PoppyCat News

Prints on Wood

2012-01-31T22:30:00.000-08:00

I recently began attaching my prints onto painted pieces of wood, all ready to hang with a wire on the back. Frame not needed.

Here is a selection of the variety that is available. I will soon put into my Etsy shop as well, just don't seem to be home long enough to get around to doing all the tasks involved in making Etsy listings. New designs will be available on a regular basis.

Life and Death

2012-01-29T19:36:00.000-08:00

I never wrote about the exhibit I was part of at the end of the year. It was at
Gypsy Treasures in Long Beach, CA.

It was a Dia De Los Muertos and/or Catholic theme. Here is the original record painting that I did. The title is "Life and Death". I also had a small print on wood. The print was of another skull of mine, the Head's a Spinnin print.

Gila Monster Challenge

2012-01-25T21:54:00.000-08:00

I couple weeks ago my son bought a book that helps you to expand your creativity and imagination by drawing different characters. The book is Fantasy Genesis A Creativity Game for Fantasy Artists by Chuck Lukacs. You roll dice and receive different animals and elements etc, and you are to make a creation with what is given to you.

The elements that I was to use were a Gila Monster, a Shell, a Vine, Bolts, Lava and an Old Village. This is what I came up with. I used pen and ink, markers, watercolor and india ink and acrylic ink. It was done in my sketchbook, which isn't really meant for painting, and a warping occurred from it. It doesn't bother me because it gives it the appearance that it's a tie die on fabric.... Gotta see the positive! I'm just such a person that loves putting drawings into some kind of book, rather than let it float around and not get viewed, and possibly lost.

Astrology Signs - Gemini

2012-01-24T19:18:00.001-08:00

This is the 3rd in my series of Astrological Signs, with the Gemini. I didn't really have an idea for this one, then came up with one I thought would work. It was mediocre. My son suggested a set of twins emerging out of one tree. It was a far more clever idea than my first original plan. Yes, as a friend commented to me, it is helpful to have an art director. My collaborations with my kid do always make the best creations!

The Gemini sign is associated with the Summer Solstice, that's why I have the sun shining bright. It's also an air sign, so I made some clouds, although my clouds seem to be heavy on the water-side. And I think I was successful at making the two "trees" appear to be twins. I thought it would be hard to duplicate them to look alike. Yeah seems with a lot of things, it's the anticipation of something that is usually far harder than the actual doing!!

Astrology Signs - Taurus

2012-01-10T17:48:00.000-08:00

Here is my 2nd in the Astrology Signs series, Taurus. I was trying to represent the stubborn side of many Taurus, well at least a lot that I know are stubborn! One in particular!! The sign is associated with the fresh new growth of spring. The background should look more dark brown, but on screen it appears to be black. Oh well.

I'm making them straight from the list in a book. I guess I don't want to put off the hard one, just want to take them as they come. So next is Gemini, and so far, no ideas... stumped! Need some inspiration instead of heartbreak.

Astrology Signs - Aries

2012-01-09T21:07:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago, Wesley and I began drawing the Zodiac Signs. His first design was Capricorn and I chose Aries.

I really enjoyed using our new markers, and I think I'll be doing more (well already have done one that I'll post soon). I may make into prints, but for sure some magnets will be created.

New Year, New Me???

2012-01-02T20:08:00.000-08:00

I'd love to say I could be happy in this New Year.

I'm in love, but it's not good.

This drawing is a result of the toxic relationship brought on by alcoholism.

I've neglected my blog for too long, instead doing online journaling on Facebook. Well Facebook is too exposed also. Too many people that I really don't want to know my business. So I'm coming back here, no one that I really know reads this, well maybe a couple, and I can deal with them. If they want to research me, then I guess they can know the true me.

This is a doodle I did while drowning in the middle of someone's alcohol abuse. Someone that has said they would stop drinking and the hurt that goes with it, for too long now. I would love to be happy with him, but don't know if it's possible for this booze love affair to end.

There you have it, there's a real juicy bit of info about me.

Bright Star Thai Vegan Cuisine

2011-09-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

It's Restaurant Review Time!

Went with Dad and son for our 2nd trip to Bright Star Vegan Cuisine in Rancho Cucamonga, California the other day. It was simply scrumptious!!

First off we ordered Thai Iced Tea and Thai Iced Coffee. I enjoyed the tea most, although both are decadent treats. Wesley later got the coffee to go, it seemed more sweet in the to-go cup for some reason. He couldn't even finish it.

Remember this restaurant is entirely vegan, so no cream in here!

We ordered the Tempura for our appetizer, featuring potatoes, brocolli, cauliflower, onions and carrots with a maple-syruppy type of dipping sauce.. yum!

The first entre to arrive was the BBQ Chicken. You can never go wrong when ordering fake meat if you choose the "chicken"! This was my favorite, I think of the meal.

The salad we ordered was the High Protein Salad... a gorgeous display of color and taste!

We have a strong craving for the fried rice at any Vegan Asian type of restaurant. You can choose from your choice of fake chicken, beef or fish. We chose the chicken, delish!

Lastly, we ate up the Grilled Beef. Every time I've had fake beef at a restaurant there is a certain mystery spice in it. Not sure just what it is, but it's very enjoyable to the taste buds!

All the food here is wonderful, I highly recommend to you vegetarians/vegans, and also to you meat enjoyers who want to be daring and try some health/karma conscious food!! Just be sure you have some time to spare, they're a little slow in preparing this delicious food. They also tend to smoke the place out a little with their woks a burning. They are on it though, and open the doors up quickly to give it an airing.

Bright Star Thai Vegan Cuisine is located at 9819 #F Foothill Blvd in Rancho Cucamonga, CA..Phone - 909-980-9797

Half Dome Thru the Years - Yosemite Art, part 2

2011-08-08T18:29:00.000-07:00

Here's another look at the progressions of my plein air paintings while in Yosemite.

Our tradition from when we first started these journals we have made a point of going to paint Half Dome at sunset. This is why these pieces may be slightly more bright and saturated with color, it's the sunset glow.

Unless stated otherwise, these were painted from the bridge by North Pines campground.

2001

2003 from Sentinel Bridge

2004

2005

2008

2011 - from bridge by North Pines campground... This year we were extra ambitious and not only painted from the usual spot at the bridge by the campgrounds, but in another spot as well....

2011 - view from meadow by Curry Village

Progression of Yosemite Plein Air Art

2011-08-07T21:23:00.000-07:00

I just returned from my trip to Yosemite! I'm most inspired when I'm there! I just want to paint constantly. Always seeing something beautiful everywhere you look can do that to a person.

I've been making our own travel journals for every trip we go on since 2001. There have been 6 trips to Yosemite since then. I've painted many scenes more than once, so I thought I would put them all down to compare from year to year.

My first group of scenes is from the North Pines campground, along the river, looking west, viewing upper Yosemite Falls.

It's interesting to see the progressions.... do you have a favorite?

2001

2003

2004

2005

2008

2011

the lovely creatures of Spring

2011-04-29T18:38:00.000-07:00

This year there is a bumper crop of caterpillars. They are everywhere. Not sure what kind this is, the Painted Lady maybe, I really don't know. The extra water this winter maybe the reason. It's sad to see thousands of them in a driveway, with many smashed from the car wheels.

And this is the first ladybug of the season that I saw this year, sitting on my car window. Just saw it 2 days ago.

I love the warm months, and these bugs. Not looking forward to the nasty mosquitos though!

Illustration Friday - Bottled

2011-04-08T17:36:00.000-07:00

I did this drawing/watercolor a year or so ago. It was perfect for Illustration Friday's theme of "Bottled". I have neglected doing an IF for far too long. I did work on one last week for "toy", but didn't finish in time. I will get it done I'm sure though.

This is an autobiographical piece for me. I was feeling very bottled for far too long. A couple of years ago I was able to finally break free, much like this genie here. It was a terrific feeling, but I'm sure some think I was going over board! It felt good anyway. I have calmed down quite a bit, and am content in other ways. It's called happiness.

I have prints available in myEtsy Shop.

Art Lesson - Painting - K-1

2011-04-08T12:15:00.000-07:00

This year I've done a couple of painting with tempera lessons. First you see the lesson I did with the Kindergarteners. It was a Spring theme. First, I talked about Spring with the kids. I had them give their ideas about Spring. Luckily, one boy brought up butterflies, since this is what I had in mind for my lesson.

I had them draw with pencil first so that they had a large butterfly. I didn't want small butterflies. If they went directly to painting, there would've probably been a lot of little butterflies, and I was hoping to spend some time on these.

I had them mix a little white with red to get pink, since that's a Spring color to me. The same was done with the dark purple to get a lavender color. We also mixed yellow with the dark green to get more of a light, new-leaf green.

When they were done with their butterflies, I wanted them to paint some other Spring things around it, such as leaves, flowers, bugs.... whatever they wanted.

These are some pretty creative little Kindergarteners, ya think??!

Another lesson was given with the 1st graders. One of the California Art Standards for 1st grade is to.... "2.2 Mix secondary colors from primary colors and describe the process." So I wanted to spend some time with that.

They had been learning about weather that week, so I wanted to do some weather pictures. I thought I would first focus on a sun. This would give me a chance to do some paint mixing, yellow and red to make orange. Since I'm a whimsical type of painter, I wanted them to make faces on their suns. I know, not very realistic, but fun anyway!

