to develop certain characteristics and even personalities, I have chosen names for them.

Lucy is the reddest of our girls, and she is also the most adventurous. She's usually the first one out of the coop, anxious to get into the daylight and explore what might be new in the yard.

Ethel is right behind Lucy when it comes to getting out in the morning or going in at dusk. She's a little ragged around her head feathers, but she has a very fine set of tail feathers.

Flo is our only girl with black legs and feet. She's not as red as Lucy and Ethel, and she has beautiful coloring on her beak, orange at the top, with a pretty black triangle on the bottom point.

Alice is our darkest girl, with the least amount of red in her feathers, and her beak is almost entirely black. She also has rather blue eyes. And does she ever love kale! She's usually the last one to venture out in the morning, and the last one left in the yard at dusk. I usually end up helping her back into the house.

So you won't find me online too often these days. I'm loving the warmer weather and I'm usually outside soaking in the sunshine, spending time in the garden, and enjoying our new family members.

New Family Members... new painting subjects

2011-04-26T11:23:00.001-04:00

For a couple of years, John and I have talked about raising chickens, but that's all it was... talk. We felt like we needed to do more studying to get a better grasp of what to do and how to properly care for whatever kinds of chickens we decided on. We needed to create an outdoor space where there could be plenty of free range movement and safety from predators and weather. So we talked about it, set it aside, talked about it some more, set it aside again.

But yesterday, John came home from a trip into town, and he carried in a box that held four small grayish-black chicks. Trust me, folks, it was a surprise. Two of the dogs, like me, followed him onto the porch to check out the new family members. While John brought in the rest of the chicken goodies needed, I sat down and read through a rather detailed pamphlet about chicken care, long enough to find out some needed information about temperature, lighting, bedding, and feed and water. We fixed them a little home inside a 15 gallon bucket (more space than they've had before in their young lives), with wood chips for bedding, a wire top, and lighting to keep them warm. And this we placed inside our utility closet, safe from drafts, the cat, and the dogs... but really, it's only Cooper, our youngest pup, who is interested in the goings-on inside that bucket. After everything was situated and settled, I took photos, of course.

These little chicks are three-week-old sex-linked hybrid pullets, meaning, we've been told, that these are baby hens and no rooster is needed in the mix to produce eggs. When they're about six months old, they should start egg production. In the meantime, we've got our work cut out for us. A coop must be built, fencing must be put in, and a safe haven created. In the process, we'll get to know these cuties enough to name them. They are already responding a little to my voice, and I am getting rather attached. We'll do our best by them, you can bet on that. Here's to new relationships and a new journey! And here's to a chance at portrait paintings of our new family members!

Safe and Sound

2011-04-19T10:25:00.000-04:00

The storms rolled in very early Saturday morning, waking me at 4:00 am with rain plastering the windows and the wind whipping through the trees surrounding our little home. We arose around 5:45 and turned on the tv news, watching all the latest on storm tracking. We'd had plans to leave for the day and travel towards the central part of the state for a knifemakers guild meeting, but it didn't take a brilliant mind to know that the best thing was to simply stay put. Throughout the morning, rain came hard, then changed to soft drizzle, then stopped completely and then started all over again... all the while the wind sang a mighty song and the clouds flew across the sky. We knew that the worst of it was to come in the early afternoon, and it did... but for us, the worst of it was nowhere near what had been predicted and we sighed with relief when we didn't lose power nor trees nor even many tree limbs. And then, around 3:00 or so, the sun, with all her brilliance, came out against a clear blue sky and created a scene of glistening calm over our piece of the world. But just a couple hours to the east of us, in the central part of the state (near where we'd planned to travel) and parts a little further east, folks were living in a nightmare, hard hit with tornadoes and much, much damage and loss of life. It's been rather frightening and quite sad to see those photos and hear the stories on tv and on the internet. It will be a long while before some of these people have any semblance of a normal life again, not to mention inner peace, and our thoughts and prayers are with them.

The way we see things depends, of course, on our outlook and beliefs about life. I feel grateful and blessed in so many ways, and I believe storms, whether internal or external, can bring us blessings if we are open to them. A storm like this one, with its strength and enormity and endurance, makes me pause in awe and consider the ways of nature, how things work together to create what will become.

On Sunday, as I enjoyed a good book... The Other by David Guterson, author of Snow Falling On Cedars... in the sun on our deck, I saw the first hummingbird of the season. I quickly cleaned out the feeder and filled it, and oh the antics and songs I have heard and enjoyed since. I believe the winds of our powerful weekend storm brought the hummingbirds, these marvelous creatures who are at once fearless and exuberant.

Color All Around

2011-04-15T12:04:00.000-04:00

Bright blue sky, yellow green leaves, grass green,

creamy white dogwood blossoms,

purple-pink redbuds, yellow kerria...

so many colors surrounding us and it's all so joyful!

Here's a shot of one of many dogwoods from this morning.

New works full of color:

The Journey, 11 x 14 oil on canvas

After the Rain, 8 x 10 watercolor

Garden Song, 4 x 6 watercolor

Spirit Rising, 4 x 6 watercolor

Male Grosbeak in Spring, 8 x 10 watercolor

Song Sparrow, 4 x 6 watercolor

Joyful, 6 x 10 watercolor

Three cheers for springtime and all its many colors!

New for April

2011-04-02T10:06:00.001-04:00

Can you believe it? April is here! Warm weather will soon stay around for good! And I'm so ready for it.

But before I go any further, let me announce the winner of my Springtime Giveaway... Monica! Congrats to her. Her new watercolor is on its way. Thanks to all those who entered... and stay tuned. There will be more giveaways as the year rolls along.

I've been busy lately with lots of music. Our band has a gig this evening, another at the end of the month, and also on Mother's Day weekend. And I've got a solo gig in mid-May too. But I've been working on new paintings, and I've even added a new section to the Etsy shop... photography. Here's what I've been up to in the visual arts arena.

Oriole Dreams of Sunlit Trees....

Waxwing in the Forest Light...

Shy Summer Grosbeak...

Afternoon Shadows... a fine art photograph... quiet mystery.

The Journey... a fine art photograph ... soul travels

Okra Blossom... a fine art photograph... a true beauty from our 2010 veggie garden

Sharing the Garden... a fine art photograph... a surprise in my summer flower garden in 2010

There will be more photos to come, and of course more paintings. Until then, enjoy the month of April, love the one you're with, and share a smile with a stranger.

Looking for Spring?

2011-03-23T11:11:00.001-04:00

My mother in law called on Monday just as I was out in the yard, phone in pocket, camera in hand, taking some photos of the amazing things happening in my yard. She said that in Pennsylvania, there had just been new snow and it was sleeting. Eegads... I sure felt blessed to be out in the sunshiny 70 degree weather of North Carolina and enjoying the first day of a promising spring season. And it made me realize that so many of my web friends are still in the throes of winter. So I decided to share some of those photos I took the other morning, as well as a couple from over the weekend. Hope it brings cheer and hope to those of you who still are experiencing the cold weather of winter.

Apple Tree Blossoms

The Many Faces of Daffodils

Our Peach Tree, still hanging on with one branch of blossoms

Pear Tree Blossoms

Our Much-Loved Home

And what would March be without kite-flying on a Sunday afternoon?

Here's to spring, rebirth, colors, and hope!

Finding Fine Art in Spring

2011-03-21T17:01:00.019-04:00

This year on Etsy, I was accepted into a new team... Finding Fine Art. It's a terrific group of fine artists who sell original work and who work together in a variety of ways to support each other.

Here is what this team is all about: The Finding Fine Art team was created to provide a unique shopping experience for fine art collectors seeking original art on Etsy. Members of the team are visual artists with outstanding, gallery quality original artwork, a high level of professionalism and presentation, and a positive standing in the Etsy community. Buyers are encouraged to look through our members list to discover new artists or search the tag “findingfineart” on Etsy for a dazzling, virtual gallery experience.

I spent some time looking through the amazing art this team has created and decided to feature some work here... with a theme of spring, of course, in honor of the first day of spring. I considered subject, color, and title, and came up with this mix of abstract and realism, watercolors, oils, and acrylics. Follow the link to see the work up close in the artist's Etsy shop.

Wild Garden by JessicaTorrant
Renovation by heronkate

Ladies in Spring Rain by karensfineart

Spring Fantasy by watermediaworks

Happily Ever After by aliherrmann

Spring Scene by PrankePaintings

Signs of Spring by MDaisleyMoffitt

Little Chick by WaterInMyPaint
Stay tuned for more fine art... and until then, enjoy the new life growing all around us, and kiss the ones you love.

The Birds of the March Thaw

2011-03-12T07:45:00.008-05:00

The days are getting warmer, the trees are budding, the daffodils and forsythia are blooming, filling my garden and everywhere you look with bright bursts of yellow, and each morning there is much bird song in celebration of it! I am rejoicing after a very long and cold winter, and my color palette is filled with spring shades. Here are a few new birdies in springtime colors that have been brought to life in watercolor. Most of these have already been listed in my Etsy shop, and some of them are framed. Some will be listed today.

While you're here, don't forget to check out my Springtime Giveaway of a 4 x 6 watercolor. Just click here for easy access. Good luck, and Happy Spring!

Springtime Giveaway!

2011-03-10T15:01:00.005-05:00

As promised, I am sponsporing another giveaway. I'd posted on Facebook that when my Etsy shop reached 1000 "hearts", I would do a giveaway in celebration of that. Kneedeeporiginals now has 1028 hearts, so I'm just a wee bit late, but better late than never.

So here's what I'm offering in this giveaway.

Love Me Tender is a cheery 4 x 6 original watercolor that will easily fit into a standard mat or frame. It was painted on 140 lb cold press watercolor paper and will be packaged a protective sleeve between sturdy cardboard for safe delivery to you.

So how do you win?

