Dropping the MIC.....

Enjoyed Obama's White House Correspondents' Dinner - it's always good to have that final 15 minutes in life to speak TO all the negative things that came your way during a time when you tried and gave your best enduring the worse case scenarios....be it associates,comrades,constituents, co-workers, etc...BUT always remember.....KARMA! KARMA!!He dropped the Mic!!! APPLAUSE!

I'm sure we have all been there at some point in time.....YES?

While sitting here this AM, with the screen door open to hear the wonderful sound of the rain beating down, I heard the oddest sound coming from outside. I decided that it was a cat creating that unusual whining though I still found it so strange so I decided to wonder to the back and look out through the screen door...and there perched on top of the fence very poised and frozen in time was a squirrel creating a chatter I had never heard before....I was so sure it was a cat! You never know....Guess the squirrel dropped the mic too! (Just as I tried to snap him/her, it ran away)...

Dreading having to clean this area up......

Is it Morning or Night?

Today..is Saturday....took a look at that "bad moon rising" tonight....it was so beautiful. It was such a beautiful color, almost a yellowish orange if that is possible (I know...I know...why didn't I take a photo...DUH UH) and all I could think about was that it would bring MANY things, both good and bad....those kind of moons always wreak havoc with our lives and this world....

At my friend's Arrie's house, helping with her computer and cable - she wants to be another FREED individual from the directTV and in that same category, the DISH and COMCAST, who sucked us dry with padded fees and billing. So YES to liberation from the bonds of those entities and hands held high for STREAMING movies, videos, music.....OHHHHH YES......

It's 2:35 AM and as usual, my friend SLEEP is just not having it - continuing to dance with my brain and heart, never getting tired enough to lay it down. SO HELLO, Good Morning and All Blessings for another good day....while I wait for zzzzzzzzzz.....

So I'm Back...What took me so long?

Been a while since I have been blogging. I think I wanted to come back to it because I have grown older and so many stories to tell and artwork to share. Taking a look around there is so much to clean up here and to find my way around again but most of all, so much conversation to share from my thoughts and daily sights in life. The simplest of things bring many memories and stories, as I said before, back to me. And, as I continue on my journey through this life, Let Me Tell You A Story to share along with my art.

I started this blog wayyyy back and got side-tracked for many reasons. It was difficult to begin and why today, I am doing so, I cannot say but interestingly enough....

Yesterday, one of the most "phenomenalistic" (and yes, I made that word up) individuals in the music industry passed away = PRINCE. His death has affected me profoundly with sadness and tears (GONE TOO SOON) yet it has lit a strong urge in me to get moving again - leave my voice and art out here, if only to appease me. This will be fine (and though you cannot see me at this moment, I am smiling).

This is Day 1 again....I am still AnArtist@Heart always....

A Saturday Morning Jaunt with My Daughter

Last Saturday around 6:30 AM, my daughter and I got the itch to travel to a place on Highway 100 in TN that is very famous for it's scrumptious breakfast {biscuits and yes, fried chicken]. The name of the place is "The Loveless Cafe." Celebrities from all over the US have traveled to this quaint eatery and their autographed photos drape the walls. I remember when Al Roker from NBC Today Show was there years ago. He was ecstatic. The "Biscuit Lady" [the late Carol Fay] made the biscuits from scratch, became super famous and was featured on the Martha Stewart Show. Unfortunately, she died suddenly but she is paid homage all over the grounds of the Loveless Cafe amid the unique artsy outdoor shops and pit BBQ. I did have the pleasure of taking a photo with Carol Fay - she was a very special individual. As you will read, the Loveless Cafe used to be a hotel many years ago. It has been remodeled but travelers still come from all over the US to dine. And, best not to be in a hurry.. heh heh.... It is a worthy experience.

As my daughter and I traveled on this road early AM, there was very heavy fog{as you note from the photo - 611 x 622] which made the journey so peaceful and serene. All was right with the world... It was beautiful. I saw golfers playing in the mist along the way. I had to capture the moment for we will always remember.....

