Notions of Fancy

Finding Treasures

2012-01-21T22:30:00.001-06:00

I love this photo of my grandmother (center) with her sisters and friends.

My imagination just ran wild when I discovered it. I decided not to ask her to tell me about it until after I added my own little 'story' to it. Once it was finished she shared with me the story behind the picture. I loved watching her wheels turning as she put names with the faces. Her face lit up as she recalled the memories of days gone by. I don't think I could ever hear enough about the seemingly far away past as if it were really just yesterday. I'm starting to realize as I roll along creating the story of my life, the past starts to mesh with the present. I can already see myself sitting with my granddaughter, telling the stories of my old photos, recalling sweet times. Nonnie's birthday is next month. I think I know what she's getting from me. :)
Happy Day!

2011-11-03T08:25:00.000-05:00

It always sneaks up on me

Not gonna let it happen this year. In fact, we are participating in the festivities at Second Saturday Studio.

original oil by Betsy Ridout

available for purchase

Getting in the mood yet?

Check out this and other original art and handcrafted fancies during Searcy's Holiday Open House on (this) Sunday, Nov.6

1-5

see you there!

etsy SCORE!

2011-11-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hello, I am Micah Leigh and I am an Etsy-aholic. Yap. Tis true. (Pinterest-aholic post coming soon)

You can find the BEST stuff on there. For those of you in the dark, Etsy is an online world of handmade goodies and supplies to make them. yes, there are some left in the world who have not been properly introduced. Go there. wait, not yet...

All those so called 'wasted' hours spent mindlessly scanning and window shopping finally paid off. Much to the dismay of my co-workers who were seemingly let down when I ripped open the package at work,(for some reason,they think I'm a little wierd), THIS TREASURE is what I...(eh-hem) acquired

It's a printer set from 1932! Holy grail of vintage stamp crafty goodness. You would've thought I was a 5 year old waiting on the prophesied coming of Santa on Christmas Eve while it was in route from Etsy to me.

I can't imagine how Lisa (seller)was able to let this go??? :) but she sure is a gem for allowing me the honors.

This museum quality piece will be on display at the studio from Oct.31 till whenever. Come see it for yourself!

no, really. I'm serious!

happy day!

Incredible Inspiration

2011-10-29T07:49:00.001-05:00

Giraffe's are magnificent miracles of God's design. Speaking of miracle's....watch this:

(new in studio)

happy day!

p.s. stay tuned for the SKETCHBOOK PROJECT...

It's Been Such a Long Time

2011-10-24T19:41:00.000-05:00

Hello Again

I can't believe it's been.... months...since my last post. Let me assure you, this has NOTHING to do with my procrastination issues OR my problems with attention. (lie) No, really.

I had high hopes for the summer. My plan was to spend tons of all the free time I was to have, painting and creating at the studio. While I can tell you that playing at the studio is exactly what I NEVER GOT TO DO, I cannot tell you just exactly what I did do. Can't think of one thing I accomplished. Guess that was one lazy summer gone by.

I'd had about enough of that by the time school started and, at the last minute,(which is just the time I seem to do anything),

I decided to....(drumroll here) HOMESCHOOL. Yep, ME. I feel it necessary to add that my SUPER mom is helping with Geometry and Biology. Anyone who knows me would be scared for the poor child if they thought I was teaching him those 2 subjects.

SO, once we were all underway and had some sort of routine, we decided to field trip-it out to the studio.

Why not?

I'm finally back. A painting sat waiting that had been on pause since spring. The poor neglected project had the old spring color palette, which was now all wrong. Fall was calling my name.

Cherie (one of my sa-weet studio girlies) mentioned getting art out to a little outdoor venue last minute and I jumped on the bandwagon.

It just occurred to me that I was never really invited. I don't think she minded...

This was just what I needed to get back into the swing of things. Here are a few pics 'o the day:

I drool over Cherie's creations (above). Vintage tins that have seen better days are reborn into vibrant works of art.
Magnifique Cherie!

We were packed like a sardines so there was no room for a camera. (or i forgot) Hence the poor iphone pics.

Here are a few pieces in my repertoire of masterpieces. I never took French but somehow I picked up on a bit. :)

Most of these have been hanging around. The Giraffe is my latest little ditty. He inspired me to keep going as of late. OH, and Cherie played a pretty big part too. Thanks friend!!

that's all for now.
be back soon.

happy day!

School's Out for Summer... (almost)

2011-05-22T21:31:00.000-05:00

I am always ready for the kids to have a break from the routine and pressure of school.

(I have NO doubt they feel the same way)

Ahhh, the last full week of school. Piano recitals, awards assemblies, and camp preparations. All the hubbub reminds me of the holidays... hopefully we'll keep it all straight for once!

That means I have 2 more Monday studio days before school is out (so I'd better get crackin').

"Family portraits" on 6x6 squares. Just a couple more peeps and

1 border collie to make this a complete set.

Peace out

happy day!

16 Candles

2011-05-18T21:25:00.003-05:00

Where did the time go?

  How in the world did we get here so fast?

It can't have been 16 years already!  

Happy Birthday to my favorite ~~boy~~ young man

(Ford and his sweet girlfriend Alison)

Love YOU ~~Poopsie~~ Ford!

Contemplation

2011-05-15T17:44:00.000-05:00

This painting is the result of "Portraits and Papers" workshop by one of my very favorite artists Jane Desrosier.   Her work is amazing and she is kind enough to share her experience.   Hopefully, I can take some of the great techniques she taught and evolve  them into my own style.
This is my interpretation of a photo of a painting I found while  flipping through one of Cheri's (my super duper artist friend) art  magazines.
I am loving this workshop.  More "AHA" moments than I can count!  (Thanks Jane!)

CNO: April

2011-04-19T07:47:00.000-05:00

I constantly crave the exploration of different artistic techniques. Many Craft Night Out'ers love to scrapbook so I thought it would be fun to incorporate pictures and journaling into a work of art. (These days scrapbooking has taken an art world of its own anyway!) So, this month we are going to work with
photo transfer.

on the left is my son (a few years ago) making the serious decision of which pumpkin to pluck. Also transferred on to the canvas is the journal page he wrote at school.

Fun!

housework is waiting

2011-04-11T16:42:00.001-05:00

'not alone'

mixed media painting

monday studio time

must...stop...and do...

laundry

practicing anti-resistance, aka procrastination

(tomorrow i start)

happy day

play day!!

2011-04-09T10:22:00.000-05:00

it's the official holiday "Second Saturday", did you know?

this little woman will be getting her hands all painty today

****The studio is open until 2pm today****

(or later if i get on a roll :)

Hopi Indian

2011-04-07T13:18:00.001-05:00

Kaya was a Hopi.

She and other girls in the tribe wore their hair in this 'fancy do' as a signal of their eligibility of courtship.

(It kind of reminds me of Princess Leia.....) :)

*SOLD* (thank you)
"Kaya"
14x16 mixed media on canvas board
happy day!

Life's a CIRCUS

2011-04-05T20:32:00.001-05:00

I love surprise studio days! The salon is very close to my downtown painting sanctuary. The great thing about that is when I get a last minute cancellation I can just run over there. I am finding myself getting to paint more having the studio in such a convenient location. The house is just far enough from town that I often find myself having to kill time around our little city waiting on the kids to finish their activities. This is another time I have been finding myself scurrying over to get a little paint time in. It seems like I have just enough time to get an image or two out of my noodle and onto a board or canvas.

