Sheryl Eggleston

Five months later . . . my brave girls

2011-03-25T09:45:00.000-07:00

Five months to the date has gone by and I'm thankful to be on this side of winter and ready to get on with it.

Sometimes life can throw a wrench in the middle of all our comings and goings and make us take pause. Type 1 Diabetes for my 6 year old granddaughter has been our wrench but after all the crying and fist shaking at the fates, it is time to move on with life, absorb the changes, do the best we can and then . . . have fun.

Our first craft project in the new studio was to add some bling to the bracelet-

and then we painted. Such joy a few blobs of paint can bring!

While watching her paint yesterday in a tiny spot in a very messy studio I am inspired to finally get busy turning it into the creative hideaway I originally planned many months ago (and one of the reasons we bought the new house).

I am still in awe of this saying I found taped to the wall next the girls' bedroom here. It is a copy of what got me through the whole house buying palooza. (see September 2010 post) It was made by the oldest granddaughter who is 9 1/2. I asked her what she wants to do and needs courage for and she replied that she wants to be a writer! To that end, her first book has been published through a class project and titled 'Silly Jenny' and she dedicated it to her sister. It is a sweet, hard cover book of her very own and she is more inspired that ever! (I'll get a photo the cover next week)

We never know how our actions affect those around us but this was a good reminder that we need to be positive and kind in a world that seems to be fast falling apart. In a child's eyes, the world is still an oyster just waiting to be opened. As people of this world, we need to do everything we can to make sure there is a pearl in there waiting for them.

While they are away on Spring Break I'll be decorating two alcoves in the studio just for them. Pictures tomorrow of the 'before' studio clean up, pictures of the new goat babies, new links, new book lists . . .

great grapes - are you kidding me?

2010-10-25T13:34:00.000-07:00

The grapes here are harvested and juiced. Later I can make jelly if I want. I can't wait to have an extra acre to plant more grapes and with irrigation, they should get nice and plump. The new place already had some vines, but they are totally in the wrong place, so moving them will be a spring task. A freeze is due in another morning, so I have to get all the tomatoes in. I just found a recipe for green tomato relish to try.

Fall has just set in and I'm already dreaming of Spring and all the new stuff I can plant! I am going to have so much fun with my girls crafting in the new place. I am so excited to be able to just play from now on without any business stress! We will finally have room to sew clothes and paint and leave everything out for another day! The oldest granddaughter loves to make stuff for birthdays and holidays.

Has anyone tried to buy a house lately? What a nightmare! I understand there are good reasons to carefully review records but it seems the pendulum is swinging just a little too much to the other side right now. Let's hope the process gets under control and back to the center soon or there will be no economic recovery.

Creative is a Verb

2010-10-12T09:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, yes it is!

A fabulous new book due out in November by Patti Digh, author of Life is a Verb. www.pattidigh.com

I bring this to your attention not only because it is a new gem worthy to grace the top of that pile of books you are surely reading, but also because two pieces of my collage art grace its pages. I was creativly inspired to make these pieces based on essays that were sent out and I was thrilled my art was selected. They were definitely made by the light of the moon, but when inspiration (or a deadline!) hits, one has to go with it.
I've skipped around a bit and made it to page 10. So much of what I've read resonates with me right now that I have to mull over parts and pieces for awhile. I'm betting most everyone will find their own inpiration within these pages. There are several cities where Ms. Patti Digh will be on this book tour so check out her site as well as the blog www.37days.typepad.com.
If I wasn't going to be in the middle of moving chaos, I would surely find my way to San Diego as well as the writing workshop on Nov. 6th in Portland, Oregon!

page 104

page 195 (another house! read the next post for more about houses and homes)

Home - A New Nest

2010-10-12T07:52:00.000-07:00

home n., adj., adv., verb, 2. The place in which one's domestic affections are centered.
house noun, adj., verb 24. to give shelter to; harbor; lodge.

One of the best things about growing in years is retrospection becomes easier, if only because there is so much time behind us. Not a bad thing really if one is willing to explore that time, take the lessons learned and move forward.
In the last year I have pondered the reasons I wanted a new house, and how our homes reflect who we are and if they influence where we are going. A home as just a showcase is really not a home, though it may be a house.

I hadn't realized how much a home means to me until I counted 12 pictures on my walls that include houses in some form or another! And I have of late been making lots of pictures with houses in them. My chosen art form of textiles and quilts reflects the home and 'domestic affections'.

After much angst over this issue in the last couple years, we finally went house hunting and will sign on the new homestead in a couple weeks. It must be the right one because it has moved so fast it makes my head spin! We have been ready to move on for quite some time and we had several options, including building a studio here and rebuilding this house that is quite literally falling apart around us;instead we opted for a fresh start. I will be curious to see how it affects us or not, in the coming years.

There was several criteria we looked for: acreage with irrigation, bedrooms for the grandkids and guests, office space, studio space, room for books, guitars, a good kitchen, and lots of light. This one fit the bill and will serve us well. I can already visualize a new center of heart and hearth.

Studio Space! I've been dreaming of where everything will go :) I see lots of craft night sleepovers. Granddaughter number one has already scoped out a spot for her art dest.

Mini Art Quilts-Journal Class

2010-10-12T07:30:00.000-07:00

There is hidden talent up in the mountains! A couple weeks ago the assistant (aka Shannon) and I drove up to beautiful Garden Valley to teach 22 women how to make reuseable covered journals. Whipping together the actual pieces that cover whatever notebook or journal you have is the easy part, creating the fabric art for the covers is the fun part. The art is as diverse as each person and equally beautiful. Creating with whatever is in front of you and your imagination is always an interesting experience and one everyone should try occasionally. Some days we need to just play. Thanks Garden Valley Quilt Guild!

Don't You Dare Give Up!

2010-09-02T06:45:00.000-07:00

I should have posted a sign way, way back in May that said "This Life Interrupted For Gardening Season" and in some ways that has been true. There has been lots of gardening going on and swimming and late night fires and smores and star gazing . . .
But in truth, I've really been in a funk.

What put me into it and what has just made me decide to 'snap out of it' are two different stories.

It was the post I read this morning by Melody Ross at the new and fabulous Brave Girls site that made me realize I want to DANCE again, let go of my pity party, get creative and choose HAPPY.

www.bravegirlsclub.com

The first and most important message to greet me was "Don't you dare give up" and that went straight to my soul. Even though I don't feel I completely gave up, everyday more and more of my happiness has slipped away. So I'm going to turn it around and get back on track.