They went through that first painting very fast, so we did another painting. This time I had them mix green for some grass. I had them paint more of a stormy day, instead of sunny day.

Painting with tempera takes extra time and patience. I give each kid their own palette with the colors I intend for them to use. It's helpful with the little kids to maybe give a couple of dollups of yellow (for instance). One can be just for mixing, and one can stay yellow.

The funny quote of the day was when this little boy was describing his painting. He was going on saying how it was a very powerful type of storm, with lightening, rain and such.... "You know, when God was real."..... HILARIOUS!

Idyllwild goes Idol-Wild

2011-03-31T16:08:00.000-07:00

Yes, Idyllwild is bonkers over Casey Abrams! Or I am at least.... well it's true, me, the town and many other non-Idyllwildians, that's for sure. He's so very talented, and now has gotten the one save of the season. I hope he has lots of non local fans. Being from such a small town could hinder someones's chances. But at least the town is passionate about it, and of course his own talent will help, I'm sure.

Tonight is another elimination. After last week, the nerves are on edge!

This is a little drawing from Idyllwid Arts Academy's web site. They are very excited too.

Good lucky Casey!!

Etsy Pick O The Week - Ampoids

2011-03-26T18:20:00.000-07:00

This week's POW is ampoids. These little upcycled items are just pure genius! Ampoids makes portable amps and speakers for your MP3 player, and also little amps for your electric guitar! All this big sound coming out of a little, recycled Altoid tin box. They are very reasonably priced and how convenient to carry.

"Come on and break free from your headphones! -You know you want to!" says the high tech, creative mind at ampoids.

I especially love these because I have a strong fascination with tins.... round tins, square tins, old tins, new tins, large tins, tiny tins, larger tins to hold the tiny tins. They are just a more attractive way to store my many trinkets and supplies for creating!

A Little Story About Perseverance

2011-03-23T15:48:00.000-07:00

This is a recent piece of art done by my son. I hope the recent line of events will encourage him to get on his blog and start updating again!........

I've been living in my little mountain town for nearly 23 years. One of the draw backs of this life in the jewel of a forest, is the life for a teenager. K-8 is pretty good with the small community. Everybody knows everyone and keeps an eye out for the kids. The school is wonderful with excellent teachers and a large group of volunteers, myself included. This is how our smARTS Program was developed... with concerned parents getting involved and making more art present in the school It's been a big passion for me for the past 9 years.

My son is now in 8th grade. He's been at the little sheltered school from Kindergarten through 8th grade. What happens after 8th grade in this town? Well the nearest public high school is almost 30 miles down the mountain road, in the not so quaint and neighboring town. When my son started kindergarten, that's when I began my fret over what would happen to him once he hit high school. Not only is this school in another town and a whole other environment, the kids are on the bus before 6 am, sometimes being ridden through terrible weather conditions of ice and snow. It's a lot of time being taken to and from school. Not to mention the very large school where after being in this safe community can be overwhelming for some kids. I do have friends whose kids have attended this large school off the hill. They all insist that it's been a great experience, so long as your kid gets in with the good crowd. I, on the other hand, have hated the thought of my kid so far away on a daily basis, as well as the things I've mentioned.

One of the alternatives to this school is either homeschooling, which definitely has been something I've considered, although I'm really not much into that. I've also actually considered moving. The other option is the extremely expensive private arts academy here in my own little town. This is a very prestigious school with talented students from all around the world who are gifted in all aspects of the arts, both visual and performance. I knew I, in no way, could afford the tuition for this school, it rivals many universities in price. But I had to try.

So the time came, this last February to apply for the art school. My son had to create a portfolio with at least 10 pieces and write an essay. I had to fill out an extensive financial application, write a letter of need, and whine and moan for help (ha ha!). We got the tedious application completed for the February 1st deadline. I bitched and moaned and fretted and worried to my friends and loved ones. I knew my kid had the talent and the excellent grades so that he would be accepted, but the financial part?? I was feeling pretty glum about it. Some kids would be accepted completely with a free scholarship, because one of their parents worked there. Some of these kids, I'm sorry to say, have barely tried to get good grades, or even be creative in anyway, yet they'd get in with a free ride. My kid on the other hand, is very creative, tries very hard in school, really wanted to go to this school, as much as I wanted him to. It just didn't seem fair to me. I felt my kid would be unable to attend, purely because his parents are not well off-financially. Plus, I had heard stories from other locals whose kids applied in the past. They would tell me how the school would give them a partial scholarship, but this still wasn't possible for the parents to handle. Thus their kids were bussed down to the enormous high school down under. It just all seemed impossible to me, and I often sat and worried myself sick over the future.

Two weeks ago was the day that they were to announce to us whether my kid could attend this special school. The email came, late in the day, but on the day it was suppose to happen. My son and I read it together. We both could not believe our eyes as we read the amount of scholarship they were going to give my kid!!! How could this be??? My eyes literally filled with tears. This is not how I've heard of it happening before. I thought at the best I'd be having to beg and plead with them and wheel and deal to get them to give more. No, they gave a very generous amount right off, It was as if it were a miracle! It seemed it was like the perfect storm. My kid had talent, brains, excellent teacher recommendations. His portfolio was superb, I was told. He did it with his own hard work. All this and maybe because of his dad having health problems, and being nearly poverty stricken, all these things lined up and an amazing scholarship was given. All my worries for most of his life were over. I do need to come up with some money to pay his tuition, but it's not the amount I had dreaded. It's a very doable thing now.

My moral of this story is to not give up. Don't let what has happened to other people stop you from trying. Each situation is unique. You just don't know until you try. And most importantly remember that hard work can very well pay off. If you want something bad enough and truly try, good things might actually happen for you!

I'm still an emotional wreck over all of this. And yes, I'm still on the verge of tears when I talk about it. It's a fantastic feeling for sure!!

more pendants

2011-03-20T17:29:00.001-07:00

I ordered some more cabachons for my pendants a few weeks ago, and have put a few into my Etsy shop. Little prints of my art work art encased in resin on the antique brass cabs. I also purchased some vintage glass pieces to put onto the necklace with the pendants. They are also made with antique brass chain. Kind of Steampunk lookin.

So far I have the Perplexed Little Flapper.

There's also my older little Martini Cat, (also known as "Roses and Martinis." I'll be adding more as I get them finished and pix taken. Find the jewelry section of my shop here.

This last week while watching American Idol, my friend calls me to say "Is Steven Tyler wearing one of your pendants?" I cracked up! So now I find this pix of him, not from last week, but another night. Not my pendant, but same type, different art. And now you too can be like Steve, how cool is that?!!!

Traditional Batiks

2011-03-14T17:13:00.000-07:00

I got my most extensive art lesson of the year completed this week! This is the 6th year I've done this lesson with all the 6th graders. Unfortunately, last year's class didn't get to do them. It was so busy, and I couldn't fit it in when they were learning about India. The teacher wouldn't let me do at a later date. To see the details and more examples you can see my earlier blog entries here, here, and details of the process here.

Elephants are a very popular design, since this lesson is based around India. This is one of the better elephants that has been done over the years. This girl was very meticulous with her drawing and then with the painting.

This fish was my favorite one for the year. Don't ya just love it? It's very inspiring and makes me want to get back into my own batiks, which is my plan for the near future.

Maze Rock

2011-03-12T17:31:00.000-08:00

Recently we went to see the Hemet Maze Rock. I'd read about this fascinating petroglyph years ago, and finally journeyed out to see.

It was discovered in 1914 by Adelaid Wilson Arnold and her parents. Yes, there are other petroglyphs in the area, but these are from the local Cahuilla Tribe. This design seems to be more of Chinese origin and dates back to possibly 458 A.D. There are accounts of Buddhist missionaries sailing the seas in a Chinese junk, on a journey to spread Buddhism. This is long before Columbus set sail.

This symbol on the rock is Buddhist symbol, what they call a quadruple swastika. The maze traps evil spirits and allows travelers to proceed in peace. The square in the center symbolizes purity. Chinese coins have had the same square for centuries. There are other examples of these petroglyphs signifying a route these missionaries took.

Before this study was ever done, the original family that discovered this rock asked the local Cahuillans to see the maze. They responded that it was very old and and their father's father had said it was made by the people who came from the sea.

Very interesting local Californian history!

hello there

2011-03-06T22:28:00.000-08:00

Today I saw this creature, not in a wind swept meadow, but in the Stater Bros parking lot at the bottom of the hill. I sat waiting in the car and doodled it out in my little journal. What a perfect expression the tree gave to us!

Etsy Pick O The Week - MossTerrariums

2011-03-03T23:00:00.000-08:00

This POW features a unique shop with delightful little terrariums! MossTerrariums has gorgeously lush little mini gardens in a jar already for your enjoyment. There are many different types of mosses that are included in the little plant habitats. Very unique and inspiring, indeed!

I also enjoy the many types of containers available. These lightbulbs are unique and interesting. I love these little fairy worlds in a jar!

You're the one I Pick

2011-03-02T22:47:00.000-08:00

I received a new order of buttons, they're all package onto a little greeting card.... In a field of many flowers, you're the one I pick. The buttons are of Evelyn Nesbit - the original Gibson Girl, the sad little flapper who is very perplexed in her cute hat, the girl with stomach fluttering with The Butterflies, and the sad little party girl flapper.