Another great thing about my little Arch Street Studio is that I no longer disappear into my little home studio every night the minute I return from work. I am finding myself 'being at home when I'm home'. Know what I mean?

Today was one of those days. You know, where you start out expecting to follow the schedule in front of you? Cancellation(s) made way for a trip to Second Saturday for a little art therapy. (Serendipity!) One type of creative activity stepped aside for the other.

happy day!

Mixed Encaustics

2011-03-29T06:41:00.000-05:00

whales and giraffes are all the rage in my sketchbook these days.

grand majestic gentle souls in massive form

8x24 mixed encaustic on canvas

$125 here

16x20 mixed encaustic on wood

$135 here

CNO with Mindy Lacefield

2011-03-27T18:17:00.000-05:00

the workshop friday was a HUGE success, thanks to Mindy! 21 ladies sqooshed into our cozy little studio for some sweet art making. upon thumbing through all the snapshots of the evening i decided to just put them all together in a little collage. (sorta like the way we were all crammed in the room...oops, my bad)

i have to say, i was so excitedly anticipating this special CNO and Mindy did not disappoint! she was so cute and did such a great job, i really wanted to kidnap her and make her stay and paint all night. don't really think she'd have gone for that! we were lucky to have her here, even if for only a few blissful hours.

my wheels are definitely spinning with projects for the next CNO. gonna be hard to top the last one!!

(blossom tinkerings part deux in our future???)

p.s. if you'd like to receive info about CNO just send me a note.

love is

2011-03-22T08:00:00.020-05:00

many quest. search all life long.

what is love?

"love is, above all the gift of oneself."

Jean Anouilh

smart guy, that Jean.

(vertical diptych, 8x16 mixed media on wood)

available here

inspiration location

2011-03-21T08:29:00.002-05:00

we've been selling our art here for 1 year now. it has been an amazing experience for me. second saturday studio was a gallery of sorts but it is now......actually a working studio. friends Kelly, Patricia, Cherie and I come here like it's holiday island or something. the studio is right up there as one of my top happy places for sure.

i'm super excited to have extra time this week (spring break) to spend getting my hands all painty and dirty and hopefully have a few friends drop in during the process. the cherry on top of this highly anticipated week: Mindy is coming for the blossom tinkerings workshop we are hosting on friday! gonna be a goood time!!

Blossom Tinkerings Workshop coming soon to the studio!

2011-03-17T08:23:00.003-05:00

                   ("Kiwi" by Mindy Lacefield)

Living in small town Arkansas definitely has its advantages. One of those is the presence of community. Folks here always come through for one another anytime there is a need. Opportunities, however, often have to be made.
In late 2009 a small group of cohorts gathered with me in my grandparents 'party room' and together we launched our first monthly Craft Night Out.
Since then we have painted, glued, soldered, hammered, sewn, sanded, stapled, ALL WHILE laughing, visiting, sharing, eating AND drinking. We've been tangled in burlap, lost in paperclay, and smeared in paint. We are having a ball!
A few months ago we moved to the studio. Our group has grown along with our creative appetites. Which leads me to this post. This March's CNO is HONORED to have Mindy Lacefield at the studio. She will be leading her Blossom Tinkerings Workshop on the 25th. I can hardly contain my excitement! I've admired her artwork in several of my favorite publications for a while, AND guess what?? She is from right up the road, a mere 50 miles away! AND she went to college here! AND she has family here! She graciously accepted an invitation to put together and teach this workshop. The next CNO just can't get here fast enough! This is going to be FaBuLoSo!!

i heart onion?

2011-03-15T09:50:00.001-05:00

Practice is a must, even for those in which artistic talent is innate. Spending day after day with an unquenchable desire to create can make one ca-razy when life gets in the way. I am in pursuit of finding creativity in everyday tasks. That's just gonna have to do some days. You find yourself looking at colors, and shapes and how they change in different lights. During the course of the day I often find serendipitous moments that bring smiles to my face. (Sometimes i scream out "serendipity!" and my co-workers and friends do the eye-roll thingy. That makes me smile too :) The more I notice, the more I look for. (vice-versa too) Here's what happened while peeling an onion for dinner the other night. (D.H. thought I was nuts when he caught me taking a picture of an onion...and that made me smile! heehee)

The task: peeling a stinky old onion. serendipity: a happy accident while making dinner!

March Workshop at Second Saturday Studio

2011-02-24T06:10:00.001-06:00

We are thrilled to have artist Mindy Lacefield in the studio Friday, March 25. She will be leading the "Blossom Tinkerings Workshop". If you are a tinker-er in all things paint-y, glue-y, and messy blissness you will not want to miss this! Class must be limited so don't dilly dally around folks! Here's all the info and registration.

Book Recommendation

2011-02-12T06:59:00.003-06:00

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0470630000/?tag=wwwwileycom-20

Miss Priss was diagnosed with Peanut Allergy when she was just 13 month old.  The Dr. in the E.R. gave us the official diagnosis, treated her, then sent us home, completely unarmed with any safety information.  We were careful at first.  Made sure there was an epipen in the nurse's office at school, let the teacher know of the allergy and let the family know.  A few years passed and we made an unspoken decision that she had probably outgrown the allergy.  I mean, the worst reaction she had was whelps, swelling, wheezing, and redness.  Jeez, it wasn't like she stopped breathing.  We were just careful enough, we thought.  (even though we'd had several warnings such as reactions from a kiss on the cheek after her dad ate a PBJ).  

Until the big one: When she was 6 she was with a friend and decided to try a peanut m&m. No one but her little friend was aware of this, until her face swelled, she began vomiting, coughing, wheezing and then... stopped breathing. It was the scariest moment in her young life. We were only 2 minutes from the E.R. She was OUT when we busted through those doors. Needless to say, we now take her allergy very seriously. We realize it is up to us to be her biggest advocates. Through blood test that are now available we now know that there is no likelihood of outgrowing this allergy.

Here's the thing:

If we were that laxed about the life or death situation she was in, what must the rest of the world around her feel about food allergies?  It can be very scary for her.  Anxiety is huge whenever food is around.  Cross contamination (ex. one spoon is used for several items, or a turkey sandwich is prepared on a surface in which a PBJ was prepared earlier)  Many times servers give the infamous eye roll whenever we get to the food allergy question portion of the ordering.  (On another note, we have found some establishments that are very accommodating... ReFrEsHiNg)  We've found ourselves in the position of leaving places, we were even asked to leave once after the server returned from speaking with the manager of a restaurant.  They felt like it could be a liability for her to eat there.  Guess we should have been grateful for their honesty but poor little Miss Priss was embarrassed and disappointed.  

Many of you may be in the same boat. If so, I'd love to hear from you.

The book pictured above is by Sloane Miller of

Please Don't Pass the Nuts

She has become one of the best advocates of food allergy folks. Her book will help in her (and others) pursuit to better understanding of this scary issue. I highly recommend this book, even if you don't know anyone yet with a severe food allergy. Chances are that in your lifetime you will know someone whose life you will need to help protect. Click on the book for ordering info.

Sweet Giveaway

2010-11-04T05:54:00.000-05:00

Cathe's journal upcycle using one of her designs

Just Something I Made, (Cathe Holden) is hosting a fabulous giveaway... Hop on over to her blog and take a gander at her crafty offer. (Offer ends tonight)
Happy Thursday!

Most Precious Friend Award!

