It's Not Easy Being Green

Some time in the studio...

2010-07-11T09:50:00.002-04:00

Below is a collection of photos of things I made over this weekend...

This was started by my daughter many months ago, and I finally managed to get it all done. I love the little collections of things!

I actually bought this decorative bird cage more than a year ago! Inspiration struck a few days ago and this assemblage is the result.

And lastly this (cassette tape holder?) I got at the thrift store and decopouged old sewing patterns on it. I think I will be using it to organize photos!

FLEAS!!

2010-05-22T09:00:00.003-04:00

I would be remiss if I just plunged into a post without mentioning my extreme lapse between the last one and now. Truthfully, I have no reason. I allowed life to get in the way of my recording it. And to complete the vicious cycle I felt as though I was failing by not recording it.

So the end result is this: I haven't even logged into Blogger in 5 months.

Ka-blowey! Almost half a year gone!

So allow me to just pick up the pieces and reacquaint myself with my creativity.

I will start with some fantastic flea market finds:

I have some plans starting to formulate for this sweet little deer and her sister!

And these, I think, were the find of the day! I instantly wanted them, with no real inkling of why...

How sweet is this little cherub??
The sister...
And this, I'm sure, is a reproduction, which is fantastic for me since my plan is to completely alter it. I can now do so without guilt!

Stick around.... I have lots more pics to post... but first I must get some work done!

ATCs

2010-01-24T15:10:00.003-05:00

Worked this weekend on some ATCs that I am sending to a friend who gives them to Cancer Care Patients.

Here is a sample of the dozen I made:

Strength

You are not invisible

Strength in numbers

Barbie is different

Next on my list....

2010-01-17T17:57:00.002-05:00

I have decided to participate in the One World One Heart event again this year. Last year was awesome, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I think I may already have my prize for the give-away... but I am tossing around the idea of giving away more than one. I have until the 25th to decide.

Click on the link in my sidebar if you want more information on this event, and please consider participating yourself! But even if you don't, make sure you come back on the 25th and enter my giveaway.

More to follow...

Some vintage Christmas

2009-12-15T18:33:00.002-05:00

Where would Christmas be without cellophane? Certainly not as glamourous as it is today...

Check out this vintage ad and more at this Flicker Group.

Christmas Wreaths

2009-12-15T10:55:00.004-05:00

I was perusing around the interwebs a couple of days ago and came across a wonderful tutorial for making a wreath, at the red thread.

Needing a few more Christmas Presents I decided to give it a try.

Here's my finished project:

They were so easy to make! The blue one is made from scrapbooking paper, and the green one from the pages of some old books I had cut up for other projects. However, the paper in the two books wasn't quite the same; one of them was much more brittle and tended to rip when curing it. It required a much more delicate approach than the blue ones.

The entire process took about an hour and a half... the longest step was choosing which papers to use!

On to the next...

2009-11-27T10:17:00.005-05:00

With the passing of another Thanksgiving, my mind turns towards Christmas.

I would like to hand make as many of my gifts as possible this year, but I am having a hard time deciding what to do. I want each item I make to be perfect, something they will love and cherish. but not something that necessarily looks handmade.

I have been scanning pictures of my husband and I, taken 10 years ago. Ahh, the memories they bring back!

We look so young... and thin!

Off to find my muse...

What I've been up to this week...

2009-11-21T11:18:00.002-05:00

The "Season" is coming quickly upon us. This year I feel like I have a bit of a jump start - I have updated my Christmas Card list, finished making my cards (Yes, this year I have hand made cards! I'm such an over-achiever!), taught myself how to make intricate snowflakes, and have reservations for dinner and the Christmas Parade for this evening. Whew! And it's not even Thanksgiving yet!

Here's a sneak peek at the cards:

I also put together an ATC (Artist Trading Card). It is inspired by a message I received via a Facebook group I am apart of. One of the members is in the process of moving to Ft. Hood, a somewhat daunting task in light of recent events on that base. As a group we are making inspirational/encouraging ATCs for her and all members of the Armed Forces.

Here's mine:
I'm off to conquer my next task: once I figure out what it will be!

Twinchies!

2009-11-11T10:19:00.004-05:00

My creativity is coming back to me... and I have made the time to indulge it.

Earlier this year I was participating in the Awfully Big Art Adventure Challenges every week. Then life got busy and that was one of the first things to go.

I have learned since then that I need art to maintain my balance and well-being.

Back to the Challenge I go!

The challenges are now monthly, giving one much more time to contemplate how to interpret the theme. November's theme is Twinchies.

(Twinchies are two-inch by two-inch pieces of art. The challenge, of course, is the size restriction)

Here are mine:

I was inspired by Linda's use of postage stamps... also a favorite item of mine to use.

The top one and bottom one I am going to make into Christmas Cards. As for the lovely lady in the middle... She's just going to hang around being dramatic for a while until I can find a job for her!

Fall is in the air...

2009-11-08T10:26:00.003-05:00

And I am doing my best to get my life in order.

I am a list maker. But I am also a cluttery-stuff collector.

It's not a good mix.

Consequently my house is always feeling just a bit out of control, and I feel helpless to rein it in. Until that moment when it is so overwhelming that I feel as though I will suffocate if I don't clear thru the junk RIGHT NOW.

It makes me feel a bit like I am on a neatness roller coaster.

My husband has a hard time with this.

Well, that and the two things guaranteed to make him crazy:

1. Leaving cupboard doors perpetually open, and

2. Dropping everything where I happen to be when I don't need it anymore.

I have tried, and failed, many many organizational methods. I have watched countless hours of Clean Sweep on HGTV. I have been suckered into almost every Real Simple time-saving storage item. Failure.

I am doomed to live a dusty, piled up life in a house that will always feel too small. Really I think I have too much stuff.

Don't tell my husband.

I'm back!

2009-10-17T21:24:00.002-04:00

I know.... I have made the false promises before... but this time is different. Life isn't in the way anymore. I have had a lot of changes this summer, most notably in my career. But fall is in the air, and I have a need to create. Today I did some Halloween crafts, and in the morning I will dust off the camera and post some pictures. Looking forward to it!

And with yesterday's finds...

2009-07-12T13:57:00.002-04:00

Fabulous Fleas!

2009-07-11T15:58:00.004-04:00

The Bazaar season has started! Today I went to two Church Bazaars and a few thrift stores. I love the possibility of coming home with a treasure!

I know I get it from my mom - she practically raised me in a dumpster.

No, it's not what you think; she just lives by the "One man's trash is another man's treasure" theory of life!

First I found this for a mere 45 cents:

I know it's not spectacular, but it would have been a couple of dollars in a craft store, and it will be fabulous when altered.

Next are these gems:
The two owls were found at one of the churches, and the fabric at a thrift store. I think the owls are adorable! I have no idea what I'll use them for, but couldn't pass them up.

Now these are fabulous:
Three great post cards. The top one has a lovely letter on the back side, the middle one struck my fancy because the lady's face on the end has been rubbed out. And then the bathing beauties... how can you not want them?

Finally, for a mere $5:
A manual typewriter! I LOVE it! It's missing the barrel that holds the paper in, and some of the keys are sticky, but it is beautiful. It will make a great addition to my studio.

Surprise!

2009-07-05T11:22:00.005-04:00

A few weeks ago my husband and I talked about how nice it would be to have a little "Hidey-hole" outside where we could sit and enjoy the fire pit.

Friday I had the day off. And the local home improvement stores are giving 10% off to all military... like me! Plus I had the truck and motivation, so this is what I made:

I used 60 1-foot concrete pavers, 12 bags of pea gravel, some bamboo fencing and some plastic border to keep the gravel in place. The patio is 10 x 12, all hand layed by moi.

The chairs I had, but I spray painted them to freshen them up, and got new seat cushions from Pier One.

The topsy-turvy planter I fashioned after several I have seen. It's just pots and a wooden dowel.

I really love the way it turned out. Well worth the 8 hours of manual labor it took to put it together... plus T was so surprised he was speechless!

The only thing left is to enjoy the summer nights.

Parting in such sweet sorrow...

2009-06-27T10:52:00.004-04:00

One of my closest friends is moving.

This is inevitable when you are associated with the Armed Forces. It has been my entire way of life.

I made her this lovely gift:

She and I were both on the USS Kearsarge together, and spent many hours with each other - both underway and on liberty. She has become part of my family, my sea-daughter.

I have been saving this book for an occasion such as this. It is titled "The Sea Around Us." Very fitting, I think!

The purple block is a flash drive with copies of pictures from our time together on the ship.

I hope she remembers her time on board fondly. We went thru a lot, personal and professional pain. But have both emerged much stronger for it.

I love you, Christina! You have made me proud.

More from last weekend

2009-06-25T18:22:00.003-04:00

I have been shuffling these cute little bird housed around for probably 5 years or more. FINALLY I was struck and this is what I did with them:

I think they turned out so cute!

