In the Light of the Moon

Yay its Kecia's Turn for the Bloghop!!

2012-01-29T06:59:00.000-08:00

Our Next Artist is Up for the Artful Gathering Blog Hop!

Celebrating Artful Gathering 2012 Online Art Retreat,

Open for Registration!

Blog Hop your way for chance to win!

From June to August 2012, ArtfulGathering.com will be presenting TWO exciting semesters of premiere online video workshops offered by fabulous artists who are known nationally and internationally. We are all very excited to share out knowledge, skill, and creativity with you, and we hope that you will join us for this AMAZING annual online event.

Blog Hop with us for a chance to win a prizes from Jerry's Artarama!

Each week the faculty of Artful Gathering will be announcing a featured blog to visit.

You can hop along with us until the final destination blog is reached, and where ONE Grand Prize winner will be chosen at Random for a chance to win a $200.00 e-gift card from Jerry's Artarama!!!

Two Runner Up winners will also be chosen at random for a chance to win a $25.00 e-gift card from Jerrys.

Each week I will announce the next featured blog for you to visit, and there you will find a new secret word or words that you will need to collect along your way from blog to blog. Once you have collected all the words from each blog you visit, they will work out to say a very artsy phrase. Here are the rules:

For your chance to win, you must collect all the secret code words and submit them upon the final destination blog in May. A random drawing will be conducted from those contestants who have submitted the complete collection of secret words!
Three winners will be randomly drawn. One for the $200.00 e-card to Jerry's, and two runner's up for the 25.00 e-card to Jerrys.

Week by week we'll go from one blog to the next!

Remember to collect all the secret words. These words will work out to say a very artful phrase, and you'll need all the pieces to be eligible for the final prize drawings!

Please HOP over and visit the Amazing Mixed Media Jewelry Artist...

Kecia Deveney

http://lemoncholys.blogspot.com/
;
(Pick Up the Next Secret Word)

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Sweet Pea

2012-01-25T18:35:00.000-08:00

First dear friends I want to apologize...my mind has been spinning lately with to-do's and I have had no time to visit you,but I will,I promise,once I start catching up and managing my time a bit better.

I did have to stop by and tell you however, about the most amazing thing that happened to me.

I won a giveaway from Sweet Pea Studio..I know..very exciting,but when I received the email from Sandy saying that she wanted to make me something instead of giving me what was in the original giveaway,well,I became so excited!!! If you check out her work,you will see why I became so excited!!

When the package arrived I could hardly contain myself.Inside the box was the beautiful handmade pouch and stitched in green thread was the word Love.

Inside the pouch cam the most amazing treasure..."Cats Baby" she called it..A resin doll molded from one of her own and a necklace filled with delicious stones and threads...Oh my..I was in love.

Thank you Sandy!! This necklace is so amazing and I am so thanful!!

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

My First Artful Gathering Video..No laughing Please.

2012-01-17T12:13:00.000-08:00

Ok...maybe just a little bit of laughing.

http://theartfulgathering.blogspot.com/

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Thank You and a Giveaway!!

2012-01-06T06:39:00.000-08:00

2012 + 3 year blog anniversary + 500 Followers + 200 post =

a Giveaway!!
It's hard to believe that three years have passed since I made my first post...but I just wanted to take some time to say
thank you.
For the comments
and the advice
and the laughs
and the lessons
most of all
thank you
for the friendship.

For this Giveaway,I tried to come up with something special so for the first part of this giveaway,the winner will receive "Journey",a necklace featured in the current Sew Somerset.

Yes,the one that's in the magazine.

and the second part of this giveaway

is free admittance to my Artful Gathering Class in July!!

"Let Every Minute Count Art Doll"

So there it is..

To qualify,just say hay..

tell a friend..

and your set.

I will pick the winner on

Jan 31st!!

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

"Nature Set" on ICEResin

2012-01-04T07:20:00.000-08:00

Check out my "Nature Set" on

ICEResin

As always

thanks for stopping by

Can I have some Mooooooore?

2012-01-01T16:03:00.000-08:00

This year

I took a road trip with my sister,and we took our first art class
together...

and the kids and I enjoyed so many perfect days for biking...

and some nights we enjoyed "Brinner" for dinner(Breakfast for Dinner)...

and this year, more than any other,my baby is girl is growing up...

and we had multiple "Polar" sightings...

and we went on Summer walks...

and enjoyed wet summer nights at the Zoo...

and made Moon cookies to commemorate Atlantis,the final space shuttle flight...

and Joshua saved for his Wii game...

and we took the kids on their first cruise...

and we remembered 9.11...

and my sister came to visit...

and we were thankful...

and blessed

and healthy

and happy.

So whats next?

More please.

Happy New Year

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Somerset Studio:Playing With Gauze

2011-12-28T07:10:00.000-08:00

The other day I was scrolling down my facebook page and something caught my eye...in a Stampington and Company post, it read...