I made a new sign just now to hang above my desk in my cozy office -

and everyday it will remind me

Creative Avoidance=more creating!

2010-05-12T10:59:00.000-07:00

I am really good at creative avoidance. Even though we have finally have a sunny, fairly warm day, it is really windy so I'm putting off going outside. I used to go shopping to get away from what has to be done, but I like to think I've moved beyond that. (Most of us probably have enough stuff to create with for the next century! I have finally given myself permission to just DO IT.)

I'm in the midst of several large home/garden projects, but the other night I took pause to create some little pieces with paper for another project that had to be sent off. I had forgotten how much fun it is to just play and stayed up until midnight. I would have continued and made piles of fun stuff for later, but I know it will be several weeks before I can do more.

These little pieces just begged to be glued down, so even though I should be outside hoeing or packing up the studio, I took time to make this picture. I think I will sew it onto the pink painted canvas for my oldest granddaughter's birthday. In conjuction with her birthday, we will have a play night and sleepover for all of us girls! This won't happen until June but it is good to have a plan. The littlest had a cupcake party for her special day complete with aprons. Having granddaughters is such a blast.

Creating activities that are meaningful and memorable doesn't take alot of money, just time and that is priceless.
Check out what Jane LaFazio in San Diego is achieving with a group of 4th & 5th graders. www.mundolindobeautifulworld.blogspot.com

Slowing down

2010-05-04T07:18:00.000-07:00

"Slow down and enjoy life. It's not only the scenery you miss by going too fast-you also miss the sense of where you are going and why."
Eddie Cantor - from the book "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron.

That sums up one of the lessons I learned from my recent trip to the beach. There is nothing like sitting and watching the waves to calm the soul and slow one down. In that moment we take pause, almost subconsciously, and realize there is value in slowing down our daily lives and just enjoying the company of ourselves and others.

Of course, it could just be my own lesson I'm learning and not meant for anyone else. I've been meaning and needing to slow it down for awhile and just enjoy life and the process of creation. In these days of multi-tasking and instant messaging/information overload, it takes a conscious effort to not get wrapped up in the 'getting' of it all.

It doesn't mean that my days won't be as full as ever with a large garden, dogs, chickens, turkeys, daughter and grandkids, husband, art, but I think I will look at it differently, as something to be savored and enjoyed within that moment. At least that is my hope.

The piece above was hand appliqued and embroidered on an antique kimono sleeve. The crane is very serene as he waits for whatever the stream will bring his way.

Life-What a Ride

2010-04-29T08:20:00.000-07:00

Wow, is it ever hard to reconcile oneself to not playing in the beautiful blue seas every day!
The sea in all of its incredible daily dramas is so much like life and such a paradox. One can bob along waiting for the 'big one' while missing all of the great little rides, or be so immersed in the little stuff, that you miss the big one!

Live mindfully and intentionally no matter where the next wave takes you as long as you don't let it take you down. Some days that is the tricky part.

I recommend "Life is a Verb" by Patti Digh. I've just started it, but it looks like a winner in living with intention.

Going, going . . .

2010-04-14T11:02:00.001-07:00

I started to play with this little piece this morning because I couldn't settle down to pack and get done what has to be done before a holiday. I have some crochet to take but won't take any stitching, though my fingers itch to start on this little scene (and the many more stacked up!). I'm sure I'll be plenty inspired to sketch, watercolor and take plenty of fab photos like the two below.

This is the view I'll be looking at for the next 10 days. Aloha!

A Monet kind of day

2010-04-12T10:39:00.000-07:00

This was the scene of my studio last Tuesday. I have to say again: painting on fabric is so much fun! I could have never stopped. I was going to change palettes in the middle of the day but I became enamored of the softer lavenders and teals.

I painted on several pieces that had been repurposed. My favorite was this linen tucked blouse front. It has alot of potential. I see a garden and rolling hills.

This is cotton sateen that was used as a blotter piece under what I was painting on top! I love how the colors have muted and blended, creating soft, watery vistas.

Detail of what could become a background for 'Shangri-La' amid the mysterious mountains somewhere in Asia.

Another lovely backdrop begging for ribbons, threads, beads,. . . on egyptian cotton.

I've had this bolt of not so pretty batik for 2 years now and I've never really liked it. So I gave it water and paint and it has sprung to life! Now it has lots of potential.

The picture above has the original color of the fabric in the center with paint on both sides.
The picture below shows it after it has dried.

And that was as far as I got. That night I slipped on a water hose and a very large garbage can to suffer a smashed and broken nose. This required a trip to the ER and a resetting and then several days on the couch.
Lesson learned: Stick with the fun stuff-it's safer!

Peeking Through the Fence

2010-04-03T08:25:00.000-07:00

Originally this was a painted piece of fabric that I then cut into strips. I like the contrast of black so I added some of those. These weren't sewn together at this point.

I looked at it for quite some time on my design wall and wondered what to do with it. I played with the widths of black and the size. I needed a 12" square piece for the SAQA Auction that begins September 20th. So I chose a section with a nice color range and sewed it all together. What to do next?

I sketched up a little pastoral scene showing birds frolicking in the early morning sky and pond. Normally I like to do hand work, but I need to start practicing using my machine more so I used black thread, and machine stitched the scene. Too much fun and effective too!

I love ribbons, button, beads and stuff. In my mind this was looking pretty stark without things growing up and around the fence pickets, so I couched ribbons and threads down with beads. This is where I get to do the hand work I love so much. I'm as much a process person as I am a project person. I like the journey as much as the completion. Already my mind is full of ideas for the next quilt.

This is the finished piece and I'm happy with it. It will be on the SAQA 2010 Benefit Auction that starts September 20th. Click on the SAQA logo on the side bar and go to 2010 Benefit Auction to view some of the other pieces that will be for sale. Studio Art Quilt Associates is a fantastic non-profit promoting the art quilt medium in a variety of venues.

I'm not one to bust through walls, and I can get tired of climbing, but while I work through the process of completing a piece I can see progress. I have created a fence that I can peek through, see the promise of a beautiful new day and climb through when I'm ready.

Hitting the Wall: Part One

2010-04-02T09:35:00.000-07:00

For reasons still unknown to me, I hit a wall when I returned from my San Francisco Art Quilt conference. I was overwhelmed on several fronts and just now feel like I am finding my way out. I have been reevaluating the past three years and what progress I have made and where I would like my journey to go. Heavy stuff indeed.