1. Go to my Etsy shop OR my website and check out what's for sale. Then return here and leave a comment to tell me which item you like best and why. This will count as ONE try at winning.
2. Are you following me here OR on Facebook? Please leave a comment that tells me that, and you'll get ANOTHER try at winning.
3. If you purchase something from my Etsy shop between now and the end of the giveaway (paintings, scrimshaw, and CD) or my personal website (paintings, scrimshaw, CD, and jewelry), that counts as TWO more chances at winning. Please be sure to let me know here that you have done so. If you buy more than one item, that's TWO more chances.
4. Share this giveaway on your blog or FB page, provide YOUR link in a comment here, and that counts as ANOTHER try at winning.

So all in all, you can have SEVERAL chances to win. This giveaway will end at 8:00 PM on Thursday, March 24, two weeks from today. Good luck, everyone!

Random Shots

2011-03-05T16:41:00.009-05:00

I've been working really hard on music for the past couple of weeks. I have a solo gig this evening that I'm pretty excited about (and maybe there will be photos to post from that later on), so all my creative energy and focus has, for the most part, gone towards music. I've even done some at-home recording so I have a couple sampler CDs for sale. But this morning, under a gray sky and light drizzle, I went a-walking round the property with the dogs and we played a little chase too. I took my camera with me, so here are a few photos from my North Carolina home.

Here's a familiar sight for me. Every day, this is my lovely view, though, of course, it changes with the season.

And images from the front yard... our pear tree just beginning to bud, and our bottle tree.

And here's Foster, playing his favorite game... "I've got the stick; now chase me!" He has become a wonderful companion and he's so very loyal. He loves our walks.

In the side garden, near our main entrance, we have daffodils and irises coming up by the score.

Going on up the road on the way to the barn, there is this sign hanging on the back side of my studio. I love its weathered look. It's from a shop my husband used to own but which he closed many years ago.

And a couple other images from further up the road.

At the barn where my husband's forge and bladesmithing workshop is, I found these manly shots.

And then, alas, my camera battery died. There were so many birds... cardinals, chickadees, wrens... flitting between and congregating in the trees, and I was disappointed that I couldn't try to get a few photos of them. But there's always another day.

Until next time, practice patience, sing a little, and go create!!

What Goes On

2011-02-23T10:00:00.011-05:00

Around here, what's been going on is wonderful weather. We've had many days of sunny skies and temps in the mid to upper 60s, even reaching 71 one day! You know I have been loving it, as have the daffodil shoots, and last night, I even saw some new irises springing up through the February ground. I found these lovely flowers and plants while I walked with my daughter in Old Salem yesterday!

I've been working on new paintings and new songs. I have a solo gig on March 5th in downtown Winston-Salem, so I'm seriously thinking about my set list and getting my new songs tightened up. When I'm not doing that, I'm either walking around the mountain or painting.

Here are some of my newer pieces. Most have been listed in my Etsy shop, so you can easily check them out by clicking on the link.

Several itty bitty miniatures... each of these has been framed in a mini bone or mother-of-pearl frame, averaging around a mere 2.5 inches in size. They are perfect for a little spot on a windowsill or bookshelf or bedside table.

A mixed media with oils, photography, and text, measuring 24 x 30 and also listed, as of today.... A Morning Song.

This white-throated sparrow is one of my favorite watercolors. It measures 5 x 7 and has been framed in a beautiful cobalt blue Italian made frame.

And lest you think that I only paint birds, here are a couple other newer watercolors to prove you wrong (though it is quite true that birds are my favorite subject of late!).

Until next time, enjoy the world of nature, listen for the birdsong, and hug the one you love!

Spring, Oh Spring!

2011-02-05T13:48:00.006-05:00

It's just around the corner, at least for some of us. I found these in my garden yesterday evening and was so joyous that I danced a little jig and clapped my hands in delight!

So this morning I took my dog Foster outside with me and we did a little tour of the yard to check on things and take photos.

Because I wanted to celebrate my joy, I painted a new watercolor specifically for this gorgeous buttery yellow and blue frame... Spring Bunting has been listed on Etsy. It's small, perfect for a shelf or table top, measuring in outer dimensions just 4.5 x 5.5inches.

Until next time, love the season you're in, have hope, and be kind!

Groundhog Day Hike

2011-02-03T16:29:00.007-05:00

I never get tired of our mountains and woods around here. Yesterday I took a walk with a very good friend and his dogs, and here are some photos of what we saw. I've got some good painting subjects, don't you think?

Lichens...

Beaver damage by a pond...

On one side, Hanging Rock in the distance...

On the other side, Virginia Mountains up near Stuart in the distance...

Another view of Hanging Rock...

The Saura Mountains as dusk is approaching...

And a gorgeous cloud formation as the sun begins to set...

Until next time, be thankful, be content, and be kind.

The Road Less Traveled

2011-02-02T12:35:00.006-05:00

Where does that road take you?

This new watercolor is a reminder

to stay in tune with the natural world while we make our journey through life.

This 8 x 10 is titled Raven Song and reads:
Follow the road less traveled
into the colors
of a raven song.

Follow your heart, make time for a hike, listen to the birds, and be kind.

What are you waiting for?

2011-02-01T15:45:00.009-05:00

Each of us waits for something ... for that special partner, for spring... or summer or fall or winter, for a better job, for a few minutes of peace and quiet. The list is as varied as the colors in our world.

I seem to be longing for spring lately, although I think I might be happy with one more big snow. But after a weekend of sunny skies and temperatures in the upper 50 and lower 60s, I definitely got a taste of spring fever. So this newest artistic creation speaks to that quiet longing for afternoons in the garden and morning walks in the woods surrounded by birdsong.

This piece, called Waiting for Calm, combines my love of birds with my passion for words and the visions they can create. The words were cut from magazines and catalogues and assembled, much like a ransom note (as my husband was heard to say), but their message is much sweeter than a ransom note.

Waiting for Calm

imagine a fresh summer dream
resonant with organic music
a voyage of soft
sweet, chiming
native sounds
blending true
floating
into the heart.

Find your calm, find your peace, share a song, and be kind to those around you.

Quote for the Week... or a Lifetime

2011-01-23T08:23:00.004-05:00

"Our task must be to free ourselves... by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty."

..... Albert Einstein (now there's a smart man!)

Inspiration... New Work

2011-01-19T17:13:00.008-05:00

Well, it's the new year, and I'm hoping this one will bring good things. Last year was a hard one 'round here, and while I am content with my life and surroundings, I'm looking for things to be a wee bit easier, the load a little lighter. In light of that, a couple of my new smaller paintings are cheerful, inspirational, and hopeful.

Words to Live By contains some simple yet important sentiments, actions I hope to live by on a daily basis. Accompanying this 8 x 8 piece in the photo is Scout, my kitty who enjoys her life in the country. You can find details on the painting by following this link.

Blackbird Singing contains two of the things that are important in my life, music and birds. It measures 5 x 7 and can be found by following this link.

Until next time, share love, be an inspiration, and create joy!

A Day of Remembrance, Treasuries of Resolutions

2011-01-17T13:16:00.004-05:00

Over the past couple of weeks, I have created treasuries on Etsy to illustrate the New Year's "resolutions" that I included in a blog post at the beginning of this year. And it seems appropriate, here on Martin Luther King, Jr Day, to post them all here.

Let Us Fill the World with Color and Cheer...

features sourlemontree, rawletterartpress, bbusbyarts, opendoorstudio, thegardenshed, ArtMind, jennreese7, studio1980, GlazedOver, LoveArtStudios, ginnyhuber, RoughMagicCreations, WoodenNickelsJewelry, caelum, Sigmosaics, and AdroitJeweler

Let Us Dream Big Dreams...

features Raceytay, FairestLJ, arianemariane, MichelleVerbeeck, SunMune, LittleGreenRoom, vadjutka, GlazedOver, urbanwalls, staroftheeast, shawnaerback, visionquest, LaTouchables, brizel4TheAnimals, silkstory, and littleputbooks

Let Us Sing Joyfully...

features ThePaperTray, gildinglilies, KathrynRiechert, haberheartworktoo, maiaart, bridgemanstudios, thepapermooonstudio, elizalenore, twirliewhirlies, nickandnessieshome, NatureIsArt, tilesmile, magymai711, melbean, ekdGoodies, and studiostebbylee

Let Us Walk Gently on the Earth...

features Uzura, ShySiren, theaterclouds, seasondelights, stonestudios, zJayne, lancasterart, RubyChicOriginals, RobinMariaPedrero, magdalinen, SpaGoddess, maternalNEST, dpholkdesigns, seaoats, FleurDetaillee, and LoveForEarth

Let Us Be Graceful and Grace-filled in our Journeys...

features littlebugjewelry, LGraceOriginals, malam, staroftheeast, veroque, justmare, aliherrmann, Raceytay, 5gardenias, SewnNatural, philosophyofnature, JCSpock, waterrose, karineleger2, jacinta11, and BungalowBathBody

Let Us Imagine Peace, Freedom, and Laughter...

features purushapeople, thecoloursoflife, TrashandTrinkets, MarianneLoMonaco, syringaspring, loveartworks, naokosstoop, DesignedToCharm, ImageNationphoto, itswrittenonthewall, suzannaanna, KilnGoddess, aerochow, mFryerDesigns, SentimentRedesigned, and localcolorist

Let Us Treasure Our Friendships...

features bluethreadsmelody, polarity, marieflyfly, maclancy, steinschmuckdesign, andreatdesigns, allartsy, f2images, SewnNatural, zirkulas, VickiWadeFineArt, OliveandRuby, artish, AugustMoonArt, justmare, and Aimeshad

Let Us Make Time for Reflection...

features moonseats, crumblescookies, bysweetmom, Xenotees, thewheatfield, rubymountaindyeworks, JewelryByTomomi, janeheller, fromArtisanHands, DeBaunFineCeramics, prettypennydesigns, KozelArtReview, donnageissler, creatocrat, margotbianca, and CloverHollow

And Above All, Let Us Love...

features PunkinSeedProductions, latenightdrawings, hideminy, Xenotees, hildes, ekdgoodies, persimmonsgal, mbartstudios, MursBlanc, SmilingGirlStudio, riricreations, TheLovelyLetter, DeadSerious2010, barnowlprimitives, Heartistics, and EmpireCityStudios

Thanks for visiting, and I hope you enjoyed these Etsians' creative works. Until next time, give a hug, share a smile, and love the ones who walk into your path.