And this is another creation that popped into my head:

That naughty boy! His mama is going to knock his block off!

Finally...!

2009-06-21T17:39:00.003-04:00

My muse is back! I had allowed daily stress to push her out of the way. Oh, how I missed her!

But this weekend was a busy one. On Friday I accomplished a goal that I had set for myself. I have been feeling very successful since then. And on Saturday I spent the day in the studio.

And today my husband and I buckled down and did some good old fashioned cleaning. Whew. Busy like a bee, I tell you!

But let me share some of what I have done:

I bought a dictionary at a used book store - just so I could cut it up. I love the look of these little flowers. They would be perfect on a librarians desk.

And this little number is my first real attempt at paper piecing:

My mom and I have been playing around with the idea of opening up an Etsy store. These were made with the thought that maybe they would be worth sharing with the world.

We'll see!

Sorry little Bloggy.

2009-05-25T09:52:00.002-04:00

All my false promises, all my best intentions. And yet, I still neglect my blog. No celebrating blogaverseries, no comments. It's just so sad.

It's not that nothing is going on. I guess it's just that life got in the way.

I've had some stress at work, but that has almost been worked thru.

I joined the Photographic Society of America. But have yet to participate in anything. That's this week's goal. They've sent me some great emails about fantastic things that are going on. It's going to be awesome!

I also joined a local photography group: The Hampton Roads Digital Shutterbug Club. I went to my first meeting last week. They have so many events planned! Contests, Educational Programs, Critiques, Gallery Shows... it's exciting! I am looking forward to being a part of this fantastic group.

On the home front, T and I just bought a Scooter. All right, more accurately, a big ass Harley Davidson! That's what's been taking up a lot of our time! Every weekend we go riding. Down to the outer banks, over to Emporia... and today if the weather holds I think I'll get him to take me on a ride down the Colonial Parkway.

I guess that's the scoop from here. I will stop just short of making anymore empty sounding promises. So until next time...

Support my friends!

2009-04-15T19:29:00.001-04:00

Two awesome guys who were on the Kearsarge with me are on the journey of a lifetime. I would like for everyone to check out the link: Pedal Across. They are looking for any kind of support that can be offered. Please Help them out, and be sure to stop by their blog!

Better late...

2009-04-08T19:51:00.003-04:00

Here are some of the photos I've taken in the last two weeks...

Woe woe woe...

2009-04-04T19:15:00.002-04:00

This poor blog has been so neglected!

Spring has sprung and I have been spending more time outside getting the gardens ready and riding bikes.

But haven't been fulfilling my promise to myself!

So I am getting back on the wagon. At the very least I can take one photo a week and post it here. I am back on the right path, and will be taking photos tomorrow.

Until then.

More weekend work...

2009-03-15T18:30:00.003-04:00

On friday I received this month's Jenni Bowlin kit. After I finished the Newsprint Hanger for ABAA, I was taking a look at the items that came with the project kit, and was inspired to create the Hanger you see below:

All of the elements are part of the kit, except the rub-on, lettering and ribbon. Those items I had on hand.

ABAA - Newsprint

2009-03-14T22:12:00.004-04:00

I missed last weeks challenge - I have been working on my photography and before I knew it the week was gone!

So I made a point to get this week's done early. ABAA has given us yet another inspiring challenge: Newsprint.

Not only is it unusual, it's free!

Here's mine:

I used chipboard for the base of everything covered in newsprint. I had some vintage sheets from a kit I received months ago. I stuck it all to a sheet of acetate printed with alphabet, and added some rub ons and ribbon to embellish. (and a silk flower!)

And if you want to check out what I've been doing with the camera you can check it out on flickr - you can use the link on the right!

Again, GREAT CHALLENGE!

ABAA - Blanks

2009-03-01T17:23:00.003-05:00

I didn't think I would get this weeks challenge done for the Awfully Big Art Adventure - I was growing impatient waiting for inspiration.

But then this was in my head:

The challenge was to alter a "blank". Essentially a unadorned cardstock something.

I choose a 6 X 6 empty box I had waiting for lightning to strike.

Ka-pow! The cure for the winter blues!

A lull...

2009-02-28T16:46:00.003-05:00

I'm sure you've noticed a marked decrease in the number of posts lately...

I started back to work two weeks ago and am having a hard time fitting in everything. But I think I may have a schedule worked out that will allow my work and my art to coincide.

At least I'm hoping so because quitting work isn't an option (Pesky contract!), and quitting art would threaten my sanity.

So next week will be a trial period to see if it will all work out.

In the mean time, I did get a chance to make a few terrariums, a picture of one I have included below:

It's not a great picture. I couldn't get the lighting just so.

But I love the ferns!

ABAA - Rocks

2009-02-21T19:10:00.003-05:00

So, over at the Awfully Big Art Adventure they offered up a very interesting challenge: to alter a rock. Any old rock.

Living practically on the Eastern Shore, I found it quite difficult to locate a rock!

As luck would have it I found a good specimen while walking the dogs.

This is what it became:

First I painted it with Gesso to get a good working surface. Next I leafed it in Variegated Gold Leaf: That is what gives it the mottled appearance.

Next I applied the flower rub on and accented it with a little flower and rhine stone brad.

Then I made the curly-que. It says "You can find inspiration in anything"

I made the butterfly out of stickers and a little plastic butterfly I had.

Lastly, I adhered the entire thing to a felt flower.

A very enjoyable project! (and a beautiful paperweight!)

Theme Thursday - Labels

2009-02-20T18:55:00.003-05:00

This week over at Theme Thursday the challenge is to incorporate a label into what you create. I came up with the ATC you see above.

I love the expressions on the people's faces! She looks like she is in need of a throat tablet, that's for sure!

Thanks for checking it out.

Mixed Media Monday - Hearts and Wings

2009-02-16T11:26:00.002-05:00

ATC made for the "Hearts and Wings" challenge over at Mixed Media Monday.

Not a theme I would normally choose - I'm just not that girly! But I enjoyed it and appreciate how it pushed me out of my comfort zone. Plus I like the way it turned out!

Weekend Work...

2009-02-15T19:17:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to give you a look of what I created this weekend...

First up is a layout about my One World One Heart experience. {It looks a little wonky because I used my camera instead of scanning it like I normally do!}

Next is a layout using a photo I took this week for my One a Week photography challenge...

And finally, an altered Printer's Drawer...

To see the details you will need to click on the photo and view it large.

I tried to have each rectangle relate somehow to my life. I love it and can't wait to get it hung up! I still have one more drawer to do, I just need to wait for inspiration to strike.

ABAA - Doors

2009-02-13T21:11:00.004-05:00

This week over at the Awfully Big Art Adventure the theme is Doors. I was inspired by Rosie's Door Hanger that she created, and decided to create my own version. {Thanks Rosie!!}

As you can see I haven't yet made it a "hanger" as there isn't anything to hang it from! I'm still deciding what type of fibers to use.

A peek inside the door...

The inside of the door says "Never hesitate to open the door to opportunity."

I used some mesh I had to create a kind of screen door.

I really like the way this turned out. Thanks again for the fantastic challenge. My walls are filling up with beautiful artwork thanks to you guys!

Theme Thursday - Game Pieces

2009-02-12T11:01:00.004-05:00

This week over at Theme Thursday the challenge is to use game pieces of some kind in your creation.

I put together the ATC you see above. I love the expression on the little boy's face!

I used a card from a game (I don't know which one - but it is also in french!) as the back ground. Added in the boy and some tidily winks, a couple of chip board arrows, a sticker of a vintage toy sheriffs badge, and a rub on border.

This is the first time I met a themed challenge without using any patterned paper!

Thanks for checking it out.

And the Winner is....

2009-02-11T20:37:00.006-05:00

So, Today is the big day! The drawing for One World One Heart! This fantastic event is in it's third year, created and coordinated by Lisa Swifka and this year there are 911 different participants! I feel so fortunate to have been able to participate.

But let's get on with what everyone is waiting for!

Instead of using a random number generator, I went old school:

I printed out the comments from the post and cut each one onto it's own slip of paper...

Then I folded each one up twice and dropped it into a box...

Mixed them up real good...

Had my husband draw the winning name...

And Congratulations go to .... Robin Westenhiser!

I will have your box off to you in two shakes of a lambs tail!

Again, thank you to everyone who left me the most wonderful comments! I enjoyed reading them all immensely and will be taking the time to drop by all of your blogs now that the excitement has calmed down.

Please come back and visit!

Mixed Media Monday - Romance

2009-02-10T18:25:00.004-05:00

Romance

This week over at Mixed Media Monday the theme is "Romance" in a bit of a pre-Valentine's celebration.

I have created the ATC you see above to complete the challenge. I used a vintage couple and placed them on a background of patterned paper, and embellished it with a Hambly Rub-on and a butterfly.