A Tree in the Mist

This is a graphic sketch 544 x 408 of an actual tree in the fog that my daughter and I saw along the way to the Loveless Cafe for early AM breakfast. There were golfers in the distance on carts but it seemed they were moving in slow motion. Again, it was surreal like a dream. FOG creates a mystical presence.

The Smiling Drummer was Framed

This is a finger drawing [graphic art - 320 x 480] of a drummer friend which I created with a mobile app on my Ipod Touch (I love doing these from time-to-time). He has been a professional drummer and photographer for many years with an fascinating photography collection of celebs, musicians, singers, etc. He possesses a disconcerting smile that is so contagious and has a mound of curly hair which I found tempting to over emphasize while sketching. ..[He has not seen this btw......"grin."]

Screwing Around

Okay...Okay...that's what I've been doing for months..."Screwing Around" [procrastinating and shrugging off the very love of my life...ART]

[320 x 428] and hand-made projects!! LOL...But I'm motivated and forging through...so no more of that....

Greets and Sallies!!! I'm on my way back!!!

Hiya!!!
After a long hiatus for many many reasons ,I am coming back with more art and hand-made items. It has been a topsy turvy year but I'm blessed and thankful I am still here by grace. I do hope you enjoy seeing the new pieces and welcome your comments anytime!

@^]^@

Somebody's Purse

Somebody's Purse

6x8

Mixed Media

Hmm..Probably mine...lots of stuff in it....probably anything you ask for...I would have in it...and REALLY..that's the truth Ruth...&^]^&

Hanging From Grace

Hanging from Grace

6 x 8

Mixed Media

FancySmancyStarbucks

FancySmancyStarbucks (Chicago)

6x8

Mixed Media

A World of Globes

A World of Globes

6 x 8

Mixed Media

I saw these vivid/brilliant colorful globes in a window during a stroll down Michigan Avenue-the globes were absolutely stunning. Of course, I had to create it again in my own vision and to recall the memory of the beautiful journey I had in Chicago. TYSVMJD!!!!

On My Shelf - Twitter Inspiring

Well, let me introduce you to the Twitter Inspiring group. I think the title speaks for itself. Talk about a "mixed bag", this is definitely one. But that's the way I like it. All mumble jumble....spewing out "a la difference"...works for me. This group range from Artisians->Artists->businesses->to everyday people who have a gift of gab.

First Shelf:

sharonljmoore - blog: sharonljmoore - graphic designer

heartsabustin2

- blog: heartsabustin2 - Artisian

inbyronbaytoday- blog: inbyronbaytoday - Photographer/Painter/Scribe

Second Shelf:

puffclean - blog: puffclean - global business network

dutchfeltart - blog:dutchfeltart - Fiber Artist

Third Shelf:

sassypackrat - blog:sassypackrat - Stationery Designer

LostNMissing - Blog: LostNMissing - Non=Profit Org

Fourth Shelf:

MelissaInTheSky - Blog: MelissaInTheSky - Artist

Flipbooks - Blog: Flipbooks - Marketing/Flipbooks

Me_Pam - Music Lover and K<><>L People

Chicago Is...

On a positive note......Chicago Is....ART, love, inspiring, exhilarating, uplifting, culturally diverse, my kind of town,The Loop, Michigan Avenue, The Windy City, The Chicago Hawk, Navy Pier, skyscrapers, Els, Chicago Bulls, The Second City, Oprah, Filene's Basement, The Chicago Tribune....moving to its own unique increments of time....creating it's own movement...

(A color photo [taken back in January] which I reduced to a black and white. Color added to two key features - THE CLOCK AND THE WALK LIGHT= TIME AND MOVEMENT.)