Stampington &Company

When Artist Cat Kerr's husband come home after a stay in the hospital, the couple acquired loads of gauze and tape. One year later, she came across them again and inspiration came to pass. If you're a mixed-media artist looking for new and fun ways to add texture to your pieces, don't miss Cat's delightful technique article in the Jan/Feb 2012 issue of Somerset Studio!

Woo-hoo,I yelled!

These last six months have been a wild ride for me.My work has been accepted for publication,I was accepted as part of the ICEResin Creative team,I was accepted to teach at Artful Gathering...but out of all that wonderfulness(is that a word)this one hit me right in the heart.

When I first started selling my work on EBAY over six years ago now,I ran across an issue of Somerset Studio

That was the first time my work had a name,

Mixed Media

and that was the first time I knew

that one day

my name

would somehow make it

into this magazine.

"Playing with Gauze"

by Cat Kerr(that's me...heehee)

These pieces were created with felt,wood,trim,ICEResin,wire,tea stained gauze and more.

"Nest"

"Beginning"

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Grateful Living

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

When Molly first mentioned her new blog "Grateful Living" I just knew it would be a wonderful forum for expressing a love for all things,big and small.Thank you for asking me Sweet Molly to contribute.

Check out my post today

on
Grateful Living

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

All my Love.

Cat

As always,

thank you so much for stopping by

I am slowly Learning

2011-12-16T13:15:00.000-08:00

Thirst

Another morning and I wake with thirst

for the goodness I do not have. I walk

out to the pond and all the way God has

given us such beautiful lessons. Oh Lord,

I was never a quick scholar but sulked

and hunched over my books past the hour

and the bell; grant me, in your mercy,

a little more time. Love for the earth

and love for you are having such a long

conversation in my heart. Who knows what

will finally happen or where I will be sent,

yet already I have given a great many things

away, expecting to be told to pack nothing,

except the prayers which, with this thirst,

I am slowly learning.

— Mary Oliver

I wholeheartedly believe that every soul comes into your life to teach you something...even if it is just for a moment in time,it is up to us to figure out what the lesson is and be thankful.
Reading pages from my friends lives(aka blogs),I often laugh,and have even been moved to tears,...I sometimes feel extreme joy, and often drool over art,...I swoon over words,and gaze at photos,...and all of this with people that I have never met...Though some of you I have known for years and some are new friends...I am and will always be, thankful to you,for being my path to the pond.

http://www.publicdomainpictures.net/

Each one.beautiful.a lesson.a friend.

Corrine: offers up a lesson in Kindness and Wisdom

Cindy: offers up a lesson in Family and Friendship

Mary Jane: offers up a lesson in Simplicity and Stillness

Amanda: offers up a lesson in Adventure and my lost love of History
Sharon: offers up a lesson in Strength and Hope

Lori Ann: offers up a lesson in Sweetness and Awareness of the World we live in

Kj: offers up a lesson in Strength and Friendship

Riki: my Momma Guidance offers up a lesson in self worth

Jen: my new friend offers up a lesson in Generosity and Kindness
Zinnia: offers up a lesson in the Magic of Art and Patience

Alice: offers up a lesson in Giving and Kindness

Molly: offers up a lesson in Gratitude and Beauty

Chris: my art sister offers a lesson in Unconditional Love

Kristen: offers up a lesson on Listening and Love

Kass:offers up a lesson in Courage and Being True

Who offers up a lesson to you today?Tell them so,and tell them how thankful you are.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Gauche Alchemy

2011-12-15T05:34:00.000-08:00

Hello friends!! I was thrilled to pieces when Maggi asked me if I wanted to be a guest designer on Gauche Alchemy.They mailed me the most wonderful kit called Knick Knack Patty Whack

To see how I created my little "Treasure Box" visit Gauche Alchemy and check out my guest post!!

Have a wonderful day friends!!

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Holy Cracker Jacks Batman!

2011-12-04T09:54:00.000-08:00

If anyone would have said to me...Cat ...you will one day have two magazines out at one time...

I probably would have laughed...

then

rushed off to the bathroom...

and whispered a little prayer.

I feel Blessed and Honored to have been included in the winter edition of

Belle Armoire Jewelry

Along side so many amazing artists.

"The Trinket Nest"

Created by gathering discarded treasures...

and offering them a home ...

inside the nest ...

in which they rest.

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

"Sew" Wonderful

2011-11-28T10:12:00.000-08:00

When sweet Cynthia Levens told me that my "Little Windows" had not been accepted to Belle Armoire Jewelry...I'll admit,I was a little blue...

what she kindly forgot to mention was that she had passed them along..

to Jennifer Jackson Taylor,Assistant Senior Managing Editor,at "Sew"Somerset...

so when I received the Congrats email from Jennifer...

I just about pee'd my pants!!

These little window came strait from the heart and I am so thankful that they made it into such a wonderful magazine!!

How lovely to also see the amazing work of Cat from "La Dolce Vita" and Nancy from "Sugar Lump Studios" in this Issue.A real thrill for me to be in the company of such talented artists.

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,

thank you so much for stopping by

Thankful

2011-11-24T06:50:00.000-08:00

My first two items created for ICEResin..and I am so full of Gratitude and Thankfulness!!

