tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8162892971402356232024-03-14T00:02:20.935-05:00Mikel AnnMikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-85173337091532344772012-04-27T11:11:00.001-05:002012-04-27T11:11:00.420-05:00My NEW/NOW Art Travel Kit<div><p>Well folks, it's been nearly a year now since I've taken the time to show this blog some love. Note: It's been a helluva year. LOL. An explanation will come in upcoming posts. For now I'd like to ease back in on a totally positive note and share with you my current art kit.</p>
<p>I'll begin by answering some questions I've been asked recently by way of explaining how this manner of journaling evolved:</p>
<p>How do you find time to journal? The easiest answer is I'm always ready because my journaling "ingredients " are always with me.</p>
<p>How do you decide what type/method of journaling is YOUR style? I simply do what I enjoy. While I might try out some of the recent trends I always go back to what makes me happy. It's why I journal in the first place.</p>
<p>How do you decide which is the right journal for you? Trial and error for a while. Then I began to ask myself a series of questions based on what I wanted from my journaling experience. I eventually ignored all the 'experts' and settled on what worked for me. More on this later.</p>
<p>Now for my setup:<br>
(Note: Our home was recently burglarized so I am learning to work the web from my phone. I have no idea how this post will look so be patient until I figure it out, please. ;) ). Here goes...</p>
<p>The first photo is my complete setup packed and ready. The small black Saddleback Leather clutch holds all my supplies. It measures approximately 7x5x2 inches. Plenty small enough to fit in my purse. </p>
<p>My journal is refillable-a must for me. I love the leather but do not want to pay the price for a bound book each time I need a new journal. This one is by Renaissance Art. Called an A5 plus due to the fact that they've added a few more sheets of paper in each refill than their other books. The paper they use is Arches woven text, heavy enough to take my watercolors and anything else I might throw at it, great with my favorite fountain pen, all around perfect for me! The text block slips out so if I want to get really messy there is no worry about damaging the cover. Once I've filled the book I simply slide it out, label it and slip in another. Again, perfect for me.</p>
<p>My watercolor box is by Winsor & Newton. Holds 24 half pans which I have filled with Daniel Smith tube watercolors-they're my favorite. I find I don't really need 24 colors and plan to downsize soon. But this has been a wonderful palette for me for quite some time now.</p>
<p>The next photo is my kit. I find this kit to work so well that even while at home I rarely need much else for journaling. The occasional decorative tape, scrap of paper or rubber stamp for fun but all the basics are with me all the time. The ingredients are: top center, my watercolor box, moving clockwise as much as possible...a paper towel in a tiny Ziploc bag, two Escoda travel brushes sizes 6 & 2, a bulldog clip, a Ranger scraper thingy, my Lamy Safari fountain pen filled with Noodler's Bulletproof black ink, individual wet wipes, a glue tape runner, Signo Uniball white pen, a Sharpie poster paint white pen, a waterbrush filled with the same Noodler's ink as above, a set of four Pitt markers in black with different nib sizes, two Pitt pens in gray shades with brush nibs-for shading, a kneaded eraser in a SD card box, two Staedtler lead holders, one with soft lead the other hard, a Staedtler click eraser for large areas, a Tombow Mono Zero eraser for tiny spots, tweezers,& a click razor knife, a KUM Pencut compact scissors, a Logan Graphics embossing stylus with four interchangeable ends, a portable folding toothbrush, a bottle of walnut ink and a water jar.</p>
<p>This is, after much trial and error, the schtuff that makes journaling a perfect fit for me no matter where I might wind up. I hope this is of some interest or help to some.</p>
<p>Love to All,<br>
Mike</p>
<br/><img src='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lwMD5j4TVnU/T5rFCYmJhlI/AAAAAAAAAr4/_MPvKtAia9g/20120425_180438.png' /><br/><img src='http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Gt1BSxZ_qvY/T5rFEGucagI/AAAAAAAAAsA/czbrIPj9UpY/20120425_173639.png' /></div>Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-53232485561412518482010-05-23T00:01:00.001-05:002010-05-23T00:01:05.210-05:00My Current Art Travel Kit<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2Pt0_JWI/AAAAAAAAApQ/dSKEdCuNY9w/s1600-h/DSC00376%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00376" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2QL45CKI/AAAAAAAAApU/KWvgS3YTmak/DSC00376_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2RUOZ3jI/AAAAAAAAApY/B1zkX099bJk/s1600-h/DSC00377%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00377" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2R8sysgI/AAAAAAAAApc/Dd1IA39MVBU/DSC00377_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> This is the box closed and the mat is for scale. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2TNQxYJI/AAAAAAAAApg/iqnYeA9EKhw/s1600-h/DSC00378%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00378" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2UAGF4PI/AAAAAAAAApk/-d9D9DvC_Vo/DSC00378_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2VSWhngI/AAAAAAAAApo/21PWcaWTof8/s1600-h/DSC00387%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00387" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2VytACiI/AAAAAAAAAps/lSZFR3s3Bhc/DSC00387_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> At left is the box opened as is. At right is said box with cutting mat, waxed paper & bag containing sandpaper, napkin & scraper removed.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2XLC8hcI/AAAAAAAAApw/ZzXOhMtzT_Y/s1600-h/DSC00389%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00389" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2X9Iw7lI/AAAAAAAAAp0/Dyr_C__dmaA/DSC00389_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2Y12KhGI/AAAAAAAAAp4/08CZACAetr8/s1600-h/DSC00388%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00388" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2ZmijyLI/AAAAAAAAAp8/8OgdKBrF1LQ/DSC00388_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> Up close of the two sides. </p> <p>The container is a Vaultz pencil box, approx. 8.25 x 5 x 2.75 inches. It even has a tiny key!</p> <p>Contents are: </p> <p>* UHU glue stick-small</p> <p>* Fiskars fingertip exacto knife</p> <p>* Small Making Memories cutting mat</p> <p>* Winsor & Newton Watercolor Bijoux box</p> <p>* Kuretake wide waterbrush</p> <p>* Small travel container of Golden's Matte Medium</p> <p>* Colour Shaper-one end is a brush the other a Colour Shaper tool</p> <p>* Logan Graphic 4-in-1 Embossing Stylus</p> <p>* Kuretake small waterbrush filled with black India ink</p> <p>* 2 Retractable Sharpie markers-fine & ultra fine</p> <p>* 1 Silver Sharpie marker</p> <p>* 1 Signo Uniball pen - white</p> <p>* 1 Galaxy Marker - white</p> <p>* 1 .5 Mechanical pencil w/extra leads</p> <p>* 1 Faber-Castell Perfect Pencil</p> <p>* 1 General's Woodless Graphite pencil</p> <p>* 1 General's Sketch & Wash</p> <p>* 1 General's Charcoal pencil 4B</p> <p>* 1 General's Charcoal pencil - white</p> <p>* 1 Blending stump</p> <p>* 1 Kneaded eraser</p> <p>* 1 Erasing shield</p> <p>* A small piece of sandpaper, waxed paper & a napkin </p> <p>With a bit of room to spare for ephemera I might pick up along the path...believe it or not, lol. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2aaX2eZI/AAAAAAAAAqA/WvA_A3cNR30/s1600-h/DSC00381%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00381" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2az56jiI/AAAAAAAAAqE/aPwBWWaa8ro/DSC00381_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2cAcqysI/AAAAAAAAAqI/8zkV_O70yik/s1600-h/DSC00383%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00383" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2c_jPcVI/AAAAAAAAAqM/TcuePeXHPgs/DSC00383_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> The Bijoux box is perfect because of its small size. There is a travel brush in the tin also which is handy. The right photo shows the embossing stylus. It unscrews at the center blue thingy where two more tips are stored. Handy for embossing, debossing, scratching & manipulating/distressing paper. This particular Colour Shaper is sold for use with masking fluid but can be utilized in a number of different ways.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2d1hMDjI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/3nAaz_xZ3uE/s1600-h/DSC00384%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00384" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2e0lxziI/AAAAAAAAAqU/eTvAeJ4VDh4/DSC00384_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2f625DBI/AAAAAAAAAqY/Q_RqScYiFPc/s1600-h/DSC00385%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00385" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2guqoJVI/AAAAAAAAAqc/4Us8r-_wirk/DSC00385_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> This is called the Perfect Pencil by Faber Castell. The top as you can see on the right comes apart to reveal a sharpener. Having the cap keeps the graphite from getting all over. I have enjoyed this tool.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2htM6uWI/AAAAAAAAAqg/RN2f4Vuy1QA/s1600-h/DSC00386%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00386" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2iaS5gqI/AAAAAAAAAqk/q05-XE6qSCY/DSC00386_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>The Fiskars fingertip razor knife along with a cutting mat is better for me because I have severe numbness in my hands frequently and seem to be able to manage to do the intricate work I prefer easier with this tool than with typical scissors.  </p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2jpgt6AI/AAAAAAAAAqo/JdpvBVy5ArQ/s1600-h/DSC00392%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00392" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/S_i2kHurRAI/AAAAAAAAAqs/3_-xx9RR2Kk/DSC00392_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  And lastly, everyone needs one of these. This is a nephew. (Overlook the swollen left eye. Not all models come with this flaw. This particular nephew has older brothers and one of them blackened his eye the night before while wrestling.) Our little Jaime graduated from preschool a couple of days ago and is hanging out with his Aunt Mikey until his regular sitter is also out of school for the summer. We had a grand time taking these photos and discussing in depth what all that "junk in that box" is for. I hope this is helpful.</p> <p>Love to All!</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-50052690516912096842009-10-27T21:29:00.001-05:002009-12-03T23:43:35.227-06:00Catching Up...