Harbinger of Spring

2011-01-10T11:48:00.004-05:00

Or Prophet of Snow?

On Friday we noticed large flocks of birds in the yard... cardinals and robins, mostly, feeding on the ground and flying up into the pear tree. I exclaimed, "Oooh... harbingers of spring!!" My husband wryly said, "Nope, predictors of snow." Sure enough, that night snow fell, albeit not much, just enough to make everything pretty with a powdered-sugar coating. Yet some of it remained on the ground throughout the weekend since our temperatures stayed mighty cold.

Yesterday morning I noticed much movement outside the window beside my computer desk, and there, filling the two persimmon trees were more robins, joined by cedar waxwings, feasting on the last remaining persimmons in the top-most branches. (Our dogs have enjoyed the fruits that have fallen to the ground for the past several weeks.) So, again the question... harbinger of spring or prophet of snow? Alas, it's not spring yet. Snow is falling again today; weather predictions have varied, so I'm simply waiting to see what happens throughout the day and tonight. But in the meantime, I know that the birds are out there and that spring can't be too far behind!

Goddess of the Blackbirds

2011-01-06T11:43:00.005-05:00

My newest watercolor, which I just listed on Etsy, is a little different than what I usually do. I don't often include people or human forms in my work, but I decided to do exactly that in this work... in fact, it's a statement of connection or bond between humans and the natural world. I think subconsciously it was inspired by the recent news story about the massive deaths of blackbirds (and other birds) in Arkansas and other parts of the country and world. It broke my heart to see those photographs on the news because birds hold such a big place in my life and in my art. We must remember that our acts trigger effects throughout our relationships, both human and non-human, and we must be deliberate in caring for our world and all its inhabitants.

For the New Year

2011-01-03T14:31:00.011-05:00

Let us fill the world with color and cheer.

Let us dream big dreams.

Let us sing joyfully.

Let us walk gently on the earth.

Let us be graceful and grace-filled in our journeys.

Let us imagine peace and freedom and laughter.

Let us treasure our friendships.

Let us make time for reflection.

And above all, let us love.

Solstice and Lunar Eclipse

2010-12-20T10:17:00.006-05:00

It's going to be a very special night, y'all! The Winter Solstice begins at midnight, and it just so happens that this year there will also be a lunar eclipse at the same time. First time since 1378! Looks like my West Coast friends will be swamped under cloud cover from a winter storm so they probably won't get to see this ultra cool event. But here in NC, we should have fairly clear skies.

Here's what the moon will look like early in the morning, and here's what one website has to say about it:

See for yourself on Dec. 21st, the first day of northern winter, when the full Moon passes almost dead-center through Earth’s shadow. For 72 minutes of eerie totality, an amber light will play across the snows of North America, throwing landscapes into an unusual state of ruddy shadow.

The eclipse begins on Tuesday morning, Dec. 21st, at 1:33 am EST (Monday, Dec. 20th, at 10:33 pm PST). At that time, Earth’s shadow will appear as a dark-red bite at the edge of the lunar disk. It takes about an hour for the “bite” to expand and swallow the entire Moon. Totality commences at 02:41 am EST (11:41 pm PST) and lasts for 72 minutes.

If you’re planning to dash out for only one quick look - it is December, after all - choose this moment: 03:17 am EST (17 minutes past midnight PST). That’s when the Moon will be in deepest shadow, displaying the most fantastic shades of coppery red.

I don't know about you, but I plan to get out of bed around 2:45 and have a look... with my little camera in hand. It'll be well worth it.

All Dressed Up... for a Decadently Fabulous New Year's Eve

2010-12-18T14:36:00.007-05:00

Here's what I want to wear on New Year's Eve... all compliments of Etsy shopping. Follow the links to see the details of these fab pieces!

Bustier... by Armoursansanguish

Corset Skirt... by SistersoftheMoon

Golden Tulip Tights... by galstern

And you know I have to wear these Vintage Acme boots... by pistolpoppy
And for accessories...
This gorgeous ring... by aboutjewelry

And this beaded cuff by SandFibers

This oh-so-cool feathery hair clip by BeadazzledbySharon

This necklace by glitzglitter

Earrings by cherryandviolet

An artsy handbag by KathyKinsella

And over it all, so I can stay warm, this fabulous cloak by blackmarketbaby

So now all I need is some MONEY!

Not A Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-15T09:39:00.011-05:00

I will never understand how some folks live without pets in their lives. Animals bring such wonderful companionship, warmth, joy, and comfort, and I have been blessed to experience this for all the years I have been on this planet. When I was young, we had cats. As I became an adult, I had my own cats, but I also brought dogs into my home. As my human children came along, we had pet hamsters, rats, and guinea pigs too. Here are the current members of our family.

The Queen, our oldest pack member... Abby

The Other Queen, our 2nd oldest pack member... Scout

My Handsome Prince, and the newest pack member... Foster

The Sweetest Princess, also fairly new to the pack... Cooper

My Grandpuppy Princess, a true delight... Empi

And my part-time puppies, the ones I dog-sit for on occasion... Sophie, Lexi, Carla

And such good friends they are...

Until next time, share a smile, kiss the ones you love, and let sleeping dogs lie.

Painting on a Winter Day

2010-12-08T17:09:00.010-05:00

Temps in the low 30s, cold air and cold wind, warm fire, sweet dogs and kitty all nestled and snoozing, and a glass or two of Red Oak Hummingbird beer... all leading to new watercolors, framed and ready for sale! I have a little holiday bazaar on Sunday afternoon, and I'm hoping the new mini oils, such as Breathe Deeply seen above, and framed watercolors will find new homes. If not, I'll be listing on my website and/or Etsy next week. See something you like? Give me a shout!

Oh the dreams we dream at twilight, my favorite time of the day. I love the lighting. Twilight Wanderings is a 4 x 6 framed in black wood.

Under the Canopy is a 4 x 6 framed in pale blue wood and accented with a little carving of two open hands releasing a bird. It's a reminder of life, joy, and the warmth of summer with the trees in full leaf.

I simply was overjoyed when I found this gently-golden frame because it reminds me of the gold light of a winter morning just as the sun comes over the trees. And it's got a perfect line of red around it... I knew it was just what this 4 x 4 Winter Cardinals watercolor needed.

A view of autumn from the mountain up behind my house, this 4 x 4 watercolor is titled Autumn's Glory and is framed in reddish-brown wood.

Delight of Autumn, a 4 x 6, seems to be the perfect fit for this off-white frame with a brown border. I am quite pleased with the whole package.

A chubby warbler sits among the greenery of the forest, meditating on the day's affairs and the song he will sing. Meditation is a 5 x 7 framed in a lovely brown wood.

Two birds having a little chat amongst the twining leaves of autumn, Talking It Over is a 4 x 6 framed in pale green wood and accented with a metal half-moon with a vine motif.

Until next time, breathe deeply, spend some time in meditation, delight in the season, look for the winter cardinals, love the twilight hours, and celebrate friendships old and new and the wonder of life!

Monday Moments

2010-12-06T10:07:00.003-05:00

While the snow no longer lies on the tree branches and the sky has turned a pale December blue, our weekend snow prettied things up for a while. It began falling on Saturday around noon and continued into the evening hours. On Sunday morning, it was a silvery-blue delight.

Advent-urous Thoughts

2010-12-03T15:47:00.004-05:00

December, Advent, Winter, Solstice.

Peace, Hope, Love, Goodwill.

Giving, Sharing, Reflecting, Celebrating.

I love this season... not just the holidays, but the gray days. The gray sky allows the other deep, rich colors of the earth to pop out and be noticed. It's a symbol to me that we each bring our own bit of color to the world around us. And it causes, for me, a sense of reflection and meditation... and that is what Advent is all about.

Yesterday I met with a few friends and over soup and bread, we reflected on an Advent scripture reading from Psalm 146. This psalm is a reminder of what God the Helper does... this is a very active God, not someone who sits around merely watching the goings-on of earth. More importantly for me, though, that reading is a call to be active in the world. What kinds of activities are involved? Things that society often tells us not to do. Things that are sometimes difficult. But things that each of us can do, and things that many of us do on a daily or weekly basis.

Keeping truth and keeping faith.
Working for justice for the oppressed.
Feeding the hungry.
Giving freedom to the imprisoned.
Opening the eyes of the blind.
Supporting the hurt and the humble.
Loving goodness.
Caring for strangers.
Tending to orphans and widows.

Some of these things are more popular than others. Lots of people help to feed the hungry by working in a soup kitchen or donating canned goods to various organizations. Many folks volunteer at nursings homes and hospitals. You get the idea. How many of us, though, take care of strangers? Do we invite them in our homes or even our lives? Instead, we're taught to be afraid of them. A bit of food for thought.

Now I often see things metaphorically, being a previous teacher of English. So while some of these things are easy to understand literally, others may not be. Do we go around opening jail cells and letting out those who have been imprisoned? Another good thing to think about. But rather than get into the discussion of our legal system, I choose to focus on those among us who are imprisoned by things other than a jail cell or a military cell. Those with addictions. Those caught up in habits they can't seem to break. Those torn by hatred. Those who suffer from disease. Surely we can help some of these people in a myriad of ways. It only takes a little bit of thought and a little bit of love.