"Gratitude"Altered Journal

"Thankfulness"Fiber Pendant

To see my post on ICEResin click Here

I am also thankful for all the amazing work Zinnia has been doing at Artful Gathering,preparing for the big event this summer.Everyone there has been so kind and generous with tips for the "Newbie"

Here is a wonderful advertisement from Pat Winter,an amazing Crazy Quilt Artist that will also be teaching,promoting the Event

Can you see my name

makes me giddy with happiness to be included

in such an amazing group of artists!!

Now Every Thanksgiving I write a list of a few things that I am grateful for...

2011 Thanksgiving

1-Healthy family and friends

2-Happy Children

3-Support

4-Going after the dream

5-Opportunity to Grow

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

A Visit,New Ideas,and Resin Love with BSue!

2011-11-17T08:52:00.000-08:00

I love it when my sissy Ingrid comes to town.We had fun visiting the folks,hanging with my brother and playing with the kids...but my favorite time with Sissy was the day we strolled around in Downtown Melbourne...We visited some lovely stores and ate the most amazing lunch at "The 905 Cafe"

Just look at this delicious Brie,sliced apples and Walnuts on toasted wheat..Yum Yum..just melted in my mouth...

We also visited this really amazing shop named Creative Energy..they had a huge variety of healing stones..I immediately became attracted to Pyrite...

Pyrite:An excellent shield against negative energy,encourages and sustains the flawless ideal of health,physical emotional and intellectual levels and enhances memory and recall ...

and having no idea what to to do with I took it home anyway...

It ended up crumbling quite easily and so I created this new piece "Earth in the Night" with smaller chunks placed inside my handmade bezel covered in delicious ICEResin...

You can see the original chunks to the side of the pendant.

Sis also had a chance to show me a new knot technique called Shamballa which I instantly fell in love with..

I had picked up these super cool brass cut outs at BSue's and was completely lost on how to finish them,but this knot teqnique gave me the idea for the sides.I ended up using it with out the larger beads and hand stitched on some seed beads.

"Heart Burst" Etched Brass and Satin Rope

Lastly I squeezed in some more Resin play.Covering up this sweet BSue plate with paper,rub-on,glitter and Ice.

Thanks for visiting friends!!

Now go out there and spread those wings.

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Make Every Minute Count

2011-11-04T12:22:00.000-07:00

I had no idea it would take me this long to come up

with the sample art doll I plan to teach

at Artful Gathering.

She definitely took her time

letting me know what to put where...

But it wasn't until I found her name that she came to life...

...not a normal name of course..

but the only name she could ever have and could ever be...

Say hello to my

"Make every Minute Count"Art Doll

I will be teaching,hopefully some students, how to make her.

My goal for the class...will be,to have others feel the great joy I felt

creating her.

This Doll was created using doll parts,wood elements,fabric,metal sheets,paints,ICEResin and much much more.
To find out about Artful Gathering 2012 and he amazing classesclick HERE.

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Why cant vacations last a wee bit longer...

2011-10-28T07:07:00.000-07:00

Oh my....time has been running away with me lately...I am finally getting around to posting some pic of the trip...Oh How I wish vacations could last just a little bit longer...

At the last minute we ended up changing our room and I am so glad we did...hubby takes the credit on that move...because we ended up having a balcony and if it was up to me....I could have stayed there the entire time...

My favorite stop was "Blue Lagoon Island"...another place I could have stayed a wee bit longer...

...This shot was taken looking up from the Hammock Josh and I snoozed on...

...and Hannah found a tiny Hermit crab and wanted to bring it home...

...Back on board we played some mini golf...

...and the kids anjoyed the slides...

...But again...for me...I could have hung around this patio...soaking in the massive beauty...

and been perfectly ok with that.

Happy Friday Friends!

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

One Step Closer

2011-10-22T19:06:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled,blissful,delighted,overjoyed... to announce that I have been accepted to teach at Artful Gathering!!

For those of you that are unfamiliar with Artful Gathering here is bit of deliciousness(I think that's a word) from the site..."it is an online Art Event. With the ever increasing costs of travel and lodging, traditional art retreats are often inconvenient and inaccessible to many. Artful Gathering is the place to go for art inspiration, workshops, community, and learning. Bridging the gap between time zones and busy schedules, Artful Gathering is the gateway for uniting brilliant and talented instructors with students the world over. Everything is at your fingertips, with 24/7 access to learning in the comfort and ease of your own home.

The Difference is...the experience. Artful Gathering brings our art retreat to you. Learning and participating happens from your very own art studio where you can work and practice on your own time, while learning from instructors who film their class close up so that your viewpoint is right over their shoulder. Each year, we bring you new faces and new horizons for you to explore and enjoy!"

Doesn't it sound wonderful!!I am so thankful to Zinnia from http://zinniasart.blogspot.com/ for giving me amazing opportunity...I hope I make you proud girl!!

Once my samples are finished I will post some photos of what I will be teaching...I just had to share this totally exciting news!!!To see the other amazing teachers that will be teaching just click here to view all of the video's sweet Zinnia put together!!