<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesMYe5byI/AAAAAAAAAm0/HPVIV_bTQvY/s1600-h/CIMG7843%5B2%5D.jpg"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesNtHE7AI/AAAAAAAAAm4/E2q3WpnVAro/s1600-h/CIMG7655%5B2%5D.jpg"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesOUIE08I/AAAAAAAAAm8/McGz2dt_q6g/s1600-h/CIMG7119%5B2%5D.jpg"></a> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesPYQxyqI/AAAAAAAAAnA/RIhq_j_jSZw/s1600-h/CIMG7116%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG7116" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesP5cSpOI/AAAAAAAAAnE/NiwGiKhVObI/CIMG7116_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="192" height="252" /></a><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG7119" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesQZkBomI/AAAAAAAAAnI/JSXl65xoxnc/CIMG7119_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></p> </a></a></a> <p align="center"> <img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG7392" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesQvdKVqI/AAAAAAAAAnM/LzVNMTskaro/CIMG7392_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG7655" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesRMIiwyI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/uO7AAL3cI80/CIMG7655_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG7843" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesRVbhA6I/AAAAAAAAAnU/60dvA5FMAi0/CIMG7843_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesSfViFBI/AAAAAAAAAnY/xZEZ0N6JDgY/s1600-h/CIMG7844%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG7844" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesSt4X-QI/AAAAAAAAAnc/faP95sHoi5s/CIMG7844_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesTV1EYbI/AAAAAAAAAng/FmS1byuV4GM/s1600-h/CIMG7845%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG7845" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesT3zNsOI/AAAAAAAAAnk/UjMeEZlsl2c/CIMG7845_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesU6_7iQI/AAAAAAAAAno/gdkJygXW58s/s1600-h/CIMG7846%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG7846" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesVNtvhvI/AAAAAAAAAns/VychS4vZtfU/CIMG7846_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesWVaVcOI/AAAAAAAAAnw/Vq6cCH9uGAU/s1600-h/CIMG8175%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG8175" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesWxuC0CI/AAAAAAAAAn0/2NHMQFvmnAw/CIMG8175_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesXnB_EbI/AAAAAAAAAn4/TWJUkayh9MU/s1600-h/CIMG8379%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG8379" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesYCJp6EI/AAAAAAAAAn8/dmYqgDpgA-s/CIMG8379_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a>   </p> <p>In one of the Yahoo! groups that I am a member of some of us are participating in a monthly journal swap with a partner. Above you can see some of the entries I have shared in both of our journals. The group is Blissfully Art Journaling and my partners' name is Stacy. This has got to be one of the most delightful groups of people I have ever had the pleasure to be associated with and Stacy is absolutely the best journal partner ever!!! Circumstances have kept me from joining in the discussions on the board recently, but I faithfully read every post and learn so much from the precious souls who are there. It is a caring community of like-minded individuals, (where art journals are concerned at least), who make a concerted effort to lift one another up. I like that. The photos below are from a tip-in swap also done monthly on the same group. I have ceased to participate for the time being due to overwhelming family obligations but plan to get right back at it as soon as possible. The art I have received from others has been fantastic. Out of respect for their privacy I will not share their creations here. You'll have to be satisfied with the schtuff I've come up with, lol.</p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesYkl77nI/AAAAAAAAAoA/jMgvH41Csrs/s1600-h/CIMG7439%5B2%5D.jpg"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesZcXpTII/AAAAAAAAAoE/1FE-Lp463vs/s1600-h/CIMG6920%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6920" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesZxELZQI/AAAAAAAAAoI/5AHn6pRlVTw/CIMG6920_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="152" height="200" /></a><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG7439" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Suesabx_QRI/AAAAAAAAAoM/fg5274DolfE/CIMG7439_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="152" height="200" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Suesa64FM6I/AAAAAAAAAoQ/IKfhfQZIDDE/s1600-h/CIMG7441%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG7441" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuesbShNnYI/AAAAAAAAAoU/n58JfznMGn0/CIMG7441_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="152" height="200" /></a>  <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuescBehhmI/AAAAAAAAAoY/XRD9tiTOQNM/s1600-h/CIMG7722%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG7722" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuescdU9TyI/AAAAAAAAAoc/clDmhDwLk3g/CIMG7722_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="152" height="200" /></a>  </p> <p align="justify">I hope you have enjoyed perusing my blog. It has been my pleasure to share with you a while. </p> <p>Love to all...</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-16238396976836086572009-10-27T20:35:00.001-05:002009-12-03T23:45:53.171-06:00My Unexpected & Most Welcome Visitors<p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuefqTA-vxI/AAAAAAAAAl4/mQ_9QCeAkws/s1600-h/CIMG8396%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG8396" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Suefq1rp4pI/AAAAAAAAAl8/bnj2F6Ls0qo/CIMG8396_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Suefr4iQ-UI/AAAAAAAAAmA/bL5dgQNOWhY/s1600-h/CIMG8399%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG8399" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuefsI99JgI/AAAAAAAAAmE/wIGO61PzU6E/CIMG8399_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SueftbybSWI/AAAAAAAAAmI/ubZlJer2b_A/s1600-h/CIMG8408%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG8408" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SueftgG8wbI/AAAAAAAAAmM/i5T1COmqHjY/CIMG8408_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </p> <p>Bright and early yesterday morning I was sitting in my studio, checking my email, when a movement to my right made me stop and pay attention. I was absolutely thrilled to realize that I had visitors. Three beautiful deer were contentedly munching grass in our side yard. Thankfully I had my camera close by and got a few photos. I just had to share them. These gorgeous creatures touch my heart with their graceful and elegant movements. I felt so blessed to witness their interaction for just a little while. After a long few moments something spooked the trio and I thought it was me until I realized our 'yard dog', Willa had been sleeping right beneath my window and had just taken notice of the deer. The photos below make clear what became of my nature viewing at that point. </p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuefusZDMfI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/aBN0t1c2hWQ/s1600-h/CIMG8409%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG8409" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Suefu_AqOrI/AAAAAAAAAmU/30gz6WlmbuY/CIMG8409_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Suefv6dHKAI/AAAAAAAAAmY/HHOmfDEj6Y8/s1600-h/CIMG8410%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG8410" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuefwLBzwsI/AAAAAAAAAmc/5i_90GieD0M/CIMG8410_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </p> <p>It was a most serene moment while it lasted. By the way, Willa is quite harmless, she simply finds pleasure in making a fuss about strangers of any sort. Obviously she did not make much of an impression on my new found friends because two of them showed up again this afternoon. This pair is a momma doe with her fawn. She is quite large for a female and the most amazing thing to watch. I am planning to get them some feed to put out to help them along. We can make sure they are not shot at while here with us but there are no guarantees once they leave our property so I plan to try to keep them close.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuefxUGaMdI/AAAAAAAAAmg/Di7I5u06CeE/s1600-h/CIMG8417%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG8417" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuefxmxrvAI/AAAAAAAAAmo/8pjN1hXHUGA/CIMG8417_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Suefyu2H9RI/AAAAAAAAAms/HT8ty6gAxq0/s1600-h/CIMG8420%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG8420" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SuefyxfbmQI/AAAAAAAAAmw/2By7_EMzQqo/CIMG8420_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </p> <p>Just gorgeous!</p> <p>I hope you enjoyed them as much as I did. Sending love to y'all.</p> <p>Until next time...</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-8687780220227017152009-09-22T15:05:00.001-05:002009-12-03T23:47:56.002-06:00Good Schtuff for Sale<p align="justify">I have been attempting to scale back my crafting 'things' due to the crowded nature of my studio. When my Grandaddy moved in with us last year I gave up the larger space on his behalf and some of this schtuff has just got to find a home with a bit more space. Luckily for some dear soul I am forced to release a number of great items at terrific prices. If you see something you are interested in just email me at <a href="mailto:jinxiegoforth@yahoo.com">jinxiegoforth@yahoo.com</a>. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Srk8hx00ITI/AAAAAAAAAlM/qGtxJKuiefM/s1600-h/CIMG6884%5B2%5D.jpg">All these items have been lovingly used and treasured.</a></p> <p align="center"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6884" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Srk8iM5vchI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/7w5-ErRRpMs/CIMG6884_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="152" height="200" /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Srk8jwLdmxI/AAAAAAAAAlc/iG1GzVlsFo8/s1600-h/CIMG6893%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6893" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Srk8kSX3opI/AAAAAAAAAlg/73xNIIS2_FM/CIMG6893_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="152" height="200" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Srk8jD6DKmI/AAAAAAAAAlU/Aea4LBY9fcY/s1600-h/CIMG6886%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6886" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Srk8jSPi6GI/AAAAAAAAAlY/odZ4ii-74yw/CIMG6886_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">This item is the Clip It Up! by Simply Renee'.  All the extra clips, tags/dividers and such are included, many were never used. There is also a cover that was never used. This thing holds a huge amount of stuff! Retail is approximately $100.00. I am requesting $25.00 plus actual shipping.</p> <p><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="CIMG6889" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Srk8kjM2XLI/AAAAAAAAAlk/ju2LSVaF2MM/CIMG6889_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></p> <p>This is the Tag-A-Long by Ellison. I do not recall what we paid but I am requesting $10.00 plus actual shipping.</p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Srk8lIBLl0I/AAAAAAAAAlo/dNNlsBVi0XQ/s1600-h/CIMG6890%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6890" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Srk8lprKZsI/AAAAAAAAAls/7mQDZhF13Z0/CIMG6890_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="152" height="200" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Srk8mYsXklI/AAAAAAAAAlw/mIVuSkPeHds/s1600-h/CIMG6891%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6891" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/Srk8mqsKF-I/AAAAAAAAAl0/Qzwrpnz_lb0/CIMG6891_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a>  </p> <p>This is the Revolution by Quickutz. It is currently on sale @ our local Hobby Lobby for $99.00. I am asking $40.00 plus actual shipping.</p> <p>If you have any questions, (or would like to make me an offer, or have something you would like to trade or barter with) - just ask. I have sold numerous items on Ebay with 100% positive feedback. My username is jinxiegoforth. I have simply become disenchanted with all the fees and issues related to Ebay recently. </p> <p>Say you are short on money right now, and who isn't? I am willing to trade these items for items I can use that have an equivalent value or part cash and part trade. Email me - I bet we can strike up a deal. </p> <p>Some things I can always use include but are not limited to: Watercolor Paints and Accessories, Journals - Moleskine Large or Pocket w/Lined Paper or Moleskine Large w/Watercolor Paper or Handbound w/Watercolor Paper, Fountain Pens, 140 lb. Cold Press Watercolor Paper, Handmade Items, Your Unique Art, Unique Actual Ephemera and Olde Stuff in general, etc.</p> <p>Let me know what you think...</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-37763677965512153682009-09-22T14:35:00.001-05:002009-12-03T23:48:40.521-06:00Seven Months Ago...<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SrksQCbV7rI/AAAAAAAAAk8/62KY35e32zQ/s1600-h/CIMG6917%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="CIMG6917" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SrksQpS0kuI/AAAAAAAAAlA/nllIcR3lZg8/CIMG6917_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">This is one of the major reasons for my obvious lack in the blogging department...I returned to the work force in February of this year and it took quite some time for Wayne and I to adjust. Of course there has been many other things taking place during that time that have demanded my attention but this one has been a "biggie".  