I took several photos of textures where nature tried to overtake that which man has made, where solid and concrete stuctures were slowly being hybridized by the natural world. Retrospectively, I would say that I needed to find where I fit in with what it takes to be successful in a given area, what my definition of success is, where my true self begins and what I'm willing to do to achieve my goals.

When these times hit, I tend to go within and organize my immediate surroundings. So I've been tending my nest and getting my gardens ready for a new season. Two trailer loads and two truck loads of farm compost take ALOT of time. Not to mention the usual poulty palooza that goes on around here, two lab dogs (one still a puppy at 85 lbs.) that need training, grandkids, and the beginnings of moving the studio. Which means that cleaning and organizing really can't be put off.

I also collected eggs, the first rhubarb and made omelets and apple/rhubarb pies.

And as usual, it is stitching something that really pulls me out of the doldrums. Tomorrow I'll show what I sewed up this week for the SAQA Quilt Auction.

Winds of Change

2010-03-21T19:36:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you've seen the t-shirts and other kitch that one can bring back from a trip that say "I went to San Francisco and this is all I brought back". Well, this is all I brought back (we won't mention the 3 dyed silk scarves from a conference vendor!).

This little twig was on the ground on our way to the car on the last day and it just said 'pick me up'. And I'm so glad I brought it back with me. It will help me reflect and meditate on all that I learned and absorbed over the 3 days of information pertaining to the art quilt and how the art world perceives them.

I'm not quite sure, yet, how it will all affect me and my art, but I believe I'm in for a profound change.

The twig's branch is smooth and mellow, the wood is bent a bit and it looks to be perpetually blowing in the wind. It has already weathered quite a bit and its greenery is struggling to have its spot in the sun.

Isn't that what we are all trying for?

Painting the Sky

2010-03-17T06:23:00.000-07:00

For years I have been amassing a collection of books pertaining to fabric dying and painting. Just a few weeks ago, I finally jumped right in, bought some egyptian cotton and started painting. What all the books failed to mention was just how much FUN it is to paint on fabric and I've only just begun!

I've always wondered why so many fabrics in art quilts are hand-dyed. Now I think I know; it is just so cool to see how a piece of fabric wiil react. A few weeks ago I painted my first background for a large wall piece and it turned out exactly how I wanted it to. What is even cooler is that I use muslin or other fabrics underneath the main piece since I get the fabric really wet. The residual soaks in and I get secondary pieces. Over time they will become amazing pieces of saturated color that will spark all manner of ideas.

These pieces were what happened yesterday. I needed sky for a new piece and after auditioning a dozen or more commercial fabrics, decided to just paint it. I think it will work, but I have to wait until next week to see. The top smaller rectangle of aqua/blues were the 'leftovers' and the blue paint water. I see a pond with maybe some water lilies, fishies and froggies.

This section was created from leftovers after painting the large background. I have plenty of ideas for this. Environmentally, it could speak to the fact that things are going to get alot hotter. It also makes a stunning reflection of the sun on the water.

This was my first trial at painting. I then cut it into strips and I'll sew it together with the black strips then add something over the top. This will actually end up being 2 pieces approximately 12 inches each.

Next week I'll list some of my favorite books and paints. Since I'm just beginning, I'm keeping supplies and techniques very simple.

I'm gathering food for the troops and clothes for me today. Tomorrow it is San Francisco and the SAQA Reinvention Conference!

Wading throught the Mist

2010-03-15T08:19:00.000-07:00

This is part of piece entitled "Flowers in the Mist". Even though it will be a beautiful day worthy of Spring, I feel like I am walking through a mist. I blame it on the time change. I feel like my clock and day are not in sync. I slept in accidentaly and that always throws me off.

So now, because I've lost a couple hours, I'm feeling confused and undecisive about my work today, like I really shouldn't spend the time to be creative. This happens to coincide with what I just read in "The 12 Secrets of Highly Creative Women": "Many women fear appearing or actually being selfish if they commit to their creative work" p. 77 lists many of the excuses we use to keep from exploring our true, creative selves. See 'A Portable Mentor' March 8th for more on this book.

In honor of daylight savings, I analysed and made a new weekly schedule yesterday and before I even got to doing what I feel compelled to do and create, I was into 50 hours! Then add in 10 hours a day to eat and sleep and the week is almost over.
Now I did include my blog, Irish Dance and exercise, family, friends and church, the garden work (only 10 hours) the dogs (two labs and one a puppy that needs training) reading and research (only 10 hours) Laundry, cleaning, and eating really only got 12hours, so I can't cut that down, dang it!

It was amazing to see where my time goes and how quickly. Some people have too much time on their hands and others never seem to have enough. Like land, they just arent' making more of it.

I love a challenge so I will continue to ponder this time/scheduling conondrum. I have to accept that some days will just be confusing and I'll do what I can. That is when I need to sit and just stitch with no real purpose.

To that end I will put in my mind a new challenge from SAQA called "Beyond Comfort". If you've never heard of SAQA, click on the button on the side bar. It is a fabulous professional art quilt organization with amazing resources available to members.

A Few Good Books

2010-03-12T07:39:00.000-08:00

It would seem that dancing feet and a book list have very little in common, but beginning tomorrow, March 13th and running through March 18th, if you buy anything in a Barnes and Noble store or cafe, or online and give them the code #10141984, you can support our Irish dance school - An Daire Academy of Irish Dance - Boise.

I've only just begun to learn Irish dance and I have to tell you, it looks easier than it is! It is a thrilling style of dance and I love the history that goes along with it. It is also something I get to share with my daughter and grandchildren. I'm a bit slower to learn it and I'll never perform, but that is okay. Learning a new jig or reel makes my brain explode with new pathways.

So I'm posting a smal list of some of my favorite self-help/find your creativity books, beginning with "The Creative Entrepreneur" by Lisa Sonora Beam. This is a treasure trove of questions and exercises for anyone who wants to be more creative.
The books on my side bar are also some of my favorite memoirs and always a good read. If I'm not sewing, I'm reading or dancing or cooking and seasonally I'm gardening.