2010-11-01T05:48:00.004-05:00

My eye is always drawn to new art in the studio the second I walk in the door. The other day, I was rushing in…late as usual, and to what at my vision did appear? The sweetest new creation. Neatly displayed in and amongst the array of art on the brick wall. Even though I was across the room I knew exactly what it was.
Most Precious Friend Award! For Meeee!!! My friend Mama Pat (Birds Nest on the Ground) who by the way is the studio’s biggest fan, supporter, volunteer, artist, idea contributor, Kelly’s mom, wise wise owl, AND amazing talent, crafted this beautiful award ribbon. Pat originally made these for an upcoming quilt show. Read about them HERE. It will stay at the studio so that our friends can ooh and awww, but soon it will be home with me, displayed proudly in my studio where I can get a dose of sweet sunshine every time I look at it! Thanks Patricia! (Most Precious Friend!)

Craving….

2010-10-30T08:23:00.003-05:00

I’m craving ….. some Saturday memory making. Football, Second Saturday Studio with two of my sweetest friends, All region choir tryouts (GO FORD!) and maybe even squeeeeeze in some precious art time! Happy Saturday!!

Craft Night Out: Burlap

2010-10-17T12:23:00.001-05:00

Friday night was Craft Night Out! I knew the project was going to be some kind of burlap painting, the rest was a surprise. Our friend Cheryl led the project (which was great considering she’s the art expert of the group!) I instantly fell in love with the texture that appeared when the paint was applied. This was not at all like the example, which was FaBuLouS, but my brain just went another direction.

I always look forward to our little group getting together to create and play like kids! Hmmm…. what to do next….

I heart Fall

2010-10-07T09:06:00.002-05:00

Sing, Whistle, Humm…. and all the while be in awe of the wonders He has made!
What puts a song in your heart?

Go Back and Rescue Your Childish Creativity

2010-10-06T23:35:00.002-05:00

It’s 1979. A group of kids are gathered in 4th grade Social Studies creating a Paper Mache’ tiger. (she only remembers the ‘what’, not the ‘why’) . Hardly recalls anything about the 4th grade, but that tiger lives vividly in her mind.
Fast Forward 1981 to 6th grade. The Daughter’s of the American Revolution were hosting an art contest.   The winner would receive a monetary reward. The girl couldn't wait to hurry home and make something fabulous. Really didn't even care about the winning part, just excited to have a reason to make real art. She consulted with her dad on the project and together they made the most beautiful Bald Eagle on a flimsy poster board, holding the constitution in its talons. She was very proud.
What next? Where did she go from there? Surely she continued her love of art by living it. Surely, the girl kept playing and creating, taking classes at school, growing in her creative life. NOPE…
She never lost that unquenchable desire to create things but something changed. Along with physical growth and maturity came insecurity. Who was she to even think she was an artist. “Look around. You can’t make real art. You’re a fake, “ she would tell herself.   Imagination became censored. It was put on the shelf, left to collect dust, like a really great book you liked so well that you’d pull it back out once in a while to read again on rainy days.
Later, at 20 years of age, she met the mother of the man who would become her husband. Vivian was an artist. Not by trade but she was one. She could really paint. Beautiful landscapes and still life's. She invited her future daughter-in-law to come with her to an art lesson. The girl had a ball but still felt like a fake. The art she made there was just a fluke. It turned out okay but it was just luck.
Life went on and once in a great while the paints and canvas would make an appearance in the kitchen, she’d create her fake art, never satisfied, and put it all away again for months. She made little mixed media party invites for her kids birthday parties. Again, she was proud and satisfied but still, it was just luck that they turned out at all.
The bug never left. It was always there. (That’s probably why she became a hairdresser, and pretty darn successful one at that!)
That art bug bit all the time .The girl started to realize that maybe she could be an artist. Insecurity would have to be put on the shelf and exchanged for the imagination she left there so long ago. Who was the critic anyway? Who Cares!
She painted for gifts, for herself, for fun.    Gradually, the inhibitions shrunk as creativity grew. She couldn’t get home from work fast enough to get down to her little basement studio and make art. Creating art gave her a sense of accomplishment she hadn’t felt since the 6th grade. Throwing executive function to the wind, she silenced the critic and enjoyed the process. She began to relate to that forgotten kid. The girl (at this point nearly 40) was making, giving and even selling her art. She started a blog and found others out there who were just like her. They encouraged one another and their lives were influenced by the support from such a community.
OKAY, OKAY. I AM THAT GIRL.
Pablo Picasso said, “ Every child is an artist, the problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”
Oh, how true!

“Ode to Oz” a gift for Miss Priss’ 4th grade teacher, May 2009

Re-Zest Your Nest

2010-10-05T09:53:00.001-05:00

A Parisian Shopping Experience

Saturday, October 9th, 2010

10:00am - 7:00pm

Robbins - Sanford Grand Hall and Carriage House

in Historic Downtown Searcy

The artists at Second Saturday Studio are participating in this event by having a starving artist sale.

Come out this weekend and support the first Re-Zest upscale consignment fair!

Hope to see you there!

happy day!!

6th Grade Project #2: Color Project

2010-10-01T09:18:00.002-05:00

When Miss Priss came home and announced her next project I was ALL GIDDY!! She said it was going to be a color project. She chose Lime Green. My wheels were silently turning but I wanted to encourage her to get that storm brewing in her own imagination.
She was required to have 4 magazine clippings, the definition of the color, a 3d object and a good example of lime green.
Here comes the fun part:

Sewing!!
Lime Green is represented by cutting out triangles of lime green fabric. Next, stamp letters onto the triangles. Pin the fabric onto ribbon or seam binding. Sew away! (This was her first time to sew but she took to it like an old pro!) … *pride* :)
Then attach the pennant banner onto the poster with hot glue. Easy breazy!
I think she did a fabulous job, don’t you?
Happy Day!

Word Up Wednesday

2010-09-29T11:22:00.006-05:00

The hardest part of holiday gift giving for me is coming up with something perfect for each person. I bet I’m not alone!
So each Wednesday until Christmas I plan to feature some of my favorite fancy’s. Here’s one I’ve been anxious to share with all of you:

TIPPY STOCKTON JEWELRY

Remember this post from last spring?

During the Workshop I met Patricia. She is a very talented jewelry designer who I was lucky enough to sit beside in the Karri Meng class. She even let me borrow a pair of reading glasses. It was so hard to see all those little jewelry parts. I fussed and fussed until she came to my rescue! (it was at this very table that 40 hit me right between the eyes…do you ever have those moments?)

I started following her blog as soon as I returned home and I absolutely LOVE her jewelry. You can find it here at ETSY. (These little beauties would make excellent Christmas gifts!)
She is offering 20% off any one item until 10/25... hello...bonus!!
happy day!

Micah

Fun with Cake

2010-09-15T06:17:00.002-05:00

Every Monday our home is a buzz with fun and excitement when these two sweet sisters come over to visit. This week I decided to pack in a little project that involved sweets (because we LOVE projects AND sweets!)
These cake pops were just the thing…

We will definitely be having some more cake pop fun!
You can find out more about CAKE POP’s HERE.
Happy Day!

New Studio Pieces

2010-09-11T10:15:00.001-05:00

Found this old Vanity Mirror on a junk excavation a couple of years ago. It broke soon after buying it for my little princess’ room. I hung on to it knowing I could someday give it new life. ( ok, I' hoard.) SO… I brought it out of the abyss one day and decided “Angela” needed to be right here. She is a depiction of an actual real angel. Angela passed away far too young a few months ago. She was put on this earth to be a wife, mother and friend to many. For me, Angela was a lesson in humility and grace. She never met a stranger and touched many many lives. This is her now, up there right where she belongs… with the angels.