Now if I could just get my other Valentines done this easily...!

ABAA - Milagros Heart

2009-02-06T11:43:00.004-05:00

Mi Corazón

Loved, Loved, Loved this challenge! This week at Awfully Big Art Adventure the challenge was to create a Milagros Heart. It is a religious icon of sorts, popular in Latin America. (You can get more information here.)

I was inspired almost immediately! I have to admit that I am enthralled with the Latin American culture. But could a gringa like me do justice to this theme?

I created the ATC you see above. I love the way it turned out. For once it matched exactly what was in my head!

I used chipboard hearts and covered the bottom one with red and gold glass glitter. For the top one I first covered it with patterned paper, used a rub on from Hambly, and then a vintage button I had in my stash.

I used the hot glue gun to adhere the mini pearl garland around the edge and cut out the flames from chipboard covered in gold paper. Stuck it all on a card and here it is!

I added the picture below to show the different layers.

Linda, Rosie: Gracias por el fantastico desafio!

Theme Thursday - Borders

2009-02-05T11:37:00.003-05:00

"He Was Dreaming of His Future..."

This week at Theme Thursday the challenge is to use a border of some kind in your creation.

To meet this challenge I put together the ATC you see above. I actually used 2 borders: the lacy sticker you see on the bottom layer, and the metallic green on the top layer. The handsome gentleman is an "instant relative."

Additionally I used a Heidi Swap ghost clock, some vintage stamps and Basic Gray for the back ground.

Thanks for checking it out!

ABAA - Something to Crow About

2009-02-03T11:35:00.005-05:00

This week's challenge at the Awfully Big Art Adventure is crows. The ATC above is the one I created for this challenge. I am not entirely sure that it's done. It seems a bit too simplistic to me. Like it needs to be sophisticated up a bit. I just don't know what exactly it's lacking. I'll mull it over a bit and maybe it will come to me.

Mixed Media Monday - Fruits

2009-02-02T14:50:00.004-05:00

I had a bit of a creative block on this weeks theme at Mixed Media Monday.

Not because I didn't like it~ not by any means! Hermine chose a fantastic theme; but one that was challenging for me.

I was unsure how to incorporate an element that I have never used before. So this is what I came up with: It's called "Fruit Flys"

As you can see, it is a mobile. I used some strawberry and apple clips I have had on hand for about 2 years (I told you I don' t use fruit!).

I adhered feathers to create the wings, tied them up to some fishing line, and suspended them from a chipboard flower covered in patterned paper.

Super simple!

Theme Thursday - 4 X 4

2009-01-29T19:54:00.004-05:00

This week I actually finished 2 pieces using this week's Theme Thursday challenge of "4 X 4".

First a sweet little Valentine:

And also this piece titled "Shadow of a Fairy":

Another fantastic challenge!

On a side note... if you haven't yet signed up for my One World One Heart give-away then click on the link to your right and get your name in the draw!

A Second Canvas... ABAA

2009-01-29T13:15:00.005-05:00

I had such a good time making the last altered canvas, I decided to have a repeat, with some changes: This one is larger, and I used a bunch of different stuff!

I started by painting the frame and sides of the canvas in 2 shades of green and a rub of brown. Then I busted out the silver leaf and glued it over the frame and sealed it. After it dried I used brown and black paint, brushing it on over the silver and then rubbing it off until I go the vintage look I was going for.

The picture is one taken at my wedding of me and my husband. I altered it a bit so it would look older. Then I covered some chipboard swirls with paper, layered everything up and finished it up with a Hambly overlay, some ribbon, and a metal plate.

I have been looking for a way to use our wedding photos in an artful manner. I think this fit the bill nicely.

The first photo I used the flash to take it.... in order to highlight the silver overlay.

This view was using the ambient light, I think the 3-d-edness shows up better.

Thanks for checking it out!

One World-One Heart

2009-01-27T13:40:00.008-05:00

UPDATE: Winner has been drawn! To find out who it is, please click HERE to go to the post.

Comments are now closed on this post... Tomorrow the results of the drawing will be posted. Thanks to everyone! I was amazed at the great responses I received.

So I have taken my inspiration from Linda over at the Awfully Big Art Adventure and decided to participate in the One World-One Heart . I am a bit of a late comer, but you have until February 11th at 7:00pm Eastern Time Zone to list your comment on this post to be entered in my give away.

I am giving away the bottle cap charm that I made a week or so ago for the ABAA:

But that's not all! I also have some bits and pieces that I will include in the box... as a surprise!

Here is a sneak peak...

So if you are interested in trying you luck in my give away all you need to do is leave a comment, and ensure that you have included your email address so that I can contact you if you are the winner. I will draw a name randomly on the 11th, and will post the winner here on the 12th.

Good Luck Everyone!

ABAA - Altered Canvas

2009-01-25T14:53:00.005-05:00

I must confess, this is not the first time I have altered a canvas. In fact I have done many, including two that I hinged together and made a letter keeper for my grandmother.

When I read the challenge, my first instinct was to just use a photo of one of those.

But I thought twice and decided that I would be cheating myself out of a potentially (Awfully) Big Art Adventure! So off to the craft store I went and purchased my canvas.

Above you will see the finished product.

It is deceivingly small.

In fact, I have never done anything so tiny. (Save for that blasted bottle cap last week!)

To make this little gem I used several vintage stamps I had on hand, and collaged them with patterned paper, a die cut, some glitter and paint, to make the background. Then I cut out the image of the deer from an old photograph I had. And to finish it off I used the bird from another stamp, some paper, a metal plate, and a rub-on.

Below is a picture from an angle that I think shows the 3-D-ed-ness a little better.

And lastly is this image that will give you a better perspective of the tininess.

A great challenge, I must say!

A couple of photos...

2009-01-23T21:09:00.003-05:00

Trying to work on capturing texture. Of course the photos were all taken in my yard...

Of course, no photo session is complete without the boys playing along...

This is a macro of a bathtub foot I keep in my garden:

I am still working on my Macro Photography. I have a hard time holding still - even when using a tri- or mono-pod. But I have learned to hold my breath as I click the shutter, which has increased the number of clear photos I am capturing. I enjoy the practice!

Theme Thursday - 2 X 4

2009-01-22T09:44:00.003-05:00

12 x 12 is my size of choice. So a 2 x 4 size restriction is quite a challenge for me. I have to walk that line between enough and too much.

Above is my submission for Theme Thursday. Normally I am not a fairy kind of girl, but these two little ladies seemed to need some wings... perhaps it is all the Valentine's art going on right now! It is a bit difficult to see, but the coin above the girls says "Cherish."

Another fine art challenge! Now I'm off to do laundry, take the dogs to the park, scrapbook my second nephew's pictures, make dinner, clean house....

Ahhhh the glamourous life I lead!

Inauguration of President Barack Obama

2009-01-20T18:45:00.002-05:00

Inauguration of President Barack Obama, originally uploaded by Digger Digger Dogstar.

After spending all day watching the Inauguration, this cracked me up! (Thanks to Digger Digger Dogstar on Flickr!)

I felt a little bad for Bush... He had a less than enthusiastic entrance at the ceremony, and then had to high-tail it out of there so quickly. It must have stung a bit to have your replacement so much more welcome than yourself!

But now is a time of change.

I can't wait!

Mixed Media Monday - Primary and Secondary Colors

2009-01-19T11:03:00.004-05:00

I have decided to participate in Mixed Media Monday, after checking out the beautiful artwork being created by the artists there. This week's challenge is to use Primary and Secondary colors in creating your piece.

I have covered and embellished wooden letters that rest above the window in my studio. I used items that I have had on hand for some time, in an effort to use up some of my stash.

Thanks for checking me out. I'm off to work on my nephews album...

ABAA - Bottle Cap

2009-01-17T09:18:00.004-05:00

I had so much fun making the pendant a couple of weeks ago, that I decided to revisit it! I used a bottlecap I had, and squished it in my Sizzix. Then I used some memory wire and wrapped the marble and added the little bird.

I must admit that this is where I ran into some technical difficulties (read: impatience!): I had already adhered the paper to the front, and filled it in with some diamond glaze. I even let it sit for a few hours.

But that's when my patience ran out.

So I turned the cap over to adhere the wire, and set it under the lights to dry. Of course the Diamond Glaze was dry to the touch, but when upside down under the lights on top of a crayon box.... not so much. When I picked it up the glaze stuck to the box, and ripped the paper as I pulled it away.

So take two is what you see above! I remade the paper portion, using rub-ons and some glitter and a bitty flower.

Stick a feather in it... and call it done!

Theme Thursday - Couples

2009-01-16T14:13:00.004-05:00

This handsome couple are my Grandparents. This picture was taken shortly after they were married, during WWII. They were married for almost 55 years before he passed away. Though the journalling may appear to be a silly lover's promise, it is a lot more poignant to them: My Grandfathers name was John Dollar. My grandparents were very much in love, and he is greatly missed by my grandmother. Theirs was a love of a lifetime.

