CRAFTNIQUE

Luminaries and the Simply Scored Scoring Tool!!

2012-02-10T13:04:00.000-08:00

I love using paper to make 3-D projects! Now, you might be thinking that is a little over the top, that 3-D projects take too much time. Well, I’ve got the solution for you! The Simply Scored Scoring Tool makes creating 3-D projects faster and easier than ever! It fits 12" x 12" paper, has full rulers across the top and down the left side that are marked at every 1/8". Plus there is a centering ruler along the top edge. The unique design includes holes for place markers at every 1/8" interval. The markers are great for saving time when scoring multiple projects and for making 3-D projects, like boxes.
Storage compartments and a place for the included ergonomically designed stylus are great bonus features. The stylus has two tip sizes so you can choose which you prefer. The refined steel tip gets even smoother with use instead of wearing out like plastic tools do. With its sturdy yet lightweight design it doesn’t bow or slip around when you are scoring. You need to get your hands on this amazing tool so you can see for yourself how fun creating 3-D projects can be!

Luminaries that we made at my Stampin Up workshop using the Simply Scored Scoring Tool.

You need
Simply Scored Scoring Tool (#122334)
Designer Series Paper (DSP)..cut to 4 1/2" x 10 1/2"
Vellum................cut to 2 1/2" x 2 1/2 "
Stamp (of your choice)
Ink
ribbon.......cut one 10" and one 12" lengths
1 3/4 ' Circle Punch
adhesive
battery operated Tea light

Put the markers on your Simply Scored Scoring Tool at:
2 1/2", 5", 7 1/2" 10"
lay the paper 10 1/2' side and score across using the large tip of the stylus
turn paper to 4 1/2 side and score at 1 3/8"
fold at all scoring lines
all sides are 2 1/2 " with one 1/2" tab at end
decide where front should be and punch circle in center
Stamp image on vellum, when dry adhere to inside luminary with stamped image facing out. The luminary"bottom" will become the top so make sure you adhere image correctly.
Fold into box shape, adhere small ( 1/2") tab to inside box.
Fold down flaps to close making sure to fold front and back flaps last.
Using 12' ribbon adhere about 1/4 way up in inside box. Wrap around the outside and adhere to inside on the other side.
Using the 10' ribbon tie a bow and adhere to top.
Turn on Tea light, place box over tea light.

These make nice gifts...... or make a few for a Baby Shower or Bridal shower, birthday parties etc!!

www.hermyacosta.stampinup.net
www.craftnique.blogspot.com

Anniversary!!

2012-02-09T11:08:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my husband and I celebrated our anniversary..... we have been married 33 years but have been living together for 35 years so we always add that 2 years!
We went walking and enjoyed the (unusual) warm weather outdoors. We just hung out with each other all day. Later in the evening we went to El Toro Bronco for dinner. It was delicious. After dinner the server came out and gave us a dish of fried ice cream with the words "Happy Anniversary" written in chocolate syrup! (The server overheard our conversation about our anniversary when she came to take our order). That was a nice surprise! Fried Ice cream tasted like apple pie with ice cream, whip cream and chocolate syrup! It was soooo yummy.

I got some pretty roses and a card and he got his favorite..a HUGE bag of Hershey kisses with almonds packed in a SF 49er bag and a handmade card!

It really was a nice Anniversary.

2012-02-03T11:57:00.000-08:00

It is finally FRIDAY!! All week I kept thinking it is Friday!! Why???

I made a few Valentine's Day Cards, (thanks to Debbie McNiel & Amy Barnes for the inspiration) I thought I would make a few so I can mail them out to family and friends. I made a couple of different styles but only took a picture of one...I will post the others later. They are treat cards. The treats stay put using a slider.
While I was making the Valentine cards I realized my Anniversary is on the 8th..I need to make an anniversary card for my husband!! I better "get to thinking"
Enjoy your Friday!

www.craftnique.blogspot.com
www.Hermyacosta.stampinup.net

Sale -A- Bration

2012-01-27T10:25:00.000-08:00

Stampin'Up! Sale A Bration has started!!

Earn free products for every $50.00 you order!!

You can view the Sale A Bration catalog here:

or here www.Hermyacosta.stampinup.net or www.craftnique.blogspot.com

I just learned how to make the fabric flower on page 11. Not only is it easy..it is pretty. I plan to offer a class in March to share how to make it. The flower can be used on cards, scrapbook pages and.. oh! .... even hair clips!! What a great way to use up the extra fabric I have!!

Here is a card I made at my Upline Toni Pope's house using the Kindness Matters Stamp Set (which is on page 13 in the SAB Catalog) I also used Mocha Morning Specialty DSP, Whisper White CS, Scallop Circle Punch, Pacific Point CS, Taffeta Ribbon Basic Black,Smooch Spritz in Silver,and Jewels Basic Rhinestones

I am now off to the craftroom to create some Valentine themed projects for an upcoming workshop!
Have a great day!

www.craftnique.blogspot.com

My Step Dad

2012-01-26T21:39:00.000-08:00

My step dad had been ill for quite awhile. In and out of hospitals and inbetween he would be home with Physical Therapy, Visiting nurses etc. Then in early December I had to call 911 again. He had a stroke. He was in the hospital for a few days and then transferred to the Lompoc Rehab and Skilled Home. They were so compassionate and caring. He liked everyone there and they liked him.
On January 9th he passed away.
He was a sweet man, loving and kind. We will miss him.

This poem says it best

God looked around his garden
And found an empty place,
He then looked down upon the earth
And saw your tired face.
He put his arms around you
And lifted you to rest.
God's garden must be beautiful
He always takes the best.
He knew that you were suffering
He knew you were in pain.
He knew that you would never
Get well on earth again.
He saw the road was getting rough
And the hills were hard to climb.
So he closed your weary eyelids
And whispered, 'Peace be Thine'.
It broke our hearts to lose you
But you didn't go alone,
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.

author unknown

Yummy!

2012-01-06T15:37:00.000-08:00

I just got home from visiting my stepdad at the skilled nursing home. I was hungry but not that hungry...know what I mean.

I opened the fridge and saw the Almond Milk and a container of Vanilla Yogurt hmmm....then I grabbed some frozen fruit out of the freezer and made this yummy smoothie!

I didnt measure so this is an estimate.

4 cups almond milk
1/4 cup Vanilla Yogurt
1/4 cup chopped frozen Mango (from Trader Joes)
1/4 cup frozen whole Strawberries

put all ingredients in blender and chop until fine, then blend for 1 minute

I use my old faithful Osterizer, have had it for 38 years!!

www.craftnique.blogspot.com

Happy New Year!

2012-01-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

I hope 2012 is a good and prosperous year for all of us.

A few years ago I stopped making New Year Resolutions.
I just try and remind myself to stay POSITIVE and to try and keep NEGATIVITY away.

One day at a time....live in the NOW !

The new Occasions Mini Catalog from Stampin' Up! is now available. Click on the mini catalog picture on my side bar to see all the available projects. If you want a catalog let me know and I will send you one. If you would like to place an order you can do so by clicking this link below
www.Hermyacosta.stampinup.net

Have a Great Day!!!

Big Clearance Sale

2011-12-15T15:00:00.000-08:00

http://www.Hermyacosta.stampinup.net

If you are in the need of punches they have quite a few at 40% off. DSP, buttons. ribbon just to name a few of the items!!

Gift Card Holders

2011-12-08T19:13:00.001-08:00

These Gift Card holders sold pretty well at my craft show last weekend. Once customers realized what they were made from they were surprised.

Toilet Tissue Rolls!! I have family and friends save paper towel and toilet tissue rolls for me. I figured I better do something with them and QUICK!!

The first 12 rolls I used a bone folder and pushed down on the edges to flatten them....my arms were sore. Then I put them on a table and put heavy books on top to flatten them even more.
The next day I started to flatten more and all of a sudden I had this bright idea!!
I have a Big Shot!!!
Put those TP rolls 2 at a time through the Big Shot and roll a couple of times and Voila!
Works great!

Some I made with pull out tags that hold the gift card and some I just put a small flap with velcro to open and close.

I used Designer Series Paper from Stampin' Up!. I found it easier to use Sticky Strip Tape to adhere the paper to the roll instead of using glue.
On one end of the roll I closed it using the Sticky Strip Tape and on the the opposite end I just inked the inside edges.
I stamped, embossed, added embellishments I had fun!

Paper measurements ( give or take as some rolls are smaller) are 4 1/2" by 6"

From this

to this

Holiday Bazaar

2011-12-06T20:18:00.001-08:00

The Holiday Bazaar was held last weekend at the Veterans Memorial Building. This year it was a 2 day event. Whew!! Even though I had fun it was a lot of work.
I met so many wonderful people, (vendors and customers). A couple of my clients from my manicuring days came by, that was really special.
A lot of people signed up for workshops and classes! Yeah!
My biggest sellers were the Snowman Soup, Gift Card Holders and the Rosettes.
My granddaughter Alexis helped me on both days. She is such a great helper. She made a few bracelets and duct tape wallets to sell. She took pictures as we were setting up. Here are a few pictures of our booth.

It was a successful show for Alexis and I. We had fun!

Buddy

2011-11-28T13:33:00.001-08:00

A couple of months ago my daughter called and wanted to let me know that she and her family now own a dog.
So I asked the usual "mom" questions..you know, who will take the dog for a walk, clean up his "mess", watch him when/if they go out of town etc etc.
She reassured me that all will be fine. (so far so good)
I guess I sounded unsure because she sent me this picture of her new Puppy, named Buddy.

who could resist!

Fall Wreath

2011-11-25T15:48:00.001-08:00

Whew! I am full! I hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving. We did. Family, friends, food etc. This year everyone brought a dish or two so I didnt have to do all the work. I actually was able to enjoy the day.

It was also my daughter Charlottes birthday. Wow 32 years old. Seems like yesterday she was born. She didnt want a cake because we were going to have so many pies.... so we put the candles on a Pumpin Pie (one that she made lol) and we sang the traditional in tune : ) Happy Birthday.

I made this Fall Rosette Wreath using DSP fom Stampin Up and I stamped and cut leaves from cardstock. Used my Big Shot and SUP Button die and made paper buttons. I cut a circle from Foam Board and hot glued it all together. She loves it.

I am addicted to making the rosettes!! I cant stop. I have made several rosette ornaments, tags etc for my upcoming craft show (and anything else!!!). So much fun.
In fact I think I will go and make some more for a Christmas Wreath.....