“Serenity”

Assemblage: Paperclay, Linen, Pastel, Acrylic, Wire

No story to tell, just some good creative art play!

thanks for stopping by!

Happy Day

6th Grade Social Studies Project

2010-09-03T10:01:00.000-05:00

Project #1 in Mrs. Martin's Advanced Social Studies:

3d Map of the United States

What's the first thing that comes to mind...

Salt Dough, of course!

(recipe follows)

Here are the instructions:

1. Search for and print an outline of the United States

(don't forget to include Alaska and Hawaii).

2. Take the copy to a print shop. (we went to Staples)

and enlarge to required size. (A local pizza place donated a

large pizza box but we decided to use the backside of a wooden

canvas instead).

3. Have your student color the entire BACKSIDE of the map copy

with a soft - medium charcoal pencil. Tape the copy, charcoal

side down, on the substrate. (pizza box, wooden canvas, etc.)

4. Draw around the perimeter lines of the map using a pen and

medium pressure. Remove the copy and you will be left with a

charcoal line of the United States. (this is a form of print

relief)

5. You and your student can now mix the salt dough using the

Mix the dry ingredients, add the water. Stir, then knead until

play doh consistency.

6. Press the dough into the map outline. Allow to dry at least
24 hours.

7. Paint a base coat using gesso.

8. Follow class instructions to finish the project.

Project #1....check!

Live A Little!

2010-06-16T20:41:00.000-05:00

I love to take inspiration from my daily life, things that somehow stick with me. (yes, once in a while i retain a few things...just a few...)

I try and get a little Dave Ramsey lesson in a few times a week. He is an amazing 'get out of debt' expert. Check out his website. He is one smart fella! ANYWHO, the other day I was listening to his advice and he said we should all "live a little", meaning literally. Live a little so we can achieve a lot. Get away from the idiot box,(my grandmother's term)get out and enjoy the small things in life.

That got me to thinkin...

then paintin'

happy day!

"Live A Little"

Kids Art Camp

2010-06-15T10:01:00.000-05:00

So I decided to have an art camp at the studio...

First project: Cereal Box Art Journals

BOY, these kids impressed me! (Taught me a thing or two too!)

We learned a little fundamentals in watercolor

and used our journals for practice.

Played a little too!

Next week... Photography field trip, then back to the studio to experiment with tranfers!!! I'm all giddy :)

This is so much fun!

Little Prayer Boxes

2010-05-17T18:38:00.001-05:00

Thanks to a beautifully talented blog friend Dierdra, I was inspired to pop over to Nancye's and take her class on these precious prayer boxes. So much fun! (Thought i'd show a WIP, encouragement to follow through to the finish!)

Another school year is about to come to a close. The kids are ready for a break. Not sure how much "breaking" they'll need. Second thought, I should check on summer camps and activities. No rest for the weary!!

happy day!

Micah

Whimsy...and More

2010-05-03T11:20:00.005-05:00

It's a little difficult to choose which photos to show you folks, there are so many!! I'm not great at long winded posts so bear with me.

When I signed up for the Wendy Addison class I had no idea what I was in for. The fact that these Victorian 'Whimsies' were actually a trend back in the 1780's made them more meaningful to me. Ladies used to grow their own moss in conservatories and use it to make these sculptures. They were usually displayed under glass cloches. I'd love to collect living things from my own backyard and see what could transform.

I made my first bracelet ever (don't look too close) with
Kaari Meng . Visit her website (click on her name). She has many fabulous kits for sale so you too can make your very own wonderful accessory.

A couple of other goodies I brought home

were these fun Poppets in
Claudine Hellmuth's class.
These characters are not just poor souls
immortalized in a picture stacked away in
some flea market, oh no! These are my
real life mom, dad, and aunt. Aren't they cute?

Claudine teaching away. She's just Precious!

I felt like a fly on the wall
as we sat back during a luncheon listening to this panel of 'rock stars' in their industries. Mary Englebreit , Dena Fishbein , Marcia Ceppos, Amy Butler . They talked from their history in design to the future of the industry. It was a memorable event!

After the luncheon, I hopped on over to have my picture taken with the Queen herself. (She had posed for a "few" before me...) She was kind enough to sign a few things for me as well!

One of the best things about the whole event was the wonderful people I was blessed to meet and craft with. This beautiful girl,Julie was in my Whimsy class. I was enamored by her craft tote. It's an upcycled train case! Cute, huh!!

Oh! I can't forget to mention the tag swap that sweet Peggy hosted. I can't stop looking at them. That was so much fun, I may be hooked on the whole swap thing!

AND....last but not LEAST... The very BEST part of the whole trip:

Sharing a wonderful weekend with the greatest lady in the whole world...MY MOM! So glad you decided to come along mom,
i love you bunches!!

happy day!
Micah

Chair of Bowlies, Bracelets AND Poppets!

2010-05-01T00:35:00.002-05:00

Day 1 at the WORKSHOP is just about over and tomorrow can't come soon enough! First class: Kaari Meng from French General. We made beautiful vintage inspired charmant bracelets:

Kaari used to design jewelry for a fabulous STORE that I heart to love (if only from afar).
Then it was off to Claudine's class. These poppets are too cute.

Say "Hello" to Poppet Aunt Karen as a little girl and my dad, Poppet Tommy as Karen's big brother. Not sure why they're sitting on their hands. Maybe they were fighting? Naaaah

Shelley is craftmate o' the day. (made that last part up myself) She and her friends from Oklahoma are showing me the ropes. They are pro's at this workshop/retreat thing. I could get addicted to this. (David, don't read that previous statement) It's been nice gathering with a bunch of ladies all with a similar OCD. It's like group therapy. In retreat form, but where you're free to come and go as you please. You don't even need a family member and doctor's permission to sign you in and out. It's great.

Fancy for the day:

Posing with Shelley the Poppets and THE Poppeteer,
Claudine Hellmuth. Yep, she's as precious as she looks.
Happy Day!

Meet Me in St. Lou-ey!

2010-04-28T22:43:00.004-05:00

It's been 7 months since I registered for the Workshop. I didn't think it would ever get here but, as someone once said, "Time Flies...whether you're having fun or not."

oh, it's been 7 months of mostly fun...

ANYWHO

I'm throwing my art supplies in the car, (maybe a change of clothes and my toothbrush too) and heading north to St. Louis. Oh!... my mom is joining me on the trip which is a super duper cherry on the top!! As Mary once wrote (or rather illustrated), "A Girl's Best Friend is Her Mother"

By the way, these and many more fabulous Mary quotes can be found in her book "Mary Engelbreit: The Art and the Artist" found here

My sweet friend Pat of Birds Nest on the Ground gave me her book along with more of her collection when she found out I was participating in the workshop. Isn't that the sweetest thing? I love that woman!

Tomorrow new memories will be made. I'm sure I'll have much to report!

Happy Day!!

Imortalizing Jethro

2010-04-25T17:43:00.002-05:00

Jethro is our rooster. He crows...really loudly

...really early...

Happy Day!

A Winner!

