frostings and sparkles

Ch-Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes!!

2011-03-03T07:58:00.000-08:00

I have been away for a while, and have been to culinary school! My business partner and I are starting a new adventure, and I thought I'd pop in all say hello, and blow the dust off of this site!

Anyway, my love of sparkles, cupcakes, sprinkles, and sparkly sprinkling cupcakes led me to try some real ones. Then some cake decorating...then back to cupcakes!

So coming to the Southwest and Western Suburbs of Chicago this summer will be Pecan and Charlie's Mobile Cupcakery! We are in the process of working with a consultant, and have just received the layout plan for our van.

I have a new blog, at Pecanandcharlies.blogspot.com, if anyone would like to come and say hello!

Feel free to check us out on Facebbook as well! We are at http://www.facebook.com/PecanandCharlies

Happy New Year!!

2009-01-04T15:25:00.000-08:00

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I have really been a bad blogger for the last few months. Working outside the home really cuts into my time, but its been a year since I started my job, and I still really love it. I do miss my art so much though.

I work at a college, and one of the perks is free classes. Not too shabby! So I have begun taking classes to become a pastry chef. I love doing my cupcake art, it is my passion and my fun time, so I thought why not become certified in the real thing as well! I have always loved to cook and bake...not quite as much as I love creating my artwork, but nearly. I am on my second semester now, and my next two classes start next week.

My dream has always been to own a small shop. When the economy picks up, I would love to open a small patisserie that sells artwork and maybe a few cool books...a total girly place, the kind of place that I would hang out in. A place that makes you want to stay awhile and have a nice cuppa.

Anyway, less dreaming, more studying LOL I am looking forward to the kids going back to school, and getting back to work. I like a bit more structure, it keeps us all from getting bored and lazy in my house ;)

Happy Almost Halloween

2008-10-28T08:01:00.001-07:00

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I am having a ball visiting so many fantastic blogs that I have been missing so much! There are so many goodies to look at, its almost overwhelming to visit a page, and want to take it all in immediately...Have to remind myself to slow down and enjoy it all!!

My 6 year old daughter is so excited about Halloween, she really takes after her Mommy. She knows exactly how she wants her costume, which bag to take Trick or Treating, and has her route all planned.

My 8 year old son, on the other hand, just sort of follows her lead. He's kind of an 80 year old man, trapped in the body of an 8 year old LOL He is probably one of the most talented artists that I've ever met too, he does things at 8 that I have trouble with at 36. He is gruff, and too cool for words, but has a secret soft side, and is a real lovey deep down. I know he's looking forward to Trick or Treat, as long as his sister does all of the work.

Happy Haunting, Blogland!!

Its been a long time!!

2008-10-21T08:34:00.001-07:00

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Ah blogland...all summer long I had no time or inkling to blog, with all of my kids home and all of us busy busy busy! Since they have gone back to school, I have been DYING, TWITCHING, YEARNING to get back to my art, get my hands dirty, cover everything with glitter and twirl around in it :D

I only really have Fridays to myself anymore, that's my day off, but I haven't been able to motivate myself to be creative. I have done a few commissions, some custom stuff, but nothing for myself, none of the things that I create out of pure need to make them exist. I am getting back into it slowly, there is just always an excuse not to. Our washer is on the fritz at the moment, which is making me a bit batty, and we have reached the Science Fair time of year BOOOOOO :( The other teeny little problem is my digital camera.

I have charged the battery over and over, but it won't work. I need to just go and get a new battery and see if it works, so at least I can post again. I have decided that no matter what, in order for me to be a nice person, and get through all of the things that I'm doing (too many! LOL) I must have some art time. Non negotiable. So that's what's new with me!

I am also taking classes to become a certified Pastry Chef. All my friends here know how much of a cupcake girl I am, and I work at the college, so I may as well get certified while I'm there :D I passed my Food Sanitiation Class, so I am certified to make cupcakes that are bacteria free *giggle* I'm off to go and visit some blogs because I have missed you all so much, and need some eye candy...this is going to be a binge!

xoxoxox

Face Painting and Parties!

2008-06-05T07:59:00.000-07:00

Sure is tough to be a working girl!! Between work, and planning my boys' Graduation and First Communion parties, and now face painting at the school carnival, I am a busy girl!

This Sunday we are having the party, my son Aidan is graduating from 8th Grade, and my son Liam made his First Communion. One big party is much easier than having two. Aidan is excited, because he is getting a new guitar, and he will be playing at his party with my brother Tim's band. How cool is that!!

Last night was the first night of the school Carnival, and I face painted for a couple of hours, which I will do again tonight, and tomorrow. The kids are so cute, and they are so delighted to see a bit of fanciful splendor on their little cheeks.

Its going to be a busy busy weekend, but hopefully lots of fun too. Our internet and phone have been out for the last five days, and Comcast came out yesterday (for the second time in a month!!) and so far, so good...if I haven't responded to any emails, that is why, and I am back up and running (fingers crossed!!)

Have a great weekend, blogland!

And the winner is....

2008-05-16T15:50:00.000-07:00

Number 17!!!

Scrappy Jessi!!!!!

Thanks everyone who played, and thanks for all of the friendship and comraderie that you've all shown to me!!!

My newest piece...I have a little bit of work to do on it, some pretty trim for the edges...but I'll show it anyway :D

My 100th Post!! That means a Giveaway!!

2008-05-09T19:25:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe it, 100 posts already. When I first started this blog, I wasn't sure that I had anything to say! I don't always have the most eloquent words, but I have certainly enjoyed getting to know so many wonderful people out there in blogland, there are so many lovely and creative folks with whom to share, get inspiration, and greatly admire.

Reading the various blogs in my sidebar is such a treat. Sometimes the eye candy goodies are almost overwhelming, that it's hard for my brain to take it all in!

It has been absolutley wonderful blogging, finding so many like minded folks, who share a passion, who understand and share the addled brain of one who lives in color and texture, LOL!

Anyway, for my 100th post, I am giving away an altered wooden house, called "Bakeshop" I made it today just for this occasion. It felt so good to have glue and paint all over my hands again!

All you have to do is leave a comment on this post. I will draw the winner on Friday, May 16, via the random number thingy.

As promised, some pictures of the goodies from the adorable Miss Laura, of the Little Orange Kitchen
She is so sweet, and these are so cute!! She even sent me some yummy organic peppermint tea, and the cutest magnet I've ever seen. Thanks again, Laura!! You made my day :D

Last, but not least, my sweet pair, Annalise her Daddy going to Father Daughter Dance. Aren't they cute :D

Trying to inspire myself

2008-04-30T08:07:00.000-07:00

Time has been so limited, and I have not been creating nearly enough. I thought if I dug out some pictures of past goodies to remind myself that I need to get back into the groove. Art isn't a luxury, its a necessity, just like brushing your teeth, or doing laundry.
I'm entering a show in November, so my goal is going to be to create at least two new things a week, until then. Starting now :)

Also, I recieved the most wonderful suprise in the mail the other day from the adorable Laura, of Orange Kitchen fame. The absolute CUTEST magnet and post cards, and I have had a bit of overtime this week, so I've not gotten to share, but they are worth the wait, I assure you!! If you haven't been to Laura's blog yet, I encourage you to go, she makes the most whimsical (yes, I said it) wallets, and always has great recipes to share, plus her writing is so beautiful, that even if she said nothing, it would still be enjoyable to read! Pictures soming soon, and huge thanks to Laura!!

Lots of great Junque!

2008-04-15T19:40:00.000-07:00

The Junque in my Trunque swap was great fun! I swear, since I've started working part time, swaps are one of the only ways that I can force myself to be creative. Friday is supposed to be "Art Day" as its my day off, but I don't seem to have it to myself too often.

The darling Elizabeth was my partner, and this was her first swap! I feel very fortunate to have been her partner, because look at all of the goodies that she sent me!
The box was so pretty that I was afraid to open it :D

It was HUGE too!! Love this girl!

Doesn't it look amazing!! Look at the cupcake, oooooh love it!!

Look at the cute little tin, and wow, there is just so much great stuff in here! The most darling vintage pink gloves, fabulous buttons, adorable cupcake picks...

The teapot box just bowled me over, it is the cutest little thing I've ever seen!!

Thank you so so so much, Elizabeth, I just adore it, and you really went all out. Beautiful stuff!!!

On another note, another Elizabeth, who happens to be my darlingest dearest cousin, has had the baby!!!!!!!! YAY, and welcome to the world, gorgeous Connor!!!!!!

I'm not going to give any details or show the picture, because I know Liz will want to do that herself (and he is supersupersupercute!!!!) but I know many of you have been waiting for news, and Mommy and baby are well!! I'm dying to talk to her, and I know she'll post a pic as soon as she gets a chance. Yay, Liz and baby Connor!!!

Swappin' is done!

2008-04-14T10:09:00.000-07:00

Just mailed out a package to my lovely swap partner Tangee we were paired in Artsymama's Vintage Party Swap. I had so much fun making her goodies!! Also, have one package to send out tomorrow to Elizabeth, my partner in Heather's Junque in your Trunque swap. I recieved my box from Elizabeth already, and it made me squeal and clap, so fantastic!!!!!! I have pictures that I will post hopefully tonight, fab stuff!!

We also have a science project (another one!) that we started yesterday, we are doing the "growing crystals out of charcoal" expirament. We started it yesterday, and they're already growing!

Anyway, must dash, but I will have pics to post, and I have been working on some new cuppies for my shop, it is getting pretty empty in there, so I really need to fill it up with some goodies. Love to all!

I meant to post this a couple of days ago!!

2008-04-06T20:41:00.001-07:00

I recieved the loveliest package on Friday from my fantastic swap partner, Tangee but I have been swamped, just crazy busy this weekend, and I didn't have the chance. Tangee was my partner for Artsymama's Vintage Party Swap, and she is such a doll! I am always amazed at these swaps, I've participated in quite a few, and I have yet to get a package that disappoints! It's almost like Tangee knew me, and I am so lucky to have her as a partner.
Check out these adorable sachets that she made! They smell soooo good and they are just so cute!!

This wreath of roses, OMG, so me!!!

The tiny cupcakes...the vintage postcard, and the supercute tin...Opening this package was totally an oooh and ahhhh moment!

Last, but certainly not least, an adorable tag, and (Prepare to be jealous) a hand made bracelet!! So girly, lovely, and just jaw droppingly gorgeous. Love it all, and just WOW!!

I am not as on the ball as Tangee, but am aaalmost finished with her package. This has been so much fun!! Thanks to Artsymama for hosting such a great swap :D

Oh my Goodies!! Easter Basket Swap

2008-03-18T13:22:00.001-07:00

Today I recieved the lovliest Easter Basket from my swap partner, Dolly and it was loaded with easter goodness! I made sure to open it while the kids were occupied, because otherwise, I may not have gotten to take any pictures LOL

The basket itself has the cutest yellow flowers all over it, and it is positively darling!! Dolly made this gorgeous, scrumptious easter art, which is going on my wall, it is just the sweetest ever bunny girl, and my daughter already tried to make off with it...She also included a chipboard book, which I have been meaning to buy, so its like she read my mind :D :D

These gorgeous handmade tags made me giddy, they are so darling, and sparkley, and girly!! Love them to bits, and the candles made the whole box smell soooo good!!