2011-11-21T00:02:00.000-08:00

http://www.Hermyacosta.stampinup.net

StampinUp!

2011-11-20T19:23:00.000-08:00

I have been busy with Stampin Up. I have a great Upline, always ready to share and she answers my questions as best she can. I have been attending classes, learning new things, having workshops and meeting new people.

I did a small craft show last month. Sold a lot of the paper rosettes, wreaths, gift card holders and even had a few people sign up for workshops and classes starting in January. I am excited about that. My husband even helped out, of course he spent a lot of time at the bakery sale items! Yes he did share with me. : )

I have a Craft Show coming up December 3 and 4 at the Veterans Memorial Bldg in Lompoc, Calif. The event opens at 9 am and closes at 5pm. Stop in if you are nearby. Many Vendors, Handmade items, food, prizes, Santa lots of fun. This show is always a success. So much so that this year instead of a one day show, it is 2 days!!

I am also busy with the American Legion Aux. Dist 16 California. I am the Historian and Special Project Chairman for our District President. Her Special Project is Financial help for Miltary spouses/families. She asked me to make some cards, candles etc to sell to raise money for her Project.I am more than happy to help. I sell them at our District Meetings, Posts, and my Etsy and Artfire shops. Here is one of the cards I made.

I made a few different cards but this one is my favorite.

Thanks for stopping in.

Where did April and May go?

2011-06-01T13:29:00.000-07:00

It has been a hectic past few months. In April my 95 yr old step dad fell , 5 paramedics had to pick him up. Luckily no broken bones. He is a big guy (and a sweetheart). He is a retired Lt Colonel so a bit stubborn too!! Now he is in a convalescent home for physical therapy. He wants to come home. : ( The home is an hour drive one way. I take mom to visit which is another 1/2 hour drive one way to her house....so 3 hours of driving....whew.................. It is worth it though to see his smile when we walk in.
We are hoping he can come home soon as we all miss him.
Prayers are appreciated!
Over the weekend my brother took mom to visit him and today moms neighbor is taking her Last month.my older siblings even came to help out... one lives up North the other out of State. Thank God for a wonderful close loving family.
On Saturday I went into my craftroom and just went into a creative mode....awww felt good... It has been awhile.
I made some cards and I am slowly listing them on etsy and artfire.

I made the Butterfly cards from my Strength and Hope Stamp Set from Stampin' Up!

Stampin' Up! will donate $2.00 from the sale of each Strength & Hope set and Strength & Hope digital kit to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).

For more info check here www.Hermyacosta.stampinup.net

I have a lot of catching up to do so I best get going..........
Have a wonderful day!

www.craftnique.etsy.com
www.craftnique.artfire.com

Owl ATC

2011-04-15T14:04:00.000-07:00

I love to Trade ATC's and I also make ACEO's to sell. An ATC is Artist Trading Card. Trade only. You cannot sell them. An ACEO is Art Cards Editions and Originals those you can sell.

They are fun to collect.

They are miniature works of art about the same size as a baseball card 2 ½ X 3 ½ inches (63 mm X 89 mm)

Artist signs and dates the back of the card and some like a Title/Name

I decided to make one using my Stamp'in Up! Stamps, Inks ,Paper and Markers.

I used the Whisper White Cardstock. It has a very soft smooth texture and is sturdy.

I want to make a few more and put my SUP info on the back, a cute business card dont you think!

I also plan to make some ATC's at my next class!

www.Hermyacosta.stampinup.net

Evening Sky

2011-03-31T20:07:00.000-07:00

We finally have some nice weather here. Not sure how long it will last so I am enjoying it while I can.
Last evening as I arrived home I couldnt help but notice the sky..... It was beautiful! I decided to take some pictures.I took these pictures just 2 minutes apart. The first one is looking at the south /west and the second is looking in the west.

More cards!

2011-03-26T21:46:00.000-07:00

Yup I am having fun!

Cards for Spring

2011-03-24T11:27:00.000-07:00

I had a fun day with my Stampin'UP! group the other day. We made a few cards, here are 2 that I made.

The top card uses a cool technique with the ribbon and I embossed the cardstock with the Big Shot.
The bottom card is my favorite. It has a vintage look to it. The flower was cut using the Big Shot.

new demonstrator

2011-03-23T13:26:00.000-07:00

I am excited to say that I am now a Stampin'UP! Demonstrator. I am having so much fun doing what I love to do! My friends and family are asking "Why didnt you do this before?"
I thought I would be limited on what I can and cant do but not really! I can still sell my projects(cards,paper projects and gifts etc.) on Etsy and Artfire and craft shows!!.
I can use my Big Shot because Stampin'UP! carries it and the dies!! That makes me REALLY happy!
The help and support from the company and my upline is unbelievable.

My new web site is
http://www.hermyacosta.stampinup.net/

Fabric Art Collage Book

2011-03-03T23:57:00.000-08:00

Fabric Art Collage by Rebekah Meier.
C&T Publishing

I thought I would take a look at this book because I have always been interested in fabric,collage and art. After reading it...I am hooked. I cant wait to get started.

This is a good introduction to mixed media work.

It is an instructional book with techniques, from Stamping to Distressing to Texture.
There is a Tools and Supplies list a Materials list..... all that are clearly described and photos of each!!

Nine Sections in all!!

Rebekah gives examples and ideas for using each technique as well as combining various techniques to produce a finished piece.The finished pieces can be used in cardmaking,jewelry, and more.

She works with a wide variety of Fabrics,Threads, Fibers, Paper and Oh!! Paper Buttons!!! You will find that in the embellishments section!

I would recommend this book.

February 8, Anniversary!

2011-02-08T13:53:00.000-08:00

Today my husband and I have been married for 32 years. We have been together for 34 years and have known each other for 40 years! Wow! He worked with my older brother and they became best friends. I remember when I first met him, I thought he was handsome but too old and he thought I was cute but too young! He was 28 years old and I was 18 years old!! lol! We became good friends. We finally went out on a date 6 years later and have been together ever since. We are still good friends!

You would think with all the snowstorms going on Spring hasnt arrived. Well, someone tell California that!We are having nice weather here on the Central Coast. The sun is out, temperatures are in the 60's to 70's (it does drop to 30 at night). I do love warm sunshiney days!
I looked out my back window and saw that my daffodils are blooming! Such a beautiful deep yellow color. They bloom every year.
Here are some pictures. Hope they brighten your day!

CHA Monday!

2011-02-05T20:17:00.000-08:00

Monday was an awesome day at CHA. I walked all over the place,met soooo many people and made a lot of nice things at the "Make and Take" booths.
First thing I went straight to the Plaid Booth and got a picture with Cathie Filian and Steve Piacenza (remember I forgot to get pics on Sunday) : )

They were demoing (is that a word?) the new Glue Gun Helpers. WOW! Great new product. You can read more about it here http://www.cathieandsteve.com/ Another cool product was the Mod Podge for Fabric. Lots of ideas with this stuff!

Then I walked over to the Makins Clay Booth. I wanted to meet Ann Butler. Not only did I meet Ann I also met Annie Mangelsen, daughter of the late Bill Mangelsen, Founder of Makin’s Clay® and her husband. The entire group were so friendly, and fun!. I walked away with a bag full of goodies and...I love this stuff. I will blog about Makins Clay at another time. Here is their website http://www.makinsclay.com/US/eng/home.htm

I also met Eileen Hull and Lorine Mason

I met Cliff and Andrea Currie, hosts of Craftastic Live http://andreacurriecrafts.com/craft-tastic-live

and of course sisters Tiffany Windsor and Heidi Borchers http://www.facebook.com/#!/Cool2Craft

Notice the necklace Heidi is wearing....made from soda cans!!! It is beautiful!!We are posing in front of
Heidi's Hubcap and Soda Can art sculpture featured at the iLovetoCreate booth

I wish you could see this in person. The colors are so bright and pretty. The center (which I meant to ask Heidi)..I think they are caps from Markers. So cool !!
I met Linda Peterson and Maria Given Nerius but... I forgot to get pictures...: (
Actually I was so busy that I forgot to take a lot of pictures!! It was constant movement!

I am so happy to have met all of you! Thank you for making my visit at CHA fun!

CHA Sunday

2011-02-04T01:04:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy since I got home from CHA.
One thing about attending the CHA Trade Show...You really get INSPIRED!!! So many fun projects, wonderful people...gosh! A lot of new products that will be coming out in March or later.

I stopped by the Provo Craft Booth. The new Cuttlebug is cool. The embossing folders now have small pieces that you can reposition anywhere on the folder/card. I like that idea!

I did a few make and takes. I made a cool pouch with Tiffany Windsor using the new Aleenes Fabric Fusion Adhesive... it really Fuses, great product. It will be available in March so keep an eye out for it. Keep checking http://www.cool2craft.com/ for more info.

I met Crafty Chica...

Lisa Fulmer did demos using TAP and Lutrador. I love what TAP can do and to see it in person...amazing.
More info on TAP here http://www.lisalizalou.com/buy_supplies/tap_-_transfer_artist_paper

Then I wandered over to the Ranger Booth....lots and lots and lots of new cool products. Wendy did one demo after another I didnt want to leave. There were 4 of us watching and we just kept asking her to show us more. No I didnt get to meet Suze : (

While I was standing there I noticed that the there was a big crowd hanging around , they were watching a demo and taking pictures flash flash flash then I realized why...yup Tim Holtz was demonstrating. It was like that everytime he came out to do a demo! LOL

This was the best I could do to get a picture

The Booths were set up in 7 sections, upstairs the Booths were set up in 5 sections. The biggest being Scrapbooking and Paper Crafts. Downstairs were 2 sections.. New Exhibitors and License and Design. I picked up a directory which has 114 pages, aack 24 pages were just the exhibtors names and booth # in teeny tiny print. Thank goodness they had a pull out map whew!

to be continued..........................

Aluminum Can ACEO/ATC

2011-01-26T20:39:00.000-08:00

Heidi Borchers shared some ideas using aluminum cans on http://www.cool2craft.com/. She cut the can with a pair of scissors, how easy peasy is that!? So I started collecting cans. I washed and dried them and then I cut the cans just like Heidi said to do. I put the cut pieces in their own special box.
In the chat room on cool2craft someone said you can use a punch!!!! : 0
I got out my butterfly punch and started punching out butterflies!! It was cool! I had colorful butterflies on my craft table!
I used my Texture Boutique and started embossing small square pieces, then big pieces and THEN I got out my alcohol inks... oh my I was on a roll.. What fun!
I made an ATC for a swap group that is hosted by Lisa Fulmer on http://www.facebook.com/#!/LisaLizaLou

Then I made an ACEO and listed it on my Etsy http://www.craftnique.etsy.com/
I am liking this aluminum..............