As for curing the blind? Well, wouldn't it be nice to be able to literally do that. But we don't have those skills. We can, however, seek to open the eyes of the metaphorically blind. We can begin discussions with those who seem unable to comprehend the lifestyles of people who are different from them, with those who see war as an answer, with those who believe money can solve problems. Perhaps we can't change their minds, but maybe, just maybe, we can offer some word or thought that stays with them, that rattles around in their brain and soul and is just noisy enough to make them pay attention to it and to cause a wee bit of reflection.

In truth, this list of actions is what being a human is all about. Not just during the holiday season, but each day of our lives. Some might send a check, however small or however large, to a charity seeking peace and justice in areas throughout the world. Some might work at a shelter that serves the homeless. Some might donate needed items to those in jail. Some might regularly visit folks at a nursing home. Some might serve as a Big Brother or Big Sister. And some might rescue an animal discarded by the side of the road. There are so many ways to share ourselves with others. And some of these cost so little, if anything: we can share a smile and a pat on the hand, give up our place in line to someone with a greater need, offer a kind word to an overworked postal worker, listen to our neighbor who's down on her luck, say a warm thank-you to a teacher or a bank teller, share a meal with someone who hasn't many friends.

May you find peace and joy and love each day during the remainder of this year and into the next, and may you also bring peace and joy and love to others.

Holiday Favorites

2010-12-02T10:42:00.008-05:00

Today I'm featuring some of my favorite and very affordable items from Etsy... wonderful goodies for the holidays. Whether as gifts for someone you love or a little treat for yourself, these things are simply lovely and magical! Enjoy, and follow the link to the seller's shop to see more of their creations.

A sweet little snowflake necklace by tahoegirl...

Gorgeously pure felted cuff by JaneBoFelt...

Beautifully framed photograph by blindwolfspirit... and it's a bird! (Those who follow me know I always have a bird or two in my collections!)

A very earthy leaf cuff, oh so gorgeous, by lochristine...

Being a handmade soap user, I always look for great soap dishes too, and here's a very pretty one with deep grooves by Creativewithclay...

And a wonderful winter photograph, perfectly titled The Spirit of Change, by theeye...

To close it all out, a sweet wired bird ornament by MyWireArt... there are several styles in her shop...

Hope you take a closer look at each one of these pieces on Etsy, and until next time, remember to buy handmade and support the intentional and wonderful work of artists!

Brand New Day

2010-11-29T08:34:00.003-05:00

Twenty four degrees, cloudy skies.... winter is upon us.

Breathe deeply, say a word of thanks, and enjoy your day!

Giveaway Winner!

2010-11-27T08:37:00.005-05:00

This morning as we sipped coffee and enjoyed the fire in the woodstove, I asked my husband to pick from a small collection of folded bits of paper. "What am I picking?" he asked. "The winner of the giveaway on my blog," I replied. No big drum rolls, no confetti, no applauding and shouting... just a small little gesture of fingers hovering over paper. There were not many entries, so everyone had a very good chance of winning. But the lucky winner is ScrappyRat!! Congratulations!

Scrappy writes, "When I was about 4 years old, I decided to try out my first swear word on Xmas morning, running out to the tree and announcing, loudly (in front of the grandparents, no less), "Look at all these DAMN presents!" Needless to say, my parents were thrilled. ;)

She has chosen this necklace "because my mom would love it if she found it under the tree this year (and I'll keep my foul mouth to myself)." Let's hope her mom doesn't say any swear words either!! :)

ScrappyRat has an Etsy shop where she sells cards and such, and she donates proceeds of many items to animal charities. She is a member of Team EFA: Artists Helping Animals, EtsyVeg, and VeganEtsy. I just love this set of five Sneaky Spotty Dog cards... so cute!!

Thanks to all who entered and shared a holiday comment. I so enjoyed reading them! Stay tuned for more giveaways! I will be phasing out my gemstone jewelry over the next few months, so I believe giveaways will be in order. Until then, shop handmade, buy from small businesses, and love the one you're with!

Happy Holiday Sales

2010-11-24T17:23:00.004-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!! This morning, I posted sales in my Etsy shop. There are a few items marked 25% off the list price for Black Friday only, and all my Gems for Neck and Ears are marked 20% off the listed price from today through December 24. Follow these links to check out these sales. I will be phasing out all of my gemstone jewelry from the Etsy shop and from my inventory at home by the end of the year, so now's the time to buy. Once it's gone, there will be no more.

Black Friday sales...

Gems for Neck and Ears sale...

I hope you all have a blessed and safe Thanksgiving and that you enjoy a precious time with family and friends. Be sure to hug the ones you love!!

Don't Get the Holiday Blues.... Give Them Instead

2010-11-16T16:52:00.008-05:00

The wind is roaring, the skies are dark and ominously grey, leaves are fluttering and flying, and rain has been falling.... but the woodstove is warm and the dogs are great company! I'll be shutting down the computer soon, but I wanted to post this little treasury I created today. Just follow the link here for an up-close look! If you need some help with stocking stuffer and gift ideas, check out these wonderful items in shades of blue... all for under $25!! You can't hardly beat that!

Here are some other ideas as well that wouldn't fit in the treasury and some wouldn't fit in a stocking... these are a little larger so they'd be perfect for a wrapped gift.
Spread a little love with this sweet dog by DogBarks...

Alastair is dressed and ready for winter, by BlueberryFields...

Take a swim with this lab, a print by lkjohnston...

A very cool Tee by mediumcontrol...

And these really fab fingerless gloves by bysweetmom...

Share a Holiday Comment.... and Win!

2010-11-12T09:07:00.006-05:00

Enter to win my holiday giveaway and one of three necklaces. All you need to do is follow my blog and/or follow on Facebook and leave a comment about your holiday... a memory, a special activity. Click on this link from earlier this week to get started

Holiday Giveaway: The gift of sharing

2010-11-09T10:47:00.008-05:00

It's that time of year again... the holiday season! It's a time to think especially about our blessings, say a prayer of thanks for the goodness in our lives, and share wonderful times with family and friends over a table filled with bounty. But moreover, I hope that each one of us will think on those people among us whose lives are not as fortunate, who struggle physically, mentally, or financially, and I hope that we each find a way to somehow offer a ray of hope to them, whether it is through a charitable donation, hours spent in volunteer work, or simply a smile and a touch on the shoulder.

I am especially thankful for the color in my life, the colors of the woods, the birds, the mountains, the colors of the characters I meet online and in my daily life, of my friends and family, my local community. So, as a way to show my thankfulness and as a way of saying thank you to those who have supported my online and physical shops, who have become steadfast friends, either online or up close, I am offering this giveaway for this holiday season.

Here's all you need to do.
1) If you haven't yet become a blog follower, please do so, and IF you are on Facebook, please "like" my page there too.
2) Once you have done these things, simply post here a special thought or memory of your holiday season (what is special about it for you, how you will celebrate, a childhood memory, OR even how you will help make it better for someone else).
3) Then tell me which of the three necklaces offered you would like to have.
4) Be sure that I have your contact information... either Etsy shop or email info!!

Choose from:
Necklace #1
18 inches with the jasper oval drop adding approx 2 inches. In earthy colors with hematite hearts, cubes, and rounds, yellow and white quartz, serpentine jade, glass seed beads

Necklace #2
16 inches with lovely shades of mookaite, turquoise rounds, mother of pearl discs, Czech turquoise crystals, sterling silver, and glass seed beads

Necklace #3
18 inches of peach, rose, and browns with jasper pendant (appx 2 x 1/2 inch), unakite, shell, faceted cat's eye, and glass seed beads

The giveaway will be open until Thanksgiving Day, November 25. The winner will be randomly drawn and notified that weekend so that the package can be mailed by the first of December.

So share your holiday thoughts and let's all share a smile as we read them!

Mini Watercolors

2010-11-04T10:02:00.013-04:00

I have always loved the ethereal, dreamy look of watercolor but haven't really worked in this medium much, only a brief foray into it during college art classes. But I'd been asked to donate some work to benefit an animal charity, so I thought I might sit down with some watercolor paper and paints and see what I could come up with. My first attempts were not so good and went straight into the trash, but I stuck with it and feel that each new little painting is getting better... or at least I don't feel like throwing them out!

These are all miniatures, anywhere between 3 and 4 inches in either dimension... they could be framed, used as a magnet on your fridge, placed beside your computer monitor or on your mirror for a cheerful little reminder of the natural world, slipped into a Christmas stocking, or used as a special gift tag on that very special holiday gift. And they are priced right! As always, they are inspired by the elements of nature around me. Several have been listed in my Etsy shop; just follow the link to check it out.

Chatty Titmouse

Autumn Dusk

Funky Chicken
Lakeside in Summer

Little Bluebird
Goldfinch and Flower
BlueJay Baby

WoodThrush
Heron at Water's Edge
The Hills Are Alive
Scarlet Tanager
Some of the watercolors for the animal charity project

Color Explosion

2010-10-25T17:51:00.010-04:00

Yesterday around noon my husband, who has been miserably sick with the flu, and I were sitting on the deck enjoying the warm October sun and we remarked that it just hadn't been cold enough to have much brilliant color in the landscape this year. But today, it seems that the color exploded overnight. Take a look.

This weekend I had dog-sitting duty for my friends just up the road. It's always a pleasure to stay at their house because while they are so close, they have a different view of the mountain than we do. Here's what I woke up to on Saturday morning.

And here's the meadow in the morning which is a part of my dog-walking route. The tall grass had recently been mowed.

Saturday afternoon when the sun was just beginning to set, the dogs and I went out for one more walk.

Sunday morning, Sophie-dog woke me up bright and early... I think she wanted me to see this.

So, I'll leave you with this photo of my garden as it prepares for the quiet season of winter... but the sign says it all and it's meant for any of you! (Of course you may want to wait until the flu germs have moved away!)