"A Weekend to Change Your Life" by Joan Anderson
"Digging Deep" by Fran Sorin
"What's Next" by Rena Pederson
"A Trip to the Beach" by Melinda and Robert Blanchard
"Life is a Verb" by Patti Digh
"The Artist's Way" "The Vein of Gold" "Finding Water" by Julia Cameron
"The New Creative Arist" by Nita Leland
"The Power of Intention" by Dr. Wayne Dyer
"What's Really Holding You Back?" by Valorie Burton
"Loving What Is" by Byron Katie
"Ask and It Shall Be Given" by Esther and Jerry Hicks
"Winning Every Day" by Lou Holtz
"Thank You Power" by Deborah Norville
"On Becoming an Artist" by Ellen J. Langer
"How to Think like Leanardo da Vinci" by Micheal J. Gelb

2010-03-11T07:27:00.000-08:00

Last night I collected bits and pieces with the intent to make a random pieced and embroidered banner for this blog. This is what came out of those meanderings. It isn't done and may not make it into the banner, but I really like it.

Looking around my house, I easily count 10 pictures with houses in them. It is a theme I've only recently become consciously aware of. When I think about all the cross stitch and quilting patterns I have, most include houses. A UK acquaintence told me several years ago that I was a 'home bird'. I wasn't ready to accept that judgement then, but now I am, because it is true and always has been.

I was at the point where to try new challenges, I thought I needed a studio away from my home. In some ways, it was very helpful as it gave me the courage to become the type of artist I want to be. It has been a long process and I've made some great strides on who I want to be and what I want to create in this next part of my life.

I don't think I would have done it if I had initially tried this at home. Home was a nurturing center for my family but not necessarily for me. The circle of life continues on as children grow up and find their own center. My home can now become a creative, nurturing center for me that I can share with my family.

Now, with new courage and confidence, I'm ready to move my studio home. I know I have the focus and determination and some of the skills. Luckily, my lease is over about the time I plan to move everything!

"My angels prompt me to remember that courage is always more rewarding than cowardice" Janet Hagberg, from "The 12 Secrets of Highly Creative Women" by Gail McMeekin
"Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage." Anais Nin

I am a self-help/creative studies book junkie, so tomorrow I'll have a list of them you may enjoy and want to order. I'll also have the Barnes and Noble Book Fair number that can be used from March 13-18th in store or online. Our Irish Dance school "An Daire" gets part of all sales, even in the cafe!, if you mention the school and give them the number.

Walk On

2010-03-10T06:14:00.000-08:00

This in one of my favorite small art quilts. It is rich and vibrant, filled with a bit of mystery. Now that could apply to alot of things! But today it applies to having the courage to walk on.

I am just loving the book "The 12 Secrets of Creative Women". One sentence I underlined yesterday,
"It takes courage to admit we are on the wrong train and risk disapproval or possibly look foolish". That has been my journey of the last 2 1/2 years as I've tried to find the right creative balance. And I feel like I am almost there.

I have literally kept walking through that door everyday, trying new opportunities. I especially liked the quote by Mary Pickford:
"When you make a mistake, don't look back at it long. Take the reason of the thing into your mind, and then look forward. Mistakes are lessons of wisdom. The past cannot be changed. The future is yet in your power."

Another one by Oprah in the same vein:
"Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness."

Failure is only failure if we let it rule us, if we don't move forward. I love moving forward, trying new things. We only have one life and there are so many incredible opportunities just waiting for us to explore. Even small steps make up the miles. Again today, I will drive by the bakeries and eat my apples and celery instead. Again today, I will go to the studio and create not knowing if my project will be accepted when it is done. Today I will be happy in just the joy of creating.
Just showing up at the open door is a step in the right direction.

A Portable Mentor

2010-03-08T05:58:00.000-08:00

It's no secret around here - I love books! And I have alot of them. They talk to me of places near and far, their words paint pictures in my head inspiring me to find a way to turn those words into art.

This particular one I already had and was prompted to pull it off the shelf last Saturday. I randomly opened a page and it spoke to me. I'm already 1/3 of the way through with lots of underlining and notations.

The 12 Secrets of Highly Creative Women by Gail McMeekin

p. 84 "I've had to learn to walk by the weeds, blank out the peeling paint, . . ."
p. 98 "Women have long had the self-destructive habit of discounting themselves and their natural abilities."

I'll be getting more into this gem in the coming days. But I'm off to the Doctor for an exam and I haven't had any coffee yet so I don't want to be late!

Fresh Air

2010-03-07T07:13:00.000-08:00

It's bonus days here in Southwest Idaho. We are being blessed with a window of fine Spring weather so instead of sewing I've been out cleaning up parts of the garden, and getting lots of fresh air. I'd rather be sewing, but I know how fast our weather can change and it may rain the whole month of April. So I'm taking advantage of sunny skies.

It is always amazing to me how all this brownness can quickly become green, lush and full of life. Right now the rasberries have to be cleaned out so they can get on with their first crop due in June. The old grape canes were cut earlier and they just have to be pulled out. Two raised beds are ready for early veggies. Rhubarb is popping up. Next will be to uncover the strawberries-but not today.

It is amazing to me, that as creative women and men, we can take bits and pieces and make something beautiful. I've had the privilege to sit in the Sistene Chapel and be stunned to silence. I could have laid on the floor in a total swoon while in the Art Institute of Chicago while seeing the originals of many favorite artists. A beautiful piece of music seemingly wrought from thin air can bring make my soul leap for sheer joy of the creation.

Because I'm easily swayed by a pretty picture and the potential of a packet of seeds, I'm going to do some early spring planting. I can just as easily be lost in the creation of my garden as when I take stuff I have laying around and make something beautiful.

These pieces I hope will find their way a new banner sometime this week. And on that happy note, I'm off.

Seeds of Goodness

2010-03-05T05:41:00.000-08:00

"Scatter seeds of goodness to blossom in another's way"

Occasionally, when time allows, I like to make something from a pile of scraps. This little piece will eventually become part of something bigger, but it brings me joy looking at it just the way it is, so maybe it will get a small binding and be done.
I could spend all my days 'making something from nothing' and there is a lot of satisfaction in that.

The happiest people seem to be those that are helping others. Not long ago I was at an intersection and a car had broken down in a turn lane and was beginning to snarl things up a bit. 4 men had jumped out of different cars and were helping to push the vehicle out of the way, while the woman whose car it was, steered. The men were all laughing and smiling while they pushed. They were happy to be doing something helpful.

Often we forget the joy of these moments and ignore the inner promptings we get. Recently, I followed a prompting and helped make quilts for three little girls that were soon to be adopted. I was blessed with making many new friends and gained the joy of that moment. A couple women brought their scraps and before the afternoon was over we had made 3 twin size quilt tops. It was amazing.