Metal Stamp Set Giveaway

2011-01-23T00:42:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let you know of this cool give away over at http://lorianderson.blogspot.com/

vinyl decals

2011-01-17T15:17:00.000-08:00

I am really enjoying this warm weather that we are having here on the Central Coast! Upper 70's.
I seem to have more energy when that sun shines bright! LOL

I like to use sticky back vinyl for a lot of my projects. So I got out my Cricut Exp. and started cutting and playing. I cut a butterfly and layered it. Now it sits atop my laptop. So pretty. It is removable so when I want to put another decal on my lap top I can remove the butterfly and put her on something else.

I also took some black vinyl spelled out NO SOLICITING on my cricut,cut it out.. and you guessed it...put it on my front door.

I made some pink ribbons and black peace symbols. I am selling them in my artfire shop. They are 1 inch,and 2 inch sizes.
Check them out http://www.craftnique.artfire.com/
Now back to the craftroom and use some of this energy!!

How to make a scallop flower

2011-01-09T15:26:00.000-08:00

I was asked how I make my scallop flowers.
There are a variety of methods to making these here is my method.

You will need: card stock or any similar paper, a 1 inch round scallop punch, small brad, water in a spray bottle, and something to poke a small hole..tack, large needle,

Punch 8 round scallops

Lightly spary with water. Dont get them too wet . Then crumble each piece.

Let them sit for a couple of minutes. Then open each one carefully

Once open stack all 8 circles one on top of the other. Poke a hole in the center..depending on what you are using you may have to poke 2 at a time.

While still damp bring up top scallop and crunch towards center. Continue all the way to last scallop...one at at time.

Squeeze all togther. Now open carefully each scallop until you have the desired look.

You can leave it or spray the flower with glimmer mist, paint, or add glitter etc.

I sprayed mine with a homemade glimmer mist

Glimmer mist is a small spray bottle filled 3/4 with water, a few drops of Pearl Medium and if you want color add a few drops of acrylic paint. Shake well and shake well before each use.

paper flowers

2011-01-03T13:45:00.000-08:00

While staying with my mom while she was recovering from heart surgery I brought along some small craft items. I didnt want to bring my paints etc and I needed to do something that she could do too. I had cut out some scalloped circles sprayed them with water and put mom to work! She would crumble the circles and open them up to dry. She did 1 to my 4 but hey she was helping and "doing" something. Then I put them together sprayed them with my own homemade "glimmer mist" and set them out to dry. My mom loved them. I gave her quite a few of the flowers to do whatever she wants with them. Lol! She put them nicely in a bowl and set it on her coffee table. Shes happy.
Now she wants me to come over and make small roses out of paper. I am getting my supplies ready!!

Theme for the New Year!

2010-12-31T14:41:00.000-08:00

Instead of making goals, resolutions and so on I have decided to pick a Theme!

Thats right a Theme.

A Theme for the year 2011.

So no matter what I do, what I say, or what I create... my theme will be there, it will follow me.

My Theme is.......... Positive Thinking!!

I will do positive things, say positive words and create with a positive attitude!!

Negativity will be tuned out.

2011 will be a GREAT year!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!!!

PEACE ACEO

2010-12-26T15:18:00.001-08:00

My Peace Aceo made it in this collection on ArtFire. What a cool idea and I love the Quote.

Gotta Hand It to ...

Curated By: ShadowDogDesi...

Handmade Jewelry

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T11:52:00.000-08:00

~~Merry Christmas To All~~

Wow!

2010-12-20T13:10:00.000-08:00

Wow!
Busy busy busy. I shouldnt complain...it has been a "good" busy. I did well at the Craft Bazaar and I got a few orders. I finished the last set of orders yesterday.
One of the orders was to paint a huge saw..a lake, trees,deer etc. While painting the saw I hit my knuckle on the blade edge..ouch!
I painted some wine glasses, 4 of them. I dont use enamel paint often so I had to get "use" to it. Sure is different!

I need to go and finish some last minute shopping with my mom and it is pouring rain!!! I do not like to drive in the rain but I will do it for my mom though!..

I have plans for the New Year with my blog, online shops and creativity etc. etc. This year has been rough, and I had to slow things down, way down. NOW everything is going good, back into the swing of things and I am ready!!!

I wish all a very Merry Christmas!

Holiday Bazaar

2010-12-02T10:51:00.000-08:00

I am getting ready for the Holiday Bazaar this Sat. If you are in the Santa Barbara County, California area come on over and check it out.

Rain or Shine! Indoor Large Holiday Bazaar. Crafts, Gifts, Raffles, Food, Face Painting, Santa, & more. Bring the kids and kick off your Christmas Shopping at the Holiday Bazaar, on Dec. 4th. The Veterans Building is located at the South end of "H" St.

Ohana Programs Inc. will be selling lunch in the dinning room. Local party consultants will have your favorite products on hand for your gift giving needs.Handmade crafts. 38 vendors, crafters, and non profit organizations will have a variety of items for purchase. Hope to see you all at the "Annual Holiday Bazaar!"

Saturday, Dec. 4th 9am - 5 pm

Veterans Memorial Building
100 East locust, Lompoc ca. 93436

just checking in

2010-11-23T00:15:00.000-08:00

It has been awhile since I posted here. My moms Angioplasty went well and she is recovering. Much to be Thankful for! : )

Both my mom and youngest daughter have a birthday this week. I was thinking about making birthday cards for them when I came across this photo that I had downloaded awhile back from .http://www.art-e-zi ne.co.uk/vintageresources.html
For some reason this card makes me laugh. Is it his ear muffs?

Cancer Month

2010-10-19T15:39:00.000-07:00

My mom, sister,and niece are breast cancer survivors and my daughter is a uterine cancer survivor. We are very aware of what this does to family and that early detection is a must. Thank God that now they are cancer free. What is the cause? We dont know. Each one of them had different types of cancer and at different stages.
Awareness is a part of our daily lives.
In honor of them I decided to make this ACEO/ATC.

I used a texture medium, foil, paint and varnish.

Native American Indian

2010-09-27T17:22:00.000-07:00

I finished the Kneeling Indian and... as I posted on my blog over at the Hive... I wasnt sure about the "shine" I didnt want to use a gloss finish so I used a satin finish but it still came out a bit shiny. My family liked it. The actual person to decide is the lady that bought him and she was very happy with it. For some reason (which I think was the flash on my camera) he is not as shiny as this picture shows. Also he has a lot of parts that show a shadow when I move him around. LOL in this photo I see a spot on his thigh. I couldnt find it anywhere on him, then realized it was a shadow and showed up in the picture!!!
I am so glad that my friend Claudia taught me how to paint on ceramics using acrylic paint. Thank you Claudia!!

Here are before and after photos.

Love My Juicer

2010-09-18T00:34:00.000-07:00

I love my Juicer. Its the Jack Lalane Juicer. We have had it for 5 years! So quick and easy to use and it is easy to clean. I had a different juicer before, it was awful, took a lot of fruit and/or vegetables to make one cup! Plus hard to clean.

We have an apple tree, peach tree, orange tree, pear tree and lemon tree so I am always making juice. If you add an apple or carrot it will naturally sweeten the juice. Once in awhile after making the friut juice, I will pour the juice, ice cubes and yogurt into the Blender and we have a delicious smoothie!
Vegetables! Great way to get your vitamins! Juice whatever vegetables you have, add a carrot and you get a yummy vegetable juice. I also like to juice vegetables and make a broth for Vegetable soup.

limiting my time

2010-09-15T23:57:00.000-07:00

I was spending so much time on the Internet that I wasnt getting things done, especially my painting projects. I decided to limit my time to 1/2 an hour in the morning and 1/2 an hour at night. I do stay on longer 2 days a week for classes,blogging or listing but not too much longer!.
Since I have been limiting my time on the internet I am actually getting some projects done! It feels good to finish something! I am actually enjoying my "creative" time in my craftroom.

I painted this butterfly on a wooden steak platter. Great surface to paint on, very smooth. I didnt have to sand to much before painting. A friend of mine gave the platters to me. She was going to throw them out! They were brand new! I cant wait to paint another one!

My Bright Idea

2010-08-31T11:13:00.000-07:00

Garbonzo Beans... Chickpeas... whatever you want to call them.....I am swamped!!

Fresh Chickpeas/Garbonzo Beans. They are so yummy and very healthy. Full of Protein,zinc,good carbs, fiber etc. I bought a batch of them at the Farmers Market the other day. Instead of buying them already picked and in a small bag I had this bright idea to buy the batch that was wrapped with twine for $6.00.
I filled 5 bowls so far and still have a lot left

I boiled some the other day and mmm they are yummy. Only problem is that the pods fill up with water and guess what happens when you pop one open!!! Yup, those little things are better than a squirt gun!

I baked a batch in the oven, nice and crunchy like eating popcorn or corn nuts! I put a few in some foil, drizzled olive oil, garlic salt and pepper wrapped the foil over all and shook them a little bit and grilled them those were REALLY good!

Last night I got another bright idea "why not open them before I cook them" OMG My thumbs are so sore from popping the pods open!

Besides having a sore thumb another problem with this bright idea they are good raw, taste like fresh raw peas. So it was open one... eat one... open one... eat one..........

So much for my bright ideas!! Next time I may just buy that bag of fresh already picked Garbonzos!!!

Turtle!!

2010-08-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

See....I told you I found a rock that looks like a turtle

A shy turtle!

painting again!

2010-08-18T15:47:00.000-07:00

For the past few weeks I have been working with polymer clay, paper, decopauge,and other various mediums. During this time my oldest son who is visiting for the summer asked me why I was'nt painting. He is constantly after me to paint. He says "mom, you enjoy it, you are good at it, that is what you should do". I just kinda sorta ignored him and continued on doing everything but paint. I felt like I was in a slump.