Considering the fact that this job should be quite simple, and it technically is, personalities and corporate decisions seem to keep this little place in turmoil. Truly, I enjoy this job but remain confused by how some manage to complicate matters seemingly without cause. </p> <p align="justify">All nonsense aside, I am practically in heaven being surrounded by books all day long and people who appreciate them too. Certainly all employees do not share my passion but some do and many customers are just great. For the most part, when there is not some silliness going on internally, I really enjoy the interaction and atmosphere.</p> <p>For now I am 'giving it a go' having to cut my hours to a minimum due to the illness of a beloved family member. BUT I thought some of you who make an effort to keep track of my whereabouts might be interested to know where all my free time has gone.</p> <p>Until next time...</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-1838523088166219642009-02-08T15:41:00.001-06:002009-12-03T23:50:04.295-06:00New Family Members<p>A few weeks ago we were delighted to receive into the Goforth fold six new family members. Just wanted to share a photo of the cuties before they find new homes.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RTecEJ3I/AAAAAAAAAkE/fimt9lgVW98/s1600-h/CIMG6742%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="CIMG6742" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RUNHlNoI/AAAAAAAAAkI/leRx9fOxY88/CIMG6742_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </p> <p>Isn't this just too adorable?!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RVEhGXnI/AAAAAAAAAkM/sgzQ94RZpC4/s1600-h/CIMG6725%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6725" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RVZw4e_I/AAAAAAAAAkQ/j_VF_PfMNS4/CIMG6725_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RWZ2BJOI/AAAAAAAAAkU/lFW4sDP8oGQ/s1600-h/CIMG6727%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6727" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RXUkW6II/AAAAAAAAAkY/4Ucv_oS07jI/CIMG6727_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </p> <p>My favorite</p> <p align="center">.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RYoL1QGI/AAAAAAAAAkc/df59-K0eqkU/s1600-h/CIMG6729%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6729" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RZBmfazI/AAAAAAAAAkg/owGfkxIFtAg/CIMG6729_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RaSGWulI/AAAAAAAAAkk/TjK7hC5zwa4/s1600-h/CIMG6731%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6731" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RaklBCjI/AAAAAAAAAko/ZHnMZjWNYuQ/CIMG6731_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </p> <p>On the left is Wayne's pick. The little guy on the right looks like his daddy...</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RbwyVHqI/AAAAAAAAAks/jSc1xeb0H4Y/s1600-h/CIMG6756%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="CIMG6756" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SY9RcXbgkHI/AAAAAAAAAkw/NuBKNHk1kTI/CIMG6756_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a></p> <p>Hail, hail the gang's all here! We've enjoyed these sweeties but will be glad to see them off to happy homes very soon. (Especially before the chewing stage begins, lol!)</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-49102623884953850492009-02-04T06:45:00.001-06:002009-12-03T23:51:30.485-06:00Photos for Franny<p>Not much by way of an introduction here. The lady this is posted for will know what it is all about. The rest of you can just wonder. *smile*</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmNxTMTmoI/AAAAAAAAAi8/QwLKtM7D4Zg/s1600-h/CIMG6777%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6777" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmNxvyTzVI/AAAAAAAAAjA/CIL6lyX5oZw/CIMG6777_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmNyTjr7iI/AAAAAAAAAjE/Y9BiNdc-LqE/s1600-h/CIMG6776%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6776" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmNypCt1ZI/AAAAAAAAAjI/h5n6BRITVNw/CIMG6776_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmNzbWsrfI/AAAAAAAAAjM/ZxWsZhQYQog/s1600-h/CIMG6775%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6775" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmNzoDu7pI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/iR8PsrFzbas/CIMG6775_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </p> <p>Franny, this plain old binder is about 9 x 5.5 inches, (outside dimensions). It was a cast-off that someone else could not find any use for.  This journal has no completed pages yet. I will also decorate the exterior at some point. I have another similar journal of the same size but it is currently traveling about in a Round Robin so I can't give you photos, sorry. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN0D5xQzI/AAAAAAAAAjU/bZL1lH6Ylw0/s1600-h/CIMG6778%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6778" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN0t4YVlI/AAAAAAAAAjY/O3RReGXPuqg/CIMG6778_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN1MGYIzI/AAAAAAAAAjc/t230-oaIzro/s1600-h/CIMG6779%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6779" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN1l3DJLI/AAAAAAAAAjg/6yCp0ZxyCU4/CIMG6779_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </p> <p>Here you can see the variety of sizes and shapes my pages wind up in. A lot is determined by the size and shape of the original packaging. I use anything and everything from cereal boxes to macaroni & cheese boxes to ends and pieces of some boxes. I don't mind the odd sizes and shapes, (as a matter of fact it really appeals to me), so uniformity is not an issue. You may feel differently. Some 'pages' I cut freehand and others I use a stencil on the edges. Once I have them cut to shape I apply a thin coat of gesso. My reason for the gesso is that many of the boxes have a slick coating on the outside and this allows my paints and such to stick without a problem. This step is a personal preference and not absolutely necessary. You could probably give the shiny side a good sanding to make sure the paint adheres. It is up to you-it's your journal! Once the gesso is dry I apply anything I would like, usually beginning with a coat or wash of acrylic paint, and voila', instant and interesting journal pages! Practically free too!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN2MYdsJI/AAAAAAAAAjk/QmbOkRSx6_s/s1600-h/CIMG6780%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6780" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN2SPcVXI/AAAAAAAAAjo/YlFZzkzYL8s/CIMG6780_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN2wGDzNI/AAAAAAAAAjs/UtHq72Gl7Wk/s1600-h/CIMG6781%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6781" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN3FBId-I/AAAAAAAAAjw/tn1QXIRUpdY/CIMG6781_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN30dWd8I/AAAAAAAAAj0/F5RtAVXf5Rk/s1600-h/CIMG6782%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6782" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN4GjDxyI/AAAAAAAAAj4/_4D6nGqPAe4/CIMG6782_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN4yQp6-I/AAAAAAAAAj8/WsZ-30LbDfY/s1600-h/CIMG6783%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="CIMG6783" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYmN5LwilVI/AAAAAAAAAkA/IlNfhXmI86M/CIMG6783_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="152" /></a> </p> <p>Just to give you an idea - this is a page made from a microwave popcorn box that I did not cut apart completely. I simply folded it up and cut out the shape of a castle, unfolded the bottom third and cut it to imitate a draw bridge, (Sorry about the wonky fourth photo). I could journal on the interior and when the finished page is folded shut and inserted into the binder my journaling would remain private. Just put your imagination to work and the world is your oyster. </p> <p>I hope this helps!</p> <p>Love.</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-58911313613534280102009-02-03T23:25:00.001-06:002009-02-03T23:25:57.436-06:00A Clean Studio...for now.<p>I had to remove practically everything from my studio yesterday since my hubby decided to work on my storage closet. I thought it might be a good time to straighten up while I replaced things today. The end result was much more conducive to productivity. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkmzicc_2I/AAAAAAAAAiM/xFKu6Ofh_Y0/s1600-h/CIMG6757%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6757" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkm0CmjpAI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/yWjm-N8NWMU/CIMG6757_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> This is my desk. Please note the fact that there is a flat surface here. Normally you would be hard pressed to prove it due to the mountains of schtuff I manage to pull out while working on any project.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkm1acVfaI/AAAAAAAAAiU/2bh-8sMwjpM/s1600-h/CIMG6758%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6758" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkm17vEalI/AAAAAAAAAiY/BNn3Ytqjegw/CIMG6758_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> The view from the doorway. Imagine that, there is a floor. I can actually get to my chair without having to hop over anything. This borders on amazing.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkm2U12NRI/AAAAAAAAAic/JTPtV0hBJdY/s1600-h/CIMG6760%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6760" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkm2kW-nnI/AAAAAAAAAig/-5Fp8sH-13Y/CIMG6760_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> The view from the other direction. My bookcase which holds all my recent and current reads as well as products I regularly use and my dear little muse Blossom, bless her heart.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkm3MQydAI/AAAAAAAAAik/39EoUleD0qo/s1600-h/CIMG6772%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6772" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkm3f2gaOI/AAAAAAAAAio/KLK26J_FmXI/CIMG6772_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkm35m3NUI/AAAAAAAAAis/DSyZt6sN32M/s1600-h/CIMG6774%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6774" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkm4GpDQ7I/AAAAAAAAAiw/KtRcwqEjZEs/CIMG6774_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> My precious little muse. Isn't she just adorable? Miss Blossom and I have been together for more than a decade. She is quite a dear, my constant companion while I create and dream up more ways of spending my hubby's paycheck. Never criticizing, always encouraging, giving me much inspiration along the way and a most agreeable co-conspirator, when a conspiracy is what is called for.  I just adore her!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkm41-8JfI/AAAAAAAAAi0/beqSPA2-p0M/s1600-h/CIMG6762%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6762" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkm5OM_vQI/AAAAAAAAAi4/evuS9yI5bYE/CIMG6762_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> Yes, I know you've already seen my wonderful, new, refurbished closet but I thought someone might be interested to know about the huge thingy on this wall. This is not actually one big thingy but lots of little thingies all connected and attached to the wall with screws. Each little compartment is a tilt-out drawer in which I store embellishments of all sorts. I find that if I can't see it, I won't use it. (Out of sight, out of mind, you know!) So I ran across this set a number of years ago, on QVC I believe, and it was the answer to my problem. These little drawers can be stuck together in any configuration you might choose. I've found no better storage for embellishments!</p> <p>I certainly hope you've enjoyed the short tour of my studio and meeting the most delightful Miss Blossom. Stay tuned for a more in depth tour of my bookshelf and a meet & greet with our newest members of the family...until then...</p> <p>Love.</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-5406597877487172692009-02-03T22:43:00.001-06:002009-02-03T22:43:40.800-06:00Studio Improvements<p>Yesterday my dear husband surprised me twice. Once by showing up early from work and secondly by informing me of his intention to upgrade the closet in my studio. This is a project that I have been requesting for nearly six months now. We did it! I am so thrilled to have shelves instead of the plastic storage drawers I was using. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkc8AoYUhI/AAAAAAAAAh0/mtqjBbiQP-Q/s1600-h/CIMG6551%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6551" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkc8eNTw_I/AAAAAAAAAh4/CcQX7lH8ipk/CIMG6551_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> Here is a view showing the plastic drawers. BEFORE.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkc9JrXobI/AAAAAAAAAh8/kuYCb-qZzKc/s1600-h/CIMG6762%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6762" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkc9srbVDI/AAAAAAAAAiA/EULnis2IO8g/CIMG6762_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkc-EHbEBI/AAAAAAAAAiE/soDRsJ5P3Ws/s1600-h/CIMG6764%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6764" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYkc-2B9v0I/AAAAAAAAAiI/wek9v6vBlTs/CIMG6764_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> And AFTER. New shelving, complete with my junque installed. Keep in mind that it is my responsibility to caulk, putty and paint said closet but not having any warning that we were about to get this little project underway I was unprepared and lacking in material. So, the finishing touches will have to wait a bit but as far as functionality is concerned - I have a wonderful and useful new closet. YES! Being able to see what is available makes it much more likely that I will use all the things I had stored in the drawers. And there was plenty stored there! I am attempting to purge as I go but sometimes it is so hard to just let go of these things I've purchased. Now I need to invoke my word for the year - RELEASE. For the time being I am installing a curtain.  Thank you, Wayne. You sure know how to put a smile on a girls' face. *wink*</p> <p>Love to ya'll!</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-48890916736916178572009-01-30T07:07:00.001-06:002009-01-30T07:07:07.505-06:00My Latest Find...<p>Good Morning! Today I am up early making pies that have been promised to a dear lady we attend worship with. Today is her birthday and she and my hubby both are diabetic so I volunteered to happy them up by making them each one of my soon-to-be-famous diabetic pies. They're not too shabby, if I may say so myself. Sugar-free foods have come a long way in the past twenty years.</p> <p>While I'm up I figured it would be a great time to share with you my new find...My much loved, (yes, already!), Art Journal Bag. Drum roll please...</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7KimrNeI/AAAAAAAAAf4/WhOpFmPcXuw/s1600-h/CIMG6692%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6692" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7K9DpXXI/AAAAAAAAAgA/ttZH2Hb2joA/CIMG6692_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> Taa Daa!!! Front view.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7MPPfwZI/AAAAAAAAAgE/EYixc52pkMg/s1600-h/CIMG6698%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6698" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7MnuqfvI/AAAAAAAAAgI/WkoM47fSyyY/CIMG6698_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> And equally delightful rear view.</p> <p>I found this little beauty made by ArtBin at our local art supply house. It was on sale AND I had a coupon. I practically stole it from them. Since I am always a sucker for organizational finds, this one really just took the cake! It was love at first sight. Being the diva I frequently am I ran this thing up to my local embroidery shop and took up way too much of the dear shop owner's time trying to decide how to personalize it. What you see here is the end result. I chose a cutesy/artsy 'G', (the initial of my surname) and she convinced me to add something to the back. I requested dandelions and she came up what you see in photo numero dos. There is some black stitching that doesn't show up too well but overall I am pleased with the end result. I just love this little bag. And it does so much more. Look:</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7NfXcpaI/AAAAAAAAAgM/Z7dSSGw7co4/s1600-h/CIMG6699%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6699" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7N_Pe_sI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/G1EPrS_AYkg/CIMG6699_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> It came with the two plastic containers you see pictured here.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7OhEnJpI/AAAAAAAAAgU/xe7JjYmvIi0/s1600-h/CIMG6701%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6701" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7PIQDrqI/AAAAAAAAAgY/yK9xLCYRLlE/CIMG6701_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a>  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7PwBQWgI/AAAAAAAAAgc/iYbJc4R27p0/s1600-h/CIMG6702%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6702" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7QGvAqRI/AAAAAAAAAgg/LN5bY1s0jY0/CIMG6702_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7RLLehRI/AAAAAAAAAgk/2Fnql7ryfHY/s1600-h/CIMG6703%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6703" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7RfXsT8I/AAAAAAAAAgo/zgFiQQffMNA/CIMG6703_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> The smaller of the two fits neatly into the front compartment of the bag. I have my pens, pencil, glue stick, markers, water brush, etc. tucked neatly inside. But wait, that's not all...</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7SUC7CjI/AAAAAAAAAgs/m0bh8XZg_ig/s1600-h/CIMG6708%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6708" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7Sl-KcAI/AAAAAAAAAgw/uHHYqS5y1M0/CIMG6708_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> There is a zippered compartment in the back side of the bag where I have things like my Colour shapers, scissors, dry adhesive, scraper, eraser, etc. stashed - with room for lots more. And there is more...</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7Trv_mSI/AAAAAAAAAg0/D8ZvKnGBJo4/s1600-h/CIMG6706%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6706" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7T_sUcpI/AAAAAAAAAg4/VvyRTVUdzR8/CIMG6706_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7UkcG6tI/AAAAAAAAAg8/2yinHRfyEIA/s1600-h/CIMG6705%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6705" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7UxdKJVI/AAAAAAAAAhA/drIPyyunTJc/CIMG6705_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> My journal fits perfectly in the larger container that came with this bag. Now there is no worry about it being banged about in my purse and there is room for growth when my journal swells from all the schtuff I typically cram it with. And I made an addition of my own...</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7VgYsFMI/AAAAAAAAAhE/IUIh2ZmUooc/s1600-h/CIMG6709%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6709" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7VyNMyiI/AAAAAAAAAhI/ELcd-ipWokg/CIMG6709_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> There is also a small slit pocket on the back of the bag and being the organizational guru I am - it looked lonely. I got it a friend.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7XjNGowI/AAAAAAAAAhM/MuVKIPEzpy4/s1600-h/CIMG6710%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6710" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7X7KXW6I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/QEA2jGhymsA/CIMG6710_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> This gadget was originally intended to house photos.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7ZIDTR4I/AAAAAAAAAhU/xBOO4uWXq4w/s1600-h/CIMG6711%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6711" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7ZthJH4I/AAAAAAAAAhY/D7Np6Fk3Jvk/CIMG6711_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7a5dhVhI/AAAAAAAAAhc/eYC4K6EjwPk/s1600-h/CIMG6712%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6712" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7bAJFuuI/AAAAAAAAAhg/bEa3PiC57ko/CIMG6712_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> Instead of photos I stuck a number of alphabet stencils in it and left room for things like magazine images or a photo or two or maybe even some ephemera I might just happen upon.  (You just never know - we have to be prepared for these sort of occurrences!)</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7cdvpusI/AAAAAAAAAhk/-PlpmaXpe7g/s1600-h/CIMG6713%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6713" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7cwfE92I/AAAAAAAAAho/ii9KQxWzKlE/CIMG6713_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> And this slips neatly into aforementioned little slit pocket.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7dldFrhI/AAAAAAAAAhs/IlGDI4mr0MQ/s1600-h/CIMG6715%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6715" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYL7eJe-SAI/AAAAAAAAAhw/9_ttg-uv1Ws/CIMG6715_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> Top view. What a terrific find! These come in lots of different sizes, (I purchased the smallest version), and were on sale online, (by half!), at JoAnn's.com when I last looked. Now I feel as though I can take my art journaling anywhere, anytime. I'm big on that ya' know?!</p> <p>Also, depending on what I am currently working on I can always remove a few markers and make room for my watercolor pencils or water-soluble oil pastels or just whatever suits my fancy at the time. Note: I typically do my backgrounds and add images, (mostly), while at home. This is why it works for me to carry mostly just writing/drawing tools with me - the other is done ahead of time. Using this setup I have even worked on my journal while out shopping or yard sale-ing, (never fear - I had hubby doing the driving!). Go ahead - take your journaling on the road - I told you you were gonna love this! (For those of you who are less enthused, please note, I did warn you of how it is the simple things that really bring me pleasure.)</p> <p>Love...</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-62457684968946876742009-01-29T21:05:00.001-06:002009-01-29T21:05:26.419-06:00Get Your Thing-A-Ma-Bob Here<p>Just thought I would share with all you dear folks in Blog Land my latest brain storm. Some may consider this to be just a light Spring drizzle, but don't tell me. I am easily pleased and this little idea thrilled me when it occurred.</p> <p>While visiting one of my sisters recently she was planning to throw a few things out that she had tired of shuffling around her house. I treat a visit to this particular sis as a shopping trip to the local Goodwill, minus the dust, smell & cost. Well, to be honest sometimes there is dust, sorry Loni. But the fact is just because she has decided to part with something in no way speaks to the value of said item(s). </p> <p>Case in point:</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuUVh1pUI/AAAAAAAAAeo/ftn3rZt9Oso/s1600-h/CIMG6690%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6690" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuUWNYwkI/AAAAAAAAAes/5UutNWMQyME/CIMG6690_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> This little gem was destined for the garbage bin when I arrived. I could not allow that to occur. When I rescued this sweet, pink photo holder thingy it was still in the original box with its ribbons and tags intact as well as wrapped in a cellophane like envelope. Brand new I tell you and free! I just knew it had possibility.</p> <p>So I thunk & I thunk and then the illumination finally made it over the horizon. This unassuming photo holder has now morphed into my very own handy dandy Portable Anytime Anywhere Enlightener/Reminder/Encourager Thing-A-Ma-Bob.</p> <p>An explanation is in order here, I think. I take my journal everywhere with me and because of the bulk of it I have a carrier especially for this purpose. It stays in my car while I am out, ready for some impromptu journaling when I can squeeze it in. (See my next post-you're gonna love this! Keep in mind however the 'easily pleased' clause that applies to me.) I also have set a goal for myself this year for which I sometimes need a reminder or two or three. Some of the most helpful reminders available to me are entries in my journal. </p> <p>Now we're getting somewhere:</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuVPFlI5I/AAAAAAAAAew/KUtELW149lk/s1600-h/CIMG6680%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6680" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuVWOtnFI/AAAAAAAAAe0/TwsY9o3yyjg/CIMG6680_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a>  So I began by photographing some of my journal entries - just the ones that applied directly to the goals I am currently striving toward. I sent them to the Local WalMart photo lab for processing. I also included on the same side of my thingy my Anyway poem (see previous blog entry), my current contract with myself which clarifies why my goal is important, my Vision Board, my journal entry pertaining to my word for the year, a couple of encouraging images from the internet & my Daily Commandments.