When we all come together with our bits and pieces, magical things can happen: Stones become soup, scraps become blankets, seeds become food for many. Simple kindness' are a ripple on the water and will flow on long after we move on.

This small piece was cut and hand stitched without much of a plan. I like it when fabric and threads conspire on their own to create a story. Life is easiest when we let it unfold at its own pace and time.

Scatter some seeds of your own today and check out Rebecca Sower's site and her Hearts for Haiti project. She is also one of this week's guest curators at Crescendoh.

Worth the wait

2010-03-04T06:52:00.000-08:00

There is a time for everything and a seaon for everything under heaven-Ecclesiastes

Very soon now the chives and the fresh eggs from my chickens will meet up in a delicious omelet getting about as fresh as one can get. I can wait because . . .

I know just how delicious they will taste. There is a dilemma I face at this time of year and it involves choosing to wait for my own fresh strawberries that are a solid two months away from the first sunwarmed bite. Or do I again succumb to the visual displays of fresh, red berries and pretty green asparagus that the stores taunt us with, knowing that the flavor just won't compare? It is almost too easy to justify since they are sitting there anyway and someone has to buy them. Right? But . . .

There is a lot to be said for waiting for anything, including seasonal food. We have lost the anticipation of waiting for the taste of that first berry, stalk of asparagus, and juicy peach. I can't tell you the delight in being the one who gets the first, fresh from the garden, strawberry in May. We become quite devious and selfish when the plants are ready to bear their first delights. We take sneaky trips out to see if the fruit we have spied has ripened so we can be the first to eat it. And in the last golden days of fall, it is every man for himself. I have no qualms about gobbling the last of the golden rasberries with no thought of sharing.

So in answer to my own question-this year I will anticipate and wait. Once upon a time this was the norm. It comes down to the fact that just because we can, doesn't mean we should.

There is a plethora of sites and information out there about local eating, gardening, local foods, etc. Container gardening means you can grow something just about anywhere. Local farmers markets abound everywhere and quite often they are speedier at local produce than me, so I will buy from them as well.
Today I'm finally ordering my garden seeds. One of the companies I will order from is Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds - www.rareseeds.com They are family-run, non GMO, non-hybrid and their catalog is a visual feast.
For reading about adventures in local eating try:
"Animal, Vegetable, Miracle" by Barbara Kingsolver
"Plenty:Eating Locally on the 100 Mile Diet" Alisa Smith & J.B. Mackinnon

Waiting for Spring Part Two

2010-03-03T06:23:00.000-08:00

We had a lovely rain last night and now it looks like it will be a beautiful morning. Just what all the growing things need. I may have to go out and tromp in the mud for just a bit and dig holes for the two new peach trees I bought yesterday.

It is driving me crazy staying focused on the one large project I'm working on, since there is a deadline attached to it. I hate it when I do that to myself. I have to remember that I will really like it when it is done! That is usually the path taken; always a love/hate thing with creative endeavors for me. I just want it to be done, but all the other important stuff (like birthday parties, Dr. appts, you know what I mean) needs to be done too, and enjoyed.

This picture detail is from the quilt I made 4 years ago called "Waiting for Spring". I was coming out of a bad period in my life and it was one of the first pieces I made. The flowers were hand appliqued over the pieced background. That is one of my favorite activities - hand applique. I especially like to add pieces over backgrounds and then embellish on top of that. I did a powerpoint presentation for a local quilt guild last year and spent quite a bit of time pondering the why of it. I like structure and from there I can add richness and depth as time allows.

This quilt symbolizes my walking out my door and going through new ones where I didn't know what was there. It was selected for an American Quilter show in Nashville that year. Of course I went and was able to visit with family, as well as enjoy the Opryland Resort. Fabulous!
Lots of things have happened since then, lots of doors have opened and I've closed some as well. One of the things I learned at Brave Girls Camp was I could close some rooms for restoration and have boundaries.

With Spring in the air, I hold out hope that many more doors will open when I'm ready.
Spend some time today opening doors. You just never know what will happen. At the very least, you'll get some fresh air.

Waiting for Spring Part One

2010-03-02T10:21:00.000-08:00

I love this journal cover because it contains some of my favorite things: beads, buttons, vintage trims, silk ribbons, stamping on fabric, carved rubber stamps. The fabrics are a nice, mellow blend of soft turqouise, creams and browns.
This bird will soon be busy building a nest and the branches will fill up with tender new leaves and bountiful blossoms.

I can relate to her barely contained impatience to be off on the wing getting ready for spring. A quick perusal of my property yesterday yielded a glimpse of tender shoots of chives, the buds of rhubarb leaves ready to unfurl if this early spring weather continues (my apologies to all of you still under several feet of snow!)and the irises are popping leaves up everywhere. Unfortunately a reminder that I didn't seperate some major clumps last fall. But irises are forgiving and will bloom anyway. In Southwest Idaho we just may be blessed with an early spring.

Carving rubber stamps is quick and easy fix not to mention very meditative. Unless you want to nick your fingers, you have to pay attention for the few minutes it can take to carve. The soft carving material that is available is a dream to use and nowhere near as dangerous as linoleum block carving. It is great for small pieces. It will help pass the time until spring is really here.

Directions for this carved bird and journal cover can be found in "Ink, Stamp and Stitch" available on the web site.

Believe in Miracles

2010-03-01T06:51:00.000-08:00

"Where there is great love, there are always miracles" - Willa Cather

Jenny Doh has launched her site! WWW.CRESCENDOH.COM

I have been very blessed to spend time with talented, FOCUSED women who have made their dreams reality. Jenny Doh has taken our passion for creating and sharing to a new level with the launch of www.Crescendoh.com "inspiring creative passion, authentic community, & focused compassion".

Art truly does Save, as one can read from the personal stories of the weekly guest curators. We all have our stories to share as well as our passion. Find someone to inspire and make a difference today.

You just might be their miracle.

Snow Flower

2010-02-26T07:41:00.000-08:00

The next full moon is almost upon us, (Sunday, Feb. 28th), and this one is called The Snow Moon. There is so much visual imagery waiting in those words. Even though this is a sunflower from last season, I like the roundness of it and the snow lightly dusting it. It holds the promise of new growth while still clinging to what is present.
There is a lesson in there for us. It seems to sum up all that I have experienced in the last 2 weeks; enjoy our daily gifts of love and laughter, sunshine and snow, knowing seasons of change are always waiting in the wings.