After a few weeks of this I said "why am I not feeling creative?" my son said "because you need to get back to your painting" Then, the other day I saw a wooden sled sitting there and I thought.."HMMM I should paint something on that". I saw a picture of a cardinal so.. I got out my paint supplies,and set everything out and began to paint! I was in my own world for 2 days! I was happy! I realized my son is right, painting is what I enjoy. I am feeling creative again. Now I am looking at other things I can paint!!!! I saw a rock this morning, picked it up and said "Now that looks like a turtle!"

alcohol inks

2010-07-28T19:21:00.000-07:00

The other day I was using alcohol inks on a piece of tin. I have used the inks on paper, and glass but not tin. While trying this method I thought "I probably could make the alcohol ink myself." I knew it was possible.
If you have ever bought these in the store they run about $10.00 for 3 small bottles
SO I searched the internet and found blogs and chat forums full of information on how to make your own alcohol inks. Just go to google and you will be surprised at how many sites pop up on this subject.

I found the easiest method is to use Rit Liquid Dye and 90% rubbing alcohol.

Keep your homemade alcohol ink in a baby food jar, film cannister ( we crafters save everything), prescription jar/bottle (all empty and clean of course!!)

Depending on how dark/light of the color you want and depending on the size of the container you are using, start out with about 2 tablespoons liquid dye into the container and then fill with the rubbing alcohol. Lightly shake until mixed.

I took an empty prescription bottle, placed a piece of sticky back velcro on bottom. From a piece of felt I cut pieces the same size as the velcro. Attach the felt and you can stamp away.... I keep the extra pieces of felt in the bottle.

Note: You can use the powder dye but it leaves a grainy residue....which you might like that look.

Summer?/Blog Hop??

2010-07-11T11:07:00.000-07:00

Out here on the Central Coast we are having gray skies, wind, temperatures in the 60's and once a week (maybe) we will have warm sunshine, temps in the 70's. I can drive 20 miles east and it is in the 80's.
Last night it rained and scattered thunder!!!

I know Mother Earth can use the rain but I sure can use some sunshine! As you can see.....I am a warm weather kinda girl. I love the sunshine.

Maybe we will have a late summer.

ok, done whining.

I asked on my FB page but.....what exactly is a Blog Hop?

Flower festival parade

2010-06-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

The weather was overcast and cold when the parade started but the sun came out near the end. Looks like the weather will be nice for the park festivities. Could be nicer but......not too bad.
Now going over to the park for some lunch!

Flower Festival time again

2010-06-25T00:05:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year again...our annual Lompoc Valley Flower Festival.
The Festival started yesterday.Yummy food booths, entertainment on the outdoor stage and the carnival rides, beer garden, wine tasting...fun.
The Park is block from my home!
I hear a male voice talking, I think it is my husband in the backyard and I say "what" then realize it is coming from the park! I do this often throughout the day/evening! This happens every year! LOL!
Friday the craft booths will be up ( until Sunday). The Flower Festival Queen will be crowned.
Saturday is the Parade...floats are made using the flowers from the fields.
Sunday it ends. At 9:30 pm we will run to the cotton candy booth to get one more taste before it all closes up.For some reason that cotton candy tastes soooo good!

I will post pictures after the parade.

2010-06-20T13:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to all the wonderful dads out there!

I am lucky to have a wonderful stepfather.

My dad passed away in 1994 and I miss him everyday. I saw this post on facebook and thought I would share it.

Yellow roses grow in heaven, Lord pick a bunch for me.

Place them in my father's arms & tell him they're from me. Tell him

that I love & miss him. When he turns to smile place a kiss upon his

cheek & hold him for awhile, because remembering him is easy, I do it

every day. There's an ache in my heart that will never go ...away.

I miss you Dad, more than you will ever know♥

mindielee.etsy.com great shop!

2010-06-19T11:30:00.000-07:00

About a year ago I made a bracelet using 2 hole sliders. I loved it. I decided to make another one for myself and make some more for gifts. I went back to the store where I purchased the sliders...it was gone!! I was so bummed. I only bought enough for the bracelet not knowing if I would like it. There were no "warning" signs that they were closing down. They didnt move to a new location either.GONE!
So I searched the internet..nope..oh there were sliders but not the kind I wanted or needed. They were plain.
So I put it in the back of my mind and went on with other things.....
A few weeks ago I joined a forum on Etsy...California ChitChat. I like it, friendship, help, support. Well...one night I was not sleepy so I went to the forums, I started clicking on the shops to browse around and lo and behold...there they were..2 hole SLIDERS!!!! OMG!!! lots of them, exactly what I was looking for!!! To top it off her prices are great and affordable. I placed an order right away..now this was late Sunday night...Mindielee responded right away and my package arrived Tuesday morning!!!!! Ok we dont live to far away from each other but still... it was quick! Packaged nicely. My husband said I looked like I was opening a christmas pkg!!! They were beautiful!
Just the other day Mindielee opened another shop, supplies only. I have bookmarked her shops. If you want quality items at an affordable price check out http://www.mindielee.etsy.com/. Her new shop is http://www.mindieleesupplyz.etsy.com/

I bought these.. 5 in the pkg! I also bought some in red and square shape. I am one happy customer. : )

more atc/aceo's

2010-06-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

Well, my last blog was about my new addiction...ATC and ACEO. I have joined 2 groups for trading once a month. Just started and am excited ...so silly!
My 12 year old granddaughter is now making them and she has made some really cute ATC/ACEO's. I will have to take some pictures of her work. I have also introduced this art to a couple of friends and yes...they are now "hooked" on it too!
I listed 3 on my etsy site and one sold within 5 minutes!!!

I am now thinking of making a large frame to display the cards I recieve in my trades. Or maybe just an album so people can browse..you know the coffee table kinda thing.

This one I cut a picture an angel for the background,glued some tissue paper around the edge, painted some shadows here and there and then embossed with UTEE. It is Titled

Angel Out My Window.

This one is titled Purple Hydrangea, it is the one I sold. I am painting a series of them and will list more as I finish. I have Hydrangeas growing in my backyard. They are HUGE., so pretty...They are one of my favorite flowers. I cut them and put them in vases all over my house. So I decide to paint some on ATC/ACEO's

ATC and ACEO

2010-05-06T14:29:00.000-07:00

OMG!
I learned something new!
I am addicted!

These small artists cards are so much fun. I have been looking at them online for a long time and finally had an "aha" moment and thought "I can do this"!
It is great because you can do whatever....paint,collage,stamp,polymer clay etc etc or all of it combined!!! Since I like a variety of crafts this is perfect. (Actually it is a great excuse to not get rid of anything because now I might need it!!)
I have the Cricut Ex. so I cut out my own cards,and envelopes. I use water color paper, cardstock,chipboard,cardboard you name it. Some people even use regular playing cards! The only rule is the size.

I went on google and typed ATC cards.

there are great sites to get you started. Here are a few:

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Artist-Trading-Cards

http://www.altered-art.net/make-artist-trading-cards-2.html

They really are fun. You can trade them ATC or sell them ACEO.
This is my first one, I handpainted this. The second is a combination of handpainting and collage

If you havent tried this you should. So much fun

HAPPY EARTH DAY

2010-04-22T17:17:00.000-07:00

I remember back in high school the first Earth Day! It was a big celebration...hopes to save the earth.
We need to remember everyday.

Here are some natural rinses for your hair to bring out the highlights and luster.

Start at scalp and let rinse run thru to the ends.

For Blondes and Redheads

2 cups water
2 chamomile tea bags
Bring the water to a boil, remove from heat, add tea bags,cover the pot and let cool completely.
Remove tea bags. Shampoo and condition hair
Pour rinse over hair and leave it in as a final rinse.

For Dark hair

1 cup water
3 Tbsp. Rosemary (dry or fresh)
1 cup cider Vinegar

Bring water and rosemary to a boil. Remove from heat and add vinegar. Let sit until cool.
Strain out the rosemary.
shampoo and condition hair. Pour rinse over your hair BE CAREFUL NOT TO GET IN YOUR EYES!
Leave in hair for 5 minutes then rinse with warm water.

Something special

2010-04-18T11:57:00.000-07:00

I opened my blog and found this

The lovely blog owner Halibu Valley has given me a sunshineaward.

Thank you!

http://halibuvalley.blogspot.com/

The Sunshine Award is awarded to bloggers whose positivity & creativity inspires others in the blog world. The rules for accepting this award are:

Put the logo on your blog or within your post.

Pass the award onto 15 bloggers.

Link the nominees within your post.

Let the nominees know they have received this award by commenting on their blog.

Share the love and link to the person from whom you received this award.

There are so many to choose from. Here are some that I enjoy reading.

http://lindaloveschocolate.blogspot.com/

http://theshutterbugeye.blogspot.com/

http://dawnwillbreak63.blogspot.com/

http://boopnut39.blogspot.com/

http://beadcomber.blogspot.com/

http://dhallmba1.blogspot.com/

http://madebymarni.blogspot.com/

http://postcardsforsatori.blogspot.com/2010/04/satori-sitting-tall.html

http://peanutfeet.blogspot.com/

http://pinkcloudsandangels.blogspot.com/

http://3peeps.blogspot.com/

http://oxfordfam.blogspot.com/

http://www.myparadisemoon.com/

http://anjigallanos.blogspot.com/

http://andreawdesigns.blogspot.com/

Using what I have

2010-04-12T11:32:00.000-07:00

I have sooo much stuff! I have wood shapes that I cut with my scroll saw, picture frames, glass plates and jars, fabrics, wood candlesticks etc etc. All of it is hiding in bins, and on shelves in my craftroom and my little storage room out back!
I decided I am going to use it up or give it away! So, I grabbed a couple wooden picture frames and painted them. Then I painted two glass plates, and a glass salt and pepper set all in 2 days! Feels good to be able to create and clear things out.
..... AND..to be able to get it done! : )

Old Records

2010-04-06T15:53:00.000-07:00

I didnt want to go out and buy easter baskets this year. Seems they end up "in the way". I donated a stack of them to a local charity group and decided I was going to make my own.
What and How.
Then I had an "aha" moment.
I went to the thrift store and bought some old Vinyl record albums. I actually have a lot of albums... and I still have my turn table so "no way am I getting rid of mine!"Get rid of my Elvis Albums..no way...never!

I wiped the record clean with a paper towel,Then I placed a glass bowl on a cookie sheet and layed the record evenly on top. Put it in the oven and let it melt.
I placed a larger bowl on top while still warm to shape( did this after I took it out of the oven).

They were a hit : )

After the goodies are gone you can use the "bowl" for a catch all.

EASTER

2010-04-04T11:31:00.000-07:00

HAPPY EASTER!

May you all have a wonderful day.

He has Risen!

Bows from Recycled Magazine Pages

2010-03-28T20:01:00.000-07:00

Making Bows from Recycled Magazine Pages.