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuWJEvnzI/AAAAAAAAAe4/fgq-ELJXXnY/s1600-h/CIMG6683%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6683" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuWSvoE1I/AAAAAAAAAe8/so1WDXOPH6k/CIMG6683_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuW4cImkI/AAAAAAAAAfA/jmXjjjFmhCI/s1600-h/CIMG6684%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6684" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuXIyOEnI/AAAAAAAAAfE/35_XTehiwgg/CIMG6684_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuYAXaqxI/AAAAAAAAAfI/hkdT1OheySw/s1600-h/CIMG6685%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6685" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuYY_A2cI/AAAAAAAAAfM/nay4WEaqVds/CIMG6685_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuZDORzQI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/a83cR8q8y04/s1600-h/CIMG6686%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6686" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuZccUEbI/AAAAAAAAAfU/c3fpyf-WR9w/CIMG6686_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> I can carry this everywhere I go and always have my reminders at the ready when I am feeling weak or needy or just want a pick-me-up, (one that doesn't involve the word 'cappuccino').</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuZ4NjLHI/AAAAAAAAAfY/syM7ZYjdm0s/s1600-h/CIMG6681%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6681" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJuaJT_HyI/AAAAAAAAAfc/PhNEOVMeiRQ/CIMG6681_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> On the flip side I have photographic evidence of many of the reasons my goals matter, my life is worthwhile, and I am grateful to God.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJubPNI_9I/AAAAAAAAAfg/vqkrLULneOQ/s1600-h/CIMG6687%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6687" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJubX2pdpI/AAAAAAAAAfk/UI58wXdILhE/CIMG6687_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJubz4O0HI/AAAAAAAAAfo/Ez3YmseWluk/s1600-h/CIMG6689%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6689" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJucBXDUgI/AAAAAAAAAfs/mGHLCYNhHQA/CIMG6689_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJudMx4m8I/AAAAAAAAAfw/ZURkmmVA3UA/s1600-h/CIMG6688%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6688" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYJudYuRp6I/AAAAAAAAAf0/Q1sy13m71pM/CIMG6688_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a>  </p> <p>My most recent Karley photos, (being a Grammy is the best!), my dear husband Wayne & my precious daughter Jessie w/her hubby and my favorite son-in-law, William.</p> <p>Now can you imagine anyone wanting to throw such a magnificent gadget into the trash? Not as long as I'm around and have an empty WalMart bag to carry it away in! Need some on the go inspiration? Go get you one! Fill it up with the encouragement you need to reach your goals. I've seen these things everywhere - I just didn't know I needed one at the time. </p> <p>OOH, OOH more ideas - I can also see me including in this handy thingy a 4x6 of the current months calendar, my work schedule - maybe on the calendar, duh!, blank 4x6 index cards to write on for any reason that may present itself, OR I could journal on the index cards while on a lunch break and either include the cards in my bound journal later or store them separately in a file box, the cards could also be used as my daily food journal and stored in a file box later. Oh just take it and run with it...this was fun and useful. Maybe it will work for you too.</p> <p>Until next time...Love.</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-2718286896206330202009-01-28T23:14:00.001-06:002009-01-28T23:14:58.409-06:00ANYWAY<p>Today I located a copy of a poem that I had carried with me for many years and used as a teaching tool on numerous occasions. Yeah! I thought it lost or thrown out never to be found again until recently. Perusing one of our local Goodwill shops for books and magazines about two weeks ago I happened upon a book that immediately grabbed my attention. This book was written based on my poem! The poem I found approximately 10-12 years prior was considered anonymously written and I accepted that to be the case, until now. And then tonight I stumbled upon a copy I had stashed in my studio and long ago forgotten. Serendipity!!! Granted, the poem is somewhat different than the information contained in the book but it is too close to be mere coincidence. I would like to share with you this poem that has remained close to my heart for a quarter of my life...</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Anyway</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>People are often unreasonable, illogical & self-centered. Forgive them anyway.</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>If you are successful, you will win some false friends & some true enemies. Succeed anyway.</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>If you are honest & frank, people may cheat you. Be honest & frank anyway.</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>What you spend years building someone could destroy overnight. Build anyway.</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>If you find serenity & happiness they may be jealous. Be happy anyway.</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>The good you do today people will often forget tomorrow. Do good anyway.</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>Give the world the best you have & it may never be enough. Give the world the best you've got anyway.</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>You see, in the final analysis it is between you & God. It never was between you & them Anyway.</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p>This is my motto, mantra, walking orders - whatever label you place on it - this is what I live by. Always give your best & love. I am directly answerable to God for my behavior and being good just plain feels good. </p> <p>Should you be interested in reading the book for yourself it is entitled "Anyway - The Paradoxical Commandments" by Kent M. Keith. </p> <p>Good Night and Love to All...</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-25241396548106682942009-01-28T09:44:00.001-06:002009-01-28T09:44:45.726-06:00I've been tagged...<p>Amy Long "tagged" me on Facebook but I am having terrible issues trying to get Facebook to cooperate recently. So in the spirit of keeping this going I gave up on Facebook and decided to respond here to Amy's tagging...</p> <p>Rules: Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 25 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it's because I want to know more about you. (Part of the original instructions have been removed because they so not apply here in Blog Land.)</p> <p>Here goes:</p> <p>25 Random Things About Mikel Ann Goforth: (there's a good chance this could get real boring before I am through!) Read on oh faithful pilgrim, read on...</p> <p>1. I LOVE people. Any people, weird people, fancy people, rich people, poor people, backward and country people, it matters not. In my heart I believe we are all very much alike and all need love. I almost never get through a store or outing without striking up a conversation with some soul just because...they might just need me and I might just need them.</p> <p>2. Pink is my favorite color. Not hot, flamingo pink, (though that's a fun one, too), but baby girl, soft and beautiful pink. Something about this color reaches deep inside me.</p> <p>3. My daughter and granddaughter have my heart in their hands. I love these girls beyond measure and beyond any measure of reason. They are my gifts directly from God.</p> <p>4. My favorite beverage is tea. Hot Irish Breakfast tea in the morning with Splenda & cream, sipped from a fine china cup w/saucer. Iced tea any other time of day. In a tall glass, (no plastic, thank you), with lemon and Splenda.</p> <p>5. I am a bibliophile. I have books everywhere. I read constantly. Nearly any topic, a lot of self-help, (I need all the help I can get!), fiction and anything in between.</p> <p>6. I despise, (because my mother said we should never use the word 'hate'), television. It is beyond me to sit in front of a box and have someone, anyone instruct me on how or what I should think or even think about. Even when Hubby coerces me to watch a movie with him-I bring my current project or book into the room and work/read it while he pretends we are watching television together. </p> <p>7. Art journaling is my new drug. It gives me a vent and fulfills a need to express myself that no other medium has come close to reaching.</p> <p>8. I want to learn to draw. This is a lifelong quest. Until recently I believed it was an impossibility. My mind has been changed but I still lack the nerve to share my art with others-but I'm getting there-be on the look out, it's just a matter of time.</p> <p>9. My weight has been a lifelong struggle that continues to this very day. A struggle that will end this year. I have a plan and am taking action to see it to fruition. This year I will reach and begin to maintain my healthy goal weight. Just wait and see.</p> <p>10. I have a passion for words and their etymologies. You would be surprised at how our language has evolved and continues to evolve daily. Many of the words we use today hardly have the same meaning they did just a few years back. It intrigues me.</p> <p>11. I enjoy photography but refuse to learn Photoshopping or any such program. I want it raw just as I saw it. Cropping is fine but altering just isn't for me. Call me a purist.</p> <p>12. Nature always makes me happy. The beauty is everywhere-just look.</p> <p>13. I have been blessed to be a missionary, in country, to the people of Rose Hall, Corentyne, Berbice, Guyana in South America, twice. It was a life altering experience and I plan to go back. Soon.</p> <p>14. I never wear polish on my fingernails. I normally keep them trimmed short to keep them out of my way but I love having pedicures and leaving with hot pink, (remember the aforementioned flamingo color?) toenails. All is right with the world when the toenails are polished.</p> <p>15. I am of German and Native American Indian descent and my bone structure makes this quite evident. There is no chance that I will ever resemble Twiggy or Barbie. It literally is not in my genes.</p> <p>16. I have never colored my hair. This does not appeal to me.</p> <p>17. I have a green thumb. I can grow nearly anything I set my mind to.</p> <p>18. Organization thrills me though I never seem to quite get "there".</p> <p>19. The telephone is a nightmare for me. For one, I 'talk' with my hands-try getting your point across over the phone, (or just holding on to the phone, for that matter), when you know they can't possibly understand you without seeing you. Secondly, I am a very visual person and not being able to see the face of the person with whom I am speaking, in effect, limits my ability to comprehend their meaning fully. Horror!</p> <p>20. I enjoy planning and organizing and preparing to do projects more than the actual doing of it. I am process oriented, not so much outcome oriented.</p> <p>21. My husband and I are both quite quirky and quaint. (And yes, these words have actually been used to describe us along with weird a time or three.) We don't mind. We like ourselves and our simple little life just fine. It's O.K. if you don't 'get' us - just love us!</p> <p>22. Politics is beyond me. I am certain that our system made sense at one time but I fear we have strayed completely off course.</p> <p>23. I dislike, (see Mother's admonition in #6 above), rainy, cold & overcast days. My soul needs sunshine-regularly. Winter is an awful time for me emotionally. I can conquer the world during the Spring and Summer months, though!