Here they are available in my Etsy shop

A Snowy Tale

2011-02-27T15:11:00.000-08:00

"When snow falls, nature listens" ..... - Antoinette Van Kleef

"After every storm the sun will smile".... - William R. Alger

"The impossible is often the untried." -Jim Goodwin ...... this is my impossible to pass through road

"Snowmen fall from Heaven unassembled." --Author Unknown

"The sun will shine in my back door some day"..... I know you Rider, traditional song

“Are cats lazy? Well, more power to them if they are” .......Ziggy is just bored with it all. He's too lazy to run and jump and play like some other dogs!

gorgeous icicles freezing drips do make

2011-02-26T19:37:00.001-08:00

“Honesty is like an icicle; if once it melts that is the end of it” ...... American Proverb

I am thigh high in snow. Snowed in for the day or more. More winter woes from a mountain girl longing for the green days of summer. Winter's hardships do make lovely photographs though!

Heads a Spinnin

2011-02-24T15:46:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when you've got only one thing on your brain. Love of course. Lovin til Death.

More Valentines Day art for a show that never happened. As I said, it's all good, I've got love on the brain anyway.

6x6 inch, acrylic on plywood

Catching Love Like Fireflies

2011-02-21T18:40:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you're lucky enough to catch one if you really try.

Another Love painting. Got one thing on the brain, seems.

Acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, 11x16 inches.

no broken hearts for me this Valentines Day

2011-02-13T12:07:00.000-08:00

the broken heart

A friend wanted me to do some art for her valentine's day night at a local bar. Well not sure if it's happening, some kind of problems with the co owners. I don't get it really, it's all hush hush. Weird, eh???

Well, I don't care about the showing anyway, Not the art buying crowd!! But I'm happy that it motivated me to think of and do some love art. I have some others underway, I really probably couldn't get them done in time anyway. I guess had she made more of an effort in talking to me about it, I would've made sure to get them done!!

This little vixen has someone's broken, yet mendable heart in her hands. Some see it that it's her heart that is broken, but I'm wondering if she may have stolen someone's heart and done a little damage herself.

I'm also very happy that I have experienced love again, gotten my heart broken, maybe cracked someone else's just a little, but more importantly fallen in love and actually have a real valentine this year. A REAL ONE! Three years ago, I thought true love in my life was over. I thought I was to live a love-less life, never to be truly happy again. After living a certain way for a couple of decades, it truly makes you know what you want in life and in lovers. It makes you want to change your patterns to make your love work out. It's all about being a grown up, I guess.

Happy Valentines Day to you, and I hope you can experience true love too.

9x12" acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas.

Etsy Pick-O-The-Week - NothinButWood

2010-10-07T11:23:00.000-07:00

Wow, I have taken quite the vacation from my POW (Etsy Pick-O-The-Week)! Over 2 years since my last POW post. Hmmmm, 2 years ago, I wonder what happened 2 years ago that made my life do a back flip??!!

Anyway, I'm back and I've got this wonderful shop that I've enjoyed for some time. I must have a fairy door!! NothinButWood is Nothin But Magically Whimsical!

Are you not loving this?

The workmanship is superb, with fantastic attention to detail.

I know the faeries in my garden would love a little home like one of these! (hint hint)

My life just may be settling down, I'm feeling content and creative again. So I hope to have another POW before it becomes POM or even POY!!!

I love me zee bugs

2010-10-05T11:58:00.000-07:00

This is a cool bug that was on my windshield the other day. He sat there, content on staying on my car, as I drove slowly through the parking lot at the post office. As the wind hit him, he slowly started walking, his eyes moving around very chameleon like. Each step he made was a struggle against the air hitting his back. I had to stop. I got out, grabbed him carefully in my hands, then let him fly. He took off like a green little fairy. Fly be free!!

Summer Tiki - Lono Makua

2010-08-22T20:53:00.000-07:00

Every summer for 3 years now, my son and I have been drawing a different Tiki. It's become a summer tradition.

This year I illustrated Lono-Makua. It is The God of Fertility and Peace, also known as The God of Music, Peace and Harvesting Crops, sometimes called The Provider... a God of fertility, agriculture, rainfall and music. The legend is that Lono descended to Earth on a rainbow. Well I'm sure it was a Double Rainbow!!

I think he's a bit Cowa-Bunga!

This tiki was done a little differently than last few tikis. Instead of markers, this year these were done with pen and ink, then colorized in acrylic. I painted it with no blending in the paint, because I was hoping to stay closer in style to the previous pieces.

We are in desperate need of some quality markers. Why is it becoming so hard to find Pentel colored markers at a store?

Creepin Vines

2010-08-21T16:49:00.001-07:00

I've been working on this painting off and on this summer. I finally finished it!

Are these vines growing on her hat with the help of this bird, or are they simply the pattern on her hat?

Here's the original sketch of this little lady. I often like to sketch while watching movies. Here are some sketches I did while enjoying a silent movie. See her original incarnation up in the top right corner. Seems that the original doodle often turns out better than the finished (supposedly) perfected finale. Doodles are just more spontaneous, I guess.

Prints, magnets and pendants will soon be available. The original is acrylic on an oval canvas, 9x12".

smARTS Art Exhibit at Idyllwild Arts Academy

2010-03-14T22:28:00.001-07:00

Every other year Idyllwild Arts Academy opens its Parks Exhibition Center for smARTS to have an exhibit of all the students' art at our local K-8 school. This is a big event for smARTS with never ending amount of hours to select the perfect art piece for each student, then carefully hang each piece and label it.

A highlight of the exhibit always seems to be the 8th grade project. This project is in response to their visit to the Museum of Tolerance. They are always very emotional pieces of artwork. This year their words were used to add to portraits of themselves. They are striking as a group as well as when you read the words they used in the art.

Here are the dragons I traditionally do with the 4th graders for Chinese New Year. They are fun.

I also always like the symmetrical butterflies I do with the 3rd graders

And here you can see the turtles that the kindergartners do, as well as the 5th grade project on foreshortening.

Yes, this is a good event, and once it's over, I think it's worth all the efforts.

Genie out of the Bottle

2010-02-23T22:16:00.000-08:00

Ever felt like you've been all bottled up, like a genie, for maybe a thousand years?? Well I had that feeling, and was finally let free just last year.

I've had this design in my mind for almost a year now. Life has been wild, crazy and unsettling for this past year. And while it still is that way, I'm trying to balance all this with my creative side.... finally making it possible for me to get this drawing done.

Here it is in my Etsy shop.

Pen and ink drawing, embellished with some watercolor.

Wishing For Spring

2010-02-09T16:44:00.001-08:00

Don't wish for Spring before it's time,
Thinking all will then be fine.
Time moves swiftly on its own,
Life flies by all alone.
Don't hope that it will faster fly,
Or it may listen, and then you die.
----Saffron

I wrote this poem March 5, 1992. Boy, my life hasn't changed much it seems. I still dwell on the winter weather, trying to survive it and it's hardships. This only makes me realize I still have over month of real winter here on the mountain. I have to deal with it as best I can.

Altered Cigar Box - Be Happy, Elf

2010-02-08T21:37:00.000-08:00

Wow! How can this be?? I'm updating my blog again, already?? And it's only been a week since the last entry?? What, am I returning back to myself? Is the content me returning? Whatever it is, I'm glad!

So anyway, I was lucky to receive a whole shit load of cigar boxes from a special friend. This is my first creation using them, they are fun!

I painted this elf on the top, and added some tissue paper collage. Also on the side I added some tissue collage for some flowers.

Inside there is a little print of a painting I did a few years back, reminding you to Be Happy! I know I must remind myself of this from time to time! It's the perfect container for your potions, trinkets, or love letters. How nice it is to get a love letter!

It's available now in my Etsy shop! Have a looksey!

Hats Available

2010-02-04T16:43:00.001-08:00

I've been making some hats this winter..... some slightly hippie or maybe grungey type of hats.

Or maybe they're just woodsy and mountaingirlish.

Well whatever you call them, they are soft and cozy and keep you good and warm. See some in my Etsy shop.

Also, I was part of a shop last December. Luckily my smARTS/blogging buddy, Mother Bliss, got some good pictures of the little shop., including my little section.

Last Drawing of 2009

2010-01-06T19:38:00.000-08:00

This was my last drawing of 2009. I started in the summer...Glad to finish it!

This is Kane Milohai, The God of Life. It's elements are the sun, sky, earth, and upper heaven. He is a symbol of life and the father of living things.

I won't be neglecting you, Little Blog, this year. I just know it!

Life for a Mountain Girl

2009-06-10T23:04:00.000-07:00

So for the last couple of months I've been doing the stress-less job of yard work. I'm enjoying working outside, getting some exercise and experiencing the different environments of the mountain.

This week I worked at what has to be the most gorgeous yard on the hill! There's a natural pond, the water is just seeping out of the ground, which by the way up on this mountain of So Cal, is a pretty rare thing.

There is also the largest crop of lady bugs around here. This is just a small percentage of the many nests that I saw. No aphids are surviving in this yard.

And the highlight of the day was seeing this little cutie! I was lucky to get this shot. Yes, I'm a good worker, except when I stop to chit chat with the neighbors, or stop to take pictures of frogs.