She even wrapped the candies in the prettiest paper, with a delicate paper flower on the front of each one, and a sparkley little center. Too cute!! And the chocolate bunny was wrapped in vintage wallpaper, with the cutest paper trim over it, just exquisite. Love it to bits, Dolly, thank you SOOOOO much!!!!!!

And thanks to my pal Genevieve for hosting such a fun and wonderful swap!!!!

I posted a preview of the goodies that I made for Dolly, and here are the big piccies, LOL Here is the little sugared bunny, in his decorated basket/box

Here is the shadow box, so much fun to make!

Unfortunatley, I didn't take pictures of the basket I sent, I had strep throat and an ear infection, so I was in a hurry to mail it when I got better. I hope she likes it!

Received a goodie in the mail! And swapping...

2008-03-06T05:41:00.001-08:00

There was fanfare...paparazzi all over my lawn, and very handsome young men trying to get a look in my mailbox. At her.
The "it" girl, the toast of the town, Miss BETSY! Isn't she gorgeous in her Hollywood finery? Brushing past all of the hoopla, I got her safely into my house, where she is resting happily and sipping a dirty martini. She seems relieved.

Seriously, she is just darling. Sadie Lou did a wonderful job, she is as cute as a button and I just love her!!
Thanks, Sadie Lou :D

I'd also like to welcome a new friend to blogland, Alecia is having a lovely spring giveaway!! Stop by and say hello, she has an adorable blog :)

I've been finishing up my goodies for The Easter Basket Swap, here is a sneak preview of the handmade part that I have been having the best best time working on.

Sparkles to all!

Awarded and Tagged, how sweet!!!!

2008-03-03T08:47:00.000-08:00

I made this yesterday, along with a few things for my swap partner Dolly from From My Cherry Heart but I can't show those yet...they're a suprise :)

While visiting Genevieve's *aka* Bella Enchanted blog, I was happily bestowed upon the You Make My Day award...awwww!!! I thought that was so very nice, Genevieve is hosting the Easter Basket swap, and has lots of great stuff on her blog, thanks Gen!!!

In return, I would like to award (and if you've already gotten one, just know that you're double loved!):

Lori, Miss Faerie Window whom I adore, she is a dynamo and a fab artist, and I don't know how she finds time for all that she does!

Shannon Miss Paint Mine Pink who is my australian sister, and who is about to launch her new online store!

Michelle, Miss Mosaic Queen who is a darling, and hands down, the most AMAZING Mosaic Artist!

Ele, A Bit of Pink Heaven So sweet, and her blog and shop sends me into a frenzied pink delight! Eye candy galore, and such a sweetie too

Sadie Lou, Craftily Ever After from whom I just recieved my first Betsy ( I will post a picture) She makes the most darling goodies!!!

Jackie, Fat Jak Originals who is such a talented artist, a fellow Chicagoan, and visiting her blog makes my day!

Jenn, of Noodle and Lou who's art makes me want to own every single piece. When we move, that is the first thing I'm going to buy, she is just lovely!

Mere, These are the Days As sweet as can be, and a blog full of fantasticness!!

Karin at Creative Chaos who not only has gorgeous eye candy on her blog, but her writing has tested my bladder control on more than one occassion, so funny!!

Last but not least, Natasha Burns who not only is the sweetest person in blogland, but her site always has new goodies, sparkley bling, and so much eye candy, I am in awe!!

Also, I've been tagged by the wonderful Miss Rowan Willow, who is another amazing artist that I was lucky enough to find through One World One Heart, for 7 weird and random things...I'm totally weird and random, so this should be easy LOL...

1. I took improv classes at Second City...we rolled around on the floor, acted like chickens, played games, and put on a few shows! It was the best time I ever had, and our troop was called Mud for your Turtle :D

2. I once incited a riot, and got expelled from school. Great fun!

3. I have 9 half and step siblings, but technically am an only child. (Not nearly as Jerry Springer as it sounds, just expensive around the holidays LOL)

4. I love show tunes, my favorite word is fabulous, I love shoes, glitter, pink and I swear that I am a gay man trapped in a woman's body LOL

5. I once met John Cusack at a U2 concert. I was 14, and he was sitting in the seat in front of me. He kept turning around saying "I know I can make you smile!" When I saw "Say Anything" I almost died! That's the guy from the U2 Concert!!

6. When I was in 6th grade I had to skip in the door during a play. I fell flat on my face!

7. I wish big hair was still in style. It was so easy!

OK, I tag everyone from above that makes my day, unless you've already played.
Smoochies to all, think pink and sparkle!

The one where I lock myself inside!

2008-02-29T06:39:00.000-08:00

I'm off today and I am secretly lifting my no art ban!! I am dying to make something, and as long as I get it all swept up and put away before the real estate agent comes over...its our little secret *wink wink* Now don't rat me out, please!

I went to my favorite thrift store last night, they are open until 9 on Thursdays, and got these fantastic baubles, only 75c for the whole bag! They have what they call a junk drawer, and its only avaliable on Thursday evenings, it was such fun to look through...

I found these little cuties too, and plan to put them to good use.

So today I will not answer the phone, I'm locking my doors, I'm pulling out the glitter, and having a ball. Funny how when you do something everyday, you tend to take it for granted, and then when you don't get to do it for a week or two, you realize how important it is ("you" meaning "me" and "it" meaning "art")

Last but not least...my Cupcake Girl :D :D :D Annalise

The one with the Goodies!

2008-02-24T16:55:00.000-08:00

I was hoping to get here sooner to post these pictures of my awesome fabulous treasures, but life got in the way for the last two days...
Friday was "one of those days" It was my day off (always a lovely thing!) and I was hoping to spend a little time creating (we had no showings on Fiday!), but it wasn't meant to be. Murphy's Law was in full effect that day...I was feeling a bit down by 9:00 am, and then the whole day turned around with the arrival of the days mail! Yippee!!

I got my lovely, wonderful, beautiful bunny from Lemoncholy aka the talented and fabulous Kecia. This little fella is amazing, and my pictures certainly don't do him justice, as I am using my old camera at the moment (don't ask, we're on a happiness roll!) He is just the sweetest guy, in his little basket, with his chick friend at the bottom, thank you so so so much, Kecia!! He just made me smile, I was just giddy over his cuteness!

I also got a fantastic package from the amazing Acaya the queen of the quill, and was positively blown away by the delicate star ornaments, so shiny from the side, and all made from paper! Acaya, they are so so lovely and delicate, I love them :)

My package for the lovely and patient Rowan WIllow will go out first thing in the morning, and I hope that it doesn't dissappoint.

AND...the Winner is...

2008-02-14T08:28:00.000-08:00

The lovely and talented ROWAN WILLOW!!! Congratulations, and thanks to everyone who entered!!

Thanks too, to the AMAZING Lisa for this unbelieveable brain child of hers. The concept is beautiful, and the most wonderful part is finding so many awesome blogs. Lisa, you absolutely rock, girl

Happy Valentine's Day to All!!!

One World One Heart Giveaway!

2008-02-11T09:11:00.000-08:00

Better late than never!! I am just not online as much as I have been, because of all the house showings, and I almost missed this!!! I know there are only a few days, but I was lucky to be a part of this last year, and I would be honored to do it again. I have been browsing, and am just blown away by how this has blossomed! Lisa's vision was indeed a wonderful one. Please leave a comment, for the chance to win my mixed media cupcake, and I will be sure to stop by yours as well!.

Time flies!

2008-02-02T11:49:00.000-08:00

I usually don't go this long without a post, but our house is on the market, and we've just had so much to do! We also put an offer on another house, (which they accepted) contingent on the sale of our house. I haven't really been able to work on my art, because (shhhh...looks around) I sometimes get a bit messy

I am running outside twice a day, hiding in Gas station bathrooms to shake a little glitter about, and leave a trail of sprinkles behind me at the mall...anything to feed my addiction to sparkley stuff. Its a deep, shameful addiction...my family can see the glitter under my fingernails, and I even have some on my face sometimes...its a lonely road, I tell ya.

Anyway, I will be back to creating soon, and here are some pictures of the house we're buying...its on an acre, with its own pond (which they use for ice skating!) We've always lived on a small city lot, so this will be like having our own country LOL

Here is the front

The Kitchen

The STUDIO :D :D

and the pond

I quite like the bar as well

And this is the house that we live in now:

Here is my current kitchen:

and my living room:

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Good Monday Morning

2008-01-14T08:31:00.000-08:00

My poor baby girl has been sick for two days. Her little cheeks are so rosy, and she has been laying down relaxing, with an assortment of popsicles and lots of Sprite. I'm so hoping that my other kids don't catch it, as my oldest is going to Minnesota this weekend for a musical weekend, that he is so looking forward to. Vitamin C cocktails all around!

This is my second week at work, and I am loving it, but it does get sticky wehn the kids are sick, I am wishing that I was able to be home with my girl, but it is only for four hours, and my mom (who is a Nurse) is taking good care of her.

I'll be back to post some of the lovelies that I found on my wonderful day shopping! We are putting our house on the market on January 28, so guess buying more stuff should be put on hold for now (easier said than done)

My daughter, even though she is sick, is chomping at the bit to get at the art table, so tonight if her fever is gone, we will go into the studio and she can dig into the paper and paint that she loves so much...she is a cupcake girl, a girl after my own heart :D :D

Going through Glitter Withdrawal

2008-01-10T06:05:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is going to be a most extraordinary and wonderful day. I am going thrifting, to my three favorite, never know what you're going to find, stores, hitting Borders, and the cherry on top will be Hobby Lobby. Sounds like heaven to me :) The only thing that could make it even better would be having a yummy Starbucks Latte to go with it....(insert Homer Simpson voice...mmmmmm....latte...)

This past evening was spent looking around blogland, really enjoying each site, instead of rushing through. There is just so much beauty and talent. It is mezmerizing, and almost perplexing that the internet gives us access to all of this, where our parents would have really had to search and dig through magazines, or word of mouth, to find other artists with similar interests. Truly we are very lucky! Such a wonderful art community, such beauty, and right at our fingertips...so nice!

Don't forget to check out Pfatt Marketplace today, as Sandy is updating, lots of fabulous goodies just a click away...

***Happiest of Thursdays to one and all***

Happy New Year!

2008-01-04T08:42:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone is recovered from the festive season. I absolutely love it, but am so glad that it's over. We had way too many parties, and all of them at our house, and my birthday is three days after Christmas. My birthday wish this year was a day of relaxing LOL and I did get it :)

This is a really wonderful new year for me. This last year I have had my first Art Shows, lost 83 lbs, gained a lot of confidence, and met the most fantastic artists, both online and IRL.

Now I have started a new job, which I absolutely love, and am so excited about making lots of new art this year. We are hoping to get our house on the market soon, and move to a larger home in a better school district, where I will set up a permanent studio. I am always afraid to hope for things, and have too many good things happen at once ( I am a total believer in what comes up, must come down) but knock on wood, this just may be a wonderful year :D :D

(ahem..sings...)Merry Christmas baby!!!

2007-12-21T06:11:00.000-08:00

Blogland is so slow these days, as all of us busy busy chickees are shopping and creating and hopefully having some fun!!