</p> <p>24. I spend too much time on the computer.  No, really...</p> <p>25. I know God is in control and all things happen for a reason. It matters not that I usually cannot readily see the reasoning. God does and he is handling it.</p> <p>Thank you Amy for a way to distract myself from housework for a time today and if anyone actually reads this, have a bit of mercy on me. Saying this was a struggle is an understatement - but it is what it is. Thanks for your support, lol! Until next time...Love.</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-76887726155030785642009-01-28T08:22:00.001-06:002009-01-28T08:22:07.441-06:00From the Soul<p>On our Soul Journaling group dearest Kathryn Antyr keeps us supplied weekly with the most thought provoking prompts. First, let me admit to never being "caught up". I pick and choose and skip all over her great prompts intermingling them with my own stuff.  Applying them to my life and specific situations. Secondly, let me add that I always seem to re-interpret her wonderful ideas and interject my own - it's just my way. </p> <p>Recently she has mentioned Vision Boards. This is a concept I began reading up on a few months ago but had yet to act on it. Kathryn and I were not reading the same books just books on the same subject matter. This is not a new concept-my book was printed nearly ten years ago. I cannot give an in depth view of the concept having not read the entire book but basically the idea is a matter of positive thinking combined with living with intent. (That is what I got from the portion of the book I actually read.)</p> <p>You begin making your vision board by perusing magazines and such collecting images that speak to the future you would like to create for yourself. Once collected, you collage these images together and place the collage somewhere that you will view it often. If the law of attraction is on your side, you, by intentionally thinking about your goals and entertaining positive thinking toward that end draw into your life the stuff necessary to make your dreams come true.</p> <p>I do believe our thoughts have a tremendous impact on our daily lives. The Bible states, "As a man thinketh, so is he." Phillipians 4:8 says, "Whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, any virtue, any praise...think on these things." I shortened this verse for the sake of time but the essence is there. God also expects us to plan well. He declares this principle in the parable of the wise and foolish builders in Matthew 7 and in Matthew 25 in the parable of the ten virgins. Prepare and plan. </p> <p>My reason for making clear my reasoning behind what I do is simple. I am a Christian and while many of the teachings of the day can steer us down the New Age/Metaphysical path, if you are willing to take the good and leave that which does not coincide with your beliefs - then you may learn a bit along the way.  The key is to be certain of what it is you have put your faith in and remain true to that. We obviously will not get to heaven by accident so living intentionally makes perfect sense as well. Plan the work and work the plan. Tried and true.</p> <p>Here is my Vision Board:</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp2iCx1LI/AAAAAAAAAdg/VVTvR60jqOg/s1600-h/CIMG6670%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6670" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp285BNpI/AAAAAAAAAdk/yRTVuIIiwyc/CIMG6670_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp319CUjI/AAAAAAAAAdo/TX10I1cR5Cc/s1600-h/CIMG6665%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6665" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp4Iai8DI/AAAAAAAAAds/ZgoGngvOhyk/CIMG6665_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp7Q-gbJI/AAAAAAAAAdw/3DlJumVKyXY/s1600-h/CIMG6635%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="141" alt="CIMG6635" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp76VyKmI/AAAAAAAAAd0/ZjyRi7QPED4/CIMG6635_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I sealed these pages and glittered them up so the glare made photographing these pages nearly impossible-sorry about how dark they turned out. I chose to put this into my journal, rather than on a separate board, so that I could have it with me regularly. In case you cannot read them, my goals on my vision board are thus: 1. See the beauty in the ordinary. 2. Grow closer everyday-to my mate. 3. Become my best self. Naturally. 4. Move toward mission work with God's help. 5. Appreciate nature. It is God's handiwork. 6. Strengthen female relationships. I wilt without them. 7. Create art. Now. And to do all this in such a way that it is elevated from the mundane to the sacred. </p> <p>A recent prompt, also from Kathryn, with my 'spin' on it:</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp82kBO2I/AAAAAAAAAd4/HswMLuoBf5w/s1600-h/CIMG6673%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6673" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp9uyuD2I/AAAAAAAAAd8/E8e-mG3dAm4/CIMG6673_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp-DVYRUI/AAAAAAAAAeA/9SPRqwEHM68/s1600-h/CIMG6674%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6674" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp-slagzI/AAAAAAAAAeE/jBh91B7rMcc/CIMG6674_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp_LOhotI/AAAAAAAAAeI/qYTEfWJocyQ/s1600-h/CIMG6660%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6660" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBp_bOWYZI/AAAAAAAAAeM/_W1aqycjHg4/CIMG6660_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I had to renew my driver's license earlier this month and was mildly shocked when I compared the two photos taken just four years apart. I did not like the changes. The extra weight I now carry changes my appearance so drastically that I do not even look like myself. Therefore, that has become the focus of this prompt for me. My journaling reads as follows:</p> <p>RELEASE: I hereby release myself from the bondage of overeating, fast food, diet gimmicks, diet soda, inactivity, food as solace and negative thinking. These can no longer hold me back.</p> <p>RECEIVE: I hereby receive unto myself authenticity, health, objective thinking, natural foods, daily exercise, food as sustenance, joy, peace and love. These shall make me the person I want to be. </p> <p>More journal pages:</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBqAUDuU-I/AAAAAAAAAeQ/g7VQLJBFKKo/s1600-h/CIMG6668%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6668" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBqAwb1xRI/AAAAAAAAAeU/LHCWenVkZy4/CIMG6668_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBqB5gr6RI/AAAAAAAAAeY/lbEszK15hQg/s1600-h/CIMG6669%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6669" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBqCRdB2rI/AAAAAAAAAec/F7f5fo8mQS0/CIMG6669_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>An unfinished entry:</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBqDAMQXDI/AAAAAAAAAeg/QOM93ULndJE/s1600-h/CIMG6671%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6671" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SYBqDSbrthI/AAAAAAAAAek/kaZwsH0BSaw/CIMG6671_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> Just needs some journaling.</p> <p>If you've made it this far...Thank you. My art is not always pretty and is sometimes too heavy for most but it is what is in my heart. My honesty, authenticity & love are really all I have to offer. It just doesn't fit into the mainstream of our society today, unfortunately. Until next time...Love.</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-53595243212372702102009-01-23T06:53:00.001-06:002009-01-23T06:53:34.314-06:00Sharing the Karley Love<p>Yesterday after running a few errands I decided to drive to the home of my daughter & son-in-law. They have been going through some big and exciting changes recently as well as making big plans for the future. Therefore hubby & I, haven't seen as much of them as we would like lately. I simply cannot go for very long without my Karley Anne fix! This child has a smile that absolutely lights up a room!!! Yes, without doubt I am as proud as a Grammy can get! Just thought I would share my beautiful little chickie...</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9s7Fbj1I/AAAAAAAAAco/19qQuGhIJHI/s1600-h/CIMG6615%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6615" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9tWbuEbI/AAAAAAAAAcs/V6TbDdVQvDs/CIMG6615_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9uEtM5gI/AAAAAAAAAcw/lLAHdtqNWLg/s1600-h/CIMG6611%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6611" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9ukQBGhI/AAAAAAAAAc0/R3l7aLf2L_c/CIMG6611_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9vBk4XJI/AAAAAAAAAc4/-6HfMZsySFc/s1600-h/CIMG6620%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6620" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9voVEmmI/AAAAAAAAAc8/rptY2PoGe4U/CIMG6620_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9wOqgQWI/AAAAAAAAAdA/mj7rdam-6tg/s1600-h/CIMG6626%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6626" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9wZONtLI/AAAAAAAAAdE/Y6YyBLivc5w/CIMG6626_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9xOUaKiI/AAAAAAAAAdI/dBKLktJycAk/s1600-h/CIMG6624%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6624" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9xfmG1EI/AAAAAAAAAdM/4uuweG28hnU/CIMG6624_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9xxC0NNI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/aQQ3xK8HgV8/s1600-h/CIMG6632%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6632" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9yPEhpPI/AAAAAAAAAdU/LrzedCBGNWk/CIMG6632_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a>  <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9yywkfLI/AAAAAAAAAdY/AUbD2HTCwvc/s1600-h/CIMG6631%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6631" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXm9zRTunxI/AAAAAAAAAdc/h9WkyvHfZPM/CIMG6631_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> Karley is now walking very well and in constant motion, chattering happily all the while. Good, clear, posed photos are a thing of the past. But she is the most adorable, happy and loving child ever! She has our hearts wrapped tightly around her little fingers and chances are that will only worsen with time. Oh how we love this child! Isn't she beautiful?!</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-40767153811847713562009-01-21T12:00:00.001-06:002009-01-21T12:00:59.392-06:00Another Journal Entry<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXdi0W9ywRI/AAAAAAAAAcY/1ITz4GECU8k/s1600-h/CIMG6607%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6607" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXdi0wVrSbI/AAAAAAAAAcc/7Ds7uHa-CN4/CIMG6607_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>January 20th, 2009 Inauguration Day for our new president...he has a tremendous job ahead of him!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXdi2EEzhlI/AAAAAAAAAcg/-BpqcfuopGE/s1600-h/CIMG6609%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6609" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXdi2l_LqQI/AAAAAAAAAck/9X2LiJ7jg50/CIMG6609_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> A layout to remind me of the affirmation I have chosen for this year. LOve, LovE, LoVe...always & in all ways, Love.</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-47522696279363514192009-01-21T08:40:00.001-06:002009-01-21T08:40:55.580-06:00My New Glue Examples<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcz3tEV0MI/AAAAAAAAAbw/A1ZOKMY4NqY/s1600-h/CIMG6596%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6596" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcz3zTyH8I/AAAAAAAAAb0/8auf-n3n7CQ/CIMG6596_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcz4qJRIiI/AAAAAAAAAb4/ceZfN61HWAc/s1600-h/CIMG6597%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6597" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcz5MGuEcI/AAAAAAAAAb8/MO2EcSIzZkk/CIMG6597_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcz6Wa0OfI/AAAAAAAAAcA/PPJzKuryHjM/s1600-h/CIMG6598%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6598" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcz7KmbWNI/AAAAAAAAAcE/HPTV9_SObl8/CIMG6598_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcz7_wGslI/AAAAAAAAAcI/Qsupr6oG9vQ/s1600-h/CIMG6604%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6604" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcz8HoYvBI/AAAAAAAAAcM/seeatWTe3hg/CIMG6604_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcz9WWbVaI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/02PsEJhQGkw/s1600-h/CIMG6599%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6599" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcz9p6dujI/AAAAAAAAAcU/yzfWUiC8ZfA/CIMG6599_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> So excited was I with the attributes of my new found glue, (see previous post), that I put together a few pages to share with you how wonderful it works. The top two photos are pages covered with napkins that were torn apart and glued down. The third is parts of a Bible I recovered from the Goodwill, tea stained and use in my art. The fourth is done using tissue paper and the fifth using an old sewing pattern. How cool is that? None of these pages show any signs of stickiness once dried and that makes for  perfect glue in my humble opinion!