Return of the Batiks

2009-05-31T11:08:00.001-07:00

This is the fifth year I've done this batik project with every 6th grader at the local school.

It's a lot of time and work, but really is one of my favorite projects once it's all done.

An interesting thing that usually happens with this project is how the best drawers in the group don't always have the best batik. They seem to add too much detail. The kids that keep it simple have the best results. This shows you how different projects help different people succeed in different ways. But it's a reminder to me to really stress to make the designs simple, which I do, but maybe I need a more forceful approach for those few who want to go too detailed.

This was my favorite one for the year. Can I just say I lost it and keep it for myself? Guess that wouldn't be very nice, huh?

Here they are hanging at Open House in the classroom. Pretty huh?

See the past 2 years results and details here and here. They're better photos too, I took the pix this year at the wrong time of the day.

Critter Encounters

2009-05-19T20:57:00.000-07:00

I don't know what's up completely, but I've done a terrible job of keeping my blog alive this past month. I'm hopefully recovering now and will be back on track!!

Yesterday on a long walk to Inspiration Point, we saw this beauty . I love these thistles- crazy weeds, but so pretty.

Last week I was watching a lizard like this at a job where I was gardening. I couldn't get a shot of him, but I got this one instead. I don't know what kind they are, but they really seem to have a more lively personality than some lizards. And look at the blue under the neck. I love his expression too. If I had more time right now I might research to find what kind it is. But there is no time right now, so have to save it for a boring day.... you know, those come around all the time, right??

TOC - Biblical References

2009-04-11T01:12:00.000-07:00

This week's Theme of Consciousness was Biblical References, being Easter weekend and all.

I thought of a lot of ideas. "Thou shall not kill", Noah and his rainbow, and my favorite, "Love One Another." Had to go with the disobedient Eve. That woman really messed things up for us females, but I love her still! She's a free thinking rebel, and I love that about her.

So here's my quick little painting, done in acrylic in my larger sketch book.

TOC - Heart

2009-04-04T01:21:00.000-07:00

Theme of Consciousness for this week - HEART.

Here's my little doodle embellished with watercolor.

Got one song played... Grateful Dead - "Easy Wind".... really cool Pig Pen song.

Strawberry Creek in March

2009-03-29T21:54:00.001-07:00

Went on a walk on Strawberry Creek today. This is the creek that runs through town. Always a nice peaceful place to walk. I can't wait for the greenery to burst out in a month or so. Soon it will be filled with Azalea, Wild Rose, Berries and other assorted plants.

You can see how I get a little bit inspired by this place if you see my art in the previous post.

Here's Wesley standing with a pretty large old growth 2-in-1 Cedar Tree. You can almost imagine you're out in Sequoia National Park, our own little piece of heaven.

TOC - Home

2009-03-28T01:15:00.000-07:00

This week's Theme of Consciousness was "home." A very warm and fuzzy theme, really. The tribe chose some great songs that Jim loves, and some great sets were made.

Here's my little creation for the theme. Easy enough to think up, and doodley-fun.

And I had some requests played... Dead "Throwing Stones", Stones "Prodigal Son" (a sharer), and the rare, unusual honor of the Opening Song.... Ten Years After with "I'm Goin Home." Yes, I was a little spoiled this week. But I requested a whole shit-load of perfect, Jim-type-of -songs, so it was bound to happen!

Who knew the Dead had SO MANY songs that mention Home!

NibbleFest - Asian Inspired/IF Legendary

2009-03-26T15:54:00.000-07:00

I'm a little behind, and have been neglecting my poor little blog!

This is my entry for NibbleFest - Asian Inspired. It also fits with last week's Illustration Friday which was Legendary. This is a Legendary Entertainer. I was also thinking a lot about Spring, so I made it very Spring like.

It's an ACEO, 2.5x3.5 inches, watercolor.

-SOLD-

Deer Springs Trail

2009-03-15T23:26:00.000-07:00

Went on a much needed mini hike today up Deer Springs Trail. You can't walk through a high elevation, sunny hillside without finding some gorgeous manzanita. Just as lovely dead as alive. Beautiful, yet very fire prone.

I can never capture just how very enormous this Live Oak is. You can see Wesley standing at the bottom for scale. It's very difficult to do a tree justice with a camera. Even though it lost a limb probably from the heavy snowfall this Winter, it still takes up an incredible amount of space on the hillside.

Just another view of the famous Tahquitz Rock, also known as Lily Rock. This is a trademark for the area, our own mini Half Dome.

Wesley wanted to see just how far I've been walking lately when I trek out to Inspiration Point. So we took a little drive. Here's another view of Tahquitz Rock, as well as the surrounding area. You can see the rock just to the right of the center of the picture.
Yes, I very lovely day and weekend, and made me a little antsy for the warm months coming soon! Just another day in the life up here a mile high.

Hearts on Fire

2009-03-14T00:45:00.000-07:00

When a heart is on fire sparks fly out of the mouth.

Ain't that the truth.

A little bit Dead, a little bit Dia De Los Muertos, and a little hearts on fire.... Acrylic on LP record.

Butterflies - a little tweaked

2009-02-28T23:40:00.000-08:00

I wasn't too happy with the colors in my girl with the butterflies painting. Instead of completely revamping it, which I did consider, I thought I'd take the lazy way out and digitally teak it's colors.

It has a slightly silver screen mood to it, which suits this girl better, I think.

What do you think?

It's also listed as a print in my Etsy shop.

The Butterflies

2009-02-28T16:21:00.000-08:00

Getting the butterflies can be the most wonderful feeling, and yet also be a bit frightening.

This is a new painting done in acrylic. I've got prints available now in my Etsy shop now.

Here's wishing you The Butterflies for all of your life!

TOC - Radio

2009-02-28T10:36:00.000-08:00

In honor of the lovely Radioactive Glow's birthday, last night's TOC was "radio".

I'd had this idea in my mind for sometime, and since "Only a Lad" (OIngo Boingo) has "radio" in it (she had a radio that Johnny wanted oh so bad, so he took it the first chance he had... and then he shot her in the leg), I thought it was a good time to do it. Plus my time was limited and I'm realizing it's far quicker to just do a digital pix than go ahead a create from scratch some painting!

As usual, also always good to practice the Photoshop a bit more.

No, Jim didn't play the Oingo Boingo song, but I did get a couple other requests played... "Around the Dial" - The Kinks, and "Hang on to Yourself" - David Bowie. Kind of personal songs for me. My first concert with my friends as a teenager was The Kinks near the era of that song. And "Hang on to Yourself" is on one of my top 10 albums - Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars.

NibbleFest - Vintage Cats

2009-02-25T00:24:00.000-08:00

This month's NibbleFest theme is "Vintage Cats". I got mine done just before the last deadline.

Had to join in on this theme, too fun!

Siamese cats are the most vintage of all the cats to me. These little two are also much inspired by my Mother and Son clone cats, although they're more like a tuxedo cat. I got a cool vintage chair not long ago, and the second the chair entered the house, the cats had taken it over. It's a true battle over who will lounge there first, feline or human. Feline usually wins.

This is an ACEO (2.5x3.5"), acrylic.

-SOLD-

Always can use the extra bidders, NibbleFest is a contest after all.

TOC - Sweet

2009-02-21T01:16:00.000-08:00

Last week (Feb 13) the theme for Theme of Consciousness was "Sweet".

I did this little painting much inspired by my number 1 model, my sister.

I got a request also..."Not So Sweet Martha Lorraine", by Country Joe and the Fish. Pretty good one, I thought.

Art Lesson - Valentines Day-Give Your Heart

2009-02-20T17:17:00.000-08:00

This is a Valentine's Day lesson I did with a class of 1st graders. I had some pre-cut heart shapes in different shapes and colors all prepared when I started. I first gave them a small piece of paper and scissors, and I had them trace their hand. Then we cut them out. At this age it's amazing how little practice some have had at cutting. They don't have time to cut in kindergarten any more! Anyway, I explained that it could be tricky, and it's OK to have an imperfect hand cut out. This class actually did better than expected, and only a couple needed help with the cutting. When they were done I passed out some hearts in 2 sizes. I then had them glue stick a small heart (in contrasting color) onto a larger hand. I showed them how the hand and heart would go together, to look like the hand was holding the heart. They then glued hands and hearts on. Then colored with some oil pastels. I had them write a personal message of their choice.

It's a good idea to have them either outline around their hand cut out, or have a contrasting color of some kind behind it. It was easy to have the hand get lost in the design.

And I liked how using the black hearts gave a more graphic appearance. The kids liked the black hearts too.

Some were very creative in their design. This boy (CK) was the only one that used the heart as a stencil, and colored around it. I love when they get their own ideas and modify the original design a bit.... Creative thinker!

This was a perfect lesson to fit in with their Valentine's Day party, which the teacher really wanted me to do, since her time was very limited that day.

Illustration Friday - time

2009-02-12T20:32:00.000-08:00

Old-Time Sex Symbol.

Yeah, it may be a stretch!

This is one of my favorite women to paint - Evelyn Nesbit... America's first sex symbol, inspiration for the Gibson Girl, and key player in turn of the century scandal filled with love, murder, sex, millionaires and a beautiful woman. This disgraceful story of the day rivaled the present day OJ trial in notoriety.