We took our annual ditch day (shhh, don't tell) and went to the Museum of Science and Industry. The Christmas displays are so beautiful, and we look forward to it all year.

This is the lovely Christmas tree that greets you in the main lobby

The Christmas trees from around the world are so much fun to look at too

My daughter Annalise's favorite is the Colleen Moore Fairy Castle...the details in this castle are just breathtaking, pictures cannot capture the magic in these tiny little walls

The kids have a great time at the Farm Exhibit, especially Annalise. They have a really neat set up, the kids can even plant their own veggies, and dig them up

Getting everyone to stand still in the same place is always a challenge

They are always nice and worn out by the time that we're done seeing everything

We had a great time. I have a bit more to do...I had a call the other night for a custom Rocking Chair from the kids' old school, and I don't have much time...finished baking lots of goodies yesterday, now just have to finish up the odd bits, and go to a party with my Mom tonight.

Hope everyone is enjoying the season, and lots of big wonderful Merry Christmas wishes to all of you out there

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox

The most fun Holiday ArtShow!

2007-12-10T08:08:00.000-08:00

This weekend was the show in Chicago, the Bucktown Holiday ArtShow, and it was just so much fun!! I will definately do this show again, and I am going to try for the Renegade Show next year as well. I met so many lovely people, and the artwork and goodies there were just out of this world. Here are a couple of photos of my booth

My cupcakes were a big seller, I came home with just a couple dozen left, and I had also made some tiny ones, and sold out! I am going to list what I have left on etsy today, and make some room in my studio for my valentine things.

Pat's cousin Carmel and my brother's girlfriend Mary Ann both helped me this weekend, they are just the most wonderful friends that anyone could ask for. These are my two angels

I even got the hubby to come in for a little bit, and help out
Here we are

Last but not least, we met a lovely fellow named Alex who was there with his wife
Inna's paintings, photos cannot do this work justice. The color in her work needs to be seen to be believed, she has such a sparkle and shine in addition to the unbelievably beautful subjects. I honestly cannot tell you how breathtaking these pieces were!! This is one of my favorites
Honestly, you have to see her work in person, it is just glorious!

Hope everone had a wonderful weekend!

The one where the swap goodies are!!

2007-11-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

Where to begin?! Well, the goodies pictured above are from the lovely and talented Jenelle, of the Sleepy Hollow Craft Company. Jenelle was my partner in Monica's Deck the Halls Swap, and I couldn't have had a better partner! Not only is everything just wonderful, it was also early!! The pictures are not the best quality, because while I am able to post pictures again (YEAH BABY!!!!!!!!) I accidentally deleted my Photoshop (DUH!) so I need to reinstall it. For now though, I was just so happy to be able to post, that I wanted to share the treasures that I recieved from Jenelle.

My goodies for Jenelle are nearly done, and they will go out on the first, and I will post some pics of them as soon as they are mailed out :)

Science Fair is over as of yesterday, shark report is handed in, Cub Scouts Ceremony is over, and I really need to take some pictures of my Christmas goodies and post, I swear I have been going through blog withdrawal!

In more good news...hey, did anyone know that there are USB ports on the back of your computer? Neither did I!! All of this unable to print, Science Fair woes, printing at my Aunt's house....well, my Uncle Terry, who is a computer genius, mentioned that the USB ports in front are merely for convenience, and that there were two in the back of my computer. I swear, I muttered the curse word of all curse words (Only I didn't say fudge...) and low and behold, I coulda been printing all along!!! Slap my mouth and color me purple. Well well well. I didn't know whether to drop dead or dance!! So all is good again, we got the part for my oven (did I mention that it broke?) and we have a new and running dishwasher. Hot diggity!!!

Here is one more thing, I'm just going to add it in, its a shadow box type wall thingy (that's the technical definition LOL) that I painted and jazzed up. It started life brown, and here it is Frostings and Sparkled

Well, I am off to read some blogs, it feels so good to be back!!

xoxoxoxox

Now in my ETSY

2007-11-19T07:41:00.001-08:00

Sadly I still cannot upload, but I have been making so much stuff for the Holiday ArtShow that I have decided to put a couple of things on Etsy. Now in my shop are:

I have so many goodies that I'm itching to share, I've been hitting the glitter like an addict, and it has been great! Hopefully I will be able to post pics again soon. Today the belt on my minivan broke, but on a brighter note, we got a new dishwasher :D So I can officially allow my family to eat again LOL

What a week! (or The one with the whine)

2007-11-10T18:29:00.001-08:00

I had a show today (and tomorrow) and its been a bit hectic! I'm so excited for Tuesday, the kids will be back in school, and the first round of shows will be over, a good cuppa and some lovely blog reading is awaiting me!

All good things must come to an end, and so it happened with my USB port. The constant plugging and unplugging of the camera, iPod, and printer (by the not so little hands of my darling children) has taken its toll, and it has been completely pulled out of the computer. I have to take it in to the Geek Squad, as I can no longer print or upload (Just in time for not only my show, but also the Science Fair, arrrrrrrgh!) The Science Fair is like a full time job, so I will affectionatley remember this week as Hell Week, and I'm sure there is a very special place in heaven for mothers, where they hopefully they serve a good stiff margarita. Hey, at least I don't have to eat a live goldfish, there's always a bright side.

On top of that, we had relatives from Ireland visiting this week, which was absolutley fantastic, they are so much fun, and we don't get to see them nearly enough, but as I was cooking dinner for them, my dishwasher began smoking, and it turns out the control panel MELTED. When it rains, it pours, right? So dishes by hand, a big hole where my dishwasher should be until we get a chance to go get another one, and after my show tomorrow I'm hosting a jewelry party. I have 3 hours though between my show and the party, so hopefully I can pull it off.

I wish I could share some pics of my booth, because it turned out really cute, but it will have to wait. Can't wait to see all of everyone's new goodies, and to finish up my ornaments for the Deck the Halls swap!!

The one with the Cupcakes

2007-10-31T10:10:00.000-07:00

WAHOO! I'm coming up to my 10,000th visitor!!! Please check my site counter at the bottom of the page, and let me know if its you, because you will win a prize!! Thank you so much for visiting me!!!

Today was cupcake day!! I have been putting them off for some reason, and I know I need at least 100 to bring to Bucktown, so today I got into Frostings and Sparkles mode. I enjoy making these so much, I don't know whay I always procrastinate with
them. Ah well :)

Some of these will end up as ornaments, and some will be put into F&S bakery boxes just for fancy-yum yums :D

These girls I made with some found boards, lots of paper, and glitter, I love them all, but doll is my favorite

Happy and safe Halloween to all!! xoxoxox

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-30T06:30:00.000-07:00

Its funny...I LOVE Halloween. I love black and orange. Black and purple. Green and purple. Green and orange...I love witches and pumpkins, and candycorn...and I adore Glitterville's Halloween goodies. Love it all!

A few days before Halloween though, I am done. My son Brendan has a birthday on Oct.25th, and we usually have a Halloween party of some sort to commemorate it. This year we had about 15 kids, ages 12-14, for pizza, movies, waaaaaaayy to much sugar, and about 5 of them slept over. I'm so ready to move on to Christmas!

In the spirit of Halloween though, here are some pics from the party and my LIam and Annalise is their costumes :)

Ooooh, yeah...this is my brother Terry's girlfriend MaryAnn. SHe went as an 80's girl, I just love her costume!

The one where I'm SO glad to be back!

2007-10-22T06:54:00.000-07:00

It is so nice to be sitting at the computer with a cup of coffee! My little monkeys have been taking turns being sick (and staying home from school...boo...) They were then off Friday for Teacher Institute, so I haven't had any computer time. Its great to be back, and have a couple of hours to myself again!

I've been just dying to blog about this...A friend told me about this new shop that opened in our neighborhood. She said that I would love it, and to check it out, that the stuff that they carry reminded her of my art. I walked in, and WOW, I wanted to live there. It is called The Hawk and the Butterfly and it is on west 111th street and Fairfield (if anyone out there is from Chicago/Mt Greenwood/Beverly.) They carry lots of gorgeous folk art, tables and tables of Bethany Lowe designs, lots of handmade goodies, and fantastic jewelry. I must have stayed for an hour, carefully going over every piece.

I first found this little crow, just so cute and wonderful (Joanna Parker...of course it's wonderful!) I greedily snatched it up to purchase, and then was struck by this adorable bunny. It was just the cutest, I had to have it, and when I turned the tag over, I was DELIGHTED to see the words...HipHopJingleBoo!! Of course I bought it, and I just luuuuuuuurve it!!

I did manage to get a little work done as well, and mailed out a few packages, here are my ladies Arden, Heloise, and Mathilde. They will make their debut at the Holiday ArtShow in Bucktown. Can't wait!

The one with the pictures of my new stuff :)

2007-10-10T10:30:00.001-07:00

This was a thrift store find of a teddy bear house, that needed to be transformed

These are the cupcakes that are on the top of the Cupcakery piece

This is the cupcakery piece

These are some vintage glass ornaments that I found while thrifting, and it finally occured to me what I would do with them. I really love how they turned out!

The one where I exhibit ADHD

2007-10-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

LOL I think many artists have just a touch of ADHD, I know that when I get overwhelmed, creating and being Mommy and Wife and Daughter, my poor little brain goes into overdrive. I always feel like no matter what I'm doing, I'm putting off doing something else that's more pressing.

Working on my art? Isn't there a Science Project due?

Making a nice dinner (with real potatoes instead of instant, LOL) Shouldn't I be washing uniforms?

Hosting the 9000th birthday party of the year in my kitchen? The kids all need to have a bath and be in bed in 45 minutes

I wonder what I'd do with myself if I didn't have 30 things to focus on...I'd probably sit and worry about what the heck I should do, and then end up doing nothing *giggle*

Anyhoo, I haven't been here in a week, I have missed out on so much goodness, yummy pictures, gorgeous artwork, I can't wait to visit everyone's blogs! I've been so busy creating for my show, and trying to get everything ready, butI've got my orders shipped out, my auction item is gone, and now I'm here :)

TAGGED TWICE!

Lovely Lucy from Sweet Repeats has given me the Nice Matters Award (sniffle) That was just lovely, Lucy has a gorgeous blog, her mixed media pieces are so spectacular, and she is a darling as well. Thanks hunny!!

In return, I tag LIZ, whose enchanting tutus, twirl skirts (OMG her twirl skirts) and DROP DEAD GORGEOUS purses make me so happy, and who is also having sweet baby #4! Brave girl!
I also tag SHANNON who is my darling friend, love her goodies, her cakes, her shabby chic style, she is just a love! Next we have TOOTIE She was the first person that I commented to in blogland, and the first to comment to me. She does just beautiful work, and is a great girl!

I was also tagged by Monica to do the Seven Random Things about me Here goes nothing!

1. I started dating my husband when I was 16
2. I love to sing, and act and dance!! I even keep karaoke CD's in my car
so that when I'm alone, I can sing!
3. I took improv at Second City (where all of my childhood idols started out) with
my Aunt Edie and cousin Lisa a couple of years ago. I have never had so much
fun in my life!
4. I have had Gastric Bypass surgery
5. I have HUGE feet, I wear a size 10, sometimes an 11!
6. I would rather make art than go out on the town!
7. My husband warns my kids not to stand still too long, "Or Mom will end up
painting you." LOL

OK, I tag my buds Michelle Legler, Mary Timme, Shelley , Laura and Aleta I always love reading what these awesome ladies have to say, and I look up to all of them.