My fingers are itching to stitch again (sewing 6 little girl aprons doesn't count) and my gardener's heart is yearning to go muck about in the dirt. Neither will happen today but that doesn't mean I'm not always thinking about the next project, and the next, and ....

I have threads, ribbons and wool that will be perfect for this image. Even if all I do is pile them up and make a sketch, my hands will be happy for another day.

Something Wonderful

2010-02-25T08:50:00.000-08:00

Something wonderful and fabulous IS happening. We just have to open our eyes and accept it, each and every day. Not necessarily a new concept, but to put myself in this space to let it happen is not always easy. When I do that, the day is just better. It takes true bravery to trudge on in what looks like insurmountable odds, to hold on to that dream, and they did it anyway! The dream Melody and Kathy had is an incredible, beautiful, far reaching reality.

These are two pages from my 'Beautiful Life' book I made at camp. The lesson for the day was truth and lies. I chose to make a book of affirmations of what I know in my heart to be true; miracles, blessings, the becoming of who we are meant to be and all the help along the way if we let it.

Just under 2 years ago, turquoise became MY color. It has a strong voice to it, and speaks of water and wide open skies. It speaks to my duality and fragility of self. This book is sooo turquoise and it makes me smile everytime I look at it.
I hope everyday it will remind me that I'm great at what I do, even if it is different from someone else. I'm not someone else; I'm me and I'll be brave in my own little way, every day. And that is the best lesson - ever.

So Be Brave today and everyday-no more excuses.

Hope, Peace & Joy

2010-02-23T06:59:00.000-08:00

A few more words for the day and ones I HOPE to keep close to my heart. Life can get so busy we forget that peace and joy is within our grasp-everyday in some small way.

This was the cover of my promise book I made at Brave Girls Camp on the last day. I didn't have a lot of energy left after 3 near sleepless nights and two previous intense projects. (So much art and stories to share! and the very best food ever to eat!) The other book I'll show you slowly as it is very full and has a story in itself.

It speaks to me in a different way than my house. Visual journaling is something I've been wanting to do forever and it is amazing how each piece will almost create itself from whatever your heart is trying to say.

This little bird is so happy in his little nest, under the swaying pine tree! I pass this curvy pine tree every day on the way to my studio. I'm sure it was meant to grow straight, but I love its curves. The curves speak to me of the winding road we all take to get to where we need to be. It just looks happy to be finally swinging in the breeze because it's strong enough to take it.

This art gives me a simple peace whenever I look at it. By this time at camp, I truly did have hope which leads to peace and joy. Peace in knowing that I have what I need right now and joy in knowing that is enough. We all hope for more and that is okay too, but I'm learning to have peace and joy in the moment.

Inside page of my promise book. It seems very stark in comparison to everything I had done to this point, but it is just right. I need to remember what I really need to do. I am very lucky to have nurturing friends and family AND a soulmate who expects me to honor the artist in me.

I Promise

Brave Girl Camp - the beginning

2010-02-22T13:10:00.000-08:00

Brave Girls Camp = art, life, love, miracles, trust, safety, clarity . . . I know there are more words than this, but for now it is enough to just savor these few, inadequate words and nurture the boundless love I feel for all my Brave Sisters

How can one not feel the love, love, love from this kind of detail, knowing that our hostesses put their hearts into every single step taken to ensure our knowledge of wonderous things about to happen.

And wonderous things did happen under the twinkle lights and lanterns. Life-changing experiences are just that and the best ones are the least expected. They can knock your socks off, take your breathe away, dispel the gloom and open up those doors one thought forgotten and closed.

A foggy day can be beauty sublime, but it is still a foggy day. It takes work sometimes to find that spot in the sun. And while I still have a long way to go, I am so much stronger for the journey thanks to the wonderful girls who made their dream of Brave Girls Club come true and for all my new brave sisters taking this walk with me.

I am a firm believer, (even more so now) that what you sincerely write/journal will come about in ways we never can imagine. It took me all day to visually journal the tender dream my sweetie and I have for the future. And though I wish and hope for a certain future, I realized after looking at my house, that I have it all today, right now!

Brave Girls Camp - Ya just gotta do it!!! Thank you Melody and Kathy!

Here is a little sound of heaven that is forever embedded in my heart along with all the tears and laughter that went with it.

2010-02-16T13:52:00.000-08:00

"I'd give up chocolate, but I'm not a quitter." Mae West (?)

I am seldom ready for a trip before schedule-but miracle of miracles, today I am and it has left me time to ponder. . .

I usually do not give Ash Wednesday much thought and am usually amazed and impressed when I hear of people giving things up for Lent. Which led me to thinking of what I could, if I was so inclined, give up for a period of time for reasons other than shedding some pounds.

Things I won't give up because there is real evidence they are good for me :)

Chocolate, deep, dark, rich and satifying to the depths of my soul
Red Wine, ditto of the above and strong evidence 1/2 cup 3 times a week is good for the heart.
Well, I guess that is it on the food front because I could live without bread and broccoli if I have to, so they don't count!

I've heard of people giving up facebook and the internet, but that has to fall in the arena of staying current, having some kind of social life, managing a business, checking out everyone else's business . . .

Then I figured out some things I could give up:

I can give up being so hard on myself and not thinking I'm good enough to realize my dreams,
I can give up guilt and feeling bad for past failures, be they personal or business,
I can give up thinking I'm not worth taking some time for myself as much as I love and adore my family.

So with Lent starting tomorrow, I am ready to give up and begin a new adventure. What better way to start than with a retreat that will give me time for myself among the company of other like-minded creative women.

See you next week. I hope you can take the time and ponder new beginnings as we prepare for whatever adventure comes next.

Heart of Mardi Gras

2010-02-13T08:15:00.001-08:00

I just love working with cotton velveteen and silk velvet and all things purple and green! These colors remind me of the bright beads of Mardi Gras. Carnival is coming to an end and the soft tones of early Spring will be taking over; tender green grasses, pale yellow baby chicks, the pale turquoise of robin's eggs.

This little heart just cried out for more and more glitz. So I was brave and kept adding on. It is always hard to know when to stop embellishing and when to 'go to the max', much as it is in our day to day lives.