Busy week...

2009-01-15T20:47:00.002-05:00

So this week has just flown by! I can't believe it's Friday already. I had a delicious Tea Party on Sunday afternoon, pittered around the house, on Monday, don't remember much of Tuesday... Wednesday had to bear witness for a friend in court and go to the Ship and get some paperwork. Today was the big annual advancement exam, and my final check out from the Kearsarge. I am now free from that command and on my way to the helicopter wing in Norfolk. Of course between now and then I have 30 days of leave. I am going to use that time to continue to focus on my creative output. I would like to incorporate time to create into my daily routine, instead of making it a "special event."

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the people who have been both visiting my blog and leaving comments. It has been enormously motivational. All of your supportive comments have incredibly kind. It warms my heart to know that others are enjoying the work I create... almost as much as I enjoy creating it! 10-Q!

ABAA - Here's your sign

2009-01-11T10:58:00.003-05:00

So, this week for the Awfully Big Art Adventure, the challenge was to create a sign with your word of the year. I chose a phrase rather than a single word. I have been struggling with the concept of what makes an "artist." Where is the line between a craft and art? Between a "photo-taker" and a "photographer"? Perhaps it is only a person's perception. This year I want to cross that line and embrace my artistry. The goal is to be comfortable with myself and what I do, to be confident enough to share it with others, and to have others relate to it. That, I think, is what makes one an "artist."

For this sign I used chipboard and patterned paper I had, mounted on cardstock. Added in some ink and distressing, some flowers and ribbon, and "wa-la!" The DH is how I sign any of the pieces I give to others. Kind of my trademark, I suppose.

Theme Thursday - Vintage Valentine

2009-01-10T17:22:00.006-05:00

The words are bit hard to read. They say "If I was a lady, you would be my Valentine."

Image of Mae Lilly from Flickr group Collage Images, paper and embellishments from Jenni Bowlin Studio's January Kit. Added a Hambly rub on and some letter stickers I had laying around.

Done for Theme Thursday.

Pictures from around the house...

2009-01-07T18:43:00.005-05:00

Today's weather was wiggy, but during the brief moment the sun was out, I took the opportunity to take some pictures:

Angus and Cactus sharing a little lovin. They love being outside together.

...Waiting for spring...

He sure does love his beef knuckle.

Little dog and Big dog foot prints in the mud.

Theme Thursday - Something New

2009-01-05T10:45:00.003-05:00

Here is my submission to Theme Thursday . This first week of 2009 the challenge was "Something New". I created this ATC, titled: "Waiting for the Season to Change".

This is the first time I made my own embellishment out of Polymer Clay. It is also the first time I used a stamp in clay, and colored it with chalks; so a lot of new things to me. To add a bit of sparkle I embedded glass beads in the branches as leaves. And the background paper was also made by me - nothing fancy, just black card stock that I wrote "waiting" repeatedly on.

My inspiration was a friend of mine - her husband is leaving for Iraq today, she is pregnant and understandably scared. All she can do now is wait, and pray.

Charmed, I'm sure!

2009-01-04T22:25:00.006-05:00

Here is my creation for the Awfully Big Art Adventure 's first challenge for 2009. It is a charm titled "Create to Preserve a Moment".

This is the first time I've actually attempted to create a charm. Normally I am a strictly paper kind of gal. So it was fun to try something new. I used some old stamps I had laying around, a broken bit of necklace, a bit of paper with a clock on it, a brad and a small Hambly overlay. I think it turned out very nicely, just the way it was in my head!

WEEK ONE

2009-01-03T20:51:00.003-05:00

My favorite 2 for this week:

The photo I promised...

2009-01-03T18:17:00.005-05:00

Erin, if you are reading this and want it to be a surprise, STOP NOW! If not, then read on...

This is a close up of my standard signature. I sign all pieces I complete with a DH (Dollar Hammonds) and the date.

And this one is a small detail that I love love love! Underneath the journalling card (blank so that Trin can fill it out) I wrote secret wishes for her. The title of this page is "When I grow up..." The book is a "Book about me", with spots for her to fill out the answers to each question. That way when she grows up she'll have a little view into her young mind. I have two more books to do - one for each of her brothers, and then I'll drop them in the mail for them. Very late Christmas presents... But you can't rush art! (It had been established prior to beginning that it was going to be late... I'm not a bad Aunty!)

If you want to see more pictures, you can check them out on my Flickr page.

Off to a good start...?

2009-01-03T13:35:00.002-05:00

Last night T and I decided it was time to move the base cabinet into the house. Not a difficult task, one would think. So allow me to add some details, the most important of which is this: the thing weighs about 250 pounds. Without the drawers. And it is in the garage which means it must be maneuvered out the door, across the walkway, up 4 steps, thru the kitchen, turned around in the living room, and into the scrap room. After clearing the path, I must say I had some apprehensions. My shoulder has been jacked up for a while now - I suspect my rotator cuff is torn, but have yet to get a Navy Doctor to diagnose it - and I was nervous about lifting so much weight. So T devised a plan using a tie-down strap, in which it was wrapped around my waist and then under the cabinet, and then around his waist. All we would have to do then is stand up and guide it thru the house... HA! I am most grateful that no one with a video camera was around to record this debacle. After a few rest stops and one significant moment when I was sure my leg was not going to go up the stair, we managed to get it in the room. Which then takes me to my next dilemma...

So, let me explain how hard it is to get spray paint to dry when the temperature is below 50 degrees: it is, in fact, damn near impossible. I have rigged up a complicated system of halogen flood lamps and portable heaters in the garage to try and accomplish this. If it works, the new cabinet I have for the scrappy room is going to be fantastical! It should solve a number of storage problems I am suffering from currently.

Once this has been completed ( I have 4 or 5 more drawers to do...) I can then do the 2 challenges I have to do. One is to create a charm, and the second is to use something new. Perhaps I can incorporate them together...

I also have some pictures I have to take of the mini-book I completed for my niece. It turned out great. Once I finish her brothers' books and send them off I'm sure they will LOVE them. Plus they allow for them to write in them, which I especially like.

Never a dull moment, let me tell you!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T13:35:00.002-05:00

So, in order to have a reference for later in the year, I will now write the traditional New Year's Resolution post:

I resolve to live a healthier life (cliche, I know, but I need to write it down for the guilt factor later!).
I resolve to give Tony a great garage to work in.
I resolve to take at least one great picture every week, and will post it here for you.
I resolve to participate in the Awfully Big Art Adventure (see: http://bigartadventure.blogspot.com/)
So 3 and 4 are the 2 major parts of this one: I resolve to work hard on my creativity.

I think that should about do it. Oh, and I resolve to be content with what I have.

I think I will revisit this quarterly to see how I am doing - so the first marker will be in April.

Christmas Lights

2008-12-28T20:02:00.001-05:00

Here are some pictures, as promised. I really like the way our lights turned out this year - and it was really simple to put up. (and down! They are already packed away for next year.)

I almost feel like a thief!

2008-12-27T17:04:00.002-05:00

So. The holiday has come and gone. Overall, a good time was had by all. Of course we received all we had hoped for and more. T really outdid himself! The biggest surprise was the ipod touch. Lord knows I don't need a third ipod, but I love it! I am a sucker for a good gadget! Plus he did outstanding on the scrap booking stuff... cricut jukebox, and a humongous xyron! Now if I can just get my studio back under control I could go in there and scrap up a storm!

He got some awesome antique tools from my folks and I got him the bulls eye he wanted for treasure hunting. And that thing may have already paid for itself! He went to the beach today and hunted for a bit and came home with a MP3 player - that works! (and has a bunch of crazy Mexican rap on it) and what could potentially be a diamond ring! The center stone is about a half carat, with two quarter carat side stones and 3 of 4 baguettes next to that. I suspect the ring itself is sterling silver, and it is a very small size... it fits on my pinkie, but I can't wait to have someone get a look at it and tell us if it is real or not! This would definitely make up for the 100 pesos he brought home a while ago!

Tonight I would like to go out and snap photos of my Christmas lights - and then take them down on Sunday. The tree is already down and put away. It was just getting on my nerves. And taking up way too much room in the living room! (which is pretty tinified to begin with.)

Next week I think I am going to start going to go thru some of the crap I have stashed upstairs and decide what is going on ebay. I need to off load a bunch of this stuff. The sooner the better. My goal is to make the upstairs of the house more livable. It is pretty much just wasted space right now. I think I need more book shelves up there too. The 3 downstairs are full to the brim already. But there are some good books on there!

I'll try to have some pictures to post soon.

Twas the night before the night before Christmas...

2008-12-23T10:11:00.004-05:00

An excerpt from my internal dialog:

"I should be doing something.