Lots of pictures soming up, I've made 12 ATC's, a few dozen altered vintage ornaments, a few new cupcake pieces... Lots of random thoughts in this post!

The one with the Custom Order and other things

2007-09-25T06:47:00.000-07:00

I was asked to create a couple of cakes out of paper boxes. Hmmm...yep, it took about three seconds to decide that that sounded like a great time! My poor neglected(and not half finished) tea set sits on the corner of my table waiting to be completed, but the cakes were calling, and what's a girl to do?

I love doing custom orders, because it's certain that you are creating something that someone else really wants. It brings a certain joy to creating that...well, a different kind of joy I guess. There's joy in creating anything, or most of us wouldn't put the time, effort, and love into our work.

I know of many artists out there, online and in real life that are such perfectionists. We just can't leave a piece alone, they day after something is completed, I know that I will critique it with my beady little eye, and just have to add one more thing...and that thing leads to another, and maybe just one more touch here... If we really charged by the hour for the work that we put into our pieces, most of them would be astronomical. I think many of us are famous for undercharging as well. But when you are doing something that you love, it just doesn't seem like work. I love my art, love creating so deeply, that I would pay someone else to just let me work for hours and hours.

Anyway, here are some photos, my custom cakes, and a couple of pieces for my upcoming show. If anyone out in Blogland is going to be in the Chicago area DECEMBER 8th and 9th, come to Bucktown's Holiday Art and Craft Faire, its guaranteed to please everyone, and there are some really terrific artists exhibiting.

Post #64...The one Where I Smooch the Mailman

2007-09-20T08:16:00.000-07:00

Well, not literally (I doubt she'd appreciate it, LOL) but what a superdooper hyper-fantastic package she delivered to me, from my new friend Laura over at the Little Orange Kitchen. This was courtesy of Jenny Hernandez's (Miss Polka Dot Pixie herself)Storybook Swap. Liam and I were just giddy opening up all of the goodies, especially the to die for CHOCOLATE!! Laura sent some Malted Milk Balls, and some Chocolate covered Oreo's that were drenched in the thickest, richest, most melt in your mouth milk chocolate that I have ever had. Had Liam not been home, I'm not sure that I would have shared ;)

Check out all of this great stuff!! I had to borrow a few pictures from Laura, because we dug in so fast!! The wrapping was exquisite, and she even decoupaged the package with pictures from storybooks!! This is one talented chickie!!

Laura, I absolutely loved everything, the gorgeous magnetic bookmarks, with Bedtime for Frances, and Amelia Bedelia, OMG, so much goodness in one beautifully decoated box...LOVE IT!!!!!!!!

Swappin' again! and Saltwater Taffy explained LOL

2007-09-18T20:52:00.000-07:00

One of the things that I love about swaps is that you get to meet new people. My partner Laura (Polka Dot Pixie's Vintage Storybook Swap) of Little Orange Kitchen is such a complete darling!! She and I are from the same city, but she has moved away, so no Vince Vaughn sitings for her :( But she is just such a dear, her blog is fantastic, and her writing really just draws you right in. Her blog is the kind of blog that you want to have a nice cup of tea with, to really just sit back and enjoy. She is just as cute as a button, and if you've not had the pleasure of visiting the Little Orange Kitchen blog, you really must!

I had a great time making the bookmarks, truly such fun!! HUGE thanks to the amazingly talented Jenny Hernandez for hosting such a wonderful swap!!

I just uploaded some pictures of my sweet ones, so I'll share :)

Aidan is 14, Brendan is 11, Liam is 7, and Annalise is 5 :D :D

and this one is my Hubby, Pat, having some fun in the water

This last part is for my lovely friend Shannon from Paint Mine Pink. The Cotton and Candy swap was hosted by Shann, who is an Aussie, and they do not have Saltwater Taffy over there (and we don't have Fairy Bread over here, but I'm so glad to have learned about it!) Anyway, I've copied and pasted this from anycandy,usa.

Salt Water Taffy
How the beach-side favorite got its start
The exact history of how taffy came to be is still a mystery. Taffy has been part of American life since the late 1800s, and has been a beach-side tradition since it appeared in Atlantic City more than 100 years ago. Some say taffy appeared in the Midwest at county fairs even earlier. However, Atlantic City is known as the home of salt water taffy.

Many manufacturers claim a shopkeeper by the name of David Bradley was one of the first sellers of the candy. In 1883, a huge storm hit Atlantic City and flooded the boardwalk. Bradley’s store was flooded and the ocean water soaked his entire stock of taffy. In one account, a young girl asked if the store still had taffy for sale. Bradley jokingly told the girl to grab some ‘salt water taffy’. This is believed to be the first reference to salt water taffy. Today some recipes for salt water taffy call for a teaspoon of salt.

However, Joseph Fralinger is credited with popularizing salt water taffy. Fralinger observed sunbathers and boardwalk visitors and came up with the idea to sell salt water taffy. He figured tourists would want a reminder or souvenir of their vacation to Atlantic City. As an experiment, Fralinger boxed the candy and sold it one weekend. It was a huge success and the demand became too much for him to handle.

Competition was not far behind Fralinger’s success. Enoch James became Fralinger’s biggest competition around 1900. The James family moved from the Midwest to Atlantic City after hearing about the salt water taffy craze. James located his store near Fralinger’s shop on the boardwalk. Each shop had different recipes to advertise to visitors. When James came to town, Atlantic City’s first ‘taffy war’ started.

By the 1920s, salt water taffy was at the height of its popularity. More than 450 manufacturers were making and/or selling the candy at that time. In the early 1920s, John R. Edmiston obtained a trademark number for the term ‘original’ salt water taffy. After obtaining the trademark, Edmiston then asked the larger taffy companies for a share of their profits because they were using his trademarked name. The James brothers sued Edmiston over the use of the term ‘original’ salt water taffy. In 1923, the Supreme Court ruled the confection had been around too long and used by too many people to claim royalties off of the ‘original’ title.

Today salt water taffy is found mostly on the Eastern seaboard and is a popular treat for people to bring home after visiting one of those beaches. Taffy is also found in other parts of the country at some theme parks.

How is Salt Water Taffy Made?
The original process of making salt water taffy dates back more than 100 years. Skilled pullers would hang 10 to 25 pounds of taffy over hooks. When the taffy reached 5 to 6 feet in length, it would start to fall off the hooks. The puller would then pick the taffy up and put it back over the hook. The pullers listened for swish, smack, and slap noises to keep the taffy soft and less sticky. The process was typically done in plain sight on the boardwalk. A similar process is still used today when making homemade taffy, a great activity for children.

Most taffy recipes contain corn syrup, butter, sugar and some varying ingredients. The ingredients are melted down in kettles at a temperature between 250 to 270 degrees. The lower the temperature the chewier the candy, and the higher the heat the more brittle the candy. The ingredients are then put on a marble slab or pan and cooled. Once cool, the pulling process will start. The process of pulling the taffy over and over incorporates air into the mixture. The air gives taffy its unforgettable texture.

Eventually, the taffy will become harder to pull. When this happens, it is put on a marble slab or pan to hold its shape and then it is cut into pieces with greased scissors. Taffy should be stored in airtight containers to keep out the moisture. If any moisture gets into the candy, it will become very sticky.

The modern manufacturing methods have changed the way salt water taffy is made. Today’s taffy is cooked in large stainless steel or copper kettles and then vacuum cooked a second time. The pulling and packaging is now done with machines. This produces more quantities of taffy at greater speeds.

Thursday already!

2007-09-13T14:05:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how much the time flies when my kiddos are at school. I have all of these fantastic ideas floating around in my head, and I should have so much time to turn them into reality...but the real reality is, that it just zooms by!

Sometimes when I sit down to create, and I have many ideas in mind, I spend so much time deciding where to begin, that I do everything but begin :)

Today for instance,while pondering which project to start, I ended up washing the kitchen floor, cleaning my countertops, washing the tabletop...straightening up the living room (all good projects of course, but not very artistic) I did finally get down to business, but not with as much time as I would have liked. Tomorrow will be better ;) I've made a list of the things that need to be created, and I'm sticking to it this time (hopefully!)

Now in my Etsy:

I made this cute little banner yesterday, I'm so deeply into Christmas that poor Halloween is getting sidetracked.

I recieved a lovely package today from Shannon's (Paint mine Pink) Cotton N Candy swap, my partner was Sonya (from Love of Yellow Roses) and she spoiled me so! She sent me such an assortment of goodies, from Cotton Candy body wash (YUM!) to my favorite mouthwatering Swedish Fish, and everything in between. The cutest tissues that you ever saw, yummy fruity candy sticks, and jawbreakers of fantastic colors. The best was the adorable hanky tussie, full of pastel colored saltwater taffy. My kids were THRILLED with this swap, as was I! Thanks so much, Sonya!!

Now in my Etsy

2007-09-10T06:53:00.000-07:00

Getting into the Cupcake spirit! I had so much fun making this. This is old school papier mache, strips of newspaper and glue, layers and layers, but man was it a blast to make. I love papier mache. I'm in the process of making a papier mache tea set, not sure if it will turn out, but I'm having such fun doing it.

I have a couple dozen faux cupcakes to make today, I'm doing an art fair in December and I want to get a head start on Christmas. Have a great day everyone!

Ava Grace Angels Auction

2007-09-07T07:53:00.001-07:00

I found out about this little sweetie through Mica's blog (Garboodles Soup) and had to be a part of it. Poor little sweetie... If you haen't checked it out yet, there is a link on the side of my blog. I've said it before, and I'll say it again...the art community is the best community in the world :) :)

Here is my offering for the auction:

How FANTASTIC is this!!

2007-09-06T09:56:00.001-07:00

While perusing the world that is blogland, I happened upon the blog of my very favorite artists in the world! Of course, I am talking about Stephen and Bryan from GLITTERVILLE!

Since I bought my first Glitterville piece at Mona Lisa in Palos Heights, I have been such a fan. Last year when they were featured in ME's Home Companion, I was so excited!! Their work is one of my greatest inspirations, and is just the thing when you are feeling down. One look at one of their yummy sparkles and you can't help but become giddy with joy!

When you look at their work, its as if the whole world is a wonderful, whimsical place. For a while, you get to be a child again, delighting in the fabulous colors, textures, and humor. Their work is truly a joy to behold, and I was just so thrilled to find their blog.

You've got to check out this Etsy Store

2007-09-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

(First, Annalise pulled the winning name, and the Halloween cupcake goes to Mary Timme, from Bead Fluff :D :D Thanks a million, everyone!!! :D :D)

While browsing (which I spend WAYYYY too much time doing) I happened across an artist that I've not seen before, and oh my goodness her stuff is just so fantastic!! I had to write to her and ask if I could blog about her, and she said yes, so here we go! Her shop is Cindricksbabys.etsy.com (my links never work, sorry) and she just does the most imaginative stuff, I was instantly smitten!