I remember making these when I was a little girl. My mom and my Oma taught me how to make them. We would paint the tips or add glitter. I loved them. You can use old magazines, new or used wrapping paper etc.
I decided to try making some...and again....I love it!! : )

You can use brads but....
..... I used glue because ( thats the way I learned how to do it) I dont like the way the bow feels with the brads...just my opinion.
(You can try the brads. If you do you need to use a small hole punch and punch in the center of the folded paper. Put the brad inside and then fold and thread each peice.)

To use glue...
depending on size of bow cut magazine page into strips. I cut one inch strips

Then take one end fold towards center and glue

Do the same thing with the other end

(Use small amount of glue)

Continue with all the strips of paper. Then take each folded strip and glue them on top of each other until you have the bow complete, let dry

Artfire Crazy Train Rider

2010-03-23T16:17:00.000-07:00

Todays Artfire Crazy Train Rider is Positively Charming Things

Her shop http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=38911&op=new&body=1

In her bio she says
"I have this need to work with my hands, creating. It doesn't matter if it's a hand made card, a hairbow for my daughter, a knitted blanket, or a nice bracelet or something sculpted out of polymer clay - I'm simply not happy unless I'm creating something."
There are some lovely items in her shop.

This is pretty! Made from Polymer clay!

and this... a beautiful bracelet

Soft Romance - lucite and Czech glass flower antiqued brass bracelet

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=896787Her

She also has a web site

http://www.positivelycharming.com/...

Positively Charming Things a very pleasant shop to browse in...go and take a look!

Gourds

2010-03-16T11:05:00.000-07:00

I love gourds! There are so many things you can do/make with gourds.

Start with seeds, then water,watch them grow, dry them, then clean, decorate, and....
From this

To this!

...... the process starts all over again!

love it!

My New CD

2010-03-06T21:20:00.000-08:00

I was watching the Opening Ceremonies for the Olympics.
To my surprise.. there she was... k.d. Lang singing one of my favorite songs "Hallelujah". Not only do I like the song but I like k.d.Lang. She can sing anything! Such a beautiful voice.So then and there I decided I was going to buy her CD with her version of Hallelujah.

I had a hard time finding her CD! Not one store carried it.
For the next few days I listened to it on you tube. ( I dont have an ipod)

Then...
My husband and I planned to go to Santa Maria....surely I will find her CD! Santa Maria is a big town,lots of Stores,Shopping Centers.

Not one store had the k.d.Lang CD I wanted! We went to quite a few stores. One clerk said they could order it for me but I live 30 miles away so I said no.

After hours of searching I told my husband I need a cup of coffee. He said "there's a StarBucks over there". I normally dont drink their coffee but I do like their Cafe Mocha so I said "yeah...ok". My husband doesnt like drive thrus so we went inside.

I ordered my mocha, paid and then waited.
I was quietly standing there ,waiting for my Mocha....then... I noticed this small picture...I looked at it, then I got right up to it and...its k.d.Lang! I am thinking to myself "Is this a CD? Its in a very small package". I pick it up look at it and very loudly and excitedly asked the clerk (my husband said I was yelling!!) Is this a CD???? The clerk looked at me and very slowly (LOL) said "yes mam, that is a CD". : )

It was the last one!

I bought it!

It has all her hit songs and my song... Hallelujah!!!

HALLELUJAH!!!

Who would have thought! Star Bucks! I bought my CD at Star Bucks!

Cinnamon Tortillia Crisps

2010-02-25T21:19:00.000-08:00

Cinnamon Tortillia Crisps are so yummy. I was craving these the other day. I decided to make a batch for an afternoon snack with the granddaughters. Adults and kids love these...just ask my husband! : )
Some people bake them in the oven but I prefer to fry them in a small amount of oil. I just keep adding oil as needed. Any oil will do, Olive oil is healthier but whatever suits your taste.

All you need is: Flour tortillias, sugar,cinnamon, oil and paper towel

Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl

Take the Flour tortillia and cut it into small triangles

Cut in half than in half again

When the oil is hot add tortillia strips. I add 4 at a time.
When you notice they are turning a light tan color turn each one over and fry until light tan. They cook quickly so keep an eye on them. Remove from pan and set on paper towel.

Hint: To remove strips from oil/pan I use two forks.

Place one at a time in bowl and spoon sugar cinnamon over top. Shake to remove excess and place on a serving plate.

You can sprinkle sugar mixture over all four but it makes a big mess!!

Fry as many as needed.

They taste great by themselves

or......

in a bowl of
Vanilla Ice Cream!!!
MMM

Enjoy!

Pretty Yellow Daffodils

2010-02-20T14:19:00.000-08:00

We sure have had some heavy rain the last few weeks. Non stop pouring rain. Can't complain though... our State needed the rain. The Lakes were getting lower and lower each year. Rivers were dry, the Dams were low.
Inbetween the rainfall we do get a few days of sunshine, even had temperatures in the 70's last week! I like it when it stops for a few days....gives the ground a chance to soak it all up before the next downpour. Only problem is you dont know what to wear one day to the next.LOL. Yesterday was cold, gray and rain. Today...the sun is out a small breeze and a bit cool.

This morning I opened the curtains in the back bedroom and found these beautiful daffodils!

I went outside and looked around the yard and found several more daffodils that popped up. So pretty

Our Lemon tree,which has lemons year round is full of bright yellow lemons. Our orange tree is full too.

Mother Nature takes care of her own.

When I see the beauty of the trees and flowers I guess I shouldnt complain about the rain!!

HAVING FUN!

2010-02-11T14:19:00.000-08:00

I am having fun recycling cereal boxes. I have cut out hearts, bookmarks, flowers etc. etc. They can be used for cards, scrapbooks, journals endless possibilities. As I said in my previous blog I am painting and embossing the various shapes.

I tried acrylic paint and then applied Utee which worked out ok but I wasnt to thrilled with the look.
Then I tried using Fabric paint (which is thicker). I really liked the results.

I did this bookmark with fabric paint and Utee.

I used black paint and a mix of black and copper Utee for this bookmark.

Apply the paint over the entire piece, while paint is still wet pour the Utee over the entire piece.
Carefully pick up the piece with tweezers and shake off the excess.
Set aside and let paint dry.
Once the paint is dry use a heat gun and melt the Utee. Make sure not to keep the heat gun in one spot, move the heat gun around in small circles.

Like I said....I am having fun recycling!

I love to recycle!

2010-01-30T19:25:00.000-08:00

Recycled cereal boxes

I love to recycle and reuse. I am known to save things for future use. I do have a place for everything so nothing is piled up. My family will ask "do you want this?" If I dont, it goes into the recycling bin not the trash.

I love to save cereal boxes, fruit snack boxes etc and reuse them in place of chipboard or just to practice painting on. The insides have a nice smooth surface.
I also cut them into various shapes and paint or embellish them. . So many uses for them.

Another thing is jars, glass and plastic. I love to paint on them. Especially the Mayonaisse and Ragu jars. My friends save them for me (and they save thier used lightbulbs..so many things you can do with those!)
I spray paint the jars and let them sit for a few days before using my regular acrylic paints. This way the paint wont chip or rub off. If I want the jar clear then I use glass paint like folk art enamel and bake in the oven.

The two "treasures" jars are plastic mayo jars. Great for little ones to store thier found treasures in.
(can be found on http://www.craftnique.etsy.com/ and http://www.craftnique.artfire.com/ )
I am always coming up with ideas to reuse items we would normally throw out. I actually enjoy trying to figure out what to do with it(used item) and the final results.
I have been doing this for years and I am so happy that I am not the only one!

RECYCLE REUSE!!!! ;-)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-12-31T15:28:00.000-08:00

I wish everyone a Safe, Healthy and Happy New Year!

Remember....dont drink and drive...have a designated driver or call a taxi.

the christmas wave

2009-12-23T15:50:00.000-08:00

Found this on Facebook and thought I would put it on the blog to keep it going!

We Wish You a Merry♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ Christmas♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪We Wish You a Merry ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪Christmas ♥ ♥ ♥We Wish You A Merry ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪Christmas ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪...And A Happy New Year!♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪... Copy and paste~keep the wave goin

Craft Show Over/recipe

2009-12-20T13:36:00.001-08:00

Well my craft show went pretty good considering that hardly anyone came. : (
It rained and rained all day, non stop. For awhile it poured so hard I thought the roof was going to fall down on us! There were a few unhappy Vendors.

This normally is a big event with a great turnout. Last time I sold everything!

Like I said I did really good. I made back my costs..booth,supplies and had extra shopping money. I was happy with the final results. Even my 11 year old granddaughter did well, she sold a few of her handmade bracelets. She then went shopping (around the craft show) for christmas gifts and a few things for herself. She was happy. :)

I sold all but 3 of my wine bottle stoppers...I brought 12 with me. They went pretty quick. Sold almost all of my handpainted ornaments and large clothes pin clips.

I also have 7 orders, they were easy- peasy, got them done in time.
I was asked to attend two shows this spring. Hmmmm must think about that....... Shows are so.....you know.....aacckk!

Now I am sitting here with a sinus and gland infection and laryngitus! On antibiotics and hopefully will be better by Christmas Day! I sound like I swallowed a mouse.... squeek squeek!

Here is a recipe from Susans Scrapbook Shack on Facebook and her blog

Spicy Goldfish Snack

18 oz Pepperidge Farm Goldfish
1 cup vegetable oil
1 pkg Ranch dressing mix
1 Tbsp Dill Weed
8-10 sprinkles lemon pepper
8-10 sprinkles red pepper flakes

Mix all together well in large rectangle pan. Stir frequently, letting sit out overnight. Store in tin.
Recipe courtesy of Brandi Hagli~

ENJOY!!!!

Craftnique

Craft Show

2009-11-30T22:32:00.000-08:00

I am getting ready for a huge craft show/event on the 12th of Dec. I will have a large area to display my items. A corner spot with a wall behind me.

I will have Christmas and non Christmas items, gift ideas a variety of items and various prices.

I have a few ornaments so I am not sure if I should put up an artificial tree and hang the ornaments on that or just display them on a table. Any ideas, suggestions/opinions?

We will be able to set up the night before which is a great.

If you have any ideas, hints, or suggestions I would love to hear them.

Also do you take Credit Cards or checks? Or just cash?

Have a great day!

A cold...ugh

2009-11-27T12:42:00.000-08:00

I got hit with the cold bug..the kind that has you in bed for a week, stuffy nose, runny nose, headache, cant think, cant move kinda bug.