So what do I do, try to do a sexy woman, and all I can come up with is some kind of old-timey sex goddess.

This is an ACEO (2.5x3.5 inches) done in watercolor.

It's for sale in my Etsy shop.

More Snowy Goodness

2009-02-10T14:52:00.000-08:00

Crazy icicles. Beware, don't get stabbed.

Burned some calories shoveling today. Is this the San Jacintos, or the Rockies?

Pretty boy, Ziggy. He thinks it's very inconvenient to get around, and hardly worth it. He chooses to sit and watch the boy, rather than join him.

My own little view of the peak.

WARNING: RANT AHEAD!.....
Why must I have the neighbors that have their road plowed, then have the burm totally block the road? Hello, we live down this road too!! While no one's gonna be driving for a while here, and I do luckily have another easier way out, they will eventually come. They did this in December, and people end up getting stuck as they drive down the road. Then even after it melts there's this huge bump in the road, which will only be worse now after this latest act of neighborly love.

Deep Beneath The Cover

2009-02-09T18:54:00.000-08:00

"Deep beneath the cover of another perfect wonder, where it's so white as snow." -- Red Hot Chili Peppers

I'm completely buried again. After years of drought, first we get a near record storm (at least since I've been in the mountains) before Christmas, then near drought all of January, then record storm again!!

I trudged out into it with great difficulty, to get some pix. My house looks pretty charming I think.... charming - alternate way to say tiny shanty)

It snowed all day, and is still snowing now.

It's beautiful, yes, but sometimes there's only so much beauty a person can take. I am glad for the forest though.

TOC - Weather

2009-02-07T01:15:00.000-08:00

This week's TOC was weather. Lots of weather happening in So Cal right now. That's always different!

I'm just happy we've been having lots of rain and no real snow the last couple days. Pretty enjoyable to fall asleep with the rain falling. And then waking to more rain, and no snow. I love it! I'm also prepared for the snow that's expected though. It is still February after all.

OH and I got some requests played for the theme, 3 of them -- "Cold Rain and Snow" and "Box of Rain", Grateful Dead (resident tribal Dead Head) ... and "Sunny Afternoon" The Kinks. While the snow is gorgeous and very romantic as I watch it fall, I'm also looking forward to Lazin on a Sunny Afternoon -- in the Summertime!

This is ACEO sized, acrylic.

Illustration Friday - flawed

2009-02-05T12:56:00.000-08:00

This is my entry for Illustration Friday's prompt of "flawed".

Sometimes the flawed one is most beautiful.

Even though this flower looks beautiful to you and me, it's different than the others in this field of daisies -- making it flawed to them.

Of course, usually the one that's different in a group is sometimes the most beautiful.

Look a little deeper into something and you will see the beauty. Everything and everyone has their own beauty, you just have to dig a little sometimes to find it.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

This is an ACEO (3.5 x 2.5 inches) watercolor and pen and ink. Available for sale on Etsy.

Tribal Art Show

2009-01-30T13:01:00.000-08:00

I'll be down in Long Beach this Saturday for the Tribal Art Show. How fun is this? These are people I've met through my wanderings on Jim Ladd's radio show. Yes, I've met them through radio, how cool!

The featured artists are Al Bondigas, KiKi (Coyote Acolyte, aka The Tribal Chef), Radioactive Glo, There It Is There Johnny, and myself!

These gorgeous posters were created by Al Bondigas. WOW! Is all I can say about this creative guy, and also his artistic and quite lovely wife, Radioactive Glo! KiKi has some wonderful oils in fabulous colors, and Johnny is a unique character with a wonderful spirit who has some fantastic rock-n-roll stuff!

So come on down to Long Beach and see us. There will be excellent food, coffee, and some live bands too!! Not to mention the very entertaining Tribal Members.

So maybe all my TOC scribblings have paid off after all!

CPSIA Law

2009-01-29T23:22:00.000-08:00

As parents and concerned citizens I’m sure most of us at one time or another have been confronted with the question of lead poisoning. But have you asked yourself what your government is doing to protect your children from lead contained in toys? The answer? They're banning toys, taking books from schools and libraries, hurting low income families, killing entrepreneurial spirit and risking putting the economy in an even greater depression than we've seen in decades. I'd like to introduce you to their solution: the CPSIA.

Do you know about the CPSIA? No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.

The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.

How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:

To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.

To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That’s okay though, there's always television. Our children don’t need to learn the love of reading after all.

Article from the American Library Association
http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322

To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won’t be available next winter.

To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.

To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.

To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.

To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. “Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe.”
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html

To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn’t been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.

To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.

If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbes
http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html

And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Law
http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html/a>

Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react.

Art Lesson - Ancient Egypt Sarcophagus

2009-01-26T12:34:00.000-08:00

This art lesson was done with 2 classes of 6th graders a week or so ago. It's a little more difficult to fit into the schedule with the middle school kids, and the lessons must be curriculum based. The kids were on their unit of Ancient Egypt, so I came up with this lesson (with the help of my good friends HC and GC, Thanks guys!)

Each kid was given a large piece of paper (24x13"), pencils, eraser, black sharpie and scissors. I also had some copies of different sarcophagi, hieroglyphs, and symbols for them to refer to. I drew with them a simple version, telling them they could do their own, or if they needed to just follow along with my drawing. They started in pencil, then traced over with the sharpie. I had them do any details with the sharpie also. The day before the Social Studies teacher had gone over hieroglyphs with them using some stamps. So they were well acquainted with that. They could write their name, or anything appropriate really. It's slightly morbid to have kids make their own coffin, but oh well, that's why they had the option to put Cleopatra or whatever. I encouraged them to also use some symbols and we talked a little about what some of the symbols meant.

Once all the details were drawn they were to cut out the shape. At this point it got a little hectic and it was very helpful that I had at least 2 helpers to assist. First we adults stapled 3/4 around the coffin, then had the kids stuff it with loosely crumbled newspaper. We then finished stapling the edges. While they were stapling we brought some tempera paint, paintbrush, water and they went to painting.

Most did not get done in the 55 minutes period. Luckily most of the 6th period teachers allowed those that wanted to come back to the art room and finish. It's a good sign when you have a full class again with kids wanting to finish up the project.

So it was a busy 3 class periods of art with the 6th graders. This was perfectly fine with me since they're my son's group, and I've been doing art with them since they were in Kindergarten, many I've known since they were babes. I don't get as much time with them as I use to have, and they really are a wonderful group, so it was enjoyable indeed.

I think there's a good chance that this will become an annual project for 6th grade. Yay!

Oh, and the top 2 examples are girls' versions, the bottom are boys'.

Illustration Friday - contained

2009-01-17T00:16:00.000-08:00

Boy, what a blogger-bum I've been lately!

I did an Illustration Friday, but I'm a day too late. This is for the prompt "contained."

I can't contain the happiness I feel over the coming inauguration. I'm hopeful for better times ahead, for us all.

This is just a quickie acrylic painting on paper.

So I didn't officially make it for the IF deadline, but at least I did one this week.

I was also inspired a little by watching some 5th graders painting today. They were really enjoying their mixing of the paint, so I wanted to just throw on some paint also. It's a little different than my normal style?

Speaking of the 5th graders. One of them made the comment while doing this mixing of paint.... "I feel like a kid again." That was surely the quote of the week. See how important art is, especially for kids?

New Magnet Set

2009-01-07T17:58:00.000-08:00

I've made a little set of magnets. It features 3 of my little art prints. All of these prints are whimsical and a little magical, all were done in watercolor and pen and ink.

The three prints are ...

1) "Like to join me?"... which features the very charming, yet slightly stinky, Miss Garlic Sprout.

2) "Magic happens to only those who believe" .... this has the print of the Secret Garden, it's what the flowers do when you're not looking.

3) "If music be the food of love, play on." --Shakespeare ... which features the debonair Froggy who went-a-courtin' the lovely Miss Mousey.

I've got them in both my Etsy Shop and the new ArtFire Shop! Hmmm, I wonder which place will get the first sale?

OH, I'm also joining in with the many creative people who are living Creative Everyday in 2009.

Are you going to live creatively everyday this year too?

Illustration Friday - resolve

2009-01-04T21:15:00.000-08:00

Here's my entry for this week's IF theme of "resolve."

I resolve to do I.F... no matter how difficult it may be!

This was drawn with pen, then colored digitally.

I like digital colors, but I think I need more experience. It just looks too stale to me. I guess the practice is good, and it's fun.

And now for some reason my thumbnail didn't show up on the IF Link Viewer. Not sure what happened. It never happened before :(

Welcome 2009!

2009-01-01T00:02:00.000-08:00

Let's all Shine in "09! OK?

Here's wishing for Peace on Earth in the New Year!

Art Lesson - Tissue Collage Candle Holder - smARTS Gifts

2008-12-28T00:02:00.001-08:00

For the past few years smARTS has done an event we call "smARTS Gifts". This was in response to a few teachers who wanted to stress that it can be a good idea to make a gift for any occasion really.