It's 10 am and I haven't done anything yet. Well, I did go to work for about 2 hours, and I even did some stuff there, but that was almost 2 hours ago.

Maybe if I turned off the TV.

An early lunch would be just right. mmmmmm, baloney sammiches!

K. Now I should do something. Christmas cards? No. Work on the 3 presents I have left to complete? No. Play with the dogs? Too cold! Crank up the heat! That's better. Maybe update my blog... what's the new lolcat today?

Geeze louise I should be doing something. Do I have everything I need for Christmas dinner? I feel like I'm missing something. Maybe I should make the pies today.

But then maybe T will want to eat them.

Maybe I'll wait.

I think I'll take a quick nap and let everything work out on its own. Yea, a nap."

May your day be just as busy as mine!

Time marching on my head...

2008-12-21T17:48:00.002-05:00

So. Let me start with a little background: about 3 months ago I was on cruise, brushing my teeth and it occurred to me that I was turning 35. Which in my mind is half way to 40. I know, you realists would say that it is actually halfway to 70, but 30 being when I started thinking about myself as a grown up, 40 is scary. And 35 is half way there. So I managed to settle it in my head and move on.

Flash to last night: brushing my teeth (is this the only time I realize my mortality?) I found 3 grey hairs. They weren't my first, I had one a few months ago. But that one was an individual. Independent anomaly. But 3 at one time... that's hard to ignore. Aging is no longer something that happens to everyone else. High School was not just yesterday.

So I plucked them. I know. That's not going to stop them. And I'm sure there are many more hiding away in my not so luxurious, not so dark mane. But I have to try and baby step into it.

And maybe by next time I find them I will be better mentally prepared.

Settled in...

2008-12-18T19:15:00.003-05:00

So... the stockings are almost hung by the chimney with care...except there is no chimney and the stockings are in an old Walmart bag on the book shelf. But the tree and lights are up, the decorations are out, the presents are all wrapped, and I mailed off all the boxes but one today - I'm still waiting for one gift to arrive (for my Nana). Christmas is my favorite. But T and I suck at it. We have a hard time waiting for the big day - and when we get especially good gifts we have to give them right then! It's just silly. We've already opened up the Wii stuff. T got me a Wii Fit. It is SO fun! I was hula-hooping and tight-rope walking. I'm almost ready for the circus!

I am trying to decide how I want to challenge my photography for the next year. Now that I'm going to be home for the entire year I have an opportunity to work on it. Plus I am in work in getting my studio back together - I have a few projects to get busy on. I am looking forward to getting deep in the creativity. I am wanting to do some altered art. And as always I will post the photos here.

Pictures of Puerto Rico

2008-12-09T14:05:00.005-05:00

So here are some of the pictures I took while in Puerto Rico last fall. It was one of the countries we went to on our cruise - this one for liberty. (We were in Central and South America doing a number of humanitarian relief projects.)

Home again, home again, jiggity jig!

2008-12-08T16:41:00.000-05:00

FINALLY! My ship has come in! And this time I was on it. We pulled in on the 2nd (yes, of December) and I can now look forward to being home for about the next 3 years!! I can hardly believe it. I would like to post some of the pictures I took in Puerto Rico, but I haven't processed them yet. I should have them done in a day or two. Plus I am looking forward to getting back into the blogging business.

I need to get into my studio and let the creativity start to flow... Until then...

31 Days

2008-09-08T18:22:00.000-04:00

Thirty one days and no end in site! Well, there is an end, but it isn't for months. We were just in Colombia doing some humanitarian work. Previously we were in Nicaragua. Providing vaccinations, rehabilitating schools, building stuff. It's very rewarding to be on a war vessel not going to war. We are now on our way to our third county. This one was a bit unplanned - but Ike helped us make a decision. We will provide what we have and do what we can.
I have yet to leave the ship. My responsibilities as a Departmental LPO keep me here. AND I am so fair skinned that the carribean sun does not agree with me (you should see how RED everyone is coming back each day!), and to top it off, one of the primary modes of transportation to where ever it is we are going is by boat. And, believe it or not, this salty dog gets sea sick. My gills get green. It would ruin any good feeling I have after a day helping those less fortunate! And probably most of the next day too. But I'll be first in line to help out if we ever get pier side.

Last day off....

2008-08-03T20:23:00.002-04:00

I talked Tony into going to the Botanical Garden to take some pictures of the stone sculptures. Here are some pictures that I took. (you can see a few more by clicking on the flickr link on the right side of the screen.)

Today is my last day off for a while. Tomorrow is change of command, and Wednesday we are out on cruise. Four more months away from home. Hopefully it will be busy so time will go by fast. Of course, I will have little time for blogging... if the internet is reliable I will try to keep it updated. Otherwise, come December I will be back in business.

Friday views

2008-08-01T18:46:00.004-04:00

Just a few quick shots from today:

The heat baked the petals to the porch...
Chillin in the grass~

Can you find the brown cactus in the photo above?

Almost Time

2008-07-27T12:48:00.002-04:00

Less than two weeks. That's how much time I have left at home. Then out to sea for 4 more months. It seems like we just got back. If things go as planned, this will be my last big underway on this ship before I transfer. I am looking forward to getting it over with and getting back to some degree of normalcy. I feel guilty for not being home more, for not doing more things when I am home. T is the mostest wonderfullest husband I could ever ask for - he is so devoted and endlessly patient and helpful. I want to repay the efforts he has put into me. Into us.

I am also having a hard time centering my creativity. I feel rushed to accomplish anything. The ideas come to me fleetingly and I fear that by the time I can sit and create, that they'll be gone. I have tons of projects and stash and pictures, but no time to put it all together. And I am dreading the four months of sterility. I can't figure out how to take little bits with me to spark my creativity. Journaling will be a must. But I am a tactile artist. I feel incomplete without a pile of paper. I have yet to recover creatively from the last six month sabbatical; though that is probably because this four months was already looming above me. The sooner it starts, the sooner I feel I can get on with living.

Taken today....

2008-07-19T20:57:00.002-04:00

I was trying to capture the beauty of the clouds this afternoon. I adjusted the highlights just a little in this picture in order to make it more like what I saw.

These dudes are my best buds!

Another view of my garden. This one highlights the purple heart that's in bloom, and the black eyed susans in the back ground. I like the contrast of the colors.

I've been trying to take more photos and be a bit more active in Flickr and this blog. In 3 weeks I am gone again - south this time, and for 4 months. I will be back by Christmas, but I have no idea how frequently I will be able to post. But I will continue to take pictures and will catch up on the posting when I get home.

Outside shots

2008-07-16T20:58:00.003-04:00

Little baby Roma Tomatoes all nestled in waiting to ripen... and they are DELICIOUS!

A Black Eyed Susan getting ready to stretch.

I like the way the shadows fall on this one.

These pictures were all taken in my garden this evening.

Quick Pic

2008-07-13T09:59:00.002-04:00

So I realize that I haven't taken many pictures lately! I need to remedy that one. T went to the camera store yesterday and got me cleaner for my sensor so I think I will use that and then start carrying the camera around more. The above photo is from the hydrangea I planted behind the house. It bloomed beautifully this year. I'm still practicing the macro thing. Plus spending a lot of time on altered art. I am amassing my treasures and brainstorming fabulous ways to incorporate them into art.

Newness

2008-07-12T17:49:00.002-04:00

So, after having the blog for two years, I finally customized the title. I made it today using Anna Griffin, Sassafrass Lass, and Basic Grey Papers and some other little things I had laying around. I like the way it turned out. And now realize it is so easy I could change it whenever I want! I have a bunch of photos and stuff I need to upload. I got a new computer and it has none of my pictures on it. I think that is what I will do next...

Still more catching up to do...

2008-06-20T17:14:00.005-04:00

It seems like every time I get around to blogging I have to catch up on weeks of happenings? I'm a blogging looser.

So today I'd like to catch up on my artistry. I am currently playing around with mixed media collage and altered books. It's fun because it's the things I like about scrapping - the paper and paint and stuff- without the journaling or stress of trying to capture the moment. Perhaps "stress" isn't exactly the right word. Even a bad day scrapbooking is infinitely better than even a half day of work!

So here are some pictures of the first altered book I did:

I also like that I can experiment without fear of jacking up a picture or layout. So I try my hand at painting and stamping and all kind of stuff. I finished up another book today. It's even more dream like than the one above. I have gotten a bunch of collage stuff, mostly off ebay. I have a box of old stamps and old homeless pictures (not pictures of the homeless, pictures that don't have a home!) Plus I won bids on some junk boxes with broken jewelry and single action figures. I can't wait to get into that stuff... Just waiting for inspiration to strike.

Some Catching up to do...