Now I am finally up and about but zapped of energy. Start something but cant seem to finish. It still lingers..you know sound stuffy occaisional cough, clear the throat kinda thing....ugh. Two weeks of this!
If you get hit with this ...just get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids and rest rest rest.....................

I got behind on my crafts, so frustrating when you know you have things to do but no energy to do it. Just slept the days away! I am usually like the energy bunny if I catch a cold I keep going and going...not this time!
My family was worried..mom doesnt stay in bed..she must really be sick!!

The last 2 days in bed I did get on the internet and watched a lot of crafting ideas on you tube. A lot of ideas and creativity out there. I have the Ranger Melting Pot and found a lot uses for it on you tube. Wow! ....Now to get the energy and try some of them.

Keep safe and warm.

until next time
Hermy

Veteran's Day

2009-11-11T08:14:00.000-08:00

Happy Veteran's Day!

Thank you for your Service...past and present

Lets support our troops, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Vietnam Vets, Veteran's Homes, to name a few. We should support,volunteer and donate to these causes that help our Veterans and their families. You can contact your local American Legion Post for information.

handpainted Turkeys set of 2

2009-11-10T09:34:00.001-08:00

Handpainted resin turkeys, great for the Holiday table decor.

When I saw these I had to get them.

It has been awhile since I painted on resin. I forgot how much fun it was. Start with a basic color, add a different shade and add different colors and the turkeys come "alive".

I know Gobble gobble.... : - )

listed on www.craftnique.etsy.com

and

listed on www.craftnique.artfire.com

Taquitos and Cheese Recipe

2009-11-09T21:44:00.000-08:00

This is a quick and easy recipe that my family and friends love.
Thought I would share.

1 box frozen taquitos (beef or chicken)

1 medium can green enchalada sauce ( mild, medium or hot..your choice)

1 pkg shredded cheddar or monteray jack cheese (or shred your own)

cook taquitos in oven according to package directions.

after cooking pour (or ladle) green enchalada sauce over taquitos

spread the shredded cheese on top

place back in oven and cook until cheese has melted, about 3 minutes

yummy

great for a pot luck.

New items

2009-11-05T13:12:00.001-08:00

I just listed this large clothespin Note clip in my Etsy and Artfire shops.

This would be a cute gift for a teacher.

My youngest daughter is a teacher and she needs gifts to give for her fellow teachers/friends. I painted this design on the clothespin and she liked this ...I wonder if Santa ordered one for her to place on her desk?

Artfire Crazy Train Rider for today is http://www.artfire.com/users/krschurr

she says " I sew athletic wear for fun and function. To that end, the best fabric available is used, and all seams are finished. Customize your shorts or leggings! It's great fun."

She also has a variety of other items in her shop. Stop by and see what she has.

I take care of a 3 year old during the day. He calls my Craft Room "Gramma's work" Every now and then he will say "Gramma lets go to your work". Today we went to "my work" and he said I needed to clean it up so he helped me clean my "work". He put my paints away. Right now he is taking his nap so I think I will go to my "work" and put the paints where they should be ( I keep them in order of color) and maybe get some painting done!!

so many ideas

2009-10-30T09:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I came up with so many ideas to craft, to paint etc. etc. I would start on one then go to another and on and on. By afternoon I finally just stopped. Nothing was done but a lot was started!! LOL.
Now my craft room has unfinished projects.....oh well...nothing new!! I will get it done.
I did write down my ideas so when I do get back to these projects I will know what I am doing ( I hope!).

When I decided to just stop I went on the internet.
Ha...I went on Etsy and Artfire Forums just to read.....I learned soooo much!!

The forums are so helpful.

I learned how to shorten my username for my Facebook fan page. That really made me happy because I didnt like having all those letters and numbers.
I left my Homepage as is but I needed to adjust my Fan Page.

If you have a Fan Page and you are wanting to do the same, click here.

http://www.facebook.com/username/

The question was asked by www.artgirlx.etsy.com

This answer came from http://www.perfectlypaper.etsy.com/

I also learned how to put a facebook widget here on my blog.
On Artfire you can import your etsy items to your shop..learned how to do that!
On Artfire I learned how to use my blog in my shop...need to get that started.
Like I said....I learned a lot!

Now I must enter ~~~the craftroom~~ ~ and see if I can finish what I started!!

Happy Friday everyone!

Ready to paint!

2009-10-25T11:57:00.000-07:00

It seems as soon as Fall arrives I get the "painting bug". More so than any other time of the year! I think it's because I love snowmen, gingerbread, Oh heck~~~ I love the whole Holiday Season!

Getting started takes time,depending on what I am painting. Preparing the surface to get it ready to paint. Make sure I have all the supplies needed.

Then the base coating.

I like to paint more than one item at a time. This way while one is drying I can start on the other. Sometimes I will use a hairdryer on low to speed up the drying time. If I am using oil paint I use matte krylon and spray it on to dry.( Oil paints take a long time to dry even when using the Krylon) . Depending on time~~ sometimes I use both acrylic and oil paints on one project.

Here is a picture of two Nutcrackers that I am painting on a large clothespin. They are in the base coat stage.

Once the base coat is applied and dry I will shade in his face. From there I start to shade and highlight the rest of the nutcracker.

When I add the details my Nutcrackers come to "life".

It is always fun to see the results.

I let them dry completely before I apply Varnish.

Here is a picture of the finished piece.

helping each other

2009-10-20T12:35:00.001-07:00

Well today is my turn on the artfire crazy train. www.craftnique.artfire.com
It is nice to help each other and promote our shops. This Crazy Train was started quite awhile ago and we have many riders. I think we have riders well into 2010. What is so nice about it is that everyone IS promoting. Either by blogging, tweeting, facebook, email, forums etc. You can tell by the increase in views. You know what? That is the way it should be. Helping each other.

It is on "a trust" thing but so far so good. Sometimes you cant promote for some reason or another aka: illness, vacation etc. but they(we) will come back. Some even make up for it by promoting more than one shop at a time to catch up.

Artfire Crazy Train was started by www.PicardCreative.artfire.com

I promote on my blog, email, craft forum and my Facebook page and I have a Facebook Business page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lompoc-CA/craftnique/67095135775?ref=nf

I dont have a Twitter account. I dont know why I dont! (LOL). If you have one is it easy to use? Is it better or the same as Facebook?

This social internet stuff is addicting!!!

Have a great day!

flip flops!

2009-10-19T16:05:00.000-07:00

Look at these flip flops. They are so pretty. She has many more in her shop

www.fabulouscreations.artfire.com

Stop by her shop and look at all the styles. They are really nice! You can wear most of them anywhere. A variety of colors and designs.

Crazy Weather!!

2009-10-17T17:41:00.000-07:00

We have had some crazy weather here on the Central Coast. Actually all of California from what I hear!

It was warm for a few days then cold then warm....never knew what to wear!

Friends came to visit and we had a bbq, the weather was nice. Next day it was overcast! The next day...the STORM hit and it hit the entire State. The rain wouldnt let up, poured and poured. I shouldnt complain...we need the rain. The wind well....it was very windy.

That storm lasted 3 days and now it is in the 80's to 90's in some/most areas!! Hot! Beach weather and what am I doing??? Sitting in my craftroom painting! Yup sitting indoors!

Painting and painting,......................................

I will be the featured shop on the Crazy Train over on Artfire the 20th and 21st of Oct. (http://www.craftnique.artfire.com/)

I have craft shows coming up so I need a lot of items.

Here are a couple of items I painted for Fall/Halloween.

I think tomorrow I will take a break and enjoy the outdoors...I hope the weather stays nice.....

Have a great weekend!

Fall

2009-10-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

So many things to do. I have a lot of ideas for painting Fall items...I just need the time to do it all! lol. I have plenty of surfaces to paint on.

I enjoy painting for Fall and Christmas. Combination of the weather and the fact that I love snowmen!! Christmas! Santa!!! The entire idea of it all~~~~~~~~~

I added these coasters to my artfire shop.

I painted the background and pumpkins on plain cardboard coasters. I varnished to give them a glass like shine. I then cut and glued cork to the back. Cutting cork in a round shape isnt easy! Half way through I wondered what I got myself
into!! lol! Of course I could have used a circle
cutter ...hmmm maybe next time!!

I also painted the design on a large clothespin/memo clip to match.

I am a warm weather type person but I will admit to the fact that I do like the Fall colors!! and ...ok I kinda like the change (just not the cold
weather)

If you are living on the Central Coast California The Ride 2 Recovery riders are cycling from San Fransisco to Los angeles. Today they are riding from Pismo Beach to Solvang. Fri, Solvang to Ventura and on Sat Ventura to Los Angeles along hiwy 1. They are our wounded Veterans. If you can, stand along their route and cheer them on. Let them know we appreciate their service.

Everyone have a great day!