Lastly I need to announce the winner of my coffee cuff Giveaway...Congrats to...Marlene from http://itsallaboutcreating.blogspot.com/ Marlene is an amazing Polymer clay artist!! I will be getting with you to see what you want on your Coffee cuff!!

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

The Blue Lagoon

2011-10-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Saturday Sweet Friends!!

Hubby and I are taking the kids on their first Cruise and they are soooooo excited...makes me excited seeing them bounce around and asking tons and tons of questions.

On the Itinerary is The Blue Lagoon in Freeport Bahamas,where the family will enjoy some beautiful sun,crystal clear water and a once in a lifetime treat of Dolphin play.My hope is to find some time to keep a travel journal,I was so inspired by Caterina's Journals from La Dolce Vita, click here to see them,but with the kids running around,I might be to tempted to join in on the fun.

We will be away until next Friday,so I just wanted to wish everyone a healthy and happy week.

Blessings to you all.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

DayDreams in Mixed Media

2011-10-12T05:40:00.000-07:00

When I first heard the news that I had been accepted as a Creative Team Member for ICE Resin...well I was in a state of shock...

Did they make a mistake?....

...but then...

...Reality hit ...

...and then came Joy

...and Excitement...

...and loads and loads of Gratitude...

...Phew...I'm tired...

So much emotion to feel at once.

Check out my "Introduction" Today on

http://iceresin.com/icequeen/2011/10/cat-kerr-daydreams-in-mixed-media/

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

My Mother's Hands

2011-10-09T11:32:00.000-07:00

I am the youngest of five,and My Mother used to tell me that we(my brothers and sisters and I) where all a part of her hand,connected to each other,and to her, forever.
Nowadays,I look at my hands, and I see her hands,..always connected.Forever.

"Hands" by Sarah Kay

What do your hands tell you?

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Coffee anyone? A Giveaway & a Guest Spot on Love my Art Jewelry!!!

2011-10-04T04:19:00.000-07:00

About five months ago Jenn Mason,editor of Cloth Paper Scissors,emailed me and asked me if I would consider changing some wrist cuffs I had created almost a year ago,into Coffee Cuffs for an upcoming article in C.P.S Gifts....Of course I said Yippee,Yippee Yes!!

...I was so excited to see the article that I created some additional Coffee Cuffs to sell in the Shop!!

But this kind of Happiness needs to be shared...and so I am offering one Personalized Coffee Cuff to one of of my Bloggy friends...

plus a copy of this Wonderful Issue...

all you have to do

is leave me comment.

Easy Peasy.

I will announce the Winner

Friday 21st.(Sorry for the long wait,I will be out of town)

Now as if this exciting tale is not enough,

I am thrilled to announce that I am a guest today on

Can you believe it...little me...what a honor.Thank you so much sweet Mary Jane for thinking of me.Be sure to check it out friends!! Just click here !!

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Inspiration Monday at Ice Resin

2011-10-03T04:30:00.000-07:00

Carol La Valley,Social Media Maven for ICE Resin, emailed me and asked if I would like to be a guest curator on the Ice Resin Blog for Inspiration Monday.I was so thrilled she asked me. My theme for I.M is "In your own Backyard" so be sure to check it out at http://iceresin.com/icequeen/2011/10/in-your-own-backyard/

Thank you Carol!!

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Daydreamer,thats me.

2011-09-28T05:48:00.000-07:00

Daydreamer:Someone who indulges in a dreamlike musing or fantasy while awake, especially of the fulfillment of wishes or hopes.

Thats me.

Have you ever seen another artist work

and your heart feels

as though it is going to explode

out of your body.

Thats how I felt when I first saw

the amazing work by

mixed media artist

Susan Lenart Kazmar

and then I saw her jewelry line...

Industrial Chic

at Michaels Craft Store.

I was in a complete and utter state of

Daydream.

When I first found out that there was a call for designers
at S.L.K ICE Resin

I lost my breathe.

Oh my.

What if.

Breathe Cat.

So when I received the email from Kristen

that my application had been accepted

I started crying.

I started laughing.

I knew in my heart

that this

official

Go ahead Card

Nonstop

Daydreaming.

I am so Excited to be on this new

and wonderful Journey.

Thank you so much Kristen

for your always beautiful kind words and

for believing in me.

And now here are the members of

Lesley Fisher & Michael Putnam

Cat Kerr(heehee)

JoAnnA Pierotti

Andrea Ring

Tina Schiefer

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

My New Sista,New Pieces and Tweet Tweet

2011-09-22T16:54:00.000-07:00

Some time ago I came across a Chris Kerr in Belle Armoire Jewelry.

Not only is she an amazing jewelry artist, but as you can see...we share the same last name..

So while visiting her blog for the first time she had a post about these amazing pendants she created with the

Kerr Family Crest

Sero*Sed*Serio

Which reads "Late but in Earnest"

I immediately left her a comment,introduced myself,and told her that her pendants where a Knock-out!

She later emailed me

and we became Sista's at once

and she told me that she would send me one of her etched Pendants.