For the second year now I've done this project with fourth graders. I figure they're nearly responsible to work on glass, and to give to a special ADULT in their life (because of the candle)

Each kid was given a glass jar. This year I had a whole bunch of the same design donated. Last year I just went to the thrift stores and bought different glass jars, cocktail glasses, whatever seemed to fit a small candle. I first had the kids choose 2 or 3 colors of tissue paper. Then I had them tear small pieces of the tissue to prepare. They were then to paint glue (a little watered down white glue works fine) with paintbrush right onto the glass. They could then pick up the tissue with the wet paintbrush (I hoped anyway that they could do this, trying to keep their fingers free of glue to avoid frustration). I told them to go ahead and paint the glue onto the top of the tissue also. This adds a sort of varnish, and protects the paper.

If they had extra over the top, as seen here, I had them trim that off. I also made sure that no paper was glued on the inside, or bottom. Then they were to get a little tea light (if I were prepared, maybe the flameless battery-operated "candles" would be better... I don't know, that's a personal choice).

While the candle holder dried they were to decorate a tag and brown paper bag with ribbon to wrap the candle holder. I also made little "warning" stickers for the bottom. This mentioned the warnings to "never leave candle unattended". Safety you know! I also emphasize to the kids the importance of not forgetting that these are glass, and they will break!

It took most of the kids the hour to complete, which was perfect.

I hope the gifts were enjoyed!

Merry Holidays to you!

2008-12-24T09:08:00.000-08:00

I'm reaching the end of my Holiday preparations. What a strange season this has been. For some reason the Christmas spirit never really joined me this year. I did my best, and forced it anyway.

I made my cute card, but did I send them? No! I did give to some friends though. Yesterday, I couldn't find 2 gifts... still can't... burnt half a batch of cookies... stayed up till 3 am... a good thing is the fudge is only minimally gritty.

Oh well you can't be a jolly ol' elf every year. Well I know many who can, but I guess not me. As much as I have in my head how the perfect Christmas should be, it rarely happens. A big reason for me... PROCRASTINATION!

I've had a rough autumn this year, on a personal level. That could've had a big effect on my Christmas spirit. I did make a lot of holiday sales, both online and in the real world. That helped a lot, but also made me extra busy, and that also effected my preparations.

Well, even with an odd Christmas, I'm still grateful for the many things that I do have. My family, friends in the physical and virtual realm, and beautiful place to live, and a quaint little home.

I wish you all a most Joyous Holiday filled with laughter and love. See ya on the flip side!

Sunshine after the Storm

2008-12-18T22:38:00.000-08:00

I was able to walk out of my yard today, but not without great difficulty. The poor trees are all bent over, and the manzanita bushes are blocking my gate leading out of the yard. Plus the snow goes up way higher than my boots, and that makes walking very awkward! I did go to my street though, and got this wonderful shot of my neighbor houses across the road.

Is that my van in there? What a lot of shoveling to get that out. I did a lot of it today. I've got another day to get it out. I'm hoping to drive it out on Saturday.

I can never get enough of the gorgeous blue skies behind the glistening white snow.

I'm just amazed at the amount of snow up on the tops of the trees. My photos don't seem to do it justice.

Yes, it is a Winter Wonderland for sure!!

Snow Day

2008-12-17T19:18:00.001-08:00

We've been getting our fair share of snow this week. So much that they actually called a snow day today. That's a rare occurrence since the District Office is a couple thousand feet lower than we are, and they have no idea of road conditions up here.

Here's my little mountain cottage (that's a quaint way to say dinky house), with lots of snow accumulating around it.

It's been a while since I've seen this much snow at once... and it's still coming down! Ziggy doesn't like it a whole lot, but does venture out if we go with him.

And even little Cleo went out into it. She complained a lot, but I think she's less of a wimp than the big-ol-dog!

Tomorrow I hope to leave my yard, and hopefully get some really amazing photos. Problem is, you usually have to get up really early for the best shots... just not my thing!

TOC - Believe

2008-12-12T23:14:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to do something with this quote for a quite a while. What better excuse than TOC? First I snazzed up this little painting. I think I'll make some magnets with it.

Then I made this poster for Jim Ladd. It's a little joke for the people who get so upset if they don't get mentioned for a request by Jim on Friday Night's TOC. I got one played tonight... Bob Dylan's "Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues."... I do believe I've had enough.

Later a couple more requests in... Desolation Row-Dylan... and Wesley's request God-John Lennon.

Glad Tidings

2008-12-11T23:28:00.000-08:00

I've finally finished my annual Christmas card! I couldn't get in the mood, and had no idea what to do, until tonight. Then it finally came to me. I wanted some kind of doll, and who's the cutest doll? Blythe of course! And she has a little boyfriend giving her glad tidings of joy! Not sure how happy she is to have a mouse for a lover, but at least she's got one.

This was carved into a "speedy-cut" stamp, then printed with acrylic paint. This is the fourth year I've made my cards this way. I was tired of the xeroxed black and white cards, and I wanted color. And it just took too long to watercolor all my cards, which is what I did a few times. So this is a way to get some color, and maybe glitter, without too much effort. I do enjoy carving these stamps though, and once I get the design figured out, it really isn't too hard to do.

So if you know me in the "real world" don't be too disappointed that you won't be surprised when you get your card!

Jim Morrison's 65th Birthday

2008-12-09T00:02:00.000-08:00

December 8, 2008.. Jim Morrison's 65th Birthday.

Over the weekend I watched The Doors in Europe on KCET. It reminded me of how I was completely infatuated with Jim Morrison when I was a very young, near-adult. I was a little obsessed, as young people become, and I enjoyed making art of the overly-attractive, highly sexy man.

I was so good at duplicating things, but not sure if they had much style. It was good practice, but I like more imaginative things better. Although a lot of people think "good art" is something that looks like a photo. I think differently.

In honor of Jim's Birthday, Jim Ladd and KLOS had a webcast with Ray Manzarek and Robbie Kreiger (of Doors fame) tonight. I watched it and saw some of my tribal friends enjoying themselves.

Because of that event, the TOC on Friday was "door". I didn't do any new art, but posted a few of my ancient portraits. And I got a request in.. Grateful Dead's "I know you Rider." This has one of my favorite lines..."The sun will shine in my back door someday... March winds will blow all my troubles away."...well I try to think optimistic like this anyway.

A Merry-Jerry Christmas

2008-12-06T20:35:00.000-08:00

Here's a long awaited return of Jerry Claus. It's Jerry Garcia, of course. These guys were an annual tradition of mine back the 90s. Since I've got some of my things available at Hungry Heart Records, I thought these would be fun there. If you're ever in Hemet, check them out.

I've been having a hard time getting into the holiday spirit this year. So these little ornaments are helping me a bit. Are you motivated for the Holidays yet?

Shameless Self Promotion

2008-11-30T20:47:00.000-08:00

I'm having a sale in my ETSY SHOP. One more day left. It runs until Monday, Dec 1, midnight Pacific Standard Time. Buy one get one (equal or lesser value) for 50% off (regular shipping costs apply). Just mention in the note to seller "Holiday Sale", then wait for me to send a revised invoice before paying.

This is a special sale for my friends of the blog, and friends of the myspace.

I have a lot of arm warmers all ready for the gift-giving, snuggle-up-weather, season!

They come in 2 styles... the Funky Chunky, with many colors to choose from. and...

The Sleek-Chic for a more simple style.

Doesn't my lil sis look cute?

OC in November

2008-11-29T16:15:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Break is reaching it's end. We're deep in the middle of the Holiday Season again! The Holidays with many people just struggling to get by with the basics. I'm hoping for more sales than last year, but it could be difficult. I'll have to go minimal also.

Earlier this week I did go down to Orange County for busy, fun-filled experiences. First, went to a Tribal Party in the South Bay area. Met some new people, got to know some others a bit better. Fun time, but very different for me to go to that part of the world.

The next day was a party at my sister's for my 3 year old twin nephews. They're growing up fast, but just as energetic as ever!

Next was a long lunch with my dad and his friends at the best vegetarian restaurant. Au Lac in Fountain Valley can convert the biggest meat eaters to go veggie! It's vegan Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine. And has a large supply of raw selections too, if that's your preference. This has been Wesley's favorite food since he was one!

Then there was our long, but enjoyable, day at Disneyland. Always special at Christmas time. The Small World has reopened. It seems they didn't completely get rid of the Rain Forest Room, but condensed it into the Island-type of room. Not sure what happened to the original room, I didn't notice it. See my post about Saving The Rain Forest if you're interested.

The castle is completely gorgeous this time of year!

Finally our last day we went to visit a very old, dear friend and his adorable daughter. (So sorry we missed you KP!) We went on a little walk into the Coyote Hills. This is a little slice of nature in the middle of suburban Orange County. Unfortunately they want to pave another piece of paradise for more unneeded housing. Well I think it's unneeded when there are so many foreclosures everywhere. While I feel for the construction industry (I know many people struggling now with little work), I also feel the need to conserve the little bit of nature we do have in So Cal. So I say Save Coyote Hills!

Now I've got only part of weekend left until the ol' grind to begin again. The ol' grind with the busyness of Christmas thrown in. Oh Boy!

Give Thanks!

2008-11-27T20:11:00.000-08:00

I'm giving Thanks! Thanks for my family and friends; cozy-cramped cottage with the lovely surroundings; a nice (sometimes too) comfortable community; the rain that extinguished our fire danger (even if temporary); my colorfully simple meal; fairly good health with no asthma attacks in almost a year; my brilliant, friendly and adorable son; the opportunity to be able to improve my art and business. Oh, let's not forget a soon to be new President!! Just a few of many things to be grateful for!