Treasuries and Gift-Giving

2010-10-20T10:41:00.027-04:00

Believe it or not, we've found ourselves heading into the season of gift-giving. Yes, it's here already! Sellers on Etsy are gearing up and hoping for good holiday sales, and treasuries are popping up with wonderful gift ideas. Today's post showcases treasuries in which I've been featured, but I'll begin with one I curated with the idea of Christmas wishes in mind. Is it too early for Christmas Dreams showcases things I'd love to get in my stocking or under the tree!

Be sure to follow the links to see the treasuries and featured items up close.

Innovation Design's treasury is titled Favorites, and I'm thrilled she included me!

She has featured my October Fire painting, a 16 x 20 original oil created from a photo I'd taken in 2009 of our autumn trees.

Diramar of Innovation Design creates beautiful crocheted scarves, necklaces, arm warmers and more. Here's one of my favorites, Cotton Candy, a perfect gift!

Bright, hot, and vibrant, this Red treasury by ColettesBoutique features one of my new mini paintings.

My Cardinal painting is a little 5 x 5 acrylic on canvas.

ColettesBoutique has beautiful jewelry for sale, and here are some truly fabulous earrings, but be sure to visit her store for more beauties!

GreenPost's Ornament treasury is filled with wonderful holiday ideas, as you can guess from the title. Kendra has featured another of my new mini paintings.

My Itty Bitty Poppies painting is another 5 x 5, an oil on canvas.

Kendra at GreenPost makes wonderful eco-friendly paper goods filled with flower seeds that can be planted, so her products serve two purposes! Here are her Cardinal tags, but wouldn't they also look wonderful on a Christmas tree?

GinnyHuber's Mountain Morning is a delightful collection of autumnal colors! I just love it!

Ginny has featured my mini Mountain Morning painting, a 5 x 5 acrylic on canvas.

Ginny makes wonderful felted wool products, brooches, envelopes (one of which is my business card holder), scarves and more. Here's one of my favorites, her Changing Leaves Scarf... so perfect for this cooler weather that is moving in.

And finally, a Laid Back treasury by DreamVintage which features relaxing and peaceful finds in shades of gray. She has included one of my bird paintings.

Winter Song is a 12 x 12 oil on canvas which showcases a tufted titmouse in the heart of winter.

Didem of DreamyVintage creates lovely jewelry that is, yes, vintage and vintage-inspired. Here's one of my favorites necklaces in her shop, made of porcelain and lace... so pretty!

With holidays fast approaching, I hope you'll remember to buy handmade, perhaps from some of the featured artists here, and support artists, whether locally or online at Etsy or other web venues. Until the next post, enjoy your days, be thankful for your friends and families, and share a smile with a stranger!

Meet The Ramshackles!

2010-10-12T11:30:00.011-04:00

So we finally got some band publicity photos taken! We have a couple gigs coming up in the next several weeks, one of which is fairly big, so we needed photos for advertising, but also for general marketing purposes. Our cello player is a graphic designer by day (and sometimes by night too!), so she'll get everything all prettied up for us. In fact, here's a flyer she's created for our next gig!

Here are a few shots that I've played around with.

And a couple of silly ones... where we were laughing about who knows what...

and where my mind has wandered off... probably looking at a bird, as usual!

You can find us on myspace by clicking here.

Remember to sing a little, dance a little, and love a lot!

True Joy in Life

2010-10-07T15:54:00.006-04:00

All of us have experienced different moments of joy in our lives, different joyful events, some brief, some lasting. We could name so many of them and spend a few minutes smiling at those memories. But how does one make one's whole life joyful? How can we find joy in even the dreariest of days or the most mundane of chores?

Here's what George Bernard Shaw has to say about it.

The true joy in life is to be used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one, to be a force of nature instead of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy. I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community. And as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for that communiyt what I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die. For the harder I work, the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no brief candle to me. It is more like a splendid torch, which I've got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.

No doubt we will each find our own "mighty purpose" in life, but we should remind ourselves of this purpose every so often, if not daily. We must remind ourselves that the world is much bigger than we are, lest we become complainers and whiners. We can easily take one look around us and see how blessed we are. This week I visited the East Stokes Outreach Ministry to learn a little bit about the way it operates, the way that its serves the less-fortunate, or the needy, if you will, in our community. And it didn't take long to remember how easy my life really is and how important it is to find ways to serve others who are traveling a hard road.

Take a few moments to reflect on what GBS has to say and see if you can promise yourself, and the community around you, to remember these sentiments and make them a part of your daily meditation. And remember to offer a smile to a stranger who may simply need a reminder that the world is not such a bad place.

A Successful Opening!

2010-10-04T16:40:00.010-04:00

My art show opening at the Apple Gallery of the Stokes County Arts Council was Friday night, and it was wonderfully fun and successful! It was a beautiful evening, with a hint of the crisp air of fall, and I think that helped people want to get outside a bit and venture into downtown Danbury. I can't tell you how many people came out for it, but it seemed fairly busy throughout the evening in the gallery. I know I stayed in conversation with people for most of the night! Two paintings sold during the reception, so I'm thrilled about that!

And the crowd in the cafe was a good one too... enjoying dinner and great acoustic music by a good friend of mine. So all in all, it was a good time in our little town and a great way to kick off the month of October.

It was my husband who remembered that we were going to pull out the camera during the show for some photos! I'd completely forgotten; I think I was just too busy. So it wasn't until towards the end of the evening that pictures got taken, but here are a few...

Treasury Features and Thanks

2010-09-30T11:01:00.017-04:00

A blogger friend of mine (thanks, dear Nicole) regulary posts on treasuries in which she has been included and has showcased a few of my collections. I think that's a lovely idea, and I've decided to follow suit as a way to say thanks to those who take the time to curate lovely collections on Etsy and who have included me in their treasuries. To see the collection up close, follow the link by clicking on the title of the treasury.

Starting with Blackstar's collection... Autumn's Earth Tones

Katie has featured my Touch the Earth medicince bag, made for holding sacred treasures on life's journey. It's made from rusty-brown sueded leather. It measures approximately 3 x 3 1/2 inches and is stitched with strong, black waxed thread in an X pattern. It is handbeaded with jasper, jade, serpentine, green shell, and glass seed beads. It includes a sueded leather strap that allows the owner to hang it from a belt loop.

One of my favorite items in Katie's shop is this little lovely: a handknotted necklace featuring cubes of palmwood and horn and jet black beads. It's beautifully earthy and tribal, don't you think?

Next is another autumn beauty, this one by Gwen of dancingintherains, simply titled Autumn.

Gwen has featured my Le Chat painting, a little 6 x 12 oil on professional canvas with edges painted and wire on the back, ready to be hung.

Gwen makes some fabulous fabric items and she also has a thing for cats! One of my favorites in her shop is Mr. White with scarf... he's all ready for autumn! This cheerful cat shape plush is a great companion. He is made of cotton laine (cotton wool) with hand sewn face, his body stuffed with polyester fiber. He has a scarf which is removable. He is soft, 10 inches tall and 5.5 inches wide.

Mr. White leads nicely into this gorgeous collection, Off White is Just Right, by MazzyJewelryDesigns.

Erika has featured my Sing scrimshaw bookmark.
It's made from a recycled ivory piano key and is etched in the traditional scrimshaw method. It measures 4 x 1/2 inches and is adorned with leather and a turquoise and brown porcelain bead along with a river stone lampworked glass bead.

A favorite of mine in Erika's shop are these very romantic earrings... smoky quartz all wrapped up in sterling silver, perfectly titled Starlight. So pretty!

And one more treasury to showcase here today, a wintry collection by Poppyswickedgarden, aptly titled A Chill in the Air.

Poppy has featured my As the Crow Flies painting, an oil on professional 12 x 12 canvas. As always, the edges are painted and it's wired and ready for your wall!

Poppy has a few shops on Etsy, but in her poppywickedgarden shop, she has some really cool accessories and clothing. Here's one item I'd like to have in my closet... Timeless Love Arm Warmers. They are approximately 15" long and made from lovely white textured knit. She's finished them with elegant white lace trim and ruffle edging. I think they're gorgeous, don't you?

Thanks to these talented curators for sharing their collections on Etsy! There will be more posts like this one to come, as a way to share these beautiful treasuries and to show my appreciation. Until then, remember to buy handmade and remember to enjoy the beauty of life all around you!

Country Roads Exhibit

2010-09-28T09:21:00.005-04:00

Lest you think I have been remiss, lazy, or up to no good... here's a little post to let you know I have been busy preparing for a solo art exhibit at the Stokes County Arts Council's Apple Gallery. I hung the show last week, took a few photos, and am preparing this week for the opening reception which takes place this Friday evening. I worked with the owner of the cafe next door to the gallery, and she will be open that evening for dinner and I've solicited one of my good friends who is also a fabulous musician to play that evening in the cafe. So it'll be a hot time on the streets of our little Stokes County town! Music, food, and art... all in one fell swoop! I'm sincerely hoping for a good crowd because we need some action 'round here!

The Price of Art

2010-09-17T15:11:00.012-04:00

Ah... how much is someone willing to pay to own a piece of your art? If we had the answer to that, wouldn't our lives as artists be so much easier? It's a sure thing that women will buy jewelry and that men will buy jewelry for their women (although it's not a sure thing for some men to pick out the right thing... just ask my friend Carolyn whose husband has a tendency to buy his firecracker of a wife all manner of conservative pieces!). But at what price will they buy a truly unique and one-of-a-kind necklace, such as this one by LittleGreenRoom?

In online stores and websites, such as Etsy and Artfire, there are uncounted numbers of jewelry-makers. I'm included in there. When I opened my Etsy shop about 20 months ago, I listed mostly earrings and necklaces. I foolishly hadn't done much research on the site. The majority of my sales have been, you guessed it, jewelry, though most of my listings are now paintings. I have since discovered that when you do a search for any kind of tag, the majority of items that come up are some form of jewelry. For example, I just did a search under the Jewelry section, and here's the number of listings that came up: 1,570,053 items in Jewelry . That means 39,352 pages of jewelry listings!!
Check out this link to see what I'm talking about!