Artfire

2009-10-06T15:17:00.000-07:00

I have been busy painting. I posted a couple of items in my artfire shop www.craftnique.artfire.com and I will be posting more in the next few days!.

~~~~~~~~~~~~...................Artfire Crazy Train.................~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
www.catinalife.artfire.com
Today our artfire crazy train artist is Catinalife. I think you can tell by her shop name she likes cats! lol
She has some beautiful jewelry in her shop. I especially like the Chain Mailli work. Awesome! What I like about her work is the variety of color. She doesnt just stick with gold or silver.
Browse on over to her shop and take a look, you will like what you see!

.http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&sc_id=57749&seller_id=569&op=new

Vacation

2009-09-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

Donner Lake Truckee River

We had a great time on our vacation. We visited family and friends, old neighborhoods, it was great! We traveled to Sacramento, Reno, Virginia City, Auburn, San Jose, Gilroy and King City. The weather was hot but we loved it!

Interesting to see the changes in each city/town. All for the good too! We took our bicycles and rode them when we could. So nice and peaceful when you just "cruise" along on a bike through the streets and parks. At my sisters, I was riding down hill so fast, I felt like a kid WOO HOO!!. THEN I had to ride uphill to get back to her house..a reminder that I was no longer a kid!! LOL

Took my new camera along on our trip. Took some pretty good pictures, easy to carry along. I really liked it. Now the darn thing keeps blinking that I need to replace the batteries...put new batteries in and still blinking! Yup going to return it! I still have the rec"t etc.

My Camera

2009-08-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

My Camera, my first digital camera. Bulky yes, heavy yes but I love it.
It is slowly not working anymore and I am having a hard time parting with it. My husband keeps saying "get a new one"(probaby tired of hearing me complain about it LOL)
I had to have it fixed a few months ago,it was a recall and fixed for free.
Now the batteries wear down quickly. I have to take the batteries out as soon as I am finished using it. That means no sudden "gotta get that" picture. LOL by the time I get the batteries in the object is gone. Now its new thing is... I will get ready to take a picture and......it shuts down!!!

I did find a camera that I like, price is good, has more megapixels and zoom than my "old" camera. I should just go and buy it!!!

The funny thing is that the camera I like is the same brand as my old one (canon) but is smaller and cost less than my old camera did!

We are taking off for a few days and I will need a new camera...Ok..I will buy a new one..I can STILL take some pictures with the old one right??

Huntington Beach and a Bicycle ride

2009-07-30T22:36:00.000-07:00

Huntington Beach US OPEN

My husband and I decided to visit our son in Huntington Beach over the weekend. What is normally a 2 1/2 to 3 hour drive ended up being a 4 1/2 hour drive. Not only did we hit the friday trafffic in LA it was the US open Surf Competition in HB!!!!

My son lives about 6 blocks from the Beach so driving anywhere was out of the question. Instead we rode bikes! On Sat. we rode down to Main Street parked and locked our bikes and walked to the Pier. These pictures were taken while standing on the Pier. A lot of people, Vendors, Surfing , Volley Ball and great weather. It was a fun day.

I love to ride a bike, especially when the weather is nice. I am talking a nice slow pace ride. I have a cruiser bike. I see things that I normally wouldnt see when driving a car. I had a 10 speed but sold it. I never knew what gear I was in and I had trouble getting it in gear! LOL! Heck I had a sting ray bike while growing up!!! Pop a wheelie..yeah!! Ok cant pop a wheelie with my cruiser bike and probably wouldnt be able to now anyway but hey.... I am happy with my bike and it even has a basket on the back!!!

Balloons!!!!

2009-07-22T00:04:00.001-07:00

Today I had my first sale on Artfire! Yeah!! Doin the happy dance!! Not only was that exciting, turns out the buyer has a unique talent herself!
I sent her an email thanking her and letting her know her item was shipped. She responded right away with kind words and at the bottom were 2 links.
One to her artfire shop
Bonnie's Jewelry on Artfire which is run by her and her 2 sisters as she says in her bio:

"About our shop name: Barb, Elizabeth, and Bonnie (the one who answers any of the questions you might have.) = BEBs Treasures = Items that are cherished and/or deemed valuable BEBs Treasures = Cherished items from we 3 sisters."

They also have a shop on Etsy with the same name. I was looking at the items on Artfire ( I still have to go and look on Etsy!!). There are some beautiful items in their Artfire shop. They really do nice work.

Now getting back to unique talent, she signed her name "Bonnie the Balloon Lady"...What? Balloon Lady?? HMMM.....................
The second link was
Bonnie's Balloon Portfolio

Well..I had to click on that link and OMG!! Some amazing balloons. I have seen twisting and turning balloons into shapes but these are fantastic. YOU HAVE to go and look! She is a Professional.
I cant copy paste the pictures to show on my blog because of copyright. Besides, there are too many that I like....Mickey Mouse, Sponge Bob and more....many more. Oh and then there is face painting...awesome. Bonnie or Balloon Lady...entertains at family restaurants and family events. If you live in the Pocahontas Ar. area you can book her for an event or check her out in person. She lists where and when on her Portfolio site. Just take a look at her amazing work, let your kids and grandkids look too..they will love it.
Let me know what you think!
Have a great day!
Hermy ( Craftnique)

Just Blogging

2009-07-14T21:50:00.000-07:00

Crazy Train on Artfire....

http://www.artfire.com/users/daisyleedesigns there are a variety of items in this shop, from hair bows to earrings. here is a beanie. Isnt it pretty!

I did recieve two blog awards (in one day!) back in June. I have been so busy and now here it is July and I am finally getting around to it.

The first one was recieved from

www.andreawdesigns.blogspot.com

and the second one from

www.theshutterbugeye.blogspot.com

I will send blog awards asap. I am on the computer that likes to shut down all by itself. Need to get my laptop and post on that.

In the meantime Thank you for the award.

Check out these two blogs they are great. I find myself reading them everytime they post a new one and I enjoy the photos!

Have a great Wednesday!

Flower festival Floats

2009-07-06T19:18:00.001-07:00

It has been a busy time for us.

I finally found some time to post some pictures of the Floats that made it in the Flower Festival Parade.The Floats were made from the flowers that grow in our area. Each flower is glued on one at a time. They were up all night preparing for the parade.

These pictures were taken after the parade. The floats are parked a long a side street so we can look and take pictures.

The large float was the Festival Queen and her court.

The weather was great for the festival weekend.

The parade was small this year, only a few Floats. I guess the Economy is to blame.

New Lap Top

2009-06-24T16:16:00.000-07:00

Well I bought myself a laptop. Lucky for me it was on sale. I got it for half price! I also bought a router and now I can roam the house and yard freely while on the internet! Yay! I always used a desktop. This is all new to me...you should see me and this....pad.... no mouse thing. LOL.
I have to figure out how to use the cd/dvd, pictures etc...Whew! It's like starting over!!!

The Flower Festival started today. The carnival, music and food booths. I live a block from the park, from certain rooms I can hear the music from the entertainers on the stage.
In my previous blog I forgot to mention that they take the flowers and make floats for the Parade. Some awesome looking floats. The Flower Fest. Queen and her Court ride the biggest float and it is completely decorated and designed by the prisoners from Lompoc Federal Prison. They do a beautiful job. All the Floats that enter the parade are voted on, 1st prize, 2nd etc. Also the bands and other entrants are voted on. I will be out taking pictures on Sat. Hopefully have some posted here for all to see.
In the meantime I am going to play with this new toy and try and figure out my way around. LOL

Have a great day!

Flower Festival

2009-06-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

I live in what they call "The Flower Capital of the World". Flower Fields all over the area. Beautiful, like a carpet, full of colors and oh the fragrence.

Then they started building houses, shopping centers and of course they took away some of the beautiful flower fields. We still have a few fields left, thank goodness. In fact if you ever saw the email of the American Flag created by Flowers in a large flower field, that is about 4 blocks from my house.

The flowers are in bloom now and just beautiful.
Here are pictures of a field not too far from where I live.

The last week of June we have our annual Flower Festival. It starts on Wednesday with Carnival rides, booths etc. Then on Sat. we have the parade going down H strret to Ocean/hiwy 246 turns right and all the way to O street. It ends at the park where the rides are and the craft booths. Crafters from all over, booking one year in advance. This is a BIG deal. We have people coming from all over to attend the festivities.

For more information and photos click on these links.

http://www.beachcalifornia.com/lompoc-flower-fields-photos.html

http://www.flowerfestival.org/ffevent.php

Browsing instead of Creating!

2009-06-06T14:06:00.000-07:00

I should be finishing some projects that I started yesterday. I got on the computer and started browsing shops on Artfire and on Etsy. Some amazing stuff by so many creative people.

I could sit and look all day......

This bracelet is so pretty! The artist has a lot of beaded items, necklaces, earrings brooches. So many beautiful items in her shop. The artists is also an author of some nature Books.! You can see her work at RockyCreekGems

Then I found this tile pendent at NinjaJenn. She does some awesome work (and a great blogger too!). NinjaJenn will even make a pendent or ring using your avatar! How cool is that?

Her tile pendents and rings are so nice I cant decide which one I like best!

I like the colors and peacefullness of this one.

Then I found this shop Kraftouchtreasures

There are so many different things in her shop. From pretty to cute. I love these and yes there are more in different colors too!

So many more but I do have to get busy and finish up my projects. Oh! remember a few blogs ago I had an idea with small gourds and polymer clay. and I said I would put up pictures when done!!??

I finished one (still working on the other! LOL) Here it is. My Gourd Man Business Card Holder. You can see more pictures of him at http://www.craftnique.artfire.co m/

One Lovely Blog Award! Thank You!!!

2009-06-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

Thank You!

What an honor!!

I am doing the happy dance right now!!

I recieved this "One Lovely Blog" award from Creations With Heart

What a nice surprise and coming from a very nice , talented and helpful person that I "met" on the internet makes it even better!!

There are a few rules to follow that I need to share with you.

1. Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.

2. Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered.

3. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

Unfortunately, I can't give it back to the person that gave it to me, but I do get to give it to 15 great bloggers

1. The Skin You're In

2.Sea Glass Jewelry - Out Of The Blue Seaglass Jewelry

3.Nostalgic Nature Art

4. Pinkfink's Creations

5. New places to buy Alisun's ...

6.catmacdesigns

7. Christinas ramblings and cr...

8.Meekiyu's Dream

9. My Paradise Moon by LuLu

10.Crazy K Bath and Body

11. GemKitty

12. Karena Bella Jewelry

13. marcie adary

14.Designs By Patricia

15.DawnWillBreak's Blog

Please accept this award and pass it on to other lovely bloggers.

Artfire

2009-05-27T17:17:00.000-07:00

Ha! ha! I am still sorting Moonstones, jade, sea glass and other stones. I washed them first, laid them out on a tray than as I walk by I sort. I feel like I am doing a jig saw puzzle...you know..it sits there and you work on it for awhile than on to something else. There are some pretty stones in there!! I am putting alike stones in jars and sea glass in a separate jar. Actually it is relaxing in a way....