Her work speaks for itself, so here are a few of my favorites:

Aren't they just the most precious? I love the freedom that she expresses, you can just imagine time standing still for her while she gets lost in her work, creating these lovely pieces. Like so many of us, she really enjoys working, creating, and getting her hands mucky. The best gift that we can have as artists (I think) is to have something wonderful come out from doing something that we just love, and when it is obvious to someone else's eye as well, it is a magical thing indeed.

Do check out her etsy, its a real treat!

My apologies

2007-08-31T08:35:00.001-07:00

to those who are waiting for items that should have been there a couple of days ago. I went to the ER on Wednesday, and they ended up keeping me until today. Everything came out fine, and all is very well, but I'm a bit late with a couple of things, and they will ship out today.

Here are some pictures of the things that I'm sending to my swap partner, Sonya (Love of Yellow Roses over there to the left) for Shannon's Cotton N Candy swap

Have a Great Weekend!!!!!

So many things happening!

2007-08-27T15:10:00.001-07:00

I am happy to announce the opening of my website, Frostings and Sparkles... It is featured over to the side under places to shop, feel free to drop in and have a look-see! It is diminutive at the moment, but like a new baby, will hopefully grow and flourish (and I won't have to put it through college, LOL)

I am so thrilled to be one of the new artists this September over at Pfatt Marketplace. I have always greatly admired the fantastical works of the many talented Folk Artists over there, and am just pleased as punch to be joining them.

Also, I am very excited to be participating in the Angels Unaware auction for baby Ava Rose. There is a link on the side of my page, many talented artists are again banding together to in support and love for this sweet little girl. Please check it out, her story is very touching, and with a lot of love and determination, this little girl will have a wonderful future ahead of her. It always makes me so happy to see that the art community is so close knit, and caring. Its really a wonderful thing to be a part of, and I feel very blessed indeed.

Pictures to come from the Cotton N Candy Swap!! Have a lovely day everyone!

Its a Giveaway!! and LOVE my swap stuff!!!!!!!!!!

2007-08-23T09:02:00.000-07:00

This is a Halloween Cupcake, approx. 6x6", decorated with ribbon, frosted and topped with candy corn! Just leave a comment on this post, from now until Saturday September 1st. Annalise will pull a name out of our Halloween Bowl on Monday, and the winner will be announced. Good luck everyone!!

My swap partner, Priscilla, (over there under awesome blogs The Flea Market Queen) is the bestest swapper!! She could not have sent me anything that I would have loved more!!
The apron is adorable, my daughter insisted that we bake cookies last night so she could wear it ("No fair!" said I)
She also sent me mountains of adorable vintage pictures, and had each item beautifully wrapped and each item had a picture on it as well. I wish I could have taken a picture of the wrappings, but my daughter and neice dove in too quickly! There were the most beautiful vintage kitchen towels, and one embroidered towel with a tea pot, I am a real tea pot girl

I also recieved some adorable red pyrex (which the hubby already made salsa in!) and a Romantic Homes magazine (LOVE this!!) Priscilla was a fabulous partner, and I feel so lucky!! Big hugs and a million thanks to you, Priscilla!!!

Loving the Halloween stuff

2007-08-21T20:59:00.000-07:00

Mica's Vintage Kitchen Swap

2007-08-20T17:53:00.000-07:00

Has officially left the building! I had lots of fun with this one, going to my very favorite thrift stores, and searching for cool stuff! Seeing the things that people come up with is always the best part, and I can't wait to see everyone else's pictures. Thanks a million to Mica of Garboodles Soup for hosting this!!!

My partner is Priscilla, (the Flea Market Queen under Awesome Blogs) and I hope she likes her stuff :)

Coming soon...A Giveaway!!

Swaps almost done, a feeling of Halloween in the air!

2007-08-17T12:56:00.000-07:00

I know its a bit early, but I just saw "WICKED" again, and I guess it got me in the spirit (if you haven't seen it, it's WONDERFUL!!) My kids and I are nuts about Halloween. I think it's the drama in us, because we all love to dress up, perform, and be kooky... and there's just something about black and orange, and green and purple that just screams delight! The candy isn't half bad either ;)

We all love a good scary story too, and we really enjoy having bonfires in the yard when the cool weather sets in. We toast marshmallows, make s'mores, and scare the daylights out of each other! We have a few extra kids alot of the time too, one in particular named Joel who is a friend of Brendan's, whom we've known since kindergarten.

A couple of years ago, we had a fire and had the boys on the (5th grade) football team over. I had printed some scary stories off of the internet, and told them in my spookiest voice. Joel was putting on a brave face, but was starting to talk really fast, and crack a lot of jokes, so I knew he was a little bit scared. I went inside to get everyone some hot cocoa, and when I came out, SCREAM was in our neighbors' yard (aka my parents' yard) running toward our fence and howling...Joel screamed his head off and ran towards me, as SCREAM pulled of the mask...Lo and behold, it was MY MOTHER!!!

The kids still laugh about that one, Grandma really pulled one over on them.

Don't know whether I'm going to put this fellow in my etsy, or Ebay yet, still deciding. Happy Haunting, y'all!!

Wahoo, another swap!

2007-08-07T10:45:00.001-07:00

I think I get WAY too exctied about these!! Its like an addiction! I went shopping today for a few things for the Vintage Kitchen Swap over at the talented Mica's Garboodles Soup, and now I see one of my favorite blog sisters is having a Cotton N Candy swap!!

Check out Shannon, over at Paint Mine Pink, and get in on the fun!

Look what I just found

2007-08-03T23:55:00.000-07:00

The picture that I had taken with Anthony Wiggle :D :D Just thought I'd share :D This picture does not do him justice, by the way, he is amazing looking (almost as cute as my dh)

La la la la

2007-07-27T15:07:00.000-07:00

Whew! Have had so much to do lately, and not enough time! I really need to get my hiney moving, its funny how when the kids are home all day, you don't get much chance to create.

A friend of ours is self publishing a set of short stories that he's written, and he's asked me to do the illustrations. I thought that would be OK, as I could sketch outside while the kids are in the pool. The kids have different ideas! Every 30 seconds or so, my 5 year old yells, "Mom, do you want to see me do the mermaid or the crab?" "Want to see my headstand?" and all five zillion variations of it, LOL Needless to say, the drawings are coming together very s-l-o-w-l-y!

We're also trying to consolidate a lot of our things, and get our house in order, as we would like to move before next year.

I'm hoping tonight to have an hour to just look at everyone's blogs, and see everyone's goodies. Nothing boosts morale like a bit of candy for the eyes!

Here is my favorite eye candy...Vince, baby!

New in my Etsy

2007-07-16T08:47:00.001-07:00

Lovely little Girls

2007-07-14T12:42:00.000-07:00

My lovely cousin Liz (from Elizabeth Gwen Originals) is in town. It is always a treat to see her and Terry, and Gabe, Briana and Lorelai. They live pretty far from us at the moment, and we miss them so much.

Liz is the most talented sewer that I have ever met. She can take a pile of fabric, and turn it into something magical. She handmade these lovely twirl skirts, worn in the pictures by cousins Lorelai, Kailey, and Annalise. They spun furiously, making the lovely fabric billow around them, and admiring each other (while secretly admiring themselves) as little girls will do ;)

They really hammed it up for their "photo shoot" and it is just so sweet to see another generation of our family enjoying each others' company as the previous generations have done.

Liz also made me this absolutely gorgeous purse. Pictures do not do it justice, and it is truly magnificent. I have gotten so many compliments on it already, I really need to keep her card handy, so that I can give it out! She just really does the most amazing work. Her new store has just opened too, its called ElizabethGwenOriginals.com, and there is a link up there with my favorite shops :D

Some pictures

2007-07-05T20:02:00.000-07:00

These are my contribution to the angel auction. I have had a bit of a rough time lately with still being really dore, but this was more important than a bit of discomfort. This is truly a wonderful thing that these ladies are doing, and its an honor to participate

It actually felt so good to be working again, I also finished a birthday pressie for little Paige, who is turning 1, from her Auntie Emily. Hope they have a fantastic party!!

Pictures!

2007-07-01T06:20:00.000-07:00

These enchanting goodies are from the lovely Shelley, of Shelley Sweet & Shabby (over there under Awesome Blogs) Pictures don't do all of this lovliness justice.

I wish that I had taken pictures as soon as it arrived, everything was wrapped adorably, Shelley is a detail girl, and it sure shows. Thanks so much Shelley, I just adore it all. The little box is full of so many fabulous bits and bobs, and the box is decorated so beautifully!! I just love it!!

Thanks Everyone for your well wishes!!

2007-06-28T11:16:00.001-07:00

I am home, and in a bit of pain, but slowly getting back to normal. I'm sorry I haven't been to visit anyone's blogs, I can't wait 'til I can sit a bit longer and have a great look around!

I have some fantastic pics to share too, my bunny swap partner, the amazing Shelley, absolutely spoiled me rotten, and I have gotten the most lovely goodies to show!! Shelley, if you're reading this, THANK YOU!!! I will send you a proper email soon, WOW, I LOVE everything!!!!

I feel like I've been on another planet for the last week, and it will be so nice to join the world again, I think it might just take a couple more days. Thanks everyone, lots of hugs and kisses to all, and I'll visit you soon :D :D

OK Swap Pictures!

2007-06-19T21:04:00.001-07:00

These aren't the best photos, but they were quick, and I really want to get them in the post tomorrow. I love swaps, they are better than Christmas, because suprises are so much fun. Thank you so much, Holly Doodle for hosting the Tiara Swap!! I made this for Michelle, and I hope she likes it.

Also, thanks so much to Debra from HipHopJingleBoo for hosting such a fun swap, I had a blast making the bunny for my sweet partner Shelley (Shelley Sweet & Shabby under Awesome blogs over there) Shelley has a very cute blog, and she owns a store with her daughter!! How cool is that!

Working today :)

2007-06-19T09:26:00.001-07:00

Putting the finishing touches on my Bunny swap, and Tiara so I can get them in the mail tomorrow, lots of sparkles and paint equals the kind of day I love!! I'm having surgery on Thursday (nothing life threatening)and I will be there until Saturday. I'm sorry I haven't been to any blogs in a couple of days, I'm trying to get the house ready for the hubby while he's in charge (LOL!) Funny, he's cancelled the cable, and hid the Playstation for the Summer, wonder if both will magically reappear while he's home with all four kiddos (LOL!)

Please pray for this Family

2007-06-14T19:57:00.000-07:00

I have seen Iva and Brianna mentioned on many blogs. I do not know them, but have been following their story, and I thought I'd do a post, because it never hurts to add more prayers. Please pray for this family. As a mother, I can only imagine what they are going through, and it's gotta be hell.

http://iva-and-family.blogspot.com/

Last day of School...frantically making gifts!

2007-06-11T22:31:00.001-07:00

This is for my son Liam's teacher. She is one of those teachers that you get once or twice in all of your school years. I cannot say enough good things about her. She goes above and beyond in everything, is so great with her students, and is a mother of five!

I was going to make her an angel, and my brother's girlfriend asked me how many subjects she teaches. When I told her about all that this wonderful lady does, she came up with the many hats idea, and I thought it was just perfect.

Now I just have to finish up my swaps! I'm good under pressure ;-)

My partner for the bunny swap is Shelley, who has a lovely blog...check her out!http://journals.aol.com/shelleymb47/shelleysweetshabby/

Got the most WONDERFUL gift today!