You are so sweet my new Sista

and I love my new Pendant!!

I also squeezed in some more solder play...

At the last minute I decided not to patina these..they were calling for a crisp shiny look.

Sweet Paris with Etched Brass covered in Resin

"Pink Love" Soldered Pendant filled with fuzzy yummy cuddly felt.

A Sweater for your Finger..

Now on Etsy!!

Now for some very Exciting News....Ok..ok..its not that exciting,...I just wanted to rev you guys..heehee..I have signed up for Twitter and hope that some of you will click on and follow me.

Come on...

you know you want to.

As always,

thank you so much for stopping by,

Cat Kerr

"Happy Little Mistakes" with Soldered Boxes and Filigree

2011-09-16T05:41:00.000-07:00

As a proud Momma one has to brag..My little guy saved for 3 1/2 months so that he could get this Wii game..I am so proud of him..Great job Josh!! Momma loves you.

This week I have been playing with filigree..Attaching it to long soldered boxes..

at first I was unhappy with the solder flowing over the filigree..

my initial idea was to have the filigree show..

...but I quickly started to like the look of the solder covering it and still leaving some holes peaking through..

One of those..Happy little Mistakes..

..and once the pieces were finished I added some patina to give them that overall "old" look.

"Create","Found" and "Reminisce"

created with brass sheets,filigree,trinkets

and a resin.

Now in the Shop.

I also had a chance to finish up a mini journal..It was in need of something special hanging off to the side and so I filled one of my soldered boxes with something different..

a fabric bead...

Ooh I just love that hard metal with the softness of the bead.

"Emerge" can be found Here.

"Only as high as I reach can I grow

Only as far as I seek can I go

Only as deep as I look can I see

Only as much as I dream can I be"

— Karen Ravn

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

E Pluribus Unum

2011-09-11T11:12:00.000-07:00

"Out of many, one"

Here are a few things we can do to remember 9/11

http://responsiblemarketing.com/blog/author/patrick-byers

1.Remember the victims of the 9/11 attacks

2.Thank a firefighter

3.Donate to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum

4.Support our troops and veterans

5.Give blood

6.Thank a police officer

7.Read the 9/11 Commission Report (Full report, 2.3 MB, 585 pages

Executive summary, 344 KB, 35 pages)

8.Buy American

9.Support environmental responsibility to reduce your dependence on foreign oil, at home and at work

10.Fly your flag

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Family Ties

2011-09-09T07:04:00.000-07:00

My parents were both born in Colombia,South America,as were my 2 brothers and 2 sisters.

Otilia & Eduardo Benavides

(Mom & Dad)

(Mom,

Bill,Ingrid,Sandy,Eddie)

Not me though..I was the first born here in the states..

And now we have new generations here..
But family ties run deep and strong and Colombia
will always have a special place in my heart..

Here I am sitting with Abuelita (Grandma)

I have always felt a strong connection with her

She had a beautiful name..

Belen De Carvajal

and a beautiful heart...

she has stayed me with all these years..

and so

when I came across these Colombian coins...

...that I had in a drawer somewhere...

waiting to be found and

treasured again...

I decided to make myself something nice.

Enjoying some more practice time with soldering Rhinestones,

I added these tiny deep red ones Hubby found for me at a garage sale.Finishing it with a coating of resin and a hammered brass band.

I spilled some solder on the side,but overall I was happy with the way this ring came out.

And my love for felt found its way into this double loop bracelet.
Isn't that coin amazing?

"For Love is Immortality."

-Emily Dickinson

Happy Friday Friends.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

I'm Dreaming Right?

2011-08-31T17:16:00.000-07:00

Pinch me,am I dreaming...Looky and see what came in the mail today..The new Belle Armoire Jewelry Magazine..Isn't she a beauty..

..and here I am reading the a new article...

Did I mention...It's MY article..heehee..

Holy C&9@#!!

Here are my "Felted Face" Pendants..

Heehee..I cant stop giggling here..

..and I am flipping out!!

Breathe Cat.

Giggle.

Am I dreaming?

Hope Not.

Thank you Riki for the Inspiration!!

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Enamel Wannabee..

2011-08-26T09:06:00.000-07:00

I cant take it anymore..

every time I look at all the wonderful enamel work..I just go ga..ga..

Take a look at these beauties on Etsy..

Just click the link below the image to go to the listing..

These earring are AMAZING!!!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/VerreEncore?ref=seller_info

and look at these YUMMY moss bead caps by Mary Jane..

http://www.etsy.com/shop/speakingyourtruth?ref=seller_info

Then the other day I came across this tutorial on Vintaj

using melted Utee..

Mmmm..kinda looks like enamel..

and you dont need a kiln..

Love it!!

and so I got to work trying it out!!
Started out with some brass findings and Filigree..

..a pretty simple way to add color and dimension to your metal findings..

..and I had some time use some of my little findings in a felt and metal cuff..

and new necklace named "Anything is possible"

Give it a try..its a fun way to fill that creative need for enamel work!!