Chicago Is

6x8

Mixed Media

Willie Wonka

I actually created this from a photo shared with me from the Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory show that was held at the Boiler Room Theater. It was a color photograph and I also put it in a frame as an added touch. Unfortunately, I did not get to see this particular show but knowing the actor who played the lead, I have no doubt that the show was a hit. In fact I believe it received rave reviews. This actor is absolutely a true talent, an accomplished gifted pianist. and the owner of the BRT. He is such a pleasant individual and often directs most of the shows. I'm sure he brought "Willie Wonka" to life and to a new height. His entire family are theater lovers and everyone enjoys knowing them.

Willie Wonka

4 x 6

Mixed Media

Running Water Doesn't Freeze, Really????

This was another photo taken while I was in Chicago back in January. I always heard that running water doesn't freeze - well, I stood at the bridge and watched flowing water...and the chunks of ice within it. So much for that theory...

Me and Mr. Lego and WHO IS SHE?

On my trip to Chicago back in January, I strolled in the very very cold weather up Michigan Avenue. Tried to show I could hang with the best of them. It was so cold you literally cried involuntary. Ran into a small mall to get warm and browse around. It was a huge mall area basically dedicated to an anchor store which I cannot think of at the moment but yes, I believe it was Nordstrom. On the second level, I noticed these Lego people sitting on the benches and I just had to get a photo. While I sat down by Mr. Lego, it was obvious that Mrs. Lego was a bit miffed. Ah, it's still all about the Art!!! Artistically yours, &^]^&

On My Shelf -Small Bits of Me

Thought it would be fun to put some of my artwork on the photoshelf and VOILA! It is done! Some of these are found in their original larger formats on this blog in my archives. The "book shelf ends" in the middle shelf is not something I created. It is a part of my shelf. I do find them complimentary. :-))

On My Shelf - Twitter Amazing

Here lies my Twitter Amazing group! Such a varied group from many different areas of interest. AMAZING people from all walks of life who share a common bond=Twitter. Hmm...I should be a marketer I guess, huh? NOT! :-) But then again, you never know. These people bring good things to life. Hey, I know you've heard that somewhere. But it's true! Connect with them and find out.


First Shelf:
Raj_R - Blog: Raj_R - Editor/TechnoBuzz {Special Thanks to Raj for the Google gift!!}
CreateandInvent - Blog:CreateandInvent - Handmade Arts and Crafts
jennlblake (Nashville) - Blog: jennlblake - model/actress
Second Shelf:
PynkRoseDesigns - Blog: PynkRoseDesigns - Hand Beaded Jewelry
jgouveia - Blog: jgouveia -
Abstract Artist/Painter
mlomb - Social Media/Mobile App Designer -
Third Shelf:
Sptzllama - Blog: Sptzllama - Art
ForeverSerenity - Blog: ForeverSerenity - wife/mom/blogger
theartscompany (Nashville) - Blog:
theartscompany - contemporary art gallery
Fourth Shelf:
cherryblossomin - Blog: cherryblossomin - Vintage Treasures/ETSY
nytimesphoto - Blog: nytimesphoto - photography/video
PosyMoe - Blog: PosyMoe - Handmade Knits, Felts, Dyes

A Rose is.......

I did this little sketch early Sunday morning (Valentine's Day) and had planned to share it with my friends but was caught up with other matters which kept me super busy and hustling around for a Valentine event that evening. Might I say the event received a very good review. ^J^

A Rose is....

5 x7

Mixed Media

A Rose is....whatever you want it to be emotionally....

February 14, 2010 - Hand Made Menus & Venue

Upcoming Valentine Event this weekend, and dare I say it? Yes, she (daughter) roped me into another one! :-) We created these menus for the dinner for the event. Might I say the menu (of which I will not be doing the cooking) sounds delicious. We will be handling all decorations for the venue - hope to get a photo of the actual finished table to share here. We also are to stuff 40 red with white ribbon bags filled with chocolate to be placed at each seat. The colors to used at the venue are black, white and red. There are to be 10 tables - about 50 people.