2010-04-19T20:23:00.001-05:00

Last June I won a sweet giveaway from my blog friend Michelle. She sent me the cutest handpainted magnet all the way from Australia! I let her know I would pass it on by having my own giveaway and it's taken me almost a year...(better late than never, i suppose.)
Many wonderful suggestions were received through facebook comments, messages,and the blog. You folks really came through. So well, in fact that I couldn't decide which one I liked best. Did you know Jemima means Dove? Thanks to Julie from the United Kingdom for that great suggestion! Also, Daya is an Indian name meaning 'grace'. (I thought that was cool too, thanks to my niece Shane for that one.) I loved each of your suggestions! Thank you all!! All the names were placed in a bowl for a random drawing.
SO...

without further adieu...

the winner is....

Thanks Misty!!
This was so much fun, I think I'll celebrate by doing it again! Stay tuned for another GIVEAWAY, very soon!
Happy Day,
Micah

Guest Artist

2010-04-17T16:24:00.000-05:00

Someone's feeling better, wants to make something...'peace sign-y'.....

and 'collage-y'

Something she could put her name on

Perfect!

Happy Day!

A Day in the Art Studio (and a GIVEAWAY)

2010-04-16T19:27:00.002-05:00

Claire's feeling a little better but not well enough to return to school. I took advantage of time at home (in between temperature check, medicine doses and chicken noodle soup making) to paint an actual real painting. No collage, no wax, no wire. Just paint. Oh... and a little crackle too.
Don't have a name for her yet.
That gives me an idea for a GIVEAWAY....
Leave me a comment (on facebook or this blog) with your best ideas for a title. The one that suits her best will win an 11x14 print on wood, painted 3/4 inch edge.
I'll announce the winner on Monday, April 19.
I LOVE YOUR IDEAS!!

Playing Around with Beeswax

2010-04-15T07:20:00.003-05:00

I was in a beeswax mood yesterday. I added some of Miss Claire's Crayola Crayons, some ephemera that's been sitting around and a couple of found objects. This is a result of NOT thinking! Just plain fun!!
Claire is SO sick, bless her heart (actually, bless her swollen sore throat). She's missing the famous Benchmark testing, much to the despair of the school administration. Hate that... (sarcasm)
Happy Day,
Micah

Anyone In??

2010-03-26T12:47:00.001-05:00

WAY back in September I mentioned that I had registered for the most fabulous workshop. It is coming up very soon and I can hardly contain my excitement! Not only will I be learning techniques from some "rock stars", but also sitting in on some very helpful lectures regarding licensing and marketing. Some of the instuctors include: Wendy Addison, Claudine Hellmuth, Matthew Meade, Kaari Meng, and more.
The workshop will be held in the historic Central West End in St. Louis, "a district created to house and entertain dignitaries of the 1904 World’s Fair. But don’t think the years have forgotten this unique area. It’s now the center of innovative restaurants, shops and stunning urban élan." (My heart fluttered when I read that...) I may never want to leave!
Now's the time to book, flights and room prices will not get cheaper, and accommodations are filling fast.
So, tell me... who's in??

Ode to Wonderland...

2010-03-20T19:18:00.001-05:00

I've been a little busy helping Miss Kelly with the opening of Second Saturday Studio. Have you visited? The "dress rehearsal" opening was a HUGE success thanks to some great word of mouth AND facebook... the greatest free marketing tool ever! On top of all the busy-ness my laptop crashed. I mean literally, as in crashed to the floor. (So, I've missed blogging but back in action now.)
I actually sold a few pieces at the opening so I finally got a little motivation to do that piece that's been rolling around in my head since "Ode to Oz" was completed. (There's nothing like selling some artwork to light a fire under my rear, who needs a muse??)
I hope you will "take a tour" around the studio and peek in at some of the fantastic artwork that our members have created. All the artists are from Arkansas. Go on... check it out... Prepare to be inspired!!

Happy Happy Day full of blessings!
Micah

I Have a Secret...

2010-03-03T07:31:00.001-06:00

I've been keeping something from you. Click HERE to learn more... Follow along on our journey!

Sunday Inspiration

2010-02-21T22:14:00.003-06:00

It hit me as I was "doodling" my notes as Pastor Bryan was giving his sermon this morning.  If anyone sees me as I doodle on my church program they probably think, "that girl is setting a real great example for her kids...(sarcasm), but i really am drawing my notes.  

So today, the sermon was based on Abram and the legacy he was leaving as he learned to faithfully follow God's will.  Faith to go when the going seems unreasonable.  Faith to trust when trusting seems irrational. Faith to wait when the waiting seems impossible.  

It's easy to forget how important it is to wait on God.  Sometimes we do want to step in there as if we are "letting God take a break on this one".  Like we can fix anything without Him... been there, tried that!  

Dogwoods will soon be in bloom here in Arkansas.  They always bloom at Easter time.  It's another reminder of the sacrifice God made for me; and you.  Abraham left a legacy and just as it was then, it is now.  We have to TRUST, BELIEVE, have FAITH, and WAIT on Him.  Let me tell you, life is way easier to handle when I am mindful of those words!

Mixed Media: Acrylic on canvas beeswax collage 

Blessings all,

Micah

Another Snow Day in the South

2010-02-08T12:23:00.000-06:00

Because it looks like this:

we had some fun in the craft room making these:

inspiration for these valentines found here.

As we munched on these:

Happy Happy Day!

The Best Sugar Cookies....EVER!!

2010-02-06T21:56:00.001-06:00

Little Miss Fancy Pants and I have been in the mood to bake up a batch of sugar cookies again. Do you ever have a hard time with your sugar cookies spreading once they hit the oven? Or loose dough that's hard to transfer to the cookie sheet? Well I have. I've tried several recipes. I've chilled the dough, chilled the shapes...you name it. BUT NO MORE TRIALS, I've found the holy grail sugar cookie recipe and here is where you can find it.

Bridget of Bake at 350 is Queen Cookie Baker in my book. I was about to give up until I discovered her lovely masterpiece of a blog. (those are her artwork/cookies pictured above) Check it out, and read her lessons and FAQ's. You'll learn something!
So I took her advice and used cold butter (instead of chilling the dough), and subbed vanilla bean paste for vanilla extract. Surprisingly, the butter and sugar mixed easily. I never chilled my dough. It rolled out nicely, the cutouts transferred easily from countertop to cookie sheet, AND they kept their shape without swelling. Best of all is they taste GREAT. To quote Miss Fancy Pants favorite new word of the day..."SNAP"!

In Memory of Pete and Gus

2010-01-31T11:52:00.003-06:00

Pete and Gus quickly became a part of our family.  They made their presence known with their pretty birdy songs.  We enjoyed watching them rush to our hands knowing we would treat them with their yummy millet.  I was just mesmerized by them.  There was a peaceful calm they exerted.
We only had them for a brief time but they will forever be in our hearts.  We may never know exactly what happened.  We only found evidence when Dave and I returned from our weekend 20th anniversary celebration in Key West.  It appears as though an outside cat was inadvertently let in while 'someone' was taking care of the animals.  The scene was horrendous.  Cage turned over, feathers everywhere, I'll spare you the rest. (I think we are safe to assume the cat ate the birds.) 

They inspired this 3D mixed media which I had started before the trip. It has new meaning now.

New Artist Co-op

2010-01-30T17:06:00.000-06:00

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Announcing.....

...The formation of Second Saturday Studio!

What: An art and handmade retail space for local artists to come together and sell their work!