2008-05-11T15:57:00.003-04:00

Haven't had any time to take any photos, but I did get some scrapping done. I have spent the weekend trying to revitalize my creativity. I have brought a great amount of stress home with me and it was taking its tole. I have hundreds of "almost ideas" in my head, but very few are forming into completed projects. I guess it is time to buckle down and pay attention to myself. I did get a few more lay outs done with pictures from cruise:

And here is a mini book I put together on my garden this year. I used a chipboard flower shaped album I got in a kit, and the plastic plant markers that came in the potted plants, and then a bunch of embellishments I had - flowers, buttons, rub-ons... the works! It was a lot of fun to do and I like the way it turned out.

In about a week and a half we are on our way to Fleet Week in New York. I'm not sure yet what is on the agenda for me. I don't have a garanteed Liberty Partner since Sonya transferred. Who else will want to traipse around museums and archetecture taking pictures all day?? Maybe I'll get lucky and someone will be interested. I need to get out my guide book and see if I can nail down a few cool places to go and see.

Flower Day

2008-04-13T18:54:00.004-04:00

So, after another week at sea, and a duty Saturday, today is a spring Sunday. After a delicious breakfast at ihop, we decided to get our gardens in gear. I was getting frustrated with spring sprung all over the place and nothing but dirt and weeds outside my window. So off to McDonalds Nursery we went. Let just say we needed two carts to get out of there. But I got my herbs, flowers and such. Then on the way home we stopped at Home Depot to get some dirt and got a couple of more plants. A beautiful Boston Fern to take the place of the bird feeder for the summer, and I got some azaleas for the back yard. Lots of perennials. Now that we have the porch railing up the plants should be more resilliant... no canine piggies stomping them into the ground.

I was messing around with my camera last week, trying my hand at some Macro. It is more difficult to get the focus clear than I thought it would be! I was using the lens T got me for my birthday. Here's what I managed to produce:

Plus a couple fun ones of the meat-heads:

Hopefully the grass will start to grow back in - after the drought last year and the dogs loosing their damn minds every time someone walks by, it's been difficult to get it to grow. I think maybe we should just concrete the whole thing. Low maintenance!

No new photos today...

2008-04-06T12:36:00.002-04:00

I was at sea all week, and all weekend it has been raining. I would like to get outside later today and get some pictures of the wysteria in the yard - it is in full bloom and just beautiful. I wish the light was better, but if I wait until next weekend the blooms will be falling. We are underway again all week, plus I have weekend duty so I won't have any good days off for about 2 weeks. I will just have to find otherways to keep myself happy.
Started a new job last week. I realize now how wide spread complete idiocy is on my ship. What a bunch of morons. I am no longer amazed at the dumb things that happen. There is a lot of insecurity and back stabbing up and down the chain of command. If everyone would worry more about doing their job and less about what everyone else is doing every minute of the day I think the day might go a little smoother. The light at the end of the tunnel is that our entire chain of command will be new by the end of the year.
I have been doing a lot of thinking about regrets I have about my life thus far. Generally I don't think a lot about the past; it could be a form of avoidance, but I prefer to think of it as what is done is done. But there is at least one scene in the play of my life that I wish I had done something different and know in my heart that it would have changed the entire outcome of my life. What I am finding difficult is to come to terms with the "what if" and accept and enjoy what I have now. I think the hang up is the damage I caused to other people, and my inability to apologize or make up for my actions. I'd like to think that the opportunity to do so will some day present itself, but I would also like to move past the guilt that crops up so frequently.

A dog day afternoon...

2008-03-23T15:54:00.005-04:00

This morning we took the canines to the beach at Ocean View. It's nice there - close to the house, has a wave break, so no fear of Russet swimming off into oblivion, dogs are allowed off leash, and it is reletively empty in the mornings. We took them there last weekend for the first time and they were pretty sure it was the greatest day of their doggy lives. Today was much of the same. Angus enjoyed the bubbles, Russet chased birds, there was a rock to kick around, and to top it all off - something smelly and dead to roll around in. A dream come true for the big guys! We completed the morning with baths once we got home. They are now sound asleep and snoring. Happy, happy dogs.

I also took the opportunity to snap some shots. Here are some I liked:

The wrapper says "Vitamin Water"

Photographising

2008-03-14T20:47:00.004-04:00

Took advantage of a fantastic afternoon and went over to the Norfolk Botanical Gardens and fired off a few shots. I was very pleased to see that I was not the only one that had such a great idea - saw at least 4 other people also taking photos. Here are a few of my favorites - you can see more of them on flickr. (link to the right)

Photo Busy

2008-03-08T12:00:00.008-05:00

Some of my Favorite Things (Right Now)...

From Left to Right, Top to Bottom, they are:

The Vintage Electric Clock in my Studio

The Chandalier in the living room

Rock Band! (the video game)

Pottery Barn photo shelf

Little Globe I bought at target

Paper Mache cat I got on cruise

Scent Diffusers

My Ipod (My Sanity)

My new S&W

Fabric Flowers in a Jar

My Bedroom set and Drapes

A good strong cuppa joe.

I 've been messing around with my new Macro Lens (Canon EF 100mm 1:2.8 USM) trying to get the perspective right. It's a lot harder than I thought it would be. But I am enjoying the practice. I have been wishing I live in a more photogenic town. I think I am going to have to go on a road trip to Williamsburg or out to the country. I went downtown last week and took some photos. Here are the ones I like best:

Until next time...

I'm back~

2008-02-26T13:43:00.005-05:00

So, I think I can go down as one of the world's worst bloggers. Maybe not the worst, but one of them, I am sure. I returned from my cruise (of the Navy kind) about 3 weeks ago. It was an arduous 6 months, let me tell you. But we did go to some cool places, most of which I hadn't been to yet, so that was awesome. Most memorable was our stop in Isreal, where I had an opportunity to go to Jerusalem. I have yet to work up words on how that experience was. I've been mulling it over for a while.

But I have been busy since I've been back. Working on my photography, scrapping the tons of pics I took on the ship, trying to teach my undisciplined black dog to walk on a leash properly... never a dull moment! I have attacked life anew, just trying in general to be a better all around person. And not so selfish. Baby steps...

So today is my 34th birthday. Not that old, but somedays it feels like ancient. I have spent the day taking pictures, playing with the dogs and tidying up around the house. Not a real memorable birthday. Tony got me a fantabulous Canon Macro lens for the camera - and I'll have it in a few short days. I can't wait to play around with it! It is going to awesome, I'm sure. If spring would, well, spring, then I can take all the flower shots I am looking forward to taking! Fun!

Here is some of the stuff I've been working on:

These were taken when my sister and her kids were here for my homecoming. We went down to VA Beach because they had never seen the ocean before...

And this is what I did with the pictures:

I know, the background is distracting, but that recliner and curtain are pulling double duty until I get a photo studio set up! (dreaming big, now!)

Here are some silly photos Tony and I took last night:

Holy crap, we laughed so hard we almost cried while we were messing around with the camera!
You can check out some of the other stuff I have done by going over to 2 Peas in a Bucket and taking a gander. http://twopeasinabucket.kaboose.com/userprofile.asp?user_id=222065

Long time no Sea

2007-12-13T08:48:00.000-05:00

I really meant to blog before now. It's just that life got in the way, as usual. Here it is, almost Christmas, the year quickly coming to an end. I am still on deployment, weeks from being home, and currently in Dubai, for the second time. Since my last writing, we were here, then went down past the equator doing some Ops, and then got called to Bangledesh. And now we are back here. I have been having the Christmas blues. I called my husband today - I miss him so much! It was my fourth call home in 4 months. I don't want to become too dependent on them!
I am looking forward to some shopping over the next couple of days. I would also like to try and schedule in a massage. I've had a bit of tension building... (snort!) I've been sending presents home from every port, so I'm hoping that I will be excused from the seasonal requirements... I know it will be made up for in the future. I do feel kind of bad, though. I hope that my family knows that I am thinking about them all the time, and missing them!
I am looking forward to getting home and scrapping all the fantastic things I've seen and done in the last (then) six months. I have so much stuff to work on! And all the new photos I'll take to add to it, it's going to be great!
Now I just need to get to the end... and I am almost there. Groundhog day will finally be over

Lazy Sunday!

2007-09-30T10:07:00.000-04:00

So today has been quiet! I got to sleep in, they are fishing and hitting golf balls, pt-ing in the hanger and flight deck... very nice. We watched a Will Farrell marathon. I got my good camera out and took some pictures around the ship, watched two episodes of An American Dad. A very nice change of pace.
In 11 days is my 4 year anniversary with Tony! I am sad I am not going to be home for it. But that is part of the fabulousness - I know that I have nothing to worry about at all. It's only one anniversary when we have so many more ahead of us. He's the greatest husband ever!
It's been like Ground Hog Day here! Every day is a repeat of the day before. We had a brief break in Bahrain, but it was too short, for sure. Plus the last couple of days no one on the ship had liberty, so we were sick of each other again before we even pulled out!
I would like to put some time into learning the whole digital scrap-booking thing. I know that it will never take the place of the paper and glue scrapping - I love that way too much! But it would be cool do to some layouts before I get home. I have all the stuff here to do it - I just need to learn how! Plus I can't wait to have more opportunities to practice with my camera.
Tomorrow will be another day at work. And I may even feel like doing something then! But for now I must get the guys to clean the shop...