Here's my traditionally slightly unusual Thanksgiving Feast. Clockwise from top left... Vegan "roast"; roasted roots of yams, carrots, potatoes and onion; Indian maize with ceyenne and cumin; mashed potatoes (pretty traditional, yet new for me); spinach (just for some green...weird?); slightly over-browned rolls; and my favorite cranberries and apples cooked on the woodstove all day (luckily cold and rainy!) Plus yummy tahini dip with veggies and chips for appetizers, and 2 types of pie of dessert. All this, but probably most stuffed from the beers I had. Yes, I've must have beer on Thanksgiving, just like the pilgrims, of course!

I hope you had an enjoyable Thanksgiving Feast! What are you thankful for? Please do tell!

UPDATE.... I just heard on the news that "97% of Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving." Can this really be true? Are vegetarians really less than 3% of the population? What about the people who don't like turkey? Eat ham instead? Or just don't have any Thanksgiving dinner? This is bound to make the vegetarian percentage even smaller. How can this be? No wonder I always feel like such an unusual person, I'm very rare indeed!!

Be the Change

2008-11-19T21:47:00.000-08:00

"You must be the change you wish to see in the world."--Mahatma Gandhi

What a wonderful quote! And how honored I am to have my little drawing accompany this nice sentiment!

So my bulldog creation turned out pretty good, embroidered on the varsity jacket. What fun!

And I'm still trying my best to be that change I want in the world.

Art Lesson - Andy Warhol Pop Art

2008-11-10T09:50:00.000-08:00

I did this art lesson with a large group of 4th graders a couple of weeks ago. It takes a brave person to do a lesson with tempera paint, especially with a large group of 35!! Because of this, the kids don't get to use the tempera as much as they should. So I thought I'd use my patience skills, and let them do a little experimenting with this paint.

First I explained a little about Pop Art. I talked about how in pop art things that are "popular" in our culture are used. I asked them what might that be. One boy said an iPod. Good, I also said how maybe Hannah Montana might be used. There was a bit of an uproar at this, mainly from the boys! I then showed some examples of Andy Warhol's work. The kids were amazed when I showed the Campbell's soup art, and couldn't believe it when I told them that Warhol made lots of money off of this! I also showed his Marilyn Monroe work. The kids didn't know who she was, one thought it was Madonna. But with these examples, I think they got a good understanding of Pop Art.

I decided to do a simple design, with something that might be "popular" with them. Although many didn't seem to want to do an ice cream cone, I wanted the design to be simple so they could work with mixing colors a little. First we folded our paper into 4 sections. Then drew our simple ice cream cones.

The first cone we painted with complementary colors. (I showed them a color wheel and explained a little about this) This was good since the California art standards for 4th grade include using complementary colors. Then the second cone was done with a solid color, then by adding white (a tint of the color). I could've done more lessons with color and mixing, but my time was running out, so I had them paint the remaining 2 ice cream cones however they wanted. And as usual a lot of kids just wanted a chance to mix the colors up. Most waited until their painting was nearly done before they went at it with the mixing. To some this was the funnest part about the lesson. Surprisingly, only 1 made this mess too soon, before he used the fresh colors. There's always at least one in the group who doesn't follow directions very well.

So if you're a brave soul, go and let those kids make a mess with the tempera... They really need it!

Witch Doctor - Tiki Dude

2008-11-02T20:28:00.000-08:00

Did you have a fun Halloween? We did! Here's Wesley in his costume, a witch doctor, aka "Tiki Dude" by many of the observers of the night. Wesley dreamed it up, I manifested it into the thing it is. Pretty easy to do with a corner of a box, painted up, then with raffia added to the top. Plus I made a "bone" necklace out of paper clay. And better still, Wesley won the costume contest for his age group at the town carnival. FUN!

And here we are, Tiki Dude, and me in my very-quickly whipped together, groovy looking witch. I like having the opportunity to damage my hair with a crimping iron.

I guess it's now time to fully submerge ourselves into the holiday season. Well, at least if you don't want to run out of time, and ruin your experience because of being rushed and unprepared, right?!

Walking with the trees a changin

2008-10-27T11:54:00.000-07:00

I've been walking with some moms after we drop off the kids. It's so much easier to get movin if you've got someone to chat with. It's great therapy.

Plus you get some lovely shots... and right now the trees are looking exceptional!

Go Bull Dogs!

2008-10-26T20:41:00.001-07:00

Here's a fun and different thing I've been working the last few days. It's a design for a male cheerleader's varsity jacket. It's a little difficult to make a bulldog look feminine, yet still look like a bulldog, so it was decided to put a red bow on her. You've got to be pretty strong to hold up those girls, and I think this big bulldog is getting that point across fairly well!

A black line drawing will be taken to a company that does the machine embroidery for varsity jackets. I'm excited to see how the final looks!

TOC - Pony Names (Girls)

2008-10-25T10:27:00.000-07:00

This week's Theme of Consciousness theme was "Pony Songs". Now if you've never listened to Jim Ladd you might not know what a "long legged pony" is. It's a lady, of course! So this theme was songs that are about a certain girl, like Maybelline, Gloria, Maggie, you get the picture.

My day was a marathon day at the school. 8:30-8:30, with an hour break in the middle. Just one of those exhausting days where I feel a little hung over at the end of it. Dreaming up and doing a little art work was nearly impossible, and this theme didn't make it very easy. So I thought I'd just practice my digital skills a little, and did this much-to-be desired creation. I used wordle and a little PhotoShop. I wasn't happy with my color scheme in the end, but after a few tries, just had to go with it. Those who listen to TOC will understand the big name of "Sue".

I see I've only been posting TOC "art" lately. I've got some other things going on too, and am sorry to say am a little behind. It's just that time of year where life gets too crazy to blog as much as I'd like :(

TOC - Drinking Songs

2008-10-18T01:01:00.000-07:00

Tonight's Theme of Consciousness was Drinking. I whipped out this little painting. Who else likes to shake it with a drink, while listening to Jim Ladd and TOC?

I made a lot of requests this week, and did get credit for one... Ball and Chain by Social Distortion. There are a lot of great drinking songs out there!

Happy Birthday John Lennon (a day late)

2008-10-10T08:18:00.000-07:00

My day yesterday was just out of control, so I'm a day late posting a birthday wish for one of my heroes, John Lennon. I really need to do some new art, but for now I'll post this old drawing I did on his birthday in 1986. I also had to put something on my blog since I'm going out of town for a few days and simply hate neglecting the ol blog!!

So here ya go, and I'm hoping for a more creative week next week. I have been crocheting, but the art has been slipping... I've got some ideas though, and usually that's the biggest battle. See you after the weekend.

Cosmos - Late Season Bloomers

2008-10-05T23:53:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you avid gardeners out there have grown Cosmos before. They were my introduction to gardening back in my youth. They are the easiest flowers to grow from seed. In fact for those of you in a moister environment, they may be too easy to grow, and could possibly take over if allowed to. I don't have that problem here, so I enjoy them very much. Not only are they not picky, but they brighten up your late-season garden beautifully!

Most grow about 3 feet high, or so. This year I have one growing over 6 feet high! This one took it's time to bloom, and instead put it's energy into growing super tall. But now is blooming so lovely, and the height is amazing.

Another advantage of the Cosmos is that the bees love them! And with our much needed honey bees in dire straits, it's so helpful to them to have these vibrant, whimsical, easy-to-grow beauties in your garden.

The Martha Blog (Stewart that is!)

2008-09-28T21:59:00.000-07:00

Have you seen The Martha Blog yet? I just read about it today, so I went to check out the industrious Martha Stewart's blog. She features some behind the scenes of her busy life. It seems like an easy way to learn of all of Martha's Good Things!

Leave a comment on her post entitled "How to create your own blog and enter my blog contest!" and possibly get featured on her blog. How fabulous would that be?!

More Beauty From Paul

2008-09-28T12:22:00.000-07:00

I just had to post a bit more classic Paul Newman. As I was seeing the clips of Paul Newman on the news yesterday, it made me realize that a big part of his appeal was his charming personality. (That as well as his acting, looks, smile, humanitarianism) And I think this must be my first memory of him. It is hot, and makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside!

RIP Paul Newman

2008-09-27T09:14:00.000-07:00

How sad to wake up this morning to the news of Paul Newman's passing.

What a beautiful man, and person.

I didn't even know he had lung cancer. What's worse is he had quit smoking 30 years ago. It just goes to show you just how nasty that stuff is.

Since a small girl I've loved Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. I don't know of another movie with more sex appeal. And Paul was still quite attractive in his 80s.

More important than Paul's wonderful blue eyes, and dashing looks is the good he's done for many people. I've always bought Newman's Own products when I've had the option, knowing the profits would be put to some good in the world. If only more people could (or would) be so helpful to the people of the world.

Yes I'm very sad to hear this news.

NibbleFest - Smiling Black Cats

2008-09-25T00:13:00.000-07:00

The theme for NibbleFest this month is "Smiling Black Cats." What could be better?!

So here's my entry. So glad I got one done, and it's fitting right in with my quirky Halloween cat tradition I've got going.