I was feeling brave because I am getting ready to go to Brave Girls Camp in the mountains outside of Boise for a 4 day art/life retreat with the fabulous Melody Ross! Check out the link to Brave Girls Club on the side bar to see what fabulous treats are in store for me and plan your own Brave Girl retreat.

Above all, be brave and put your whole heart into evertything you do!

Heart and Soul

2010-02-11T08:35:00.000-08:00

"Nothing is impossible to a willing heart" - John Heywood

This heart is partially hiding behind the guitar, but the two are connected. You can't have great music without soul and you can't have a fulfilled life if you're not connected to the world, willing to live and give. Recent world events have again shown us the power of music and giving to others through our passions.

I'm not a musician, though I wish I was. I love music of all kinds. I love the words and melodies because they create pictures in my head that I then want to create in fiber. My passion of creating with my hands doesn't leave much time to learn to make melodies. The two are so very similar. Both come from inside us, are a product of everything we take in and mingle with the deep well of ourselves, and are expressed through our hands. Both take discipline and determination to honor this passion.

Choosing what we will give our 'heart and soul' to is not an easy thing to figure out, especially as we are bombarded daily by so many truly good and interesting causes and activities.

Determining focus is one of my goals for this year and something I've been working on for a long time. Honoring and acknowledging the passion for what is authentic and true for me has been a long journey. I'm slowing realizing that doing what I truly love is what I should have been doing all along! My heart is willing to go on this new journey and I am beginning to believe that if I stay on my authentic path, my dreams are not impossible.

Amore

2010-02-10T07:40:00.000-08:00

This little heart is no bigger than 2" x 2". It is rubber stamped on white fabric that was sponged pink. A few metallic thread stitches and some beads, and you have an adorable heart to hang on a tiny box of chocolates!

My heart is sad today as I wait to see if my amore will make it home tonight from the Ohio Valley area. With the new storm laying down yet more snow, the odds are slim. My heart goes out to all travelers stuck where they didn't plan on being and those impacted by these massive storms.

A Different Kind of Heart

2010-02-08T07:01:00.000-08:00

My heart is still pounding this morning from another poultry palooza! Seems my lab retrievers like nothing better than to devise ways out of the backyard and into the chicken coop! Two chickens and one turkey are still missing, but if today is a repeat of Saturday, they will wander back when their little hearts settle down!

I love this 'no sew' heart. It is put together with eyelets and gold thread, with lots of fun embellishments. Ultrasuede comes in so many fun colors and can hold up to lots of wear. Because it is so thin, eyelets are perfect for holding it together. I've also used red liner tape on other hearts. I used the red liner tape on this one and then added gold leaf on top of that.
It is great for holding scissors. You can put an extra layer of suede at the bottom to keep those pesky scissor points from puncturing parts of your body you'd rather not. (I'll have scissors for a great price on the website next month)

Even if you don't have new ultrasuede, I've picked up some awesome leather pieces at the thrift store. Quite often I buy clothing just for the fabric or the buttons. The fabric can be dyed or stamped over. More on that later this year when the weather is conductive to working outside.

Making gifts for friends doesn't have to cost alot. The time involved is the greatest cost for many of us. I'm sure that is why hand crafted gifts are so appreciated. Time is such a factor these days; there never seems to be enough of it.
Time management and gift making are two of my goals for this year. I hope to make several gifty things every month to put away for the holidays. This will be one of them.

Cupcakes

2010-02-06T10:36:00.000-08:00

Did I get to any stitching yesterday? Sadly no, not even a stitch. Besides a list of errands that shall remain nameless, I did get to do one of my next favorite things - spend time with my granddaughters.

We decided at around 5 pm that we would make cupcakes (for practice and research of course!) in preparation for the youngest cupcake's upcoming birthday party. We made up and heavily sampled lemon icing and chocolate icing. Sugar headaches and messes abounded and a good time was had by all.

Naturally we all had cupcakes before breakfast this morning and have begun yet another creative mess making valentines.

Maybe a few stitches will be sewn tonight after the cupcakes with their cupcakes go home. Meanwhile, I now have visions of sewn and embellished cupcakes dancing in my head!

Heart's Rhapsody

2010-02-04T07:15:00.000-08:00

Not a stitching project/picture today. I am sooo tired of being cold and tea fits the bill on this gloomy, foggy morning.

I just love the image on this label! Sitting and sewing requires something warm to drink and this tea fits the bill this month. Heart's Rhapsody is a lovely organic herbal tea that is loaded with 'good for you' herbs. Designed by the Tea Mistress from Shangri-la Tea. If you are lucky enough to live in the Boise area, they have a fantastic tea room and vegetarian cafe. Click on the link on the side bar to learn more.

Heart of Silk

2010-02-03T06:41:00.000-08:00

We hear about 'hearts of gold' and 'hearts on fire' but what would a 'heart of silk' look like?

Silk is, well - silky! It is luminous, can drape or hold shape. It reflects light in subtle nuances. You can wear it or sew with it. I especially like to applique with silken pearl thread and embellish with hand dyed silk ribbon. My favorite supplier of this is The Threadgatherer from Boise. The color selection is just incredible.

It has an amazing history and an entire trade route was named after it. I am currently reading "Shadow of the Silk Road" by Colin Thubron. I'm going to spend some time getting to know the history of this amazing textile.

If you want to practice with silk fabric, head to the thrift store. There are amazing finds there that cost very little. Silk is also great to stamp on with rubber stamps and metallic ink. One of my favorite's is Stewart Superiors Palette Metallic Ink. There is a great stamped purse with directions on their site under designers.

Enjoy this pastel version of yesterday's pieced heart. These hearts can be made into small tokens of friendship, new baby ornament or for a bridal shower momento.
There is kit for this version for sale on the web site.

More with less

2010-02-02T06:35:00.000-08:00

This is another piece that got started in a hotel room while I was away to a trade show. Trade shows can be so overwhelming and the brain gets supercharged by the sheer amount of creativity and new ideas. The only way I can refocus and settle myself down is with a bit of stitching or retail therapy, (shopping!) Both give my mind time to rest.

I usually don't have alot to choose from in this kind of situation and because the choices are limited, I'm able to do more with less. When I'm surrounded by all my 'stuff' in the studio, I get quite overwhelmed and don't know where to start. That is where I'm at right now; trying to focus on just ONE project, and that is very hard.

Doing more with less is once again becoming fashionable as we begin dialogues that include the environment and our pocketbooks in all of our purchases. It's also good for our creativity!