Bahrain

2007-09-17T11:03:00.000-04:00

So, moving right along through our cruise, today we are in Bahrain. Our executive officer has said we are here for a "RRR" visit - Responsible Rest and Relaxation. Apparently that is his attempt to keep us from getting buck wild! So far so good. It is a working port, so our actual amount of rest and relaxation is limited. The best thing is that there is a full base here so we can stock up of the essentials - laundry soap, toothpaste, electronical type items. Oh, and there is free wi-fi, so I can actually get on the computer and yuck it up. Ihad an opportunity to download some new music and upload some pics to flickr. So a very successful port visit. So the tally so far is: Malta, Souda Bay (for an overnight), Marmaris Turkey, and now Bahrain. And we are only 6 weeks in! Already we are 3 ports more than the last cruise I took (post Sept 11 on the Theodore Roosevelt)
If you want to check out the flickr photos you can use the link to the right. I have uploaded some of Turkey and Malta. Enjoy!

Malta...

2007-08-18T07:01:00.000-04:00

So I've been trying to upload pics from my stay here in Malta, but the computer's at work are so slow I can 't get it done. I think. Or maybe it's that the pics are so big... I think that may be it. I'll try resizing them and posting again.
It is just beautiful here. The buildings are of super old sand stone blocks. The oldest ones were built by the Moorish. They all have the most interesting carved enclosed porches and huge wooden doors. And for some reason door knockers are sold in nearly every store. Wierd. I went on a tour of Valletta, the capitol city. We went to St. Johns cathedral. It was breath-taking. Every inch of it was carved or painted or guilded. The entire floor was inlayed marble. Just fantastic. We also went to the palace armory where they had tons of suits of armor and cannons and swords. This is where the Musketeers are from. The older streets have steps any where it is up/down hill instead of just sloping because the knights would tumble over on a slope, but they could traverse the stairs. It makes me snicker to imagine a knight toppling over in the middle of the street!
We have a couple more port visits before we go thru the Suez. I am looking forward to Turkey. But that one isn't next - we have one in the middle. I am trying to be somewhat evasive to not give away our position!
I am missing home. I haven't even gone out at night. In by 2130! The kids are getting so drunk and disorderly that I figure that by the 4th or 5th port they will all be on liberty risk and It will have calmed down enough to be fun. I just don't enjoy going out and getting snockered. I will be going on another tour in Turkey. I would like to try and go on at least one each port. You always see something you otherwise wouldn't see.
I have searched the entire city for a christmas ornament, or something that could pass as one, only to no avail. For a big catholic population they sure don't make ornament available around here! You would think they would have them for the tourists to buy! I did, however, get a beautiful glass paperweight. I don't really have any papers to weigh down, I just like the way it looks!
Until the next port...

Almost on my way...

2007-07-24T21:04:00.000-04:00

So I have again been neglecting my blog. and it is only going to get worse, I assure you. I am on my way to serve my country again. A six month deployment. We leave next week. I think I am ready. As ready as one can ever be packing up and leaving their life for half a year. I still have odds and ends to take care of. T, I think is dreading it. It will be harder for him, staying here. I, at least, will be in all the exotic locals the Navy takes us to (snort!) I would like to keep the blog relatively updated- I think that blogspot is still an authorized website on the ship.
This past weekend we went up to PA to visit the fam. It was fun. I took a lot of pictures of Tyrone for my dad. He's interested in documenting the town for historical reasons. He thinks he's just getting nostalgic in his old age. It was nice walking around with him talking about the buildings. T was busy welding up a fence gate for them. It turned out super nice. I just love their house. And all the work they've done there is impressive.

2 in one month, even!!

2007-06-11T20:22:00.001-04:00

All right so here is some more scraptasticness!

This is a quick layout I did of Tony. I was dying to use the Hambly overlays. Plus the picture was taken with my new camera - I am loving that thing!

This one was done for Nana's suprise Birthday Party. All the guests were asked to make a layout for an album they are going to put together for her. The journalling in the card says this:
"Nana Banana:
Laughter has always been a part of out family; it has been the tie that binds us. Our family motto should be: When in Doubt, Be Silly! And as matriarch, we frequently see you as the Ring Leader of this Circus. Thank You. Laughter is what makes memories fonder, and thanks to you we all have many. If laughter truly is the key to youth, we should probably all go have our diapers changed! We love you!" I love the old pictures. They totally crack me up!

No. I'm not dead.

2007-06-09T20:37:00.001-04:00

Though the lack of posts would probably lead you to believe that I am. I have been super-d-duper busy at work; an new Chief since I last posted, a bunch of time at sea, 3 major inspections, a trip to Ft Lauderdale, and one last underway before we go on cruise. I have been neglecting almost everything! Tony has been busy with Jr, they have a boat they are working on. I got a new canon camera I am totally loving. I even scrapped this weekend! Here's what I managed to throw together:

I especially like the one of Tony. I have been trying to take a pic of him folding my laundry for some time. He takes such good care of me.

This Weekend's Work

2007-02-25T16:42:00.001-05:00

Here are the layouts I finished today: the first is of pictures of toys the dogs have destroyed and left laying around the house. I thought it was funny that there was at least one in every room. If only they could be more gentle with their babies!

The fluffy stuff in the above layout was a pillow that I had just gotten for the couch. Apparently Angus decided we didn't need it. This was the only time he ever destroyed something when we weren't home.
I just think they are so cute gazing longingly out the gate!

This Saturday there's another crop for the Hampton Roads Scrappers. I want to go, but I also want to invite Sage and Ronnie over for dinner, plus I may not have time to get everything I want together before hand. We'll have to see. I need to get my camera out and take some pics. I haven't snapped even one since Christmas! I should practice up before I go anywhere!

One more thing:

2007-02-19T18:32:00.000-05:00

While surfing around I found a very cool blog: http://scrapjacked.blogspot.com/index.html A group of super-scrappers choose a design team member and scrapjack them. This week they scrap jacked Amber Skolnick, a very talented scrapper, and I found her layout very inspiring. Here's my own scrapjack:

As Promised...

2007-02-19T15:59:00.000-05:00

Here are the layouts I finished at the crop. Nothing real complicated, but I like them. Plus I am slowly working thru the photos I printed out to have scrapped! Enjoy:

Here I am.

2007-02-18T18:14:00.000-05:00

I have been seriously neglecting my blog. I guess I have had some writer's block. Work is requiring some extra energy. By the time I get home I'm exhausted. Today, I have literally been sitting in the recliner all day. Slovenly. Today it is next to heavenly. I have caught up on my browsing blogs, perused my message boards, and looked at the news. I ate candy, and popcorn, and bacon. It's fabulous.
Yesterday I went to my very first crop. It was so fun! There were about 15 ladies there, it was 12 hours of scraptasticness!! I got 3 12X12 pages done and 2 8X8 pages done. not a ton, but I didn't put together page kits before I went, so I thought it was productive. Plus we fit in some shopping at the LSS next door, ate and ate and ate, took a group photo, and shared ideas, techniques and products. I will definately be going again next month. I am feeling very inspired! Later I will scan the pages I completed and upload them.

Lessons learned?

2007-01-22T19:52:00.000-05:00

When I was young in the Navy and my supervisor tasked me with doing something, I did it. Naively, when I tell my guy to go do something, I assume they are doing it. It suprises me later when I discover it wasn't done. This morning I had my guys go out to the pack and wipe down all the gear and remove the tie down chains. A simple task, really, that would take all of 20 minutes. I actually allotted them 45 so they could grab-ass a little before moving on. I didn't go and double check that it was done, first because I was busy, but also because I sent the whole shop out there- senior personnel as well. Why wouldn't it have been done? Imagine my dismay at 0930 when I walked past a fire truck and found it filthy, and then noticed that none of the chains had been removed. So instead of bitching the guys out then and having it done again, I just filed it away. Today was a hell of a day - I made a lot of people upset with my knack of pointing out they weren't doing their job. And our working hours were extended an hour and a half to 1530. So after an exhausing day of arguing, at 1530 I called my shop together. That's when I informed them that they would be cleaning the gear, collecting the chains and additionally moving some gear, before they could go home.
Now I know that the reason behind this was to teach them that when instructed to do something , it is better to do it right the first time than it is to have to do it on your free time. I hink they got that. My second lesson, though more subtler, was to teach my Second Classes that if they were actually supervising the young guys, ensuring that the job was done right, then none of us would have had to stay late. I'm not sure they got that lesson, though. I am quite certain, however, that they will next time. Next time the group is tasked with something that isn't done I will send home all the junior guys and have the seconds do it themselves. Maybe then they will learn the value of supervising.
I find the role of the disciplinarian very difficult. I don't like playing games. I wish they would just listen to what I am saying and do it. But I know that an evolution like today's is valuable. It is just that I am distressed when I hear they guys complaining and getting upset because of the "BS" and know that I am the cause of their misery. I suppose in reality that they are really the cause, but my feminine side (that I try not to let the guys see!) still feels sympathy for them. Leadership can be a double-edged sword for me.