2007-06-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

My swap partner, Mica of Garboodles Soup, is such a gifted, talented, amazing woman!! I was so excited to see a package on my doorstep. Annalise (DD) asked if it was for her, and I had to tell her that this one was all mine ;)

I literally gasped when I saw the magnificent little cupcake person! The detail is exquisite, and it is just so completely perfect. The little face is out of this world. I cannot say enough about it. Even my sons, who are usually not interested, were amazed! Thank you so much Mica, I feel like I completely lucked out. I don't think mine is going to be a match for yours, but I hope that you like it. You are fabulous!

Also, the cutest cupcake candle, I honestly have been looking for one of these, and have a look, its just so cute!

Thanks, Mica!!

I am so behind!

2007-05-30T18:21:00.001-07:00

I want to thank everyone who joined the cupcake swap!!! I had a marvy time making goodies to share, and there are already some pictures on the flickr site, which are aweome!!!! If you have not yet mailed your swap out, please let me know. I promise I won't bite you LOL I just don't want anyone to get left out, and I know things come up, so please let me know :D :D :D

Also, I need to thank SHANNON!!! from Paint Mine Pink. Shannon is my long lost Australian sister (only she's much prettier) I read her blog, and look at her photos, and I swear she is my soulmate! She sent me these absolutely adorable candies, which look just as cute as they can be!! My daughter was also excited by the goodies, and was a bit sad to learn that they weren't real LOL

Thank you so much Shannon, you totally made our day!!!!!!! Lots of speedy healing wishes to Sam! It sounds like you two are going to have a great time together in the meantime :)

So Jazzed about swappin'!

2007-05-22T07:41:00.000-07:00

I am having a blast with this! Cupcakes are so fun, and lovely :) At the end of the day, there's nothing like sitting down with a little peace and quiet and some art supplies. i get carried away most times though when I work at night. There are no interruptions, and sometimes I'll look at the clock and find its 2 in the morning *eek* I love mornings, but am so not a morning person. I could stay up all night though :)

I meant to say before, if anyone is having trouble with the new shipping increase, or has not yet heard from their partner, please let me know, and I'll do whatever I can to fix it, or assist in any way.

Off to visit some blogs!

PS Here is the flickr page where you can share your swap photos :D :D
http://www.flickr.com/groups/348353@N24/

New kid in Town

2007-05-17T07:06:00.000-07:00

My cousin Liz has just joined up and got herself a blog! She makes the most beautiful purses, diaperbags, and clothes. Her skirts are out of this world! She's over there under AWESOME BLOGS, Elizabeth Gwen Originals. She'd love it if some of you popped in to say hi!

She is so talented, and she is far away in Maryland, and I miss her so!!!
Welcome to Blogland, Liz!

I can't believe this!

2007-05-15T10:56:00.000-07:00

WOW. I just got back from the Post Office, and the "small price increase" nearly knocked me over!! I had a small international package to send, (that 1/2 dozen cupcakes in a box down below) and the cheapest rate was $50.00! The next highest was $75.00.

I have a feeling this is going to hurt a lot of people who sell on eBay and Etsy :( First gas prices, then the Electric Company raised their fees, and now this. Where do they think people are suddenly going to come up with all of this money to spare? Especially with all of these increases right on the tails of one another.

It seems like before long, there will no longer be a middle class. I hate to see what's happening to the regular working stiff. I know I'm soundind very dreary, but this is just the tip of the iceberg.

My husband is a Carpenter, and fortunatley he's never been laid off in the 17 years that he's been working. We know plenty of guys though that go through it every season, and it always happens in the winter when the work runs out. I don't know how people manage.

I have been lucky to be a stay at home mom for most of my children's lives, and it's been great. I think now its time for me to get a job. My youngest will be in Kindergarten this fall.

Hubby and I have gone over our finances, and between gas for the cars, electricity, and gas for the house, our cost of living has gone up almost 40%.

I know we're very fortunate. I don't know how others are managing, especially single moms, or anyone that is injured or ill. It's very scary.

Wow, Monday again!

2007-05-14T20:39:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a Happy Mother's Day! If you joined the Cupcake Swap and haven't heard from your partner yet, please let me know :)

I'm so looking forward to this!

Monday's Musings

2007-05-07T10:39:00.000-07:00

I won!! Shannon, over at Paint Mine Pink (under Awesome blogs over there -> ) had a giveaway for her cutie little candies, they are just precious, I'm so excited :D Thanks again, Shann!

Yesterday was my mom's birthday, and keeping in tradition, the party was at my house, and I did all the work LOL
I had wandered over to The Feathered Nest (also under Awesome Blogs over there) and Dawn had posted a Sour Cream Pound Cake recipe. It had to be meant to be, just in time for the birthday!! I made it, and not only was it DELICIOUS, but also there was not a single crumb left!

There's my mom with her cake, and her cupcakes (which everyone , and I mean EVERYONE asked whether they were real! Like I'd make my mom fake cupcakes *insert raspberries*

Thanks Dawn, for your yummy recipe!!

There are 2 days left if anyone would like to join the Cupcake Swap! We have a pretty good group going already! I'll send you all your partner's info by Friday.
I can't wait to see pictures!!

Getting into cupcake spirit (yeah, its really hard LOL) I made this today

Tagged...times two!

2007-05-04T08:07:00.000-07:00

Shann over at Paintminepink.blogspot.com has tagged me, and I stole the rules straight from her site LOL:

So heres the rules... each player starts with 7 random weird facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules. At the end of your blog, you need to choose 7 people to get tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog!

1. I hate white food. Mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, dips...GAG! If it has sugar in it though (frosting, whipped cream) then its OK!

2. I met my husband when I was 16. I went up to him and asked him to marry me the moment that I saw him. We've been together ever since, and I still love him to bits (usually)

3. I love the Wiggles!! When my son Liam was three, he was a Wiggle-maniac, and we got to meet Murray, Jeff, and Anthony! I still think Anthony is way hotter than Brad Pitt!

4. I read my books over and over again. Rereading a book is like visiting an old friend, you get to know them better and better each time. I must have read all of the Harry Potter books about 5 times each.

5. I took improv training at Second City two years ago. I love being on stage, singing, dancing, and acting like a nut! When you're on stage, all those things are encouraged!! In real life, not so much LOL

6. I love show tunes! Rent, Wicked, Sound of Music, Joseph, Annie, My Fair Lady...I always tell my husband that I'm a gay man trapped in a woman's body LOL (I hope no one takes offense to that, I love most gay men, they are so fun to hang out with)

7. I love old TV shows. Green Acres, the Brady Bunch, Get Smart, The Honeymooners, The Patty Duke Show, Dobie Gillis...They used to be on Nick at Night, and I miss them!

OK, I've also been tagged by Jessie purplecucumbers.blogspot.com to name 10 favorite blogs. There is no way I can pick 10! Each blog I visit offers new beauty, and I can't tell you all how much I enjoy everyone's pictures!

Don't forget to sign up for the Cupcake Swap if you are interested! There is still time :) (Feel free to use the Cupcake image over on the side if your particapting)

Happy Cinco de Mayo!!

Anyone up for a Cupcake Swap?

2007-05-02T09:08:00.001-07:00

I have so much enjoyed seeing the photos from all of the swaps, and I have sadly missed them all by a day or two *sniffle* The last one I was in was at Christmas, and it was really fun.

So I thought, why not have a Cupcake Swap? Who doesn't love cupcakes! Let's do it, and share the sugary goodness that is the cupcake. There are so many great things out there, especially in the artsy world. Cards, tags, collages, heck, cake mixes, frosting...the possibilities are endless (and yummy looking :D)

If you would like to participate, please Email Me your name and mailing address by next Wednesday, May 9th. I'll email you your partner's info by Friday, May 11th. Please don't spend more than $15

Please have your swap in the mail to your partner by Monday, May 28th. I can't wait to see what everyone comes up with!

2007-04-29T19:32:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to drop by Shann's blog. She is over there under Awesome Blogs, as Paint Mine Pink, she is hosting a great goodie giveaway!

Also, tune in soon, for a SWAP! Cupcake Swap that is!!

Finally we're enjoying some good weather! We had our opening day baseball parade yesterday, and my son Brendan's first game of the year. He pitched, and played wonderfully!

My cousins were supposed to come over yesterday evening and I had to cancel. It would have been so great, I was really looking forward to it, but then hubby caught the darn strep that we've been passing to each other. All six of us are now on medicine, and we can hopefully knock this out! We've been sick off and on since Easter, and none of us are particularly nice people when we don't feel well.

My cousins are so much fun, we are of the same breed, and that is...

BOARD GAME JUNKIES!!! Especially those of the Trivia Variety. I'm never competitive until I get around my cousin Tim, and then all bets are off ;) He brings out the worst in me! And I love it!!

Little known fun fact about me (as if the entire internet is just crawling with people who know any facts about me, let alone fun ones *heehee*)- I took an art class in college in Two Dimensional Design. The teacher had us create a board game as our final exam, and I created "Brady Bunch Trivia" complete with 1500 questions. I got an "A" and my teacher wanted to come over and play it with his girlfriend :D

I even spoke to Sherwood Schwartz (the executive producer), and his son Ross, about getting it made into an actual game, but Mr. Schwartz (and what a sweetie he was) said that Paramount now holds all the rights to anything Brady. If anyone is ever up for a game though, come on over!! :D And if you think you can stump me with any Brady questions, well just give it a try! :D :D

Ooh, yeah...funny story. I had put in some calls to the Schwartz's about the game, figuring I'd never hear anything. A couple of months later, the phone rang, and it was Ross. I tried to remain composed, but I was SO excited. Anyway, he no sooner tells me who he is, than my son Brendan (3 years old at the time) projectile VOMITS across the kitchen! I was holding Bren's head over the garbage can, trying to sound professional...Ah, kids...gotta love 'em!

Finding my Mojo

2007-04-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

Today was going to be one of those rare days that I get to work while the kids are at school, ah bliss! Happy joy joy!! Then it rained, and in walks my hunny and wrecks it all LOL

He got rained out, but he cleaned the carpets upstairs and brought me a Dunkin Donuts Coffee, so I let him stay.

I got to go thrifting last night, what a great time! I found some enchanting little treasures, which I will post later on. I even found a pair of American Girl pj's for $5, and some little levi's for my son for $4. Can't beat that!

You know its funny, my little brain can think of all of these things to occupy myself, and all of these things that I can't wait to blog about, and then when I'm actually here, zip. Zilch. Nada. I know there's something going on upstairs, I just can't seem to find it LOL

Filth flarn flarn, Filth

2007-04-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

I was going to attribute that statement to Bill Cosby, but I think it was actually Eddie Murphy doing an impression of Bill Cosby LOL

Anyway that's what my house was the last couple of days. I was really sick with some kind of flu, and in those two days, my house took on a life of its own. The dust bunnies must be more like dust rabbits, because they multiplied. The pile of dishes in the sink seemed to have hit puberty, it just grew and matured over night. Seems like just yesterday that it was just a tiny pile of cups *sniffle*

I was really suprised that they all weren't naked and starving when I was able to get moving again. Funny how no one notices how much you do until you don't do it ;D

I wanted to post some pictures of my new stuff, but I am having camera problems (again!!) so here are a couple of my kids bedrooms. My daughter, the baby and only girl, had to have a princess room. She has stuck wallies stickers over parts of it now, but this is the basic idea:

My son Brendan's room was a Harry Potter theme. We did it about 5 years ago, and its Liam's room now, and he would like to change it to a skateboard room. This is the closet

Have a great day all, make sure to pop over and see Lori at the Faerie Window (side bar under awesome blogs) she's having an amazingly adorable and cute giveaway!