Where: 213 W. Arch Street in downtown Searcy, AR 72143

When: The SECOND SATURDAY of each month, 9 AM TO 5 PM

If you are interested in joining us, please send a short bio and five photos of work that best represents what you will be showing and selling. The artists will be juried, as we are limited on space! There will be a monthly fee of $50-$75 per artist (depending on participation) and a six-month commitment is required. All artists will be given a specific amount of space (once again depending on participation) and will receive 90% of their sales proceeds, less any credit card fees. You need not be present on the appointed Saturday, however you are encouraged to! The 10% SSS keeps will help to cover advertising materials and studio supplies. We want this to be a great success and grow into something big! As a participating artist, you will have a vote in any changes that are made at the end of the six month period. We look forward to hearing from you. We are ready to get started, so e-mail us today!

Kelly VanHook and Micah Holden

Please send bio and photos to kelly@searcyhomes.

Your Prayers for Debi

2010-01-08T23:14:00.002-06:00

"God loves you and me; and He hears our prayers and I am living proof of those prayers." -Deb Knight

Please meet my good friend Debi. She is beginning The Fight. I mean the 'big bad major fight for your life' kind of fight. She has Myelodysplastic Syndrome, MDS for short, formerly known as preleukemia. She is already a survivor, kicked the big "C" a few years ago.
She has such a huge place in my heart. Debi is my "go to" gal. I can think of about 3 women in my life that I seek out for that good wise counsel and she is one of them. She is so very kind and a blessing in each life she comes in contact with.
Monday she will be leaving for the 5 month (at least) journey of her life at MD Anderson in Houston. She has started a blog of this journey and my prayer is that through this journal she will be connected with prayers of strength, courage and healing.
Please Please, go and follow her, give her some of that love, prayer and support that you folks are all so great at.

thanks!

Why yes Virginia, there is a Toothfairy!

2010-01-05T10:49:00.002-06:00

I know this because when the kiddos place their sweet little baby teeth in the pocket, she trades them for a prize! (as ELF said: "it can't be the parents, that's just silly!") or something to that effect...

2010-01-02T10:01:00.001-06:00

I brainstormed up this little fancy,

feeling the urge to paint a little something, sew a little something (easy...beginner easy). I grabbed up the felted wool from the sweaters that leaped into my hands at Goodwill to incorporate into the project. Oh, when you are having creativity "brain freeze" try thinking of a friend who has a birthday coming up. My little 'elf' cousin Vandi is turning 4 this month and she needs a cute little toothfairy pillow. Wa-laa. Project complete! hmmmmm.... What to do next???

Little Miss...

2009-12-29T09:12:00.005-06:00

Fabric, thread, clay and paint.... you do NOT want to enter the studio at the moment.

ANYWAY, It's back to the real world today so the OCD kicked in and I would not go to sleep last night until I finished this doll. Thanks to Mr. Holden for the brand spankin new sewing machine! My first ever, I think we'll make many memories together. Oh, and much gratitude to the talented Miss Linda for sewing the doll body for me when I was to afraid to attempt it for there was no sewing machine in my possession.
You are a gem!

Now, I can check her off my list of unfinished projects and move on to another one! She was a joy to create. Thanks Jane (Cloth and Clay Dolls)! I definitely plan to play with the cloth and clay again.

P.S. She needs a name. I'd love to hear your ideas : )

happy blessings,

Micah

Christmas Cheer

2009-12-22T16:21:00.014-06:00

Twas 3 days till Christmas, not much time left to shop.

Trim the tree, send the cards and cook till we pop.

The kids at the church joyfully sing

of the birth of Christ the newborn king.

Pour some milk, bake some cookies and color them crazy.

save some for Rudolf to eat so he doesn't get lazy.

and on that night we'll dare not roam

as we wait for St. Nick in our nice warm home.

Happy Happy Christmas Blog Friends!

Micah

2009-12-21T15:37:00.000-06:00

I just won the coolest giveaway from LaurieAnna's Vintage Home ! I am so thrilled, my kids think I've lost my mind. Merry Christmas to ME!!!

Thank You Laurie Anna!!

Baking Day

2009-12-16T21:43:00.000-06:00

Recipe for Holiday Fun:

1 mom

1 aunt

1 ~~little elf~~ cousin

Butter, Sugar, Flour

Basic kitchen utensils and appliances

1 surprise free day which just happened to be baking day!

Take mom, aunt and ~~elf~~ cousin. Tie on aprons. Mix together butter, sugar and flour. Make some yummy holiday goodies to give some of the folks who have been blessings to you this year!

celebrate and take joy in each day of this holiday season.

Happy Happy Christmas!

Micah

Thanksgiving Overfloweth

2009-11-26T07:40:00.000-06:00

Thankfulness....

My list could go on into the eternal abyss but I have a short attention span and spend too much time multitasking while posting so I'll just touch on the current cream of the crop: (in random order, because that's how my mind works)

I am thankful:

1. To live in a country where freedom still abounds.

2. To have protectors of my freedom... in military and ministry

3. For the continued gift of my children and the many blessings I receive from them.

4. For a husband who has had to prove his steadfast commitment and love me in spite of myself. (and is a quite excellent papa... and Elmer Fudd in the flesh)

5. That the good Lord answers prayers. In His time; always the best for little ole impatient me.

6. That He is always there, and when I see Him, reach out toHim in real faith, my days flow smoother.

7. For parents who have worked so hard for so long and are finally getting the reward of retirement.

8. For retired parents who love their grandkids : )

9. For this new season in my life. More play less work... cool

10.For being 40 with healthy eyes and ears, sanity (at least 10 days or so out of the month), and growing wisdom.

"Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. His steadfast love endures forever!" Psalm 118:1

Heavenly Host Song Director

2009-11-16T11:57:00.000-06:00

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,"Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men, upon who His favor rests." Luke 2: 13-14

Fun with Clay

2009-11-08T15:05:00.001-06:00

We've been so busy and bogged down with life that art got pushed aside. Why is it so hard to
organize time? Ugh! I have so many little ideas floating around in my head but my kids need clean clothes, decent meals and loving attention. SO I decided to bring some of my supplies out of the studio and into the "family space", that seems to be the best solution. Otherwise I'm afraid I'll never get back to it.
A while back I signed up for Cloth and Clay dolls and excitedly went out and purchased all the supplies. The bag has laid untouched on my studio table for weeks. Finally, Friday night at about 10:30 the bug bit. The time had come. My DH (dear husband) was away for the night, miss fancy pants was at a friends' and the house was alive with Mr. 14 and the testosterone posse. Feeling the need to stay awake urged my choice to start my new project.
Ofcourse, I'm starting out of order. I'm sort of having my dessert before the meal. I'm supposed to sew the body first. The sculpting has me pretty pumped so I figured why not get a little practice in, just see if this is for me. Here's a little peek:

At this point the boys were winding down and the need to stay up subsided. I'm pretty sure they behaved...

An Award!

2009-10-10T17:57:00.002-05:00

I love my blogger friends! Michelle from "Down Under" in Australia gave me this sweet award. Thanks Michelle!!!

Along with this award I am listing 7 things about myself and passing this award to 7 other well deserving bloggers. Here goes:

1. I drink A LOT of coffee. 6 or 7 cups a day, on into the night

2. When I was a kid I journeyed through the Childcraft Encyclopedia "Make and Do"... #11(1974 version) at least 20 times. That book sparked my interest in all things artsy craftsy. Mom, if you're reading this, I would kill for that book. (Christmas is a comin...)