The fabric of choice on this trip was silk! Piecemakers in Costa Mesa, California, was a veritable treasure trove of silks, ribbons, threads and trinkets! It made my hands itch to start SOMETHING.
Just like the blue heart, the strips were hand-pieced and then the heart cut out and appliqued onto the vintage jacquard. This heart had ribbons and threads added to it.I must have been a bit sad and missing my family that night as there is a silk ribbon going down the center of the heart. More silk was added for a border and then lots of ribbons and embellishments.

Grab some scraps today and see what you can stitch up!

2010-02-01T06:13:00.000-08:00

Red - It's Everywhere

Even though Spring is a solid two months away, it seems like we have rounded a corner when February arrives. Red is just right for this month, though I must like it much more that I thought: I drive a red car, wear a red wool coat, and now I have a new red journal with wonderful heavyweight watercolor paper inside! I read recently (by a shoe store owner naturally) that every woman should have a pair of red heels, that they go with everything. I'm going to try this theory out this month.

I can't ever seem to tie myself down to one color but this month I will spend more time working with red. When you are out and about look for all things red and how they brighten up even a dreary day.

The thesaurus is a wealth of descriptions for the color red and all of its nuances. They invoke a multitude of images and feelings. See if they don't for you too.

Here are just a few for this first day of February:

Burgundy - Carmine - Carnation - Chinese Red - Crimson - Faded Rose -
Flame Red - Maroon - Poppy - Ruby - Royal Red - Scarlet - Strawberry - Naples Red - Lobster - Fuschia Red -Cherry - Vermillion - Cardinal - Rose

Flowers in January

2010-01-31T07:18:00.000-08:00

The snow is softly falling on this last day of January. Ours was a gentle drifting down for a change with only a small accumulation, thankfully not accompanied by the usual winds.

This little purse is an example of what you can create with just a few bits and pieces of fabric, ribbons, thread and buttons. They were purchased while I was away to a trade show one January and it begged to be sewn at 10 pm.

Sometimes creativity is sparked more by how little we have to work with compared to the overwhelming amount of 'stuff' we are usually surrounded by daily.

"Flowers in January" is a pattern and kit that can be purchased from the web site.

Full Wolf Moon

2010-01-30T10:13:00.000-08:00

Today is the first full moon of 2010 and the biggest one of the year. It's at its closest point to the Earth. If you live near the ocean, tides will be at their highest for 2 or 3 days. This should make for some great wave watching. These are the days I miss the ocean the most!

Instead I watched it early this morning from my hilltop in Idaho slowly make its way to the west. Called the Full Wolf Moon due to the hungry wolf packs that used to howl at the edge of Indian villages. We heard the coyotes yip down at the creek, remembering the wolves howl up in the mountains on camping trips. Thrilling and scary all at the same time. Very primeval.

I stitched these strips together from scraps this morning and added a very large moon. Will this become part of larger piece or have some bare trees and wolves added? Time will tell.

Inspiration Blues

2010-01-28T05:59:00.000-08:00

This little collection is part of a larger selection of scraps put together for some slow stitch (sewn by hand) ideas. The plan was to show how many different small projects one could create from what we would put in the scrap box. Because I'm so easily distracted, this is as far as this project has progressed!

I pulled out several assorted blues and this pile ended up more in the turquoise range. I have been enamored by turqoise for 2 years running now and I believe it is here to stay.

I found this lovely description about the color turquoise by googling color meanings: "A mix of blue & green, turquoise has a sweet feminine feel while the darker teal shades add lively sophistication."

I'm equally enamored by hearts. Several strips were sewn by hand and then the heart shape was cut out.

The black and turquoise wools were from thrift store garments, taken apart, washed and dried. The heart and dot scallop were appliqued onto the black wool. The black was then buttonholed onto the turquoise wool after the scallop border and small circles were cut out.

Tenative title is "Blue Heart Special". It still may grow with some borders and stitched words, and it definitely needs some fibers and beads.

New/Old Beginnings

2010-01-26T06:38:00.000-08:00

January 26, 2010

So where does one start? I suppose I'll start with what is inspiring to me and hopefully it will be to you too. But maybe first a bit of history.
I love handmade things. It seems upon reflection that I have always gravitated toward needlework. It wasn't until just a couple years ago that I learned my paternal grandmother from Tennessee was a quiltmaker. My maternal grandmother did fancy work and embroidery. So if you put the two together, then you have me!
Unfortunately, I did not have the opportunity to learn by their hand, only by what they left. Because of this, I am most adamant about teaching my grandchildren the joy and skills of creating by hand. I am doubly blessed to have a daughter who loves to create as much as I do!

I taught myself to embroider in high school in the 70's from looking at several pieces my mother had stashed away that her mother had done. One piece is a silk dress from a WWII parachute. Another dress was handmade with no pattern and appliqued and embroidered. Even in Jr. High I was haunting the isles of the local 5 and dime for bits of fabric and jewelry findings. I embroidered lots of clothes for myself and friends and even took my box of threads with me when I went away to the Army.
When I moved to Sacramento in the 80's I was introduced to the fine art of needlework with the local Embroiderers Guild and also the work of Judith Baker Montano. That sent me on a quest again for all kinds of fabrics, ribbon, beads, and buttons. I took it all to Italy where I taught myself to quilt. That was as far as that went, as Italy was just too fascinating to do anything but absorb all that was Italy!
About 3 years ago, I was at a point to start spending more time with textiles again. I had just spent several years in the paper and art stamping arena running a business designing and manufacturing art rubber stamps. I started to combine all the the things that I love. It feels natural to put it all on fabric. It was easy to go from embellishing paper to embellishing fabric.
I love to embellish! It creates so much more interest and depth and makes art much more personal. Hand work is of special interest to me and is a consuming passion. It slows me down just a bit and helps me appreciate each nuance as the piece comes together.
One of my goals is to use what I have as I create new pieces. Not only am I concerned about overusing our resources, I am also haunted by the thought of one day seeing all my 'pretties' on a yard sale table in little baggies!

Visual Harmony - My first solo art quilt show in September 2009 began a new direction in my life and work as I strive to obtain a balance of color and form, sustainablility and simplicity in all that I do; basically make-do and use it up! Exploring this idea along with inspiration for your own creations will be the focus of my natterings for some time to come, along with some day to day humor involving my dogs, cat, turkeys, chickens and assorted family rambling around on our small acreage.