Thoughts of collections

2007-04-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

I was never really a collector. My Grandma, however was, she collected salt and pepper shakers. As a child, I spent a lot of time with her, and got to know her collection pretty well. Some of them, like the dutch boy and girl on a bench, she would let me take out and play with. I wasn't allowed to mention that to any of my cousins, it was our secret.

When Grandma died, in 1998, my mom got the salt and peppers. We were in the middle of a kitchen remodel, and she didn't have room for them, so my husband left the wall of the dining room empty. We put Gram's cabinet there, and seeing the collection together again was so great. Here are a couple of pictures of her collection, now in my home

The first picture is the left side, and the second is the right side. My teapot collection is now on top of Gram's salt and pepper collection :)

Batteries Required (booooo!) and a Sweet Suprise!

2007-04-16T10:57:00.000-07:00

Well, the kid-goblins did it again. My camera only has one battery. No one seems to know how this possibly could have happened. Hmmmm, its a mystery alright ; I have two WIP's that are nearly finished, and I got a great treat in the mail too.

I went outside to take Annalise to school, and yippee, a package, that says Lisa Kaus Art Studios *happy dance* I can't take a picture of it *sniffle* but here is the one that I purchased:

The picture doesn't do it justice, and she sent me the cutest little card, and the whole thing was wrapped so nicely, it felt like Christmas! She is a helluv an artist, I love this piece :D :D

Anyway, my daughter has 8 days of school left. She only goes 3 days a week, and those 2 hours are my working time, as my other kids are in school too. Back to working nights again, I guess. I don't mind working at night, because it is very peaceful, but at the same time, after giving to everyone in my family all day, sometimes I'm too tired to be creative. That's one of the only downsides about art, you can't just magically turn it on at will. When I used to do portraits, I could normally knock out a basic outline in under an hour, but there were times when I just couldn't draw to save my life. I think it shows in your work too, if you're tired or bored, so its difficult to be on top form at night.

Ever keep working, long past when you know you should have stopped, and end up just trying to put little fixes on your work, or just work on this one little area, and end up practically ruining it? I hate when that happens ;)

Well, I'm off to try to read some blogs before I have to go get the boys. Anyone visiting, have a great day!

Time flies by!

2007-04-12T14:54:00.000-07:00

My kids have been on Spring Break at two different times, so I have not done much, or had any new pictures to show...til now! Miss Jamie talesfromtheterracottage.blogspot.com/ from the Terra Cottage sent me the sweetest package!! There were lots of adorable stickers inside, fairies, cupcakes, the alphabet, a supercute egg pick, and a lovely card, and OMG the cutest tags!!! Here are some pictures!

Isn't she the sweetest!! And she's talented too, she's got some really cute frames up today, check them out!!
Jamie, you made my day, thank you so much!!!!

Liam and Annalise's creations!

2007-04-03T09:42:00.000-07:00

Annalise is my 5 year old dd. She is a girly girl, and loves to make things. We picked up the April issue of Martha Stewart's magazine, and there was the cutest little chick in a basket, so Annalise and I decided to break out the pipe cleaners and give 'em a whirl. She looks so proud!

This is Liam (6 yr old ds) making his easter crafts, he takes his work very seriously!

Happy Day!

2007-03-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

I got the best delivery this morning from the mail lady! She brought me a package from the very talented Michelle Legler over at Mosaic Cottage (see link on the side under Awesome Blogs) Her work is unbelievable, and I am so happy to own a piece!!

I finished the baby gift last night, at last!! It was really fun to make, and the lady that bought it was really happy with it, and wants to order another piece, so that's wonderful.

Thanks again to Michelle, I can't stop looking at that adorable cupcake!!

Where does the time go?

2007-03-26T18:51:00.000-07:00

That's my newest cupcaker, little Miss Bloo. I'm working on a few more, and doing a baby gift (ballerina bear) that has to be done by Friday. Its funny, now that I'm working a bit every day, and joined a gym, the hubby is complaining about the state of the house *insert raspberry tongue* ;) There's just not time for everything, and dinner is always made and the kids are clean, and I think that after being an at home mom for the most part of 13 years (since I was 21) I am entitled to a little me time. Who cares if the closets are dangerously overstuffed? Just don't open 'em! LOL

Two years ago was the best, because hubby started playing the drums, and I joined the Second City Training Center. Every Thursday, my Aunt Edie, cousin Lisa and I would go down to Piper's Alley, and do improv for 2 1/2 hours. I swear we met the neatest people, and we became like a family (not my Aunt and my cousin, we're already like family.) Our Improv group was called "Mud for your Turtle" and it was hands down the best experience I've ever had in my life. Getting to perform on the same stage that Chris Farley performed on was thrilling...anyway...

I love my art, and I've been waiting patiently for years to be able to work on it, but working at home is not the best, because when you are Mom, and you are home, it doesn't matter if you're busy. Oops. I think I just complained LOL Second City was nice because it was out of the house, and watching each other do scenes, every week we would just laugh until our sides hurt. Plus, the kids were already in bed when I got home...ah, the good old days!!

Well, I better get back to work. Peace out ya'll and Happy Monday!

Just listed on Ebay

2007-03-22T06:35:00.000-07:00

If you do a search for paper mache lady, only three come up under folk art, one is mine. Blogger doesn't want to let me link, or you can copy and paste this addy

http://cgi.ebay.com/Paper-Mache-Sculpted-Lady-with-Meringues-OOAK_W0QQitemZ120100761056QQcategoryZ357QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem to have a look.

Here's hoping for better traffic than etsy :D

AND THE WINNER IS.........

2007-03-21T05:51:00.000-07:00

My son Aidan just picked the two names out of the bowl...

The first one is for the 1/2 dozen cupcakes and he picked... POLKA DOT PIXIE!!!!

The second one is for the pair of cupcakes, and he picked... MIZ SMOOCHIE LIPS!!!

YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!WAHOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

If you ladies could email me at Oolagirl@yahoo.com with your mailing addresses, I will send them out asap :D Thanks so much for playing!!!

Thank you all who entered, this was so much fun, and thanks so much again to LisaOceanDreamer for thinking of this very cool contest!!!! I think the anticipation is half the fun. I have had a blast, and found many wonderful blogs that I would not have found otherwise!

More FAKE Cupcakes..ready to go!

2007-03-20T13:12:00.000-07:00

Here is the second box of cupcakes for the Giveaway. I just realized that I never posted a picture! They are FAKE as well, the same as the first box, only there is just a pair of them inside this box. Looking forward to Tomorrow!!!!

I made this cake last night for husband and my (14th!) Wedding Anniversary. Anyway, it was so so so good. I have to share the recipe, which I found online at Traveler's Choice Internet Cookbook. I've never really made Red Velvet Cake before, except from a box once) This was too good to keep to myself.

Ingredients:
1 cup shortening (butter-flavored Crisco)
1-1/2 cups white sugar
2 eggs
2 Tablespoons cocoa powder
1 ounce red food coloring
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup buttermilk (not powdered)
2-1/2 cups sifted cake flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1-1/2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
Red Velvet Frosting:
5 Tablespoons flour
1 cup milk
1 cup white sugar
1 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
Cake: Cream shortening, sugar, and eggs. Make a paste with cocoa and food coloring; add to creamed mixture. Mix salt and vanilla with buttermilk and add alternatively with flour to creamed mixture. Mix soda and vinegar and fold into mixture. Do not beat. Bake in two 9-inch layer pans, greased and floured, at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.

Frosting: Cook flour and milk until thick, stirring constantly. (This will be as thick as paste.) Let cool until cold. Cream together sugar, butter, and vanilla; add to cold mixture. Beat until the mixture is the consistency to spread. When finished, it is similar to the likes of whipped cream. It makes the cake!

(www.virtualcities.com)

Look what I found!

2007-03-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

This is the kind of weekend I need to have more often. Dh and I went to Frankfort where they have the coolest little town square, with antique stores, general stores, tea shops, and super sweet old homes, with the wrap around white porches. I found the little book there, I loved the cover, and I got it for just $9.00 I looked it up online, and it was published in 1900. The illustrations are just so endearing, it was a great find. I want to go back, they had this pair of antique Victorian Shoes (they were SO narrow!!) and I wanted them, but I didn't get them. So many goodies waiting for the right person to find them!!

We also went to the Pickwick Society Tea Room

and had tea and quiche, it was so adorable, shabby chic decor, and we had the table in the sunroom, it was like being on vacation :D :D

Today I went to the Mole Hole, a WONDERFUL gift shop in Orland Park, where I got the Miss Understood, and the cute little sugar angel. I was supposed to be at a craft fair, but the craft fairs are all the same old stuff that they've had for the last 15 years. The gift shop was perfect http://www.themoleholeonline.com/ and the owner was a gem, she was knowledgeable about all of her artists, and I may have plugged a few of you LOL She was copying down websites before I left.

My last accomplishment for the weekend was cleaning out my studio (aka the garage) I could almost go back out and work, a few more days of nice weather, and I don't have to commandeer the kitchen anymore. I may even let the kids out of the closets now.

I have it on good authority that the ladies at Stevens Exhibits are reading my blog. My mom and my Aunt are amoung that group, so unfortunatley, the Artist's Gone Wild series will henceforth cease and desist. So sorry to those whose videos haven't been shown yet :(

Busy wonderful week!

2007-03-16T18:33:00.000-07:00

I can't wait til the 21st! I have entered a ton of drawings (all of them, I think!) so I'm bound to win one, right? The response has been so great! I'm adding a second prize, a smaller box with 2 cupcakes inside. It will be very similar to the other one, only not as large. These are so much fun to make, but I'm working on two custom orders right now (coolness!!), and I don't think I'd have time before the 21st to make another large box. But good things come in small packages, right?

Happy St Paddy's day, y'all!

(courtesy of Lonely planet)

Giveaway! 1/2 doz fake cupcakes

2007-03-10T08:02:00.000-08:00

Hope I'm doing this correctly!! Anyway, (for some reason, I can't link) LisaOceanDreamer from Heart of the Nest (link located at the side under AWESOME blogs) is hosting a worldwide giveaway, which is just the coolest idea. Everyone around the world of blogland, celebrating together. All of the fabulous giveaways are posted on her site, this is just so wonderful!

Here is my giveaway, 1/2 dozen of my FAKE cupcakes in a papier mache bakery box, they are handmade and varnished and sealed, completely non edible!

Just leave a comment on my site, and you will be entered in my giveaway in which the winner will be drawn on March 21, along with the winners of all of the giveaways. Isn't that cool!! Thanks Heart of the Nest, this is such a truly wonderful thing that you are doing!!