Artfire has given us options to set up our shop pages. It is nice. It is like creating your own web page or blog page.. I worked on it a little yesterday. I plan on changing my banner but it will do for now. I choose green for my background color but will probably change that too. LOL It even allows you to put widgets from your etsy or whatever other shops you may have. You can see what I am talking about on my homepage www.craftnique.artfire.com

Todays featured shop from Artfire is ChantillyLace. She has a lot of pretty items in her shop. Hair accesories, jewelry. She works with pearls, lace and fabrics. A lot of vintage items used in her work. you can click on the link to see her shop/items. If you cant click on the link try this one. I know you will enjoy looking around her shop. www.ChantillyLace.artfire.com

Have a great evening ! Until next time
Hermy

Moonstone Beach, Cambria, Calif.

2009-05-25T13:34:00.000-07:00

Cambria : distinctive shops, art galleries and walking trails along Moonstone Beach.

We live just south of this small coastal town. It is a nice relaxing place to go for the day or weekend. On Sunday my daughter, granddaughters and 2 friends of ours decided to take a drive to Cambria and go to Moonstone Beach to collect Moonstones, Jade and Beach Glass.. which covers the entire beach area. No sand just these small stones everywhere! Moonstone Beach has a nice park with playground and swimming pool and then just beyond that is the beach. Not too far of a walk.

We brought along our buckets and shovels and started searching. Next time we will bring sifters, even though all the rocks were pretty we only wanted the jade, moonstones and beach glass.

The moonstones were clear and shimmered in the light. So pretty. The story I heard is that at night when the moon shines on these stones they shimmer and sparkle along the shoreline. Hmm.. that gives me an idea.. good excuse to rent a room at the Moonstone Inn which sits right on the beach!

The jade came in a variety of sizes and different shades of green. So pretty. All you could hear was "OOHH"AHHH" or "Gramma look at this one".So much fun!!!

The white rocks you see in the pictures are actually the clear moonstones. We only found the white to off white and clear stones. I have heard that some are blue but maybe not in this region.

We had such a wonderful relaxing day.

My daughter and her two little ones decided to walk further towards the cliff and found tons of beach glass. They also discovered the high tide and big waves. LOL they came back with a few piecesof glass and soaking wet! GOOD THING WE BROUGHT A CHANGE OF CLOTHES FOR EVERYONE!
The beach glass was smooth and frosty looking almost like a stone. It wasnt the warmest of days so they were wet and cold and in our excitement..we forgot to take a picture of the beach glass!!

Will have to remember to do that later.

We ended the day just sitting in the sun and deciding what we can make with our stones and glass..

What a great day we all had!

Cant wait to go back!!

Baked artichokes...

2009-05-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

My family and I love artichokes.
We live near a few artichoke fields so when we buy from the local Farmers Market or Roadside Stand we get really big artichokes for a great price. I usually boil them ,then we dip the leaves in butter or mayonaisse then eat till nothing left except the fuzzy stuff and scraped leaves!
That is our favorite( and only) way to eat them. Very easy and delicious.
Before boiling... I wash them, cut off the top portion and then with scissors cut the points off the leaves all around then I cut off the stem and rinse them really well.
A few years ago a friend said she always stuffs them with macaroni and cheese, we tried it but went back to the boiled method.
I love cookbooks, collecting and sharing recipes. The other day I found a recipe to bake artichokes ..hmmm sounds good.... Nope... Awful. Not the same. Plus it was a lot of work!
My husband and I decided that we will stick to the boiled method!

Artfire Crazy Train is featuring http://debvandetdesigns.artfire.com. She has a nice variety of items in her shop from girly to gothic. Whatever suits your taste. I like the switch plate cover with roses, very girly and very pretty. Click on the link to see her items.

The sun is out so I am going to go outside and get some vitamin D!!!
until next time..............

Bright idea!!

2009-05-15T15:38:00.000-07:00

Today I spent most of the day in my craftroom working with polymer clay. I then had this bright idea and it was a good idea. I made it, baked it, let it cool and .....I broke it!!! Yup broke it in three places!!! ACCKKKKKKKK!!

So now, do I try again? Make it thicker? It really is a good idea. I think I will try making it again.

I did get a few other items done. Here is an Incense Burner. Back to the craft room to try again...

been awhile

2009-05-13T16:46:00.001-07:00

Well it has been a few days since I blogged. I have been busy with one thing or another. At first I thought this week would be slow, nothing marked on the calendar, no set plans etc. Good week for just "me " time
Ha.!!!. One appointment after another, then a few "mom can you" phone calls and its only Wednesday!!! Well maybe tomorrow I will not answer the phone (yeah right).
Over at Artfire the Crazy Train is chuggling along.
We have this cute crochet soapbag http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=ViewListing&product_id=179338

You will find more at her shop http://www.absolutelyamy.artfire.com

Then over on http://www.AlisunsToo.ArtFire.com
The artists says:
"Always Get Too For One. Buy an item. Shop for another item OR ITEMS that equal the purchase price. Pay the shipping price ONLY if it weighs more than 13 oz. That's it. Have fun shopping! This is where you will find all my destash, and stuff that doesn't fit in my Alisun's Custom Crafted Jewelry store (www.alisuns.artfire.com)."

At http://www.michiganmud.artfire.com you will find some pendants, rings, and other unique items made from polymer clay.
Here is an example http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=ViewListing&product_id=148152

Who knows?? Maybe you'll find that certain item you were looking for!!!

I think I will go and get some "me "time before the phone rings!! LOL

Until next time,
Hermy ( Craftnique)

My Uncle, Jack Martin

2009-05-07T09:16:00.001-07:00

Yesterday my Uncle Jack passed away. He died in his sleep which we all say "he died doing what he loved the most...napping."

He lived in West Virginia . He was my dads younger brother.I was fortunate enough to visit my dads side of the family every summer growing up and made a couple of visits as an adult. I have many wonderful happy memories of visiting Grandpa's farm and my relatives. My uncle was the last of my dads family to go.( Aunt, 2 uncles & my dad) (My dad died in 1994 of Lou Gerrigs disease or medically known as ALS). So... that family Chapter is now gone.

Uncle Jack was everybody's favorite. Loving, kind, a gentle giant. All the Martin girls from my older sister to my second cousins...we all were going to marry Uncle Jack.

The last few months he wasnt well and had some medical problems, I had planned on calling him today. I am going to my moms house and we had talked about calling him. She wanted to see how his Dr appt went and just to say hello.

I live near Vandenberg Air Force Base so whenever a rocket or missile goes up I try to get a picture of the event and send it to him, he loved that. Tuesday a Delta Rocket went up. I heard it rumbling, grabbed my camera and ran outside but the rocket had already disappeared . I did get some cool pictures and planned on sending them to Uncle Jack. Now they sit in my computer.

I decided I will post them here in honor of my wonderful sweet uncle. I will miss him. God Bless You Uncle Jack.

Good sunday

2009-05-03T14:40:00.000-07:00

Hi folks! Today I am finishing a few items that I started yesterday. My polymer clay and copper necklace. Also this bag hanger. Fits on a bar or table top so you can hang your purse.

I have also been working with gourds and polymer clay. I also made a few jewelry items for gifts. Always feels good when I get a few things done.

I have small gourds and tried to think what I could make other than the ususal ornament. I came up with a neat idea. It is baking in the oven but when I get it done I will post a picture. So stay tuned!! LOL

I hope to get a few items listed on www.craftniqe.etsy.com and www.craftnique.artfire.com Probably wont get to it until this evening.

I should do it now but..... my gourd and polymer clay is baking.......

Over on Artfire the crazy train is still tootin along. Today is JanelsonArts . She does some beautiful lampwork. It amazes me how that works. All the shapes, colors and design just blend together by an artists skillful hand. There are quite a few that I like, I could fill this whole blog with pictures from her shop. Go and take a look www.JanelsonArts.artfire.com

crazy train rolling along

2009-04-25T11:19:00.000-07:00

Yes the crazy train just keeps on chugging. Over on Artfire we have a long list of conductors . It is all on an honor system but from what I see, hear and read on the forums pretty much everyone is doing thier part in some way to help promote the shop of the day. Besides, it is fun.

Todays shop is http://www.wooleycreek.artfire.com/.

Here is what she says in her bio on Artfire
Artisan's Bio:I have been beading since 1990. We also do other NA crafts. My husband and I set up at Powwows and Flea Markets to sell my crafts and Vintage Native American Jewelry. We also sell on Ebay. under the name of Wooleycreek. I am disabled and spend most of my time doing things I can sit at the table to work on. Beadwork helps pass the time when I can't walk!

She does some awesome work. Besides beadwork she also makes moccasins, take a look at these. They look so comfy.

Her jewelry is beautiful. Stop on by her shop and take a look.

I aquired some stained glass awhile back so I think I will try to make a few items and see what happens. Today I feel like mosaics or candle holders or...............................

Hope everyone is having a good day!

Earth Day

2009-04-22T09:14:00.000-07:00

Back in High School( many years ago) we celebrated Earth Day. This was something new for everyone and Mother Earth. What a great idea! Ever since then I try to do my best not to waste anything.

Recycle Reuse thats my motto. Save rain water to water plants, never ever litter, plant a plant( or tree or flowers) plant a garden, feed the birds, walk, ride a bicycle, the list goes on.

SMALL things that we can incorporate into our daily living and make a BIG difference.

Take a look around and see what you can do to help Mother Earth stay healthy.... everyday!

Have a Great Day !

Sun Shiney Day!

2009-04-20T12:17:00.000-07:00

Today is sunny with a cool gentle breeze. It is in the upper 80's. My kind of weather. I love it.

Today on our crazytrain ride on artfire our featured shop is shineyyourhineysoap. Yup thats right shiney your hiney. She makes lots of soaps,lotions so much. Here is her category list

SHINEYOURHINEYSOAP'S CATEGORIES
All Products
Bath Mitts/Soap Savers
Bath Salts/Hiney Bubbles
Gift Sets
Holiday/Seasonal Soaps
Lotion
Novelty/Children's Soaps
Reserved
Shine Your Hiney Soaps
Shower Gel/Whipped Soap
Sugar Scrubs
Artfire Stimulus Package

I spent a long time looking at her "stuff". Yummy looking soaps and lotions.

Doesnt this look delicious!!??

Refreshing, especially right now with this nice weather I am having this soap really caught my attention.

This mitt is just too cute. What kid wouldnt want to wash up!!

To see more click here

http://shineyourhiney.artfire.com

Beautiful Day!

2009-04-18T10:51:00.001-07:00

Wow the last few days have been cold and VERY WINDY. Today the sun is out, a slight breeze and very warm. We are suppose to have nice weather all week. I dont like the cold so this good weather makes me happy. I am planning to take my mom out and we will enjoy the sunshine.

About every other day I will try and blog about a seller from Artfire. Each time it will be someone different. Should be fun. I love to look at other peoples "stuff". I find it interesting what people can create, the different ideas that we all come up with. Possibilities are endless.

Today is about. djstoreroom. She has some cute pouches, mirrors, frames, purses. To top it off she is offering free shipping and free insurance! She even has a tutorial. It is a fun site to visit.

This is one of her frames. Some are mirrors and some just for pictures.. I like the looks of this, very soft. It would look nice in a baby or tots room.

She also paints, which of course caught my attention!! : ) I love the colors in this picture.

This is just a couple of her items. take a look for yourself at

www.djstoreroom.artfire.com

Well I am off to enjoy the sunshine. I hope all of you have a wonderful day!