On Etsy, you can see similar work all over the place. This is due at times to what the market wants and it's due sometimes, unfortunately, to some sellers copying the work of others. You can find jewelry in all price ranges and styles, and typically the work that is priced higher is, of course, higher quality, better crafted, and with a unique style that utilizes unique materials. But of the jewelry that is fairly and reasonably priced, some of these makers have their own definite style in the way they create or in the photography of their work, so often you can see their listings, even if there may be other work in the same vein, and you know the shop before you even see the name. Such is the case of ErikaPrice whose bright and colorful work is often photographed on piano keys. And there is the work of Littlebugjewelry, pictured here. I am not a wearer of rings, but I am sorely tempted when I see a listing such as this one! These are usually the jewelers who are able to make sales. And these makers also list EVERY day. But sometimes even the work of these makers and sellers can be mixed in with that of others whose work is quite similar. It's a hard row to hoe if you're a jewelry maker on Etsy, especially if you're fairly new to the game. You better have something that stands out, that is marked as your own, and that is priced right if you want to make the sales. And once you have loyal and happy customers, you'll probably do just fine. It's getting to that point that can be so difficult.

There are lots of visual artists on Etsy as well, but when you do a search for Paintings, you get this: 164,486 items in Art which is quite a few less than Jewelry! Still, the same is true for this category. Certain artists/sellers have a definite style or theme which is recognizable and often these are the ones who show up in treasuries, which help to get your shop noticed, or seen on the Front Page, or listed in Etsy Finds or on the Storque. Many of these artists have discovered that the best way to make sales is to sell prints of their original work because prints are, of course, much more affordable. This is a step that I have not taken and am not planning to take in the near future, though I have been asked to do so. I firmly believe that art should be one of a kind and while reproductions of masterpieces sell as posters and prints so that people can display them prominently in their homes or offices, I would rather support working artists and see their originals hanging on the walls of businesses and homes.

I know that everybody sees art in a different way, and some may prefer painstakingly realistic work that appears to be a photograph over something that is abstract or even something that is somewhat realistic but bolder in color or style. As an artist, I have to make a choice: do I paint what is in my heart and soul, hoping that it speaks to a potentional buyer... or do I paint what the market says to paint, believing that a typical buyer will open the wallet for such a piece? Since my home and studio are full of my own paintings, guess which direction I have so far chosen? Of course, there is marketing, and I admit that I am just not very good with that. My skills as a painter are not top-notch, so I will never command top dollar for my work, as many successful and wonderful painters can and do. But I will also not give my work away in the sense that I will not price it so low that I may as well list it for free. Some artists do this; some are not very good artists, some are pretty decent artists. Whether or not you pour out your soul on the canvas or if you just paint something that feels good to you, you have purchased canvas, brushes and palette knives (and if you paint, you know that brushes can be an exorbitant expense), tubes of paints (again, some are much more expensive than others), painting agents, cleaning materials, varnish, framing materials, easels, drawing pads for your sketches, and perhaps other things as well. And you have spent time creating something visual for others to enjoy or reflect upon or question or cry over or any other emotional response to it. So you should value your work in that regard and keep that in mind when pricing it, believing that you should be paid for that effort as well as recovering your cost for materials.

And this is true for other arts and yes, even crafts. I have found one seller on Etsy who may as well list items for free. Taking her materials and time into account, as well as the fees on Etsy and Paypal, she cannot possibly make money with what she is selling. It's true that she uses her designs over and over again and there isn't too much in them that is unique or original; they are very traditional for the particular medium that she works in. Because I work in this medium, I know the amount of time involved and I know the expenses of the materials, and I know that she can't be making much money, no matter how many sales she makes (and she makes quite a lot). While I know an artist can never be paid a fair sum for the hours spent creating a piece of art, her pay rate must be about $5 an hour. What is the point of that? My husband's response to this is that creating art is sometimes a wealthy person's pastime.

And when she, or any seller, is listing things for such a ridiculously low price, one that makes other artists cringe, does she not realize that she makes it harder for those of us who are working in the same medium but creating one-of-a-kind pieces, more unique, more organic, more fluid, to make any sales? Someone will ask, "Why should I buy this piece at this higher cost when I can get this one which is much cheaper?" Why exactly?

A buyer has to know the difference between art with a soul and art that is merely created for a quick sale. Unfortunately, especially in today's economy, many people don't understand the difference and many people don't care. We cannot count on most buyers understanding the difference in craft, skill, quality and design, and we certainly cannot count on other sellers to be fair with their pricing. Perhaps they do not value what they do as creators; perhaps they do not make their living with their art. Perhaps they just do not think about the actual market value. Perhaps they never think about the community of artists.

My husband, who is a custom knifemaker and makes everything himself, including Damascus steel, had a booth at a knife show last year and one of the sellers was a foreign couple who was selling Damascus knives. John asked him about his work and learned that he and his son make the damascus steel themselves. They were not making many sales because they were foreigners of the type that many folks are currently afraid of, and for that John felt rather sad. But John was aghast at the low price on those knives. Sure, he said, they were not the best made knives, but the damascus steel was nicely done. He said he could've bought the lot of them and taken them to the Blade Show in Atlanta and sold them for twice as much as he paid, making a nice and easy profit. That's how inexpensive they were. To be fair, John said this couple probably just didn't understand the market value; perhaps they were from a country where one is used to working long and hard and just barely making a living. But it's another case of selling way below market value and making it hard for anyone else who is trying to get a fair price on a custom product.

So we are left with some decisions. Do we continue to create art that is a part of our being? Do we continue to make art that is unique, somehow different, art that we think others may be drawn to in some way? Do we continue to try to sell that art? Do we price it so that it sells quickly, even if it means making a very small margin of profit? These are things that I have been pondering for a while, and granted, my creativity goes in many directions. I could give up one or two paths on that journey quite easily (and actually I have, for the most part, given up my beaded jewelry. I will still try to sell my inventory, but I'll not be spending money to create any new pieces; in fact, it sounds like time for a giveaway... so stay tuned!). But I'm interested in what others have to say on this topic. So please share your thoughts!

It's Not Easy Being an Artist

2010-09-06T09:32:00.010-04:00

Being an artist is not an easy career. It was hard enough for the likes of those, like dear Vincent, who didn't have to contend with all the technologially savvy folks in the world today. And when you add the idea of online stores, along with craft shows perhaps and local marketing... well, being an artist becomes a lot more challenging, and yes, sometimes difficult. Let's think through what is involved in this particular profession.

1. The actual creativity side... Sure, this is what everyone thinks of when you tell them you are "an artist." People have a rose-colored vision of somebody who works in a pleasant, sun-lit space playing around with pretty colors and paints and metals and beads or any such medium, listening to music and always smiling. That creative aspect is the reason we become artists: the pull, the absolute desire to create; the need to express what is inside our soul, heart, and mind; the need for our hands to make something beautiful or maybe not so beautiful, depending on what the story is; the unexplainable draw to get out to the studio alone and let those feelings fly. It is the "fun" side of being an artist, but it is a definite need and it can also be quite frustrating at times.

2. The marketing side... Okay, so you've created your art. How do you price it? How do you sell it? Two tricky dilemmas that each artist must work out on his or her own terms. Pricing is not easy, especially when you are fairly new to the game. And after you've priced, now what to do with your art? You can sell locally, wholesale or on commission. But first you must get out there and beat the pavement looking for the shops or galleries where you work will fit in. You can join an artist community or organization... highly recommended... so that you can learn of opportunities and you can do joint shows. You can build a website to showcase your work, adding Buy It Now opportunities for viewers if you desire. You can join any number of online communities already set up to help you sell your art... Ebay, Artfire, Etsy, etc. Some artists also market their work through other online social media... Twitter, Facebook, or oh so many more. Just remember that for each way an artist chooses to market, there is much, much time involved.

3. The maintenance side... Once you have decided how to go about marketing and selling your work, there's the business aspect of keeping up with those retail stores who are selling your work or of maintaining your online shops, websites, blogs and social media. This is no small task. What does this involve? For retail stores and galleries, it means inventories and checking in every so often, either through phone calls or visits, changing out items seasonally or even more often than that. For blogs and social media, it means posting at regular intervals so that your work is out there and so that your followers will continue to see you in some form or fashion. Posts can be simple (a photograph or two of new work) or more time-consuming (detailed processes or collections). For online stores and shops, a little more is involved. Because people can't actually hold your art in their hand or view it up close and personally, you have to provide would-be buyers with a good look on their computer screen. This entails....
---- Photography... and it better be good. Your product will not sell if your photos are blurry, badly lit, congested with other objects. So you can spend hours, and I mean hours, taking the photos, cropping the photos, adjusting lighting and color, and then uploading the photos to your site.
---- Product description... a tricky and time-consuming aspect. You must create wording that will sell your product. How much do you say? Good question. People need to understand what your art is, why you created it, how it can and should become a part of their life or home. You have to say enough about it, but not too much, and you need to write it using language that is creative, like your art, but also clear and easy to read.
---- Titles... these are also important, and not just in paintings or collages but also for jewelry and other types of art. Titles get people's attention. They can be sweet, bold, unusual, earthy, shocking. And in online shops, they are also used, along with tags, in web searches to help people find your work.
---- Tags... words or phrases that describe your art, whether through color, design, style, materials, emotions, or any number of things. These are used in online searches and in website searches. Create tags well, and your work is found. And yes, this can be another time-consuming area.