Sending prayers and Hugs to all the friends and family preparing for Irene.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Paper Love

2011-08-18T10:52:00.000-07:00

Lets be Honest here..I have an addiction....

...to paper.

I always have..always will.

I love to shred, glue, wrinkle..

tear, paste, and assemble with it..

There is just something about this 12" x 12" beauty that keeps me captivated.

But since my jewelry journey began..

I have to admit..

Paper found its way less and less into my creations.

That is until a few weeks back I found myself drooling over some papers I found over at

Jack and Cat Curio

Its called Graphic 45

and I found out where I could get some at

Scrapbook.com

Now, a while back I had purchaced some of this paper at my local scrapbook store,but since then the store has gone out of buisness,but when I saw the items this company has online..

Oh My..

These papers blew my mind..

and well I just knew I had to order some..

Here I created these Mini Hangers using "The Magic of Oz Collection"

I used the images to create transfers and then stitched them onto the fabric..

and of course I had to make some jewelry..

using the "Steampunk Debutante Collection"

I created these soldered,resin filled Pendants.

I also ordered some other yummy Graphic 45 items,like the ribbons I used as chain,and word stickers.

Ooooh..I think I'm in Love..

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

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Sweet Inspiration

2011-08-09T06:25:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks back I became inspired by Cindy's Inspiration Board..Isn't it beautiful??..

To see her lovely post click http://www.sweetbeadstudio.com/?p=6664

I became so inspired to create one of my own..only one problem...I have no wall space..my craft room is wall to wall shelving..You know..we mixed media artists have a problem with stuff...Well anyway..I did make a spot right above my sewing/jewelry table..

See..right there..that little tiny wall hanging..heehee.

It may be small,but it brings me so much joy..

Here's a closer look..

Here are some of my treasures from other artist..including Debrina Pratt and Corrine and a sweet Marie Antoinette ATC from Megan Suarez.

and some photos of my babies and favorite poems,A hand crafted pendant from my sister Ingrid,in which she fused a photo of me and the kids in glass..that's me and my sis with the funny hats..she always makes me laugh..so I had to give us hats!!...

..and old photos of me and hubby, kids artwork and my folks..

and the bracelet I made in the Stephanie Lee class..a gift that started me on my Jewelry journey..the vintage photo by Riki ..

And so..after staring at my little board, I became inspired and thought.."Wouldn't it be lovely to have Inspiration on the Go..

and after trying to figure out what to do with this bottle..The vision became clear..

"DreAms" Inspiration on the Go I call it!!

with a soldered rim,hanging metal bird charm and crystals..

this inspiration on the go is ready for any desk..

..and chains full of trinkets and one special charm I won from a generous giveaway from Renate ..that lovely blue nest square..Doesn't it just fit perfectly?...

and a hand stamped charm that has the sums it up wouldn't you say..

Thanks for the inspiration..Cindy,Debrina,Corrine,Megan,Ingrid,Riki,Renate,..and EVERY single blog I visit.

Now in the Shop

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Stephanie Lee project #2, Mini Art Canvas and More

2011-08-02T18:23:00.000-07:00

I will always love mixed media art..

"Little Wings" Mini Mixed Media Canvas

Now in the Shop

...But as of late I dream of making Jewelry from sun up to sun down.The bug has bitten and I am Hooked!! With little wings I can taste the moisture in the wind and I am enjoying the ride.

Every Road traveled has lead me to here.

Incorporating my Mixed Media

into small wearable tidbits

of my heart.

Thank you Friends

for coming along

on the journey.

Stephanie Lee Project #2

"Time Capsule Ring" pg 105

1-cut all metal pieces and size up band

2-Solder on brass circle to create bezel and band

3- add patina

4-fill with found objects

5-add 2 part resin

And now some new pieces for the Jewelry shop...the first using Riki's awesome soldering Rhinestone tutorial...

"Be Curious" Two part Compartment Soldered Pendant

..the second.."Little Bird" Resin Pendant and Vintage trim

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Stephanie Lee Project #1

2011-07-27T13:01:00.000-07:00

When I first found this book over a year ago at my local library..something inside me changed. This how to book on Creating found-art Jewelry was amazing!!I immediately called my sister unable to contain my excitement and I knew I just had to order it at once!!

"Semiprecious Salvage"

by Stephanie Lee

Some time later,my sister Ingrid had surprised me with the most amazing gift ever..a class by Artbliss that featured the one..the only..Stephanie Lee.

It was an experience I will never forget.To read about this amazing adventure click here.

And so months later I find myself still learning..Every time I open her book,I find something new,a tip I may have missed..a project I may have overlooked..and well I thought to myself ..."self".."the only way I'm going to really learn everything she has to share is to try all of the projects in her book".

..and so I am..

starting with..

"Remembering Pendant" pg.115(also the pendant on the Cover)

1-stamp clay

2-add plaster to stamped clay

3-Once dry,gently peel off plaster

4-paint plaster and break into desired pieces

5-Create bezels using brass and solder.Then Patina with Novacan Black.

6-Assemble.Place desired plaster piece in pendant,add two part resin.Once cured,assemble the rest of the pendant using desired findings.