Addendum: The event was a huge success and a lot of work!!!! Food was D-Lish and everyone gave wonderful compliments on the entire affair.

On My Shelf -TWITTER PASSIONATE

Some of the most passionate (about life, friendships, poetry, art, life, technology, animal rights, and controversial...even....) Twitter people around. As you know by now, I have a die hard love for the Arts!! Did you know? :-) I possess a great love of so many other interests as well, thus, the title for me "Eclectic" artist. I just can't seem to stay in one spot. Always creating something whether by choice or wrangled into my daughter's projects which is so often.

These individuals are a joy to follow! A side note re: @tweetclean - who is the epitome of the proper way to tweet! :-)

First Shelf:

@JosephHurtado - Blog: Joseph Hurtado - Social Media/Blogger/Photographer

@Barikasmiles (Nashville) - Blog: Barika Smiles - Poet/Songwriter

@Conduru - A Pilgrim in search of Inner Light

Second Shelf:

@savingsmallbiz - Blog: savingsmallbiz - Networking, business savings/discounts

@timgier - Blog: Tim Gier - Business, technology, animal rights, people interaction

@francescaart - Blog: Francesca Art - Artist

Third Shelf:

@uglymugs - Blog: Ugly Mugs - Business/Nashville

@tweetclean - Blog: Tweet Clean - Blogger/Internet Marketing

@poetikat47 - Blog: Poetikat47 - Poet/Nature Lover/Voracious Reader

Fourth Shelf:

@IDreamedISaw - Blog: IDreamedISaw - Writer/Designer

@InternetArtist - Blog: Internet Artist - Contemporary Artist/Writer

@Lawrencejiko - Blog: Lawrence Jiko - Artist/Haiku Writer

Got Snow?

From watching the news channels/stations today, Washington, Baltimore, Virginia, Pennsylvania and many more states were severely hit with big time snow. Washington, DC alone got 2 feet of snow. And here I was complaining about last week's 4-6 inches here. I should know better I grew up in VA. I know what's it like to have snow drifts which prevented us from being able to get out the front door. I really feel for all the snow blizzard bound people, it's not easy....snow is beautiful when falling and untouched....bittersweet! But most of all, stay warm but most of all ....BE CAREFUL - STAY SAFE!

TWITTER SPECIAL

YES, here are my TWITTER SPECIAL group. Individuals for causes, artists, crafters, designers, web design people with purpose and heart. I enjoy meeting new and interesting people and networking to cross mingle with those who share the same interests or to experience new ones. These individuals are all super worthy of following!

First Shelf:

@DinnerForOne -

@lubzi - Blog: lubzi-Artist
@mllyssa - Blog: mllyssa-Art
Second Shelf:

walkinthewoods1 - Blog: walkinthewoods1-Artisian
@cheth - Blog: cheth - Chief/Graphic Designer
@OnlineByDesign - Web Dev/Marketing

Third Shelf:
@specialfollow - Blog: special follow - Twitter users
@FranceinCairo - Blog: FranceinCairo - Haitian in Cairo

@LeelaSavage - Blog: Leela Savage - Poet/Writer/Causes
Fourth Shelf:
@Twitt3rartOTD - Blog: Twitt3rartoftheday - Artist
@safeworld4women - Blog: A Safe World for Women/Activism/Causes
@RedhenStudios - Blog: RedhenStudios/Artist

Saturday Morning

I woke up around 4:00am - sleepless nights these days! I was feeling a bit haggard yet I began to sketch. How odd I'm thinking that this sketch was of a guy when drawing. But overall he embodies my physically run down feeling......on this Saturday morning! [At least I have a chance to get rejuvenated...sorry for the guy in sketch... (^o^)]

On My Shelf- TWITTER MAGICAL

Here they are - TWITTER MAGICAL! These are the individuals who are magical by their own right and some are old dear friends- ranging from-to accomplished fine artists, artisians/crafters, IT, activists-heroes of causes, and entertainers. The wonderful world of Twitter brings so many diverse groups of people crossing many paths forming long term bonds. A lesson to be well learned.