It needs some bids... It's such a fun theme, you must check out the other NFAC listings by going here. You won't be disappointed!

-SOLD-

This is an ACEO (2.5x3.5 inches), done in acrylic.

TOC - Guitar

2008-09-20T01:28:00.000-07:00

Jim Ladd's Theme of Consciousness this week was "guitar". Here's my Guitar Man. A little different than most, but I enjoy trying different types of art media and styles.

I actually doodled this last summer, while watching a local band play down in town. (For you locals you just might recognize MR). I enjoy TOC so much, and get inspired just to do any kind of art to go with it. So I threw this together. I digitally colored it and posted on Jim's site.

"100th Sale" Giveaway!

2008-09-18T22:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's right, I'm approaching my 100th sale on Etsy! Yay, but it has taken a little longer than I'd have liked! Still I'm happy none-the-less. So I'm having a giveaway... Just be the buyer of my 100th sale and you can pick out up to $11 of stuff from my shop. So if you buy one little thing (any price), and you're the 100th sale, you get something free! I'm at 98 sales right now. So if you are #99 and #100, you get the free item, or items. Just be sure to mention in the note to seller what you'd like for free. Get a few magnets, or a print, or whatever, as long as it is $11 or under. And you'll only pay for the shipping of the original item you buy. And if you forget to mention what you want in the note, I'll be contacting you and asking what you want free!

I'm just happy to finally reach 100, and I want to get there ASAP, and give a little something in return.

Go to my Etsy shop here!

TOC - free

2008-09-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

The theme on Theme of Consciousness this week was "free" or freedom, of course.

I painted a Free Form Freak. I also got some requests in, "Revolution" by Beatles, and "Blowin in the Wind" by Bob Dylan. Listen and you'll hear free mentioned.

Interesting that this week's theme was about freedom. I feel the new principal at our school is taking more freedom from the kids. And today I had an unsuccessful discussion with him. I'll be ranting about that probably someday soon. I'm pretty fumed about him, and I don't see my dissatisfaction ending any time soon.

Winter's Comin

2008-09-10T20:20:00.000-07:00

Well, no it's not here already, but it is cooling off rapidly up on the mountain! I hear it's already in the 60s, in the day, up in Montana. So yes, it's time to start preparing for the hardships of Winter. And for me that means to start crocheting lots of arm warmers.

I've got a few new pairs in my Etsy shop now. And you can look for more coming soon.
I'm going to enjoy the few remaining warm days I've got. I've got some flower seed to collect in my garden...flowers and apples!

TOC - spirit

2008-09-06T14:59:00.000-07:00

Last night's Theme of Consciousness was "spirit". Here's my very humble doodle. I realize I just don't have time to get a drawing done when I start at 9. I finished this at 12:30.

I did get a request played. It was "Come all ye rolling minstrels" by Fairport Convention. Where else can you hear Fairport Convention on LA commercial radio? That's why Jim Ladd is so great! I'm still waiting to hear some Willie Nelson, Old Crow Medicine Show and some Hank III. Then I'll know it truly is free-form radio! He plays Johnny Cash, so why not Willie?! And I always make a request for OCMC, maybe one of these days he'll think "wow, I should give these guys a try!"

Listen to Jim on the web, Mon-Fri, from 8pm-1am PST. here's the link to get to the stream.

and in case you haven't heard the magical Fairport Convention, hear ya go...

Fun at an Art Show

2008-09-02T22:39:00.000-07:00

Sunday we got out and joined in on a local art sale, a few miles down the road. It was a lot of fun, and since it was free, it turned out successful. Wesley had a good day, and people truly enjoy his art. That's fun for me to watch.

This is the 2nd year that this art show has been going on. I hadn't been there before, so it was a learning experience. Such as there were good spots, and then others not so good. We were in the "back 40", and there was a little less traffic. But our neighbors were a lot of fun, and very nice. Next time we'll try to get one of the better spots, and I'll be sure to have more inventory when that happens. I had a busy week before the show, and it was a bit of a last minute decision to join, so I was lucky to have this much inventory. I'll also make sure to have a larger table... my booth looks a little cluttered!

Anyway, it was fun, and it helped boost my profits for August. Can't beat that!

What a find - Gisela Voh

2008-08-28T22:27:00.000-07:00

I'm so jealous! My mom bought this adorable, original painting at an estate sale for $25.00! It was painted by Gisela Voh in 1965. I didn't measure it, but it's about a 11x14 size. It had a letter attached in broken English, and it seems it was sold to the original owner at a discount price... the reason having to do with the "heart."

Because of the seemingly professional sale that happened, I thought I could find some info on this artist. After a few pages of searching, all I found was some info written in German. It wasn't a lot of info, but after translating I found a Gisela Voh, born in Schmiedeberg (1906-1985), and yes, she was a painter.

I just love this illustration so much, I would so much like to see more from this artist. But for now, don't you think my mom should give me this for my birthday coming in October? I sure do!

Yosemite - part three - plein air

2008-08-25T22:04:00.000-07:00

Yosemite is one of the most inspiring places to be, and I just love doing lots of art in my little travel journal while there. Here's a little sampling of this year's sketchings.

This year we attended one of the free art classes that are offered in the valley. This time it was a watercolor class (last time we did a class we did drawing). The instructor had us paint over by the Ahwahnee Hotel. Here's my little rendition. It's always interesting to get critiques, and the instructor gave one for my painting.

Some things I agreed with, some not ;) But since I don't paint a whole lot of landscapes I think it was pretty helpful.

This was painted from our camp looking at the little cliff below North Dome.

Yes, I do have a tendency to use "pure" colors. Maybe it's the palette I bring on vacation.

Or more likely, it's just my style. I can't seem to paint a landscape to exactly match it's subject. The instructor wanted us to use "fun" colors. And I did just that, maybe just a bit too much.

Here's Half Dome from the bridge near the campgrounds. It's a long tradition of ours to paint Half Dome at sunset. I'm not sure if I improve each time, or not.

Here's Yosemite Falls from the meadow just across from the falls. Well I actually had to imagine the falls, since they were pretty dry. This one looks a little incomplete because it started raining. We had to quickly pack up and ride our bikes to shelter. It was very beautiful!

Another quick pen drawing of Yosemite Falls.

Here's another view of Yosemite Falls as seen lounging on the river by the Swinging Bridge.

And my last painting. Yet another view of the famous Falls from the river right by our camp in North Pines. I've also done many paintings of this view, because we've camped many times in North Pines.

So what do you think? Is my landscape style just a little too colorful? Should I cut back on my vibrant colors? Do you have a favorite? I'd love to hear!

Yosemite and It's Wonders - part two

2008-08-23T23:35:00.000-07:00

As promised I had to continue with the Wonders of Yosemite.

We hadn't been to Glacier Point in quite a while, so we made sure to visit the amazing spot this trip. Here's the view of Yosemite Valley. Not for those sensitive to heights! Hold on to your hat!

Here I sit with another extraordinary view from Glacier Point. You can see Nevada Falls way beyond, as you look to the left of me. Next to the falls you can see one of the many enormous pieces of rock, Liberty Cap.

And here's Liberty Cap again. This time we were sitting right beside it, at the top of Nevada Falls.

Yosemite has the some of the most relaxing bike trails, with spectacular sights every where you turn.

Including the many bucks that you see daily, lounging in the shadows of the meadows. In the early evening you'll see them get up from their rest, maybe to get a snack from the nearby apple trees in the Camp Curry parking lot.

Some of the best swimming is in the Merced River, with the natural beauty surrounding you. It is very awe inspiring.

I often wonder how so much beauty could be placed in one spot. It just couldn't be an accident. I can never get enough!

And finally, it just wouldn't be a vacation for me without getting a really cool shot of some kind of exotic bug! This guy just wouldn't move as I photographed him in the natural garden for the fairies... The Fen.

And tomorrow I'll post some of the art I created while in God's Masterpiece. No place inspires me more than Yosemite.

Yosemite - part one - The Mist Trail

2008-08-22T22:57:00.000-07:00

I've been to the beautiful Yosemite and back. If you've never been, I have to say it's a must see, even with it's over the top amount of people! Since we were there in August of a dry year, Yosemite Falls was dry, but Vernal Falls is gorgeous as ever.

We took the Mist Trail up the many stairs to the top of Vernal Falls. It's called the Mist Trail because you can feel the mist as you climb the stairs beside the falls. Very exhilerating!

Once at the top of Vernal Falls you reach the Emerald Pool which you aren't suppose to swim in, but many do. Many people make this their destination, but not us. We followed the north side of the trail to the top of Nevada Falls. This side of the trail is shorter, but hot and very steep. You get some great views of Nevada Falls though.

We took the long way back down. Longer but more comfortable, less jarring on your knees, and less of a feeling that you're going to completely bite the dust! It's an all day event for us, with an over 6 mile round trip hike. After the hike, a beer and rinse off in the river is the best!

I'll share more photos, and Yosemite art soon... Like tomorrow.

Leaving for Yosemite!

2008-08-09T23:48:00.000-07:00

Just a quick little post to say I'm going to the most beloved, Yosemite! We'll be biking and swimming the valley, strolling The Fen with it's fairies and other little spirits, and hiking the Misty Trail.

Are you enjoying the last fleeting moments of your summer? I hope you have lots of chances to play in the sunshine with the butterflies!