I can tell you that with this project alone I learned so many things..

-I have always had Plaster of Paris in the house.(projects with the kids)..but had no idea how to incorporate it into my art.

-The plaster is very delicate and breaks easily,so you have to be gentle with it

-I have never used Novacan Black solder patina and its Wonderful!!

Thank you Stephanie..for continuing to teach me..

Next up.."The Time Capsule Ring" pg 105

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Photoshop fun,Brass Etchings and Thankyou's

2011-07-19T11:19:00.000-07:00

Having fun with photoshop!!

Especially had fun putting us in the tub!!That's me and my siblings with our Mom.I'm the second from the left.

This image was created using a Shadowhouse background and Zalinka png images.

I also finally finished a banner for the blog I like.This banner was created using photos of my work,my not so little, little kids,and some yummy rusties.I also used half of a label image from The Graphics Fairy.

I have also had fun etching brass this week.I have etched in the past,but I never knew that I could use Liver of Sulphur on brass!!Thanks to sweet Mary Jane from..http://mairedodd.blogspot.com/ I think I may have asked her a gazillion questions and she never became impatient with me.Thank you so much for all the help and kind words Mary Jane!!

A Mini Book Etched Brass Pendant

Bloom Etched Brass Cuff on Upcyled Leather Belt Cuff

and my first Rivet..woo-hoo!!

thanks Sis for all your help..

"Dreamer" Etched Brass Pendant Hanging on Lime Green Stitched Fabric Chain

Now on Etsy

You know..Its a funny thing this Blog Community..this world of cyber friends..I have never in my life met so many kind and generous souls.Each one eager to share in kindness and respect and love.Thank you for every comment,every email,every kind word and helpful tip,but more than anything..thank you for your friendship.

To see if its a

Thumbs up or Thumbs down for

"Transformers Dark of the Moon review"

by "my little man" Film Critic Joshua

just click Here!

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Wet Summer Nights

2011-07-15T09:50:00.000-07:00

During the summer months,Brevard Zoo offers $5.00 tickets after 5pm..What a wonderful time to visit the Zoo..You don't have to deal with the heat...but you do have to deal with the rain..This time of year it rains almost every afternoon.I don't mind it one bit..After the rain,the sun comes back out to play.

They added these two beautiful Cheetahs to the Zoo..

This Rhino came running up at one point..and I might add..he runs fast and strong..I could feel his feet hitting the wet ground deep inside the pit of my stomach..a massive a beautiful creature..

and here is one messy piggy..

and one sneaky Croc....

and one sleepy jaguar that just needs some alone time...

and after the rain stopped..The Dixie Group filled the night air with fun tunes..

Wet Summer Nights,Five Bucks,Fun Music,Amazing Animals,

My not so little,little kids.

Perfect.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Keeping Our Children Safe #1

2011-07-14T07:29:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I watched something that I have not been able to shake off.I watched the first time interview with Jaycee Lee Dugard,the girl that was kidnapped at age 11 and held captive for 18 years.

That night I had trouble sleeping.I couldn't get her sweet face out of mind and all the years she lost to those heartless and soulless monsters.The next morning as I was getting ready to go to work,.. I could hear the news from the other room describing a boy wearing a rocket t-shirt,that had been reported taken by two adult males.On the way to work I started crying,crying for a mother I didn't know,crying for innocence lost,crying for the fear that any child in that situation must go through..My throat closed and I was reminded of the book that I read years ago.."Protecting the Gift" By Gavin Debecker.This book had changed my life in may ways..teaching me that Fear is a good thing.Fear can force us to learn how to protect our children,Fear can hammer into us a feeling in the pit of our stomachs that something is wrong, Fear can help us to focus,and to act,and to answer.When my daughter was young we started monthly safety talk I purchased videos,we roll played,and made a ten minute monthly talk fun but memorable.About a year ago,I stopped doing this..no particular reason..I just became busy with other things..but on that ride to work that morning I knew I had to start out monthly safety talks again..because out of Fear,I refuse to leave my children uninformed and unprepared.

And so for you my friends,..mothers,fathers,grandparents,neighbors..I have decided to start these weekly tips on keeping our children safe.I found an excellent series of short videos that are worth watching and I hope you do.

From ehow.com : "Sexual predators are everywhere these days, or at least it seems so. Keeping your kids safe from kidnappers and social deviants is a full time job, and keeping abreast of their tactics and strategies is crucial to your children's survival. Indeed, children today have more responsibility and obligations than ever before and as such have more opportunity for poor decision-making and predators have more opportunity to attack. Because of this increased vulnerability, it is essential that we understand child safety and keep our kids informed about kidnappers and sexual predators.

In this free video series, our expert Karina Fraley will teach you all about keeping your kids safe from predators and kidnappers. She will talk about identifying dangerous strangers, sharing personal information, mall safety, stranger luring kids to their cars, bathroom safety, and Internet safety. She will also talk about trust, getting lost, working kids, and teen drivers."

We have to help each other in keeping our children safe.