3. I sing in my church choir. second suprano. Did I spell that right? Where's the spell check on this thing?

4. I LOVE Zumba!!

5. I work a lot... and I really love it, still!

6. I'll be married 20 years in January to a handsome young stud.

7. I have eaten sprouted almonds every single day for the last 2 years.

AND... here are 7great blog people that conspire to inspire me:

Kimberly at Soggy Dog

PinkGlitterFae

Mary Wadsworth

Amanda at Maygreen Fairies

Shonna at Twisted Figures

Christina at icandy

Monica at girl gone wild thread

Have a great day!

Experimenting...

2009-10-01T10:35:00.003-05:00

My aunt and dad a "few" years ago

Not sure who these people are but I picked them up from the junk-tique store and gave them a proper home.

These two ornaments (front and backs) are the result of off and on experimenting. I've played with soldering for a while now but step away for long bouts of time because of frustration. Back at it again, I decide the work is fair enough to publish. (Won't publish anything that wouldn't measure up to my "fancy" meter.)

This crafty art project has given me loads of enjoyment. I think I might just stick with it this time and see if I can't make some improvements. I just love photos from long ago. They are so full of nostalgia and sweet character. Zoom in and read the words taken from early 20th century text.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on suggestions for improvement or other ideas. I actually take constructive criticism and use it! Thanks!!

Greetings Fall

2009-09-26T22:26:00.001-05:00

My very favorite season happens to be Fall. There may be several reasons. Holidays are right around the corner. Maybe it's the memory triggers such as football games and bonfires; Reminiscence of my youth. When I start to notice the pallette of colors change from bright greens and primarys to vibrant oranges, reds and browns, my heart starts skipping beats! Floating, spinning colors gently wind round dotting the ground with rich texture. God's divine inspiration. The earth is His canvas. He owns the copyright on the most amazing design and exqusite work of art!

(The above creation is a beeswax collage on 6x6 aqua board.... fun!!)

Join me for a Spooky Halloween Celebration at Fanciful Twist!!

2009-09-22T07:00:00.002-05:00

Oh, I can't wait! Get out the pumpkins, the glitter. Make some spooky treats and invite the neighbors. It's a blog party at Fanciful Twist! I've heard she can sure throw a party and I don't want to miss this one. Check it out and hope to see you there!!

Big Oops!!

2009-09-20T14:51:00.000-05:00

So sorry for so many feeds at once!! I'm just not too great at this, learning by mistakes as a matter of fact. But I do want to say a big THANKS!! to Michelle for letting me know my feeds were not showing up. You're such a doll!

I'm Registered!!!

2009-09-20T06:41:00.000-05:00

Thursday, April 29 – Sunday, May 2, 2010 at the Chase Park Plaza Hotel. I CAN'T WAIT!!! I'm like a kid going to Disney World. This IS Disney World to me. Home Companion was my muse for so long and I've been missing it so! I have longed to attend a workshop but living in Arkansas there just aren't a lot of opportunities. But... lo and behold... just a few hours away... the Queen herself is hosting a workshop! How LuCkY could I be?? I'm so stinkin excited, I don't know if anyone will be able to stand me for the next 7 months!

Folk art Whale

2009-09-07T09:58:00.004-05:00

Our weekends at the lakehouse have taken me out of my little art hideout. So I finally decided to take my supplies with me.
Ever since our trip to Maine I've been inspired to paint a whale. They are such majestic soulful creatures. Each time I see one I am reminded of the wonder of God's perfect design.
The color on the image is not as rich as the real thing. I need a bigger scanner!

"CARE" #2 friendship series

2009-08-27T08:56:00.003-05:00

Another word that describes friendship is 'care'. How many times do I pass up opportunities to care for another? I am reminded as I contemplate this series how caring for someone can be as much a blessing for me as it is my friend. May I be ever mindful of those in need however big or small it may be. And, to all my friends who send special cares my way....THANKS! I AM blessed!!

Friendship Series

2009-08-18T11:21:00.003-05:00

Because my friends are the true meaning of the word "friendship" I decided to do a series about them. I had these 6x6 wide gallery edge wooden canvases that were perfect for the occasion. Here's the first little fancy. I played around with the gel medium and got a little carried away, hence the opaque-y translucence. Is that an oxymoron?

SURPRISE!!

2009-08-10T11:03:00.008-05:00

(My Aunt Joy and I who happen to share the same year of birth... just 2 months apart!)

I was hoping to close out my 39 short years on this earth by just quietly sneaking by but

there are those who just can't let it slide. You know the ones...like my unassuming, yet devious and conniving Aunt Patti. Who came from Texas for a visit and produced a little motion picture that I must say, wins an award in my book!

She and other dear one's put on a little breakfast shin-dig to surprise my aunt Joy and I. We thought we were having one of my grandfather's 'family meetings' but noooo... instead we were welcomed with black garb, gloves and doilies for our heads. Lovely... (I think we were both a little relieved not to be having a family meeting though, so we gladly wore the garb : ) no offense, Daddy Jim.

All in all it was just the best surprise and the smile never wore off my face all day. I am so blessed to have such a sweet family! Thanks to you all!! (I'll be 40 next year too)
Love you all, AND HAPPY 4-0 JOY!!
Micah

(more art coming soon...)

Catching Up!!

2009-08-10T10:24:00.010-05:00

Boy do I have some serious catching up to do!! I've been away on a fantastic vacation with my family and I'm ready to get back into the swing of things!
I want to mention Tom and Amy Gutow at the Castine Inn in Castine, Maine. We stayed at their historical bed a breakfast and were not disappointed! Tom is a highly experienced chef and the proof was in the pudding.... and the cranberry scones, and organic chicken sausage too. Thanks for helping make our stay memorable. Great place! (He also ships the sausage, check it out)

Much appreciation goes to MICHELLE... I won the most awesome prize from her!! I am so proud to have received this PrEcIoUs little 'happy' all the way from her hands in Australia. What a treasure!! Thank You so much Michelle, I will fancy it always!

AND... MYSTELE...I am SO proud to have your art displayed for all the world to see! I am thrilled with my book and original cover made by her. Seeing her personality right there in a piece of art made by that sweet soul makes my heart smile!

Back From Camp.... Hallelujah!

2009-07-13T18:29:00.006-05:00

Let me introduce my good friend Kelly. Here she is after a mighty fine round of "Organized Mass Chaos... or OMC as it's referred to in Centri-Kid camp.
It is worth mentioning that this uninhibited, funny, loveable, precious soul is a 5 YEAR BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR as of July 11th!! She is one of the bravest soldiers I know. Her positive attitude is infectious and her love abundant. Happy anniversary Kelly!! :) (please feel free to pay tribute with your always sweet comments and I'll pass them along to her)
Two of my fellow camper momma-cita's gettin ready for battle...happy campers!

After OMC. I'm the fairly clean one in the back... Thought I'd made it free and clear but the chocolate syrup fairy and shaving cream goddess made sure I wasn't left out. Until Next year...

Award

2009-06-30T07:11:00.008-05:00

I almost missed this! Another "happy" from Michelle... A Blog Award!! Mark this as my first ever! She gave it to all the lucky blogs she follows. What a sweetheart!
The rules say to post it on my blog and give it to others... so that's what I'm going to do....
Since this is my first attempt, I'm going to give it to 3 of the bloggers who share their wonderful talents with others....

1. Annie at Annette's Art
2. Darla at Artistic Accents by Darla
and
3.Mystele at Little Glimpses Studio

I WON!!!

2009-06-30T06:36:00.005-05:00

I Just woke up, checked my e-mail,....wait back up... made coffee, took pups out, tidy-ed up the kitchen from the kids nightly late late snacks, THEN checked. Lo and Behold there was a message from Michelle Eaton over at Dolls N Art. I won her giveaway!! I never win anything! And to win something from someone so talented, Fancy that!!! Michelle, you made my day! I'm so Excited!!