4. The packaging side... Once you've sold something online, you must wrap it up for shipping out. You must have supplies on hand to do so: business cards, hang tags, bubble wrap, tissue paper, string, ribbons, gift boxes, shipping envelopes or boxes... it all depends on what you are selling. If I have sold a piece of jewelry, I take extra time to make the packaging quite attractive and even color-coordinated. And I take even more time to decorate the backside of the mailing envelope with my catchphrase "Make a Joyful Noise" complete with birds and music notes. Why? Because I think it's important to make the buyer feel special and to be glad that he or she purchased from me. It's fun to receive a pretty package in the mail and to open up layers of ribbons and tissue paper and organza bags to finally retrieve the piece that was purchased. I have received packages that are nothing special... protectively wrapped, of course, but nothing pretty, nothing fancy. And I have received packages, such as the one pictured here from Etsian GlazedOver, that are so lovingly wrapped with beautiful cards and fun ribbons or personalized in some way. Which do you think is more fun to open?

5. The shipping side... Now that your package has been wrapped in whatever way you choose, it must be shipped. For some, that means the shipping service will come to your home or studio and pick up your package for you. For others, like me, I must make the trek to the Post Office to ship out my package. This can be easy, or it can be difficult, oftentimes depending on the season of the year (gift-giving holidays... eegads!) and sometimes depending on the moods of the postal employees. But whichever, it adds an additional time and cost to the ordeal of selling online.

6. And then there's what I call research... An artist should keep up with what is going on in the world of art and the world of retail. Depending on what you create, you must keep in mind the seasons, the colors of the seasons, what other artists are doing, what is selling. You should acquaint yourself with those whose online shops do quite a bit of business. Follow blogs of artists whose work you admire. An artist can find inspiration in many ways, and seeing what is out there and what is new can sometimes inspire. But if you stumble about blindly, not keeping up with other artists and not finding support in a community, you may be doomed from the start.

So there is the profession of an artist in a nutshell. I know there is much I have left out and much other artists would add. But here you see it isn't easy; it is time-consuming, it can be costly in more ways that simply buying the materials needed for the creativity aspect, and it can be quite frustrating. Why, then, do some folks practically give away their art? More on that in the next post.

Around the Corner

2010-08-26T10:49:00.008-04:00

Those dog days of August are nearing an end. Temperatures here in Stokes County have been nice and cool during the night, and this morning I woke up to a refreshing 62 degrees. Ahhhhh. Our crabapple tree already thinks that autumn is here; it has dropped most of its leaves which lay in a golden puddle against the still green grass. And while I am not necessarily enjoying the dusk settling in earlier and earlier and the days becoming shorter, I am not missing at all the repressive heat that we experienced for the last couple of months.

Here are a few of my favorite pre-autumn finds on Etsy. As always, follow the links for a closer view.

I simply love this sweet acorn-adorned bowl by TinaFrancisDesigns...

One of my favorite Etsian artists, AmberAlexander, who showcases lots of animals...

One of my favorite jewelers, kathiroussel, showcasing a to-die-for necklace. For those who are vintage lovers Kathi also has a wonderful vintage shop...

Ver cool and earthy Twig Earrings by SwanRiverStone...

Love this scarf with all its lovely fringe by none other than Fringe...

Thick, luxurious washcloths or dishcloths by Easy123. I have some of her work in both my kitchen and bathroom, and I strongly recommend these cloths if you want to get away from commercially made cloths or sponges...

Aren't these the sweetest hair adornments ever? By littlebrownbird...

And of course there has to be a bird here... this sculptural bird in a box by lorinichols... LOVE it!!

And these wonderful felted acorns, which you can also see in the opening photo. I'll be purchasing more from fairyfolk to continue adorning my twigs for my autumn table decoration.

Enjoy the end of summer, spend time in your garden or walking through the park, sing loudly, and celebrate love!

Who Knows Where the Time Goes?

2010-08-23T11:51:00.008-04:00

Seventeen days ago... that was my last post. There are a couple important reasons for that. First, my computer crashed. And second, once that happened, I began reassessing some things. I have decided that I truly do not like computers. I know they are necessary for keeping your art out there, maintaining websites and online stores, promoting your work, and also for staying in touch with some distant friends. But oh my gosh, I do get tired of working at the computer, especially during the warm weather months when I'm much more inclined to create and to be outside, gardening, harvesting, playing with the dogs, or just bird- and lizard-watching. I know that the more time I spend on the computer, the less time I am actually creating and being present in the lives of my family and friends. And I do not want a machine to control how I spend my time.

So I have been doing more creating, more song-writing, more music practice, more reading, and more of almost everything else over the past couple of weeks. I haven't checked blogs (and honestly, there are some that I have really missed!), I haven't made treasuries on Etsy, I haven't listed too many things in Etsy, I haven't posted much on Etsy team threads or on Facebook, and I haven't sent many emails. Have I suffered much from that? Nope. Not really. It's true that I haven't made many online sales either. But I haven't had much luck in that area all year, really.

How I will use this lesson I am not sure yet. I know that when winter rolls around again, I will probably hibernate more and thus spend more time with online friends via emails, blogs, FB, treasuries, and threads, but for now, I think I will try to limit my computer time to an hour or so a day. And that time is just about up for today.

But before I sign off for the present, here are some images to prove that I actually have been working on art, both visual and musical, although I can't show you the musical work here (you'll just have to trust me when I say there are several songs at various points in progress). The painting above had been sitting in my studio, half completed for quite some time. So I finally got around to finishing it up and listing it on Etsy. And below are the newest scrimshaw pieces. A couple have been listed; the others will be soon.

Under the Sea bookmark, complete with fun lampworked glass fish and disc beads...

Dance of Life necklace with beautiful boro glass bead in garden colors, on leather...

Flutterbys and Ferns pendant, on flexible black wire with freshwater pearls and crystals...

Butterflies bookmark with aqua lampworked glass bead...

Ear Birds earrings, on sterling silver with autumn-colored lampworked glass beads and Swarovski crystals...

Sing to Me bookmark with aqua and brown porcelain bead and river stone lampworked glass bead...

Be patient with me... if you're looking for blog posts or if you're looking for my comments on your blogs. Trust me when I say that I value my online friends and that I think of you often, because I truly do. And when time allows, I will be visiting your blogs and I'll be adding new posts here. Until then, hug the ones you love, dance in the candlelight, sing a little song, and breathe the fresh air. That's what I'll be doing.

Oh Hummingbird

2010-08-06T15:44:00.004-04:00

The hummingbirds have been flocking here since late last week. On Monday afternoon, no fewer than 12 were hovering around, awaiting a chance to get to the feeder. I sat and watched them up close for about an hour that afternoon. I took a few pictures, but eventually gave that up for the simple pleasure of focused seeing and hearing those wings and chirps.

A Magical Day

2010-08-04T15:31:00.013-04:00

Monday dawned with gray skies and drizzle. Another dreary day... with no indication of what was in store for us.

My husband left at 8:00 to take a bike ride to the State Park just a ways down the road, and I had my coffee and posted on the blog about the past week and listed a few new things in the Etsy shop. Around 10:00, Abby and Empi started barking and rushed to the front sliding doors, a signal that John was coming up the driveway. But when I looked out the window, he was coming from the woods and through the yard... very strange. Then the dogs took off up the stairs to the window which overlooks the back side of our property, and they were squealing with alarm and concern. I took a look, and there in the back yard was a black dog.

We all rushed back down the stairs just as John was poking his head in the door and calling for Abby. I went out with her and John led her to the back yard to meet the stranger who was in the fence there. As they sniffed and circled and met each other, John told me the story. He'd seen this dog a few times over the weekend, thinking at one point that she was dead because she'd lain in the same spot for hours on end without moving. But today she was hanging around some construction guys who are working on a new building between our road and the park. He wheeled up on his bike and asked what they knew about her; not much, they said. He looked her over, petted her, and immediately, there was a bond because as he rode off, she followed him home, no short distance.

She seemed just a wee bit thin, and we gave her some food on the porch and talked about what to do. We decided to take some Found Dog flyers down to the houses close to the park to see if anyone would claim her. But first, we introduced her to Empi, who normally is fairly territorial (though this is only her home away from home), but there were no problems at all. Seems that Empi and Abby would both accept her without any trouble, and she was very accepting of them too. She even does quite well with our cat, Scout, who has rubbed up against her and gotten a kiss. Next we gave her a bath, cleaned off all the mud and dirt, and inspected the scars in many locations on her body. She's got a bad limp and it appears that her right shoulder may have been broken somehow and healed without surgery.

A few hours later, after a nap and lunch, John headed down the road with the flyers, and he found the owner at the house where he'd first seen the dog over the weekend. The man said that he'd planned to move into town soon and didn't want to take "Ladybird" with him. He said she's about 8 months old, has never had shots or been to the vet, so of course she also hasn't been spayed. He said she is part Pit Bull, part Boxer, and part Lab. She'd had a brother who was larger than she, but he'd been hit and killed by a car. When John asked about her injuries, the guy said he didn't know anything about them. He was more than happy to leave her in our care.

She is definitely not a dog we would have picked out at the shelter, not a breed or mix we'd be inclined to search out, but it seems clear to me that "Ladybird" picked us out, that she found us. I believe she knew where she wasn't wanted and knew where she would be loved and cared for.

Last winter, when Bruschi died and I'd posted about the sadness and grief of that experience, one of my followers wrote this: "Our kindred spirits never go far from us in this universe, Bruschi will be watching over you and when his spirit is ready he will be at your side again in fur form." I could not help but think of this as, on Monday afternoon in the drizzle, I went out to pick blueberries, and our new dog came out to the bushes and sniffed around, happily eating the berries I offered her, wiggling her whole body with delight. Then she laid down and patiently waited for me to finish. That evening, when I was cooking dinner, I looked up the stairs and found her laying at the very top, with her paws draped over the edge, surveying the goings-on in the kitchen. Let me tell you, I got a bit teary-eyed because that is just what Bruschi used to do.