They are the most precious,they are our gifts,
and it is our job to learn all we can
to keep them safe.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

The Final Flight

2011-07-08T17:17:00.000-07:00

Breakfast of Champions

I am always filled with joy

when the kids ask for Arepas and Egg Soup for breakfast.

A traditional Colombian breakfast...

and a sweet memory for me of my Momma making this comfort food.

The soup,topped off with fresh cut Cilantro and the Arepas with melted cheese.

Yum.

Rhinestone Tutorial

After taking an awesome tutorial by Riki on how to solder on rhinestones..

I just couldn't help myself..and ended up going solder Crazy..

and I ended up with

Happy little pendants.

Thanks Riki.

Click here to purchase her wonderful tutorial!

The Final Flight

Cloudy skies threatened the launch today ..but Atlantis prevailed and shot strait up to the stars..

..Another moment in History..

..That we will never forget.

And to commemorate the special occasion..

Moon Cookies by Joshua

and Hannah.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Miami Beeeeaaaaccchhhhh!

2011-06-27T11:41:00.000-07:00

While in Miami the kids and I walked around the lovely city..and even though I will be the first to admit I do

not like to drive in the area..walking is a whole other experience.This beautiful city by the beach is full of skyscrapers,a diverse selection of shops and restaurants,and a sweet assortment of parks...Something,I might add you might miss,by riding in the car.

With manicured lawns,crisp grass and tall palm trees..its a lovely place to visit.

..But once you hit the beach...well you may find it hard to leave..

Gee..even the seaweed was pretty..

..and of course the kids had a blast...and me too..Oooooh that water was heavenly..

calm..soothing..green..blue..bright..hot..wonderful.

Just wish..I had put on a wee-bit more sunblock..Youch!!

Being inspired by these lovely surroundings..the night we came home,my fingers quickly got to work.

"At the Beach" Resin Earrings.Filled with sand,twig,rhinestones and text.

"Sun and Water" Crystal and Glass Beads

"Water" Crystal and Salt Water Pearl Necklace

Now on Etsy

A lovely trip..filled with family and friends,great food,sunshine and Happiness.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Resin & Jenga Play

2011-06-22T17:06:00.000-07:00

"Learn" Metal and Resin Cuff

Made with an extra Cuff Skirt to change it up a bit..Can be worn with or without the Skirt!!

Whoever said throw out the kids "left over" game pieces.....

..had no sense of humor...

I love "Left Overs"!! Especially Wood Jenga pieces!!

Now on Etsy!!

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

The Path

2011-06-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

As of late..I find myself walking down an unknown path..yet knowing deep inside my heart..that this same path..is the path I should,without hesitation,or question.. be on.

The other day I caught the end of "Bridges of Madison County"..its such a lovely movie and it always moves me to tears when Clint Eastwood says to Meryl Streep...

"This kind of certainty comes but once in a lifetime."

This time I cried not because of what was happening in the movie,but because this line spoke to me and to what I was feeling at the moment. Feeling lost,..yet found..feeling unsure of myself ...yet confident. Feeling as though even though I know not what the future holds..I am doing EXACTLY what I am supposed to be doing.I am CERTAIN of it.

Can anyone relate?

John Maenhout Photo

"This kind of certainty comes but once in a lifetime."

Robert James Waller

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Turkey Creek Sanctuary

2011-06-07T09:55:00.000-07:00

The first time we went to Turkey Creek Sanctuary,Hannah was about four and Joshua was in a stroller..so very long ago.We took some time this week to visit the trail and I had some sweet memories float in and out of my little brain.

The entrance reminds me of a secret garden.Tucked away in the bush one cant help but feel the warmth of the surrounding nature..with arms that gently swallow you in.

Before hitting the main trail you hit a sweet butterfly garden..

and then the boardwalk..loaded with names of those that support the sanctuary..

and on a hot summer day..a pit stop is needed every now and then..

with wildlife like racoons and gators and manatees,the only picture I had a chance to take was a family of turtles swimming below us...

but more than anything..I love the texture of nature..something wonderful to see in every direction..

I love the way the moss hangs from the branches..

and I love spending time with my not so little..little kids.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Where has the time Gone

2011-05-30T11:02:00.000-07:00

These last few weeks have been a blur..With the end of the school year activites,parties,awards,recitals..Momma's head was starting to spin..and yet..when the dust began to settle... I look back at every moment...and I am so thankful and blessed for every second.

So now,with summer plans underway..I'm planning on....getting some sleep...okokok..maybe thats asking to much..a girl can dream..

Really though..all I really want is some play time..I'm keeping my fingers crossed with our "Summer House Rule number #3"..
Momma gets Play time in Studio from 8am-10am with no interuptions..

am I asking to much again..My kids are wonderful they let Momma play..or else Momma gets Cranky..hehhehhee.

With our first couple of days off I managed to squeeze out some goodies.

"Laughter is the best Remedy"Resin filled Pendant

"Little Bird" Soldered Brass Box Pendant

and I also had a chance to finish up my last giveaway for Maggi at http://justaddglitterandstir.blogspot.com/