Bluebird Show

2009-06-29T07:11:00.003-05:00

Weekend art play in the studio... 6x6 watercolor and acrylics on wood. It's varnished with beeswax. i love the smell!! Happy Monday!

Fairy Fly

2009-06-22T09:33:00.010-05:00

This is the result of an online class I'm taking by Wyanne Thompson . I'm having a ball learning some really great techniques.
This little painting comes from real life inspiration. (Love it when that happens!) We were at the lake late one night out on the boat stargazing. The stars performed and we were excited to see the big dipper, and the north star among others. In a quiet relaxing moment we spotted a crazy star we figured to be a satellite. We watched as it moved in an erratic crazy fashion. I swear we thought it was a million miles in the sky but just as we were really getting into the moment, a firefly immerged in it's place. Right in front of our noses. Then as quickly as we realized what it was, it flew away. We had a great laugh! Trickery from the stars... a little joke from the heavens.
Many Blessings
Micah

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T08:51:00.007-05:00

This is my dad. The one who was blessed with the daunting task of raising ME! Boy did he have his work cut out! Started out 40 years ago as a young guy with a young wife and a new baby girl. Two boys and a few years later came the mother of all challenges.... how to deal with a daughter who had been altered by some alien being from another solar system. Wow! Kudos dad!! He got me through it alive and eventually I was able to fight the aliens and overcome. (though periodically they come back for a visit, but never stick around too long) Dad, you have been a wonderful example to me in so many ways. Through your blessed talents I have gained experience and knowledge. I believe I gained my basic love and desire of art from watching you. I look forward to learning even more in the future! (I have some things in mind... we'll talk)
Then, you became a father in law and a few years later, a grandfather. Man do you have a long list of folks who love and admire you! I could go on and on! I am infinately honored to call you my dad! I heart you with all my love!!!

Well Fancy That!

2009-06-16T18:37:00.004-05:00

This is one of those crazy "no way" moments! I was hoping to get a good shot of those babies but wasn't having any luck. I would grab my camera each time mama flew by and she would disappear when I opened the door. Then I'd sit outside...wait..wait..wait.... never a pose. Until this moment. Wow! Look closely at mama's mouth. She is feeding baby a cricket. Can you believe that! InSpIrAtiOn!!

Vivi and Gumbo

2009-06-16T08:52:00.003-05:00

I finished this commissioned "fancy" this weekend. I'm having a tough time giving it to my friend because I'm not happy with it. I varnished it just so I'd leave it alone! So... no choice...like it or not, it's done!

Color Me Amber

2009-06-07T09:55:00.005-05:00

This is my good friend and workout partner Amber. She is one of the color divas at the salon! It was my first experiment with beeswax. Sorry, honey about the iron... and the floor :(
Happy Birthday sweet friend!

oh, P.S.... She has two left feet. oops!! (I mean literally; ..not her, the painting)

Ode to Oz

2009-05-27T19:32:00.009-05:00

Ode to Oz... My latest little fancy is this 11X14 Dorothy. (part of her anyway...) Her shoes sparkle and Emerald City is off in the distance. The words on her dress say, "She stopped to listen to the hope of seeing her own home again."
My daughter's teacher is an avid long time Oz collector. Claire (daughter) told Mrs. Lawson that her mom would be painting her a picture. She is always proud to volunteer her mom for classroom activities, etc. SO, I am happy to oblige. Oz is a fun theme to play with!

Cock-a-doodle-DOO

2009-05-23T15:57:00.010-05:00

The hens rule the roost in this chicken house... or at least they did until Jethro came along. Pa (aka David, Dad) built the chickens a fancy new home with everything a farm fowl could desire. Our goal here is the manual powered alarm clock but daily farm fresh eggs would sure be a bonus. I think they are pretty content in their new home. Maybe they'll return the favor soon with some breakfast on the table (the eggs). If nothin else, perhaps the children could enter some of the birds in the county fair and bring home a cherished blue ribbon. That'd be pretty sweet!

New Piece

2009-05-13T10:25:00.002-05:00

This is my first "commisioned" piece. I am extremely flattered to have been asked to create art especially for someone... Thanks B.R.!! You made my week!

later Monkey!

2009-05-11T15:54:00.002-05:00

I've gotten the monkey off my back!! It has been weighting me down for nearly 15 years. It's been so long since I've felt this freedom that I feel NEW! I wouldn't trade anything for the experience of owning my own business but for a really long time I have needed to just be a wife, mom, and artist. I am so elated to no longer be held hostage. I know what to do first... Get back on Notions of Fancy, then pLaY in my studio! Oh, Lord help us all...

Monday's Fancy

2008-11-18T09:36:00.006-06:00

My nine year old daughter, Claire, requested this painting so I guess we'll keep it. (Maybe I'll tell her I gave it away and wrap it up for her for Christmas...
6 months later... I'll have to make something else for Claire. Sold "Angel in Green Dress" right out from under her!

Favorite Kicks

2008-11-14T08:15:00.003-06:00

These loafers must be immortalized. They're my fave's. Old, tattered, comfy and still hangin on to their bling. I don't even know how old they are or where they came from but if I ever see any again I'll snatch em up in a heart beat. (An assortment of colors would be groovy! ) I seem to make my way to them as soon as the weekend is approaching. It could also be that my poor achy feet are really ready for a hiatus from the tortuous heels they are forced into most of the week. These are not my usual, seemingly disposable kicks. They are special.... well worth the money spent. I think I'll hang on to these and pass them down to my dear daughter. Long after I'm gone, and the smell has dissapated maybe she'll enjoy adore them too! (just kidding, of course) ; )

2008-11-08T19:51:00.000-06:00

My friend Gentry and her daughter Vivi.

ZUMBA for a CAUSE

2008-11-08T09:31:00.003-06:00

Today is a great day!! Fall is definately in the air. It's the weekend, I get to make art, AND zumba for a cause! My friend Tina (Zumba instructor extordinaire) has coordinated an event to help raise money for Angela. She has cancer. This great community is gathering together for a 2 hour Zumba marathon. (SO much fun) Friends and relatives have been recruited. My prayer is that we raise enough to help take away some of the burden for a sweet young mom who is very sick. Pray with me!! (event pictures coming soon)

God's Eye Candy

2008-11-07T13:42:00.003-06:00

Each year I anticipate the arrival of fall. I pass by this tree every day and I am always amazed at the magical metamorphosis that develops. It sheds it's leaves all to quickly each year and I always miss the opportunity to snap a picture. I'm finally starting to learn to never leave my camera behind...

Latest fancy

2008-11-04T16:52:00.003-06:00

This is a mixed media painting. I painted this for my friends birthday. I hope she likes it... the love of art is definitely relative. The colors are a little more rich in real life. I'm gonna have to perfect my picture taking skills!

The carriage driver turned back into a chihuahua (Paco)

2008-11-04T16:33:00.002-06:00

Here goes it!

2008-11-04T14:48:00.000-06:00

The almost middle aged lady wasn't sure what she was doing...being new to blogging and all. She decided however to step out of her comfort zone, try it out, join in on the fun. Excitment ensued as it started to take shape. She's becoming a blogger! She thought to herself..."What's next? Is this right? Am I cut out for this???" She decided to continue her journey, knowing in the back of her brain that it wouldn't hurt to test the waters.