Making the cupcakes

2007-03-08T07:55:00.000-08:00

Some more cupcakes, ready to find their homes in their new projects. I had to giggle yesterday, as I frosted these and set them out, my kids didn't even bother looking. My oldest son Aidan told his friend, "If it looks really good, don't bother, its fake." Heehee :D

(I do bake for them, they just never look as pretty as the imposters!)

Had to come back to add, Carrie of Violets are Blue http://www.violetsareblue.net/blog/ is doing the most fantabulous giveaway of goodies!! Make sure to go and sign up if you haven't yet!

I think I need a new camera

2007-03-06T19:48:00.000-08:00

Either I have a really crappy camera, or I really stink at taking pictures! Probably both, truth be told. I've finished 2 pieces that I've been working on, and my pictures just arent cutting it for me :( They don't show the detail. It is snowing outside, so I can't shoot outdoors today. My brother's GF is a photographer, and she is going to take some lovely photos for me. Until then mine will have to do.
The first one is a sweet lady who has just finished baking her meringues. She turned out to be a combination of June Cleaver and my Grandma, which is a good thing! Here's a peek

Next we have my shy little Cupcaker. She is dear to my heart, because cupcakes are my favorite thing to create, and she is the keeper of the cupcakes. She is just so joyful that she has these goodies around her!

I am also working on another Cupcaker, and a few other goodies. I am just having so much fun. We are supposed to have a big thaw this week, and it will be sheer magic to be ouside again, working in my studio *YIPPEE!!!!*

A week of Strep Throat

2007-02-28T18:51:00.000-08:00

Three of my four kids and I are just getting over strep. Its been a long week. I haven't managed to get anything done, but everyone is back to school tomorrow. I hate when they're sick, especially in the winter. We've been stuck inside for way too long, can't wait to get everyone back outside, and to be able to go to the park again! We are all getting on each other's nerves being cooped up, especially with the 5 and 6 yr old, they have so much energy and they need to be able to run. Come on, Spring!!

Tomorrow is March 1, the start of the South Side St. Paddy's month. Everyone in my neighborhood (South Side of Chicago) is Irish, and they get to be twice as irish about this time of year. Our parade is one of the biggest in the USA and it started out as just a couple of floats. The entire South side (and even the North Siders) come out (except me!) I know, I stink LOL

I know my kids though, and by the time we found parking and walked the 8 blocks to the parade, they would be crying to go home. I don't understand the draw of standing outside FREEZING brrrrrr especially since there are so many drunken adults, its hard to see anything. We usually have a few people over and play board games, and have Corn Beef & Cabbage, way more fun!! (Except the corn beef part, blecchh) LOL

I do have to admit though, I LOVE Irish Music. When I was forced to listen to it as a kid, I couldn't stand it, but somewhere along the line, I guess it grew on me. We even went to see an Irish band last week, The Larkin Brothers. They are in their 20's and 30's and they play traditional irish music, plus some of their own. They are soooo good :D We've seen them like 11 or so times, if you ever have the chance to see them (and you like Irish music) they are so fun. They are also very entertaining, they're like a bunch of lunatics on the stage, great fun. My kids even like them. My three boys are really into the guitar :)

I have no pictures to share today, need to get to work! Great day to all in blogland!

Last of the birthdays, and free day!!

2007-02-22T06:18:00.000-08:00

Dancin' like a fool! I have the house to myself for 3 hours!!!! I am going to turn on some inspiring music, get all my stuff out, and just create. Bliss!

I should have my studio back soon, the snow is melting (Hurray!)and it will be great to work in peace with a bit of space again.

If you haven't seen Jenny's (The Polka Dot Pixie) beautiful fairy, you have to go over and have a look. She is so talented, and this fairy is unbelieveable! Truly unique, and wonderful.

Update: My friend just called and said "How did you get three hours to yourself?? And what inspirational music??" ROFL OK, it was Janis Joplin, not Mozart :p

Have to add this too...My cousin Liz has been making fabulous purses and diaper bags at her etsy ElizabethGwenOrignls.etsy.com and now she is making skirts. I was so impressed I had to share. This is her daughter, the gorgeous Lorelai, modeling Liz's fabulous skirt

Working, waiting for paint to dry!

2007-02-19T19:24:00.000-08:00

Waiting is half the battle, LOL. I just made a "cake" with one of my hats on top, but I have to wait for it to dry before I can do anything else. I finished a piece I've been working on for like a week! She is Justa Goil

Back to school for the kids tomorrow, and I have to clean my house!!

Cake, balloons, and a tired Girl

2007-02-15T20:04:00.000-08:00

Its over!! She had a lovely time opening gifts, and Daddy even took her ice skating for the first time! This is the bday girl and her cousins, and her cake :) Back to work tomorrow!

Valentine's Day

2007-02-14T20:18:00.000-08:00

The snow day was fun. It took me 2 hours to shovel my back yard, and we made some great big piles to slide down. The only sad part was we had to postpone the party, because I didn't want anyone to have to drag their kidlets out today, so it will be next Weds. Tomorrow is her real birthday, and we're having the family over for Princess Cake, so she didn't mind too much.

My son Brendan is so funny. He went out to shovel for some of the older ladies in the neighborhood, and decided that a wig was warmer than a hat. I think he may be channelling Jack Osbourne! Or the fellow Chris Sligh from American Idol

2007-02-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

Glittery texts by bigoo.ws

Its almost Party Time!

2007-02-12T14:03:00.000-08:00

Wednesday is the big party, and we're nearly there. Just a few last minute threads to tie up.

We have a birthday tomorrow for my brother (at my house) then dd's kid party Weds. then family on Thurs, and then I can get back to business. I have a little cutie that I'm working on, and she needs a body! I have another hat to finish, and I can't wait. I love working so much, it's such a joy, and so relaxing, and soothing... :D

Annalise and I whipped this up yesterday in honor of her birthday, it was so fun to do!

Have a great day everyone out in blogland!!

Thursday Time

2007-02-08T21:25:00.000-08:00

Today Annalise (dd) and I made place cards/party favors for next week, it was a mighty mess of glitter and paper, but we managed to make it through LOL They turned out cute, and she's happy with them. Every day she asks me "how many more days?" :D

My friend Donna and I are doing the art thing together, we started making our cupcakes a while back, and it was great when we were able to work outside, can't wait to get back out there!!

Here are a couple of our creations, they are ornaments and I actually have them hanging all over my house. We've tried all different materials, and pretty much found the ones that we like best. The hilarious part is that we both have husbands and kids who now every time we bake, ask first "Can we eat this, or is it fake?" LOL Usually the better it looks, the more likely that its fake. I have a garage full of chocolates and petit fours, and my actual food never looks as good as the stuff we can add acrylic too :)

While we were creating at the table today, my older boys were listening to music. They really like SUM 41, and my 6 year old (Liam) has been picking up some of their taste. He was lip synching tonight, and the faces that he was making were hilarious, He looked like a little toothless James Hetfield ROFL DH plays the drums, and the three boys are into guitar, but Liam is quite an artist, esp. for his age. He is really shy, but when he gets a little older, he will definatley be taking drawing lessons.

Where does the time go?

2007-02-07T06:41:00.000-08:00

I can't believe its Weds. already!! DD's party is a week from today, and I guess I'd better start planning. I'm just going to make a bunch of party favors and ribbons for games, and hopefully we'll all just have a blast, dd is so excited :D Two lovely moms have volunteered to stay and help (yay!) I think it will be great, we'll have one adult for every few kids. I am probably more excited than my dd is. Parties are just so great, and I know that these memories will be ones that she shares with her own children some day.

I can't wait for the thaw and to be back in the studio, everyone here has such bad cabin fever. Chicago is the only home I've ever known, and I love it, but the only thing that I would change is our weather. I love rain, and a slight chill (the Irish part of me) The frigid freeze though that's going on right now, well, it SUCKS. :)

I am having so much fun checking out everyone's goodies, I hope no one minds if I add their blog to my page. I feel like a kid in a candy store, I can't wait to look around some more.

Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday!

2007-02-06T07:41:00.000-08:00

Baby its Cold Outside!! Its a good day to stay in and do some papier mache! I finished a piece last night at my kitchen table, man do I miss my studio!!!!

Granted, my studio is a table, an art cart and a few cabinets in my garage, but its so nice to not have to put everything away all the time LOL I really am going to try to figure out how to comment today, at least to go say hi to some of the http://glitterANDgrunge.com artists!!

Here is my newest dude, I just love him. I totally go crazy for cupcakes, frosting, parties, streamers, confetti, celebrations, and he is so ready for all of the above!!

2007-02-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

Well, we're officially on board at Glitter and Grunge! That is so exciting, because I am in awe of the other artist's work on there!!!!!

Today my youngest is at school, and I need to make her birthday party invites before she gets home. She would like to have a princess party, and she is just like her mother, a little over the top, so I'm going to look around and see what kind of things I can transform (cheaply!) into a Magical Kingdom.

On her first birthday, four years ago, we had a formal tea. I know nobody has formal teas, but I have three boys, and when I finally got my girl, I wanted sparkles, and lace, and ribbons, and all that cool girly stuff. She wore this awesome little pink tulle dress, and I found a bunch of top hats at the dollar store. Everyone really got into it, our blue collar Grandpa's put on fancy suits for their favorite Princess, and all the ladies donned our formalest (ROFL is that a word?) bridesmaids gowns (the foofier the better!) We had tea pots and cups and saucers all over the house for decoration, and we draped some lace panel curtains around the place.

We made her a pink and white castle cake, and the turrets were frosted ice cream cones, and the birthday girl grabbed one right off the cake :) Gosh, I can't believe it goes by so fast!!

This year, we will be having around 14 kids, all 5 and under, and I have to think of some activities. We might make wands and swords...(with tons of glitter of course!) I told my hubby last night that Annalise wanted to have a party. He seemed all for it when he realized that he would be at work during the kids' party. (Wimp!)

Have to get used to this blogging thing!

2007-01-26T11:22:00.000-08:00

I used to belong to Xanga, and I knew my way around there, but now I have to learn all over again! Once I figure out how to find people and to read their blogs, I hope its a nice comfy place.

Things are hectic around here. My youngest dd is still in preK which means 3 days a week she goes to school. The other three boys are in school full time, but its hard trying to create anything in two hours, and then have to put it all away again. My studio is in my garage, and I miss it!! It is just too cold to be out there. I tried to brave it out there last week, but like the true brainiac that I am (snort) I was doing papier mache. Wet hands and cold weather sure don't mix. Who knew? ;)

2007-01-22T08:36:00.000-08:00

Well here I am! I just put some of my creations in my first ever online store (Etsy). I love making anything partyish and festive. Frosting, confetti, streamers, and lots of it, and the floofier, the better. Add in some glitter, and I'm over the moon ~~@~~

I've been an artist forever, but since I had kids I have just been doing portraits at Christmastime, and teaching a few children's art classes in my home. Next year, the youngest goes off to Kindergarten. I have waited so long for this, I want to create, spend time in my studio, and just enjoy making things. I don't want riches or fame (well, I guess I could be persuaded) but to be able to do what I love and stay afloat would be bliss. My friend Donna and I have been working on some stuff, that we hope to get out into some kind of market by or before September. I think she is of the same frame of mind too, about the rich and famous thing, LOL. It would be just so lovely to have a business though, that was created from a passion, and not just about money.

Can't wait to look around here!