</p> <p>Note: It is also a breeze to write over the glued pages. I tend to prefer permanent markers for their good writing quality and availability. They all write perfectly over my wonderful Elmer's Washable Clear School Glue.</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-77073682187830236282009-01-21T08:26:00.001-06:002009-01-21T08:26:41.776-06:00More Art-In-A-Carton<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcwjtErboI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/Izi9_bCVC5w/s1600-h/CIMG6577%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6577" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcwlKo5wrI/AAAAAAAAAbU/7VNNwv7K0p0/CIMG6577_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcwl93U1FI/AAAAAAAAAbY/aj58tnLdjcM/s1600-h/CIMG6578%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6578" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcwmHRYf4I/AAAAAAAAAbc/lzJKM_1UB_0/CIMG6578_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcwm4ReKBI/AAAAAAAAAbg/1xGY4nOzf9g/s1600-h/CIMG6579%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6579" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcwnLcOgtI/AAAAAAAAAbk/ysBgzcX_DnI/CIMG6579_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcwn279xFI/AAAAAAAAAbo/VGXFQNEBqCc/s1600-h/CIMG6580%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6580" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcwoNaDQAI/AAAAAAAAAbs/ghz-h4pqHJs/CIMG6580_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>This is simply a teaser for Betsy, the dear lady who has sweetly agreed to be the recipient of my final Art-In-A-Carton box. I have recently completed the carton decoration. It was painted, decoupaged and then rubber stamped. Colored with markers for a bit of 'umph'. Very soon I will fill this carton and send it on with lots of love to Pennsylvania. Look out, Betsy!</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-61733096967491731782009-01-21T08:06:00.001-06:002009-01-21T08:06:47.637-06:00Recent Journal Pages<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcrzK3pZxI/AAAAAAAAAaM/awLvA_6xqNw/s1600-h/CIMG6588%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6588" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcrztMyW2I/AAAAAAAAAaQ/7UySbROCU64/CIMG6588_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr06OuA0I/AAAAAAAAAaU/4LyOwSYfo-c/s1600-h/CIMG6589%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6589" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr1cjc-mI/AAAAAAAAAaY/wf__I4xDV2s/CIMG6589_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>January 1st and 2nd</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr2besqhI/AAAAAAAAAac/qVHt7v1j4oM/s1600-h/CIMG6590%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6590" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr2n6CsCI/AAAAAAAAAag/HaJHJFKsDZ8/CIMG6590_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr3s2Ym7I/AAAAAAAAAak/7M7YrdH98v4/s1600-h/CIMG6592%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6592" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr4IxlD6I/AAAAAAAAAao/ifLlNLVhTuI/CIMG6592_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr5bRraKI/AAAAAAAAAas/r1ZY68OCCnI/s1600-h/CIMG6601%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6601" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr5wxO4vI/AAAAAAAAAaw/WHc0afWQ1FQ/CIMG6601_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr6wMoseI/AAAAAAAAAa0/yg5MoZ5KTiw/s1600-h/CIMG6594%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6594" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr7cZF2rI/AAAAAAAAAa4/CadsgoVnodo/CIMG6594_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Pages dealing with current topics. Usually located somewhere rambling around in my head. I just have to work it out in my own twisted sort of way.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr8CrJkJI/AAAAAAAAAa8/5FAmLpwc57g/s1600-h/CIMG6593%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6593" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr8f30B1I/AAAAAAAAAbA/aFRYvge4wiM/CIMG6593_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> Figuratively removing a couple of toxic individuals from my life. Names are hidden to protect the not-so-innocent.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr9Wt0KEI/AAAAAAAAAbE/5wScMxNw_JE/s1600-h/CIMG6587%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6587" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcr980V6_I/AAAAAAAAAbI/0IpRC8sMTjk/CIMG6587_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> My chosen word for the year. A number of us were prompted to chose a word that spoke to our soul that we could utilize to encourage us to make positive changes in the coming/current year. Release was mine and here I define the areas of my life to which I want to apply this word.</p> <p>There's more to come...</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-86539745849022272312009-01-21T07:50:00.001-06:002009-01-21T07:50:51.812-06:00I have a new favorite product<p>Glue. You heard me correctly, glue. Not just any run-of-the-mill, namby pamby, generic old glue but a fantastic answer-to-a-prayer & fairly cheap kind of glue! I found it at WalMart of all places and bought a bottle on a hunch.</p> <p>A little background is necessary here, I think. I have been art journaling for quite some time now. Before art journaling I crafted since childhood. Scrapbooking was a passion for nearly fifteen years. I have tried ALL the glues and adhesives known to man; from the expensive & budget-breaking to practically free. Art journaling presented its own unique challenges: A lot of glue/adhesive is needed = cheap is necessary. Buckling of magazine papers is an issue. The current options; i.e. gel medium, Mod Podge, spray adhesive, etc., all have a tendency to cause facing pages to stick together which makes it necessary to purchase a clear acrylic sealer = added expense.  </p> <p>The answer, for me, has arrived! </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcoOW3fkbI/AAAAAAAAAaE/kwSJoXQSm38/s1600-h/CIMG6584%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6584" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcoOxMgsrI/AAAAAAAAAaI/rLN1B9IgAeE/CIMG6584_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> TAA DAA!!! Presented here by the lovely Babs, (one of my Muses), is the one, the only...(drumroll, please)...Elmer's Washable CLEAR School Glue. I am in love! I brush this on just as I do gel medium, adhere and seal my images. There has been a minimal amount of buckling, (I just rub out the ripples while still wet.), and the finish is perfect! If I apply a thin coat of glue and brush until nearly dry I achieve a matte finish. By applying a thicker coat and allowing, (with my handy-dandy-yard-sale-find hair dryer, of course), the glue to dry I can achieve a finish that is glass-like. YEAH!!! And the greatest test of all is no matter how I apply this glue, once dry the pages DO NOT stick together in any shape, form or fashion! It is quite a miraculous thing. I have had some very ugly moments with gel medium...until recently I was unaware that even once dried and cured - if you heat gel medium, (remember my handy-dandy hair dryer?), it melts and re-adheres. (I learned this by hands on experience. I did not enjoy the lesson.)</p> <p>Added bonus - this glue comes in a handy squeeze dispenser. No need to stick my hand or brushes into a sticky container. No mess, no muss, no fuss. The price is not too bad either, I paid $1.70 for this container and it has managed to cover quite a number of journal pages and is still going strong.</p> <p>In the interest of keeping it real, the packaging does not state that it is archivally safe. So for all you archivers out there - this may not be the thing for you. For me, this is THE STUFF! I journal for me, & me alone. It restores my sanity, (and believe me this is in rather short supply to begin with!). So, this is the ideal product for my brand of art journaling. If you think it could be for you - don't just sit there - go get you some! </p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-21375702555064980462009-01-21T07:13:00.001-06:002009-01-21T07:13:10.758-06:00Preparing the Journal<blockquote> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfOt44SDI/AAAAAAAAAYs/TjT_wNFaYkg/s1600-h/CIMG6549%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6549" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfPNfg5UI/AAAAAAAAAYw/kniAs3SXRLM/CIMG6549_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6550" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfPorCZpI/AAAAAAAAAY0/kN7ZS6oetWM/CIMG6550_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfQPXlnaI/AAAAAAAAAY4/DBJ5QY1GAQI/s1600-h/CIMG6551%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6551" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfQvB1JHI/AAAAAAAAAY8/a2MpLKQN5Fk/CIMG6551_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> Welcome to my little pink studio! Some have questioned how I journal and here the mysteries are unveiled. Photo 1 is taken from the doorway of my studio on the day I have set aside to prep pages. Sure I should have straightened up a bit before photographing  but where's the truth in advertising in that? My desk is littered with things like stencils, gesso and gel medium. You can see all this in Photo 2 as well as magazine images and crayons and watersoluble paint crayons, etc. None of these things are pertinent to our discussion today except the journal, gesso and a bit of acrylic paint. Photo 3 shows my easel set up as a work surface. The height is perfect for me to stand and work. </p> <p>On my work surface I have my journal laid out. My current journal happens to be leather bound so I secure the front and back covers beneath waxed paper with masking tape - I'm messy.  </p> </blockquote> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfRUmszdI/AAAAAAAAAZA/YR1km185G_I/s1600-h/CIMG6567%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6567" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfR3NW3xI/AAAAAAAAAZE/wQ__5HLm1nI/CIMG6567_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfSrbwshI/AAAAAAAAAZI/ZQXxuOHakIE/s1600-h/CIMG6566%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6566" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfS10nTbI/AAAAAAAAAZM/eNWmUC1wddw/CIMG6566_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Just so you'll know...This journal came bound with handmade Saa paper, which is lovely to look at and beautiful to feel but absorbs pens and paints as though it is extremely thirsty. A thin coat of gesso allows me to enjoy journaling in this book. I nearly threw in the towel to begin with because no matter what type pen I tried there seemed to be no way to prevent the inks bleeding and smudging. I was stressed and distressed over this - I love this journal and did not want to give it up. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfTi56GqI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/uDCoV8IxJuU/s1600-h/CIMG6562%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6562" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfUGVvX-I/AAAAAAAAAZU/Eeb7qqJnv20/CIMG6562_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> Gesso fixes lots of things. It is cheap and readily available and you simply cannot purchase this stuff with out feeling quite "arty", a definite bonus! Here in Mobile it sells for $4.99 at the local craft and hobby store. With a coupon I pay about half that amount. Excellent value. (Always use those coupons!)