Valentine's Already??

2007-01-21T19:55:00.000-05:00

I finished my 3 Valentine's day cards for the swap the outlaws are having. I am early, even! I am loving the way they turned out. Plus I got them packaged, along with Dad's album and a book for Theressa. I am just about packaged out!

You can barely see it, but the little silver beads say "love".

It almost snowed today. Instead it just sleeted. Now it's just raining and crappy cold. I guess winter will be here for a while. We got a jump start on spring today and bought seeds and starter pots for veggies. I can't wait to get the garden growing. I also got a gardening magazine and would like to redesign some of the yard. BIG plans, especially with cruise looming in the (near?) future.

Dad's Graduation Layouts

2007-01-14T18:03:00.000-05:00

So today I finally worked on my Dad's Grad stuff that my mom brought down at Thanksgiving. I managed 6 layouts and really like the way they turned out. I decided to do them in 12 x 12, probably my most favorite and most used format, and then I'll just send additions to the album peridically. I hope they like them:

The color's a little wonky on the one above! The purple around his picture is really black!
The program from the commencement opens up and has the alma mater printed in it.
This program also opens and lists all the grads at the pinning ceremony.
The white circles are actually print outs of his grades.
The slit cut thru the congrats is so that all his grad cards can be put in the pocket I made.
The BG flowers are raised slightly with pop dots for a little more dimension.

Off work tomorrow... maybe some more scrappin to get done. I need to start brainstorming on Valentine's Day cards for a swap.

January Challenge

2007-01-01T19:04:00.000-05:00

So I was feeling inspired and already completed my January 2007 Challenge for the Outlaw Scrappers. The Challenge was to scrap a layout about someone you admired or influenced you. I chose to scrap my Dad. Here's the journalling (it's hidden on the layout):

He's never been a Daddy; always a Dad. It seems much stronger:
DAD. He's been a prominant figure in my life. He and my mother were
young when I was born, and it was evident in the way we were raised.
My dad would spend Saturday mornings on the couch with us, eating dry
fruit loops and watching bugs bunny. Dad would hide behind doorways
and jump at us when we came in. He is the reason I don't startle
easily now. He was always active in a Volunteer Fire Department,
sparking my interest in it, eventually leading me to get a degree in
Fire Science. He and I taught Red Cross CPR classes together,
showing me the art of Public Speaking and the joy of teaching,
giving me confidence as an awkward teen. He showed me the importance
of giving back to your community and the value of discipline. My
father has always been supportive of me and proud of my achievements,
no matter how insignificant. His relationship with my mother has
been a steadfast reminder of the power of love. When he went back to
college after retiring from the Air Force he showed me that you
should never be fearful of starting over. At his father's funeral he
said he was most proud of being Dr. John Dollar's son. I now know
what he meant. I am very proud that this man is my father. I am
Robert Dollar's daughter.

I stiched around the heart and picture and journal card with my sewing machine. This is the first time I really used an old picture (I am the baby in the picture) and I just love the way it came out. This one is a new favorite!

Happy New Year!

2007-01-01T11:22:00.000-05:00

What a great day! 2007 already, can you believe it? I started off my day with a fantastic breakfast made for me by my loving husband. I also updated by Blog template and made a webpage on Dogster for Russet, you should check it out! The Rose Bowl Parade is on TV, my husband is looking up dentists, the animules are snoozing, all is good in the world! Hope your New Year is as peaceful as ours.

Catching up on scrappiness.

2006-12-30T18:15:00.000-05:00

I finally completed the November Challenge layout for the Outlaw Scrappers. It was to scrap a place that means something to you. One of your favorite places. I chose Tyrone PA. My journalling, which you can't read on the picture because it's too small is as follows:

Ask me where I'm from and I'll tell you Tyrone PA. If you are familiar with the area and ask me where in Tyrone I'll start my story of how I never actually lived in Tyrone. I know how it sounds, never living in a town I call home, but Tyrone is familiar to me in that homey kind of way. Or at least as close as I have ever gotten. You see, my father joined the Air Force in 1976, when I was 2 years old.We had been living in a neighboring town, Tipton, the closest I've ever been to living in Tyrone. We promptly moved to the first of seven duty stations that ranged from Utah to Spain to New Jersey. We actually lived six straight years in Wichita Kansas, which until recently, was the longest I had ever lived anywhere. But throughout the years of moving, whenever my father could get some time off we packed our bags and made the trek home, to Tyrone. My father' sparents have lived there more than 50 years, and my mother's familyis spread out in neighboring towns. Now that I am in the military I still go home to Tyrone when I can get the time off. My parents have moved back there, and both my grandmothers now live in town. For me the homey feeling isn't from knowing all the streets and buildings. It's from knowing that people who love me and call me family are there. That makes it my home too.
Hope you like it.

Huh.

2006-12-27T21:18:00.000-05:00

I read the most interesting article today: 50 Things We Know Now (That We Didn't Know This Time Last Year) 2006 Edition
Read the full story.
By JEFF HOUCK The Tampa Tribune
I have always found the concept of technological advancement fascinating. My grandmother is 92 years old. She was born in 1914. Just take a moment and think of all the things that have been invented in her lifetime. If she had been told as a teenager about cell phones and the internet she probably wouldn't believe it. GPS and Space Exploration, DVD's and digital cameras. With the speed with which technology is advancing, now take a moment and try to imagine all the things yet to be invented in our lifetime. Even in the mere 32 years that I've been alive we've advanced thru VHS and rabbit ears. In another 30 years... sky's practically the limit!

Sorry for the neglect!

2006-12-24T21:18:00.000-05:00

I am a bad blogger. Here it is, Christmas Eve, almost a month since my last entry. Not even any photo updates! I don't even have a very good excuse. I haven't been to sea much, We're in Holiday stand down at work, I've even thought about blogging, I just haven't! We're all ready for christmas here, tracking Santa on Norad, surfing the web on our lap tops by the light of the christmas tree, A Christmas Story on the tv. A nice, quiet Christmas eve. All the animals are dozing, it's nice.
Here are some of my favorite pics taken recently:
My tree this year, of course done with Crayola ornaments!
This one is my Crayola house and elves, one of my favorite things!
This tree belonged to my Nana for years and years. I couldn't help but call my brother and brag about having it! He is so jealous!

This is our new addition, Russet with his new big brother Angus. They are so cute together!!! He's going to be a big guy, we suspect! He's weighing in at 23 pounds at 11 weeks! His dad is 85 lbs and the vet seems to think that he'll out weigh him! You can see by his paws next to Angus that he may just give him a run for his money! You should see the two of them together! They love to wrestle and play. It's so fun to watch. I'm glad they are such good friends.

I made star albums this year for Christmas for my sisters two oldest. I really like they way they turned out. Kind of like a reverse pop-up book. I used their Halloween pictures and made little story books using them as characters. Here's what they looked like:

So tomorrow is the big day. I can't wait for Tony to open his presents. I did good this year! I had some doubts, but I pulled it off! I'll update tomorrow and share all the greatness! Until then...

One fine bird!

2006-11-26T20:53:00.000-05:00

Let me tell you: I cook one heck of a good turkey! This year I did a garlic rosemary turkey. I tucked cloves of garlic under the skin and then roasted it in broth until it was done. It was so tender and juicy! I can cook my ass off! It's not my favorite thing to do, but when the need arises I can step up to the plate!
Our dinner was just delicious. And the squash was just fabulous! I used a recipe from food network by Malto Mario. It was eaten at room temp and marinated in olive oil, red wine vinegar and red onions. I've never had anything like it, and it was GREAT!
I am almost ready for the holidays, I guess. We'll be at sea for a week or so, and when I get back the ship's holiday party is on Thursday, and then I have friday off and that is when I am planning on setting up the tree and decorating the house. I just love decorating for Christmas. I have already bought and shipped all my gifts to PA, but nothing to AL yet, and nothing for Tony. I have a couple of ideas, but they are kind of lame. I need to come up with something fantastic. Plus I need to do the albums for Kaden and Trinity. Erin sent the cutest halloween pics out, and I want to do star albums, but I'm in such a time crunch! I really want them to be on time. I guess I need to get crack-a-lackin!
I will post pics when I get them done.