First Shelf:

@Marenart - Blog: Marenart - Artist
DutchMagic - IT/Gamer
@divathatateny - Blog: divathatateny - Entertainer/Chef
Second Shelf:

@jsutme - Blog: jsutme -Artist
@mikebeak - Artist
Third Shelf:
@HautTotes - Blog: HautTotes -ETSY/Artisian
@SomalyMam - Blog: Somaly - Activist
@demure4you - Blog: demure4you - ETSY/Artisian

Fourth Shelf:
@jannypie - Blog: JannyPie-Artist
@delprado- Blog: delprado - importer
@garciafineart - Blog: garciafineart - Artist

BLUE and YELLOW are COZIES

Here are two more results of my crazed winter cold/snowy nights when I can't sleep (but should try to anyway) and "please calm me down" cozies. They were both made from felt, hand-made/stitched and coupled with a cup of hot chocolate made for a good time! The top one has snaps on the inside and brads on the outside pouch and top fold.
This bottom cozy has snaps under each of the buttons with two types of stitching crossing each other. They feel so warm. I think I'm going to add a thin hand-sewn strap of some sort to each of them. Will post photos of them as well.

I'm working on a painting in between this and it is a slow process as I'm working on many things at the moment which distracts from the painting but it will be completed along with everything else.

ON MY SHELF - TWITTER FANTASTIC

TWITTER FANTASTIC individuals, who are heart and soul, warm inner spirits, encouraging, witty, great conversationalists and down-to-earth. Here they are along with their blog links which reveals their true talents.

First Shelf:
@CDominiqueG (Nashville) - Blog:CDominique
@blogbrevity - Blog: blogbrevity
@thetrudz - Blog: thetrudz
Second Shelf:
@Guy_Vincent - Blog: Guy Vincent
My Twitter Finger Art piece
@EnterdaTainment - Model/Entertainer

Third Shelf:
YeleHaiti.Org - Blog Yele Haiti
@AlissaFereday - Blog: AlissaFereday
@coffeetablepoet - coffeetablepoet
Fourth Shelf:
@nibblesandbits - Haikuist
@heyyumsugar - Blog: heyyumsugar
@JuliaRosien - Blog: Julia Rosen

Cold Nights, Snowy days and MORE FELT

As I mentioned in a previous post, I had been doodling around with felt during these cold wintry snowy days and creating some little hand-sewn/stitched little cozies and pouches - whatever comes to mind. Made this little one for myself...for my ear buds, my ipod shuffle and what other ldiddies. Thought I would put a smile on my face by putting a Twitter bird on the front (cut it out of felt with scissors while looking at a twitter icon) and a last name on the back! I got a big laugh out of this one but also a huge :-)!

MY SHELF - TWITTER MARVELOUS

On MY SHELF today, please meet my "TWITTER MARVELOUS" tweeple. These individuals stir my soul through their inspirational messages, dedication to causes, artwork, graphic design, marketing, and laughter abound. I look forward to their tweets and to their humor-FIND THEM ON TWITTER and you can see for yourself! You can't go wrong! I have listed them below along with those who have blogs :-))

First Shelf:

@RasTommy (Nashville) -Blog:RasTommy

@JasonTrenton -Blog: Jason Trenton

@JuanitaEvans -Blog: Juanita Evans

Second Shelf:

@RuthTemple -Blog: Ruth Temple

@NewYorkChica -Blog: NewYorkChica

@Kay4NJ

Third Shelf:

@007Chester -Blog: 007Chester

@AlaskaArtist -Blog: Alaska Artist

@charitywater -Blog: Charity Water

Fourth Shelf:

@kmanuel7

@Lady_Hawke41 -Blog: Lady_Hawke41

@judynaomi - Blog: Judy Naomi