Tuesday morning, we finally reached a consensus on her new name. I simply could not live with "Ladybird", so we chose Cooper, and it seems to suit her. She has easily made her way into her new home. She likes to go up the hill with John to the shop, and she lays there, quite content just to be near him, while he works; occasionally she'll wander back down to the house alone and ask to come in. She has no inclination to leave, and it's a marvel at how well suited she is for us and we are for her. At bedtime, she has her own bed upstairs with us and Abby and Empi, and all three dogs sleep peacefully through the night. Yesterday I bought her a collar and leash, as well as her own puppy food (Blue Buffalo... natural and holistic without all the crap and fillers that most commercial dog foods have; it's what we finally started buying for the adults dogs when Bruschi was sick and needed less protein and better food), and tomorrow she'll take her first car ride to the vet where she'll get her shots and an appointment for spaying.

Last week was a hard week... full of fear, pain, emotional issues. So I'm very thankful and feel quite blessed that this week is balancing out with light, life, and love. Amen and amen.

MIA... or where I have been

2010-08-01T09:32:00.004-04:00

Life can throw a whole lotta crap at you, all in one fell swoop. You're rolling along, things are going just fine, you're enjoying your life... and then BAM! One phone call and your heart skips a beat or two, your ears are filled with thunderous sound, and your life isn't your own.

A week ago, my youngest son called me to say that his older brother was in the hospital after a serious bicycle accident. He'd fractured his skull, had a subdural hematoma, a broken collarbone, and a cracked rib. He'd been in the emergency room for several hours, a friend having called an ambulance after the wreck, and was headed to ICU. Needless to say, my husband and I jumped in the car and made the first of many hour-long drives into the hospital. My stomach was in knots, my thoughts were going to places I didn't want to be, and though I told myself to control the tears... well, I just couldn't co-operate. When we found our son in that curtained and darkened space, the tears started flowing. He tried to reassure me, but you know that words can't always soothe the fear, and the emotions just have to get out.

By the time we left the ICU that evening, after the nurses told us to go home, that they would take good care of our son, we'd talked with the neurosurgeon and I felt much more encouraged. Not only did our son have the injuries listed above, but he'd also bruised his brain in a second location and fractured his sinus cavity which could lead to other issues. BUT... the doctor felt that because he'd been fairly clear and coherent throughout the day, he'd make it through just fine. Our son was in the ICU through Tuesday night, and then he was moved into a regular room for another day. He was released on Thursday morning and so far, so good.

I am extremely thankful for my youngest son who got to the ER as soon as he heard the news and who took charge, asked and answered questions, and listened to everything so that he could fill us in. He also had his brother come home with him after his release from the hospital and tended to him for a couple days during his early recovery. It makes a mother proud!!

So you think that's enough? I sure did... but NO! My dad called on Tuesday afternoon to tell me that my step-mother was heading to the other hospital. She'd been wearing a heart monitor and when the results were read, the doctor reported that her fatigue, her shortness of breath, and her all-around discomfort were due to the fact that her heart was beating only 10 times per minute. Okay... with news like that, it's a wonder she was still breathing at all! So on Wednesday, we traveled into and across town to visit our two family members who were in not so great shape in two different hospitals. It was a very long day following three very long days... and did I mention stressful?

My step-mother had a pacemaker implanted on Friday afternoon, so we were back at the hospital for the afternoon. When we arrived, we found our youngest son sitting in the room with his grandparents. The surgery was a great success, and my step-mother is doing well. In no time, I hope, she will be feeling better than ever and able to get back to a normal life without feeling so tired all the time. My dad is much relieved, for sure!

One week of living like that is enough for me. So many heavy burdens, so little sleep, so many emotions, and so little control over any of it. I was reminded of many things this week, not the least of which is that life takes its twists and turns and I ain't the driver. I can't control the events of life. Accepting that fact sooner than later makes living just a wee bit easier in the sense that when a hard turn comes up, you just lean into it, steel yourself for what's round the bend, and do the best you can. But knowing it and doing it... two very different things.

And yes, lots of other lessons and reminders came along this week, but I'll deal with those later. One thing at a time.

So that hummingbird up there at the top of the post? On Friday morning, during a rare few minutes alone, I sat on the deck in the sunshine, warming my tired bones and getting energized for the day, and enjoyed the many hummingbirds who were jousting for a spot at the feeder. Those little souls move at a very fast pace, and though they sometimes hovered only a foot away from me, I couldn't quite catch them in focus with the camera. But their mid-air dancing and swooping and chasing and chirping remains focused in my mind and serves to remind me of both the simplicity and the complexity of this waltz of life.

Thursday's Thoughts: Winter Dreams

2010-07-22T08:42:00.010-04:00

With temperatures hovering at 97 and the North Carolina humidity high as a kite, my thoughts sometimes turn towards the cooler months and the brisk December air. Though I have truly been enjoying the summer sun and the wonderful greens of the garden and the trees, I feel a strong need for a winter reminder. So I'm sharing with you today some Etsy finds to cool us off a bit. Enjoy!

Polar Bear lampworked glass sculpture by koicreek

Gorgeous Winter vase, one of a kind by earthfired

Winter Moon ring by littlebugjewelry

Beveled Star window ornament by theglassmenagerie

Winter Storm photograph by SpruceConnect

Winter Birch watercolor by paintingsonpalmer

Chickadee in Snow by naturemandalas

Stunning ruffled felt jacket by cotylee

Winter Memory earrings by PoleStar

Sweet winter blocks for your shelf by lisabees

Breathe deeply, enjoy the moment, and remember to buy handmade!

Coolin' It on Indian Creek Trail

2010-07-21T12:17:00.012-04:00

Last night, just before we went to sleep, John said, "You wanna go for a hike tomorrow?" I asked questions, as I always do (often much to his dismay), and after getting some details, happily said, "Sounds good to me!"

This morning dawned gray and overcast... perfect weather for a hike. We are so blessed to live about a mile down the road from a beautiful state park, and that's where we headed at about 8:30 or so. Camera in hand, dog treats in pocket, away we went... in two cars: one to leave at the end of the trail and one to drive up into the park where the trail begins, at the Visitor Center.

From the beginning of the trail, hikers head down, down, down a path and some granite stairs to reach Window Falls. It's steep enough to give you a good workout, especially if you're going to turn around and head back the way you came, which we did not.

From there, the trail gets narrower and much more shady. The song of the water accompanied us, though surprisingly we heard few birds. And we saw no other people, though sad to say that there were signs (a plastic water bottle and a forgotten pair of socks) that people had been there before us.

Abby enjoyed the water, which was fun for us because although she has Labrador Retriever in her ancestry, she doesn't usually like to get her feet wet. Today, however, she walked right into the creek and cooled off. I tried to get some photos of her, but she just couldn't be still long enough. There were some nice little hidden pools, perfect for skinny dipping, and don't think I didn't think about it!

As we hiked, John noticed things like trees struck by lightning, places that looked burned, and we speculated about those. But typically, I turned my focus to things at my feet... like fungi.

All too soon, we reached the part of the trail where we'd parked our car. I could've spent the whole day on this trail, but Abby was pretty tired, and I was getting a little hungry too. So we headed back up to where we'd parked the truck, took in a final view of the mountain behind the Visitor's Center, and came on home, determined to do more hiking and enjoy the park and the nearby river more often.

Salsa and Sauce for the Cooler Months Ahead

2010-07-20T14:05:00.011-04:00

While the Blind Boys of Alabama sang their gospel and soulful blues and Abby and Scout napped, John and I peeled, chopped, simmered, and canned... and laughed, sang, and sweated... and thankfully put a dent in the tomatoes that had lined our kitchen countertops in every direction. Oh yes, there are still tomatoes sitting there in the windowsill and in the sunlight around the sink, waiting to turn wondrously ripe, waiting for their time to be turned into pico de gallo or sauce or quiche or to be simply sliced for sandwiches. And there are still tomatoes on the vines in the garden. But at least we got our first day of canning done yesterday (or as our Southern rural neighbors say, we "put up" some tomatoes) and are proud of our fresh, homemade sauce for pasta and hot, lively salsa for autumn afternoons and winter evenings. And there's some fresh, chopped tomatoes on hand in the fridge for other uses this week, including tonight's meal of shrimp and linguini and salad.

We spent several hours at this project. It's definitely a labor of love for fresh, organic, and homegrown because it takes a lot of time and energy. Our yield yesterday won't last us too long, but we'll enjoy every bite of it.

Here is the first batch of tomatoes, mostly Romas but we also used Mountain Pride, German Johnson, and Celebrity, waiting to be parboiled and then dunked into ice cold water so their skins could be easily removed.

Here I am at the sink, peeling away and peeling away and peeling away. I can't tell you how many tomatoes we went through, but it was a lot!

Now everything's been peeled, chopped, blended, and ready to be lightly boiled... oh wait... not quite enough garlic. John and I adore garlic. After this step, the tomatoes and their various counterparts will be placed into sterilized jars and dropped into a hot water bath for approximately 45 minutes. That's when we can sit down and enjoy a glass of wine (me) or another cup of coffee (John).

The results? Five pints of salsa and four quarts and a pint of pasta sauce. They might look the same in the jars, but trust me, they are not. Oh no, they definitely are quite different.

And one last photo... blueberries picked yesterday morning while it was raining and the temperature was bearable. I brought them in, dumped them on a towel across the table, and spread them out in one layer to dry.... probably about ten cups, and more on the bushes still.

Fortunately these are much easier to deal with as they freeze so well, and many of them will be made into another Blueberry Streusel Cobbler that we will take to our son's house when we go to enjoy dinner and a visit this weekend, and to bring Empi back to Camp Dresser while our son goes to Las Vegas... for work!

Got a Thing for Those Ravens

2010-07-17T17:05:00.007-04:00

Just finished and just listed this new scrimshaw pendant on sterling silver chain...
The Raven's Moon....

Just a week or so ago, I completed this painting, It's Only the Wind, which is currently in a Black and White show at Associated Artists in Winston-Salem.

And there's this 12 x 12 painting that's my avatar on Etsy and is for sale in the shop and on my website.

You can be sure there will be more to come. Until then, take a moment to listen to the birds and feel the blessing of their song!