</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfUpEpEMI/AAAAAAAAAZY/lC5n62IYJZU/s1600-h/CIMG6561%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6561" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfVGyIBTI/AAAAAAAAAZc/1RDADFF_Dik/CIMG6561_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfVxjJK4I/AAAAAAAAAZg/RibqwfgiuqI/s1600-h/CIMG6563%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6563" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfWAaHchI/AAAAAAAAAZo/EtLPa52ZwxE/CIMG6563_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfWyTlOaI/AAAAAAAAAZs/QoheUXfDEKM/s1600-h/CIMG6564%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6564" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfXWhb2yI/AAAAAAAAAZw/HBcQF4HHRNc/CIMG6564_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfX_UXe9I/AAAAAAAAAZ0/GdU37eJv-t8/s1600-h/CIMG6565%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6565" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfYMh9kuI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/_D8p7lyUN4A/CIMG6565_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>1. The blank page with waxed paper sandwiched in the pages before and after the ones I am working on. 2. Spreading the magic gesso. 3. Impatiently drying the pages with my trusty yard sale find hair dryer. 4. Finished, gessoed and dried pages, ready for me to apply paints and other goodies.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfZGSI91I/AAAAAAAAAZ8/ySlyHvsCjoI/s1600-h/CIMG6555%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6555" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SXcfZQImreI/AAAAAAAAAaA/sniJ4_G1xcw/CIMG6555_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> Voila'! I do that about 20-30 times or more and then Dixie and I are ready to enjoy our art journaling without interruption, (or bleeding inks and such). Most seem to prefer only doing 5-10 pages at a time but I want to get past this step as quickly and painlessly as possible without having to return for more. So, I choose to seem obsessive/compulsive rather than just doing a few pages at a time. Love to All! Keep journaling!!!</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-77787605928336131182009-01-04T11:29:00.001-06:002009-01-04T11:29:57.251-06:00Journaling Stuff<p>A couple of ladies from the Soul Journaling group were interested in my method for organizing the images and such used in art journaling. Here is my preferred sorting system:</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDx4H5wHOI/AAAAAAAAAX0/7zK6p8cVjJY/s1600-h/CIMG6534%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6534" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDx4uU1KZI/AAAAAAAAAX4/oK7No-n8Y6A/CIMG6534_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDx58MgDYI/AAAAAAAAAX8/nOF_yngjeeU/s1600-h/CIMG6536%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6536" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDx63bFJ4I/AAAAAAAAAYA/kfx3r-NLRfI/CIMG6536_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>This is my shoe box used to house all the <strong>IMAGES</strong> I find that I may someday choose to use in my visual journal. Until recently these were stored in a plain old brown cardboard box - but I got this one for Christmas - and isn't it SO MUCH cooler!! I likely already have more images than I will ever use BUT there is room for many, many more. I dislike the messiness of having lots of magazines and such lying around waiting for me to use them so this allows me to immediately remove what I want from them, (I calling it mining, lol!) and throw away the excess. BUT THERE'S MORE...</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDx8ON6h6I/AAAAAAAAAYE/wSL0215IGh8/s1600-h/CIMG6538%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6538" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDx9GmP5II/AAAAAAAAAYI/ZuN4C0M9QP4/CIMG6538_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDx-tuELrI/AAAAAAAAAYM/QxEy0xV0RmU/s1600-h/CIMG6537%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6537" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDx_L3Q-XI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/uATIylknmZE/CIMG6537_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I use this clear pouch, a leftover from my scrapbooking days, to hold <strong>EPHEMERA</strong>. Little tidbits from my daily life that I find any and everywhere! There are receipts, tickets, fortune cookie fortunes, the sticker from my favorite coffee, tags, pieces and parts from mail, photo negatives, interesting pieces cut from gift bags, etcetera, etc. I'm like a crow. I just collect whatever catches my fancy. AND THERE'S EVEN MORE...</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDyAhvJkKI/AAAAAAAAAYU/T3L2hJrmn4E/s1600-h/CIMG6539%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6539" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDyBJoEH5I/AAAAAAAAAYY/FX7qn5RIyJs/CIMG6539_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDyCSc8W8I/AAAAAAAAAYc/9VnPKAATe2Q/s1600-h/CIMG6540%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6540" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDyDJwY8WI/AAAAAAAAAYg/lzZA_oTKWwA/CIMG6540_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Also making use of those wonderful magazines, I located this great little item to store and organize all the <strong>LETTERS</strong> I can use in my journal. This gem has 28 perfectly sized compartments that lock, (which is terrific for someone as naturally clumsy as I!). I assigned one compartment to each letter of the alphabet <u>except</u> I combined W & X as well as Y & Z. Doing this gave me four spare compartments for things such as punctuation and small words. There is  pocket on the left hand side into which I deposit very large letters, and interesting words and phrases as I see fit.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDyEfTlqsI/AAAAAAAAAYk/3pFTZjZMFOM/s1600-h/CIMG6545%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6545" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SWDyE5uEYgI/AAAAAAAAAYo/JRxW9f-Tinc/CIMG6545_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> So, all my images, ephemera and lettering are sorted and contained in these three, relatively small, containers. Having perfected this system of mine allows me more time to create and work in my journal since less time is spent on gathering the necessary materials when I am ready to journal.</p> <p> </p> <p>I hope this is of some small assistance. If it is please let me know and should I be able to answer any questions or be of encouragement to any of you just getting started or just interested in how I work it would be my pleasure to do so. </p> <p>BTW, this is just my personal method. Should you be aware of a better way or a way to tweak this please inform me...I need all the help I can get!!!</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-76958604867383630072009-01-01T02:38:00.001-06:002009-01-01T02:38:51.950-06:00My first real 2009 post!<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyA_Ps5JxI/AAAAAAAAAW8/vU421qGWIXQ/s1600-h/CIMG6514%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6514" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyA_uuZofI/AAAAAAAAAXA/rHZ76OCyKKM/CIMG6514_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBArKnsHI/AAAAAAAAAXE/LFQ4J9xkIn0/s1600-h/CIMG6515%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6515" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBA6knouI/AAAAAAAAAXI/DIZjPvjNWO0/CIMG6515_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I began this year right by treating myself to a journal I have had my eye on for about a year now. Made by RogueJournals.com, this book is totally decadent! The leather is butter soft and the inner pages are handmade paper with a deckled edge. I had my initials stamped into the front cover. I further personalized it by adding a stamped image that is one of my favorites. I also added a key - keys being one of my personal icons. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBBt0b8WI/AAAAAAAAAXM/U-zV2GVAH4k/s1600-h/CIMG6523%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6523" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBCR5lNqI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/SEZjhq81Es8/CIMG6523_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> Tamarind leaves were added during the paper making process. Isn't this just gorgeous?!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBCyr6NVI/AAAAAAAAAXU/M222Nf3Hba4/s1600-h/CIMG6517%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6517" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBDAlUVEI/AAAAAAAAAXY/Vd4fpXVOR40/CIMG6517_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> Getting ready for the new year!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBEKwzKYI/AAAAAAAAAXc/G5G7bedQBOQ/s1600-h/CIMG6518%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6518" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBEettJPI/AAAAAAAAAXg/TA5ODqIsrYE/CIMG6518_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBFb_fDnI/AAAAAAAAAXk/OtHSPYyGhmY/s1600-h/CIMG6519%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6519" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBFn-sVnI/AAAAAAAAAXo/Li0YA6iQ8dE/CIMG6519_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> My preparation to see my one resolution come to fruition. I attached a pre-made card and library pocket in order to record my weight loss each month. My goal date, October 9th - this date coincides with a journaling prompt from last year entitled 1 Year, 1 Month & 1 Day. My word of choice for the year is also recorded here to help me recall. My word is RELEASE.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBGfiyqwI/AAAAAAAAAXs/KU3vkN2x0y8/s1600-h/CIMG6522%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="CIMG6522" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVyBG2YA0UI/AAAAAAAAAXw/_WgBUP4eABA/CIMG6522_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> My final New Year addition to this new journal is a quote found in a book I finished a day or so ago. The book was entitled, "The Thirteenth Tale". A good read by Diane Setterfield. This particular quote was my favorite passage from the entire book! It struck a nerve in me and made me think - hard!</p> <p> </p> <p>With my new journal all set up and ready for my pen, (and whatever else I might toss in), I feel very prepared to face the new year. Good thing I suppose since the new year made it here about 2.5 hours ago. Ha!</p> <p>Good Night All and The Happiest of New Years to Y'all!!!</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-816289297140235623.post-27350004853416046652009-01-01T02:13:00.001-06:002009-01-01T02:13:22.245-06:002008 Is Officially Over! My last late post!<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVx7H6x2mOI/AAAAAAAAAW0/hbAcoSai08c/s1600-h/CIMG6511%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="CIMG6511" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Fc5Hr3jNhBk/SVx7IUnuMaI/AAAAAAAAAW4/w4kf5hOSu_c/CIMG6511_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> My sister Loni is always a big spender but especially so at Christmas time. We always ask that she refrain from making these big expenditures on our behalf since we simply cannot reciprocate-we have too many gifts to give so we must keep costs down. She does not listen. Truth be told Wayne and I are so very truly blessed; there is nothing in this world we NEED. God has provided all that and so very much more! This point gets right past my dear sister-she WILL shop, it's her thing. I typically go with her to help make choices for her family gifts and this year was no exception. She was determined that while out I was going to pick out my own gift from her. Well, that is easy if you have a need. I did/do not, so making that sort of choice is nigh on to impossible. BUT, I happened upon these shoes while shopping for the teens in the family and it was love at first sight! I have never heard of Ed Hardy and a lot of his art did not overly impress me but these shoes just did me in! They are so NOT my style, well kinda, my style tends to lean toward the eccentric and anything pink, so maybe I'm not as far off base here as I would like to be. But I fell in love with these shoes! They are mine now and I have no earthly idea what occasion I will have to sport these babies  but one is bound to come up at some point, dontcha think?  I could not end the year without mention of these beauties!</p> Mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12564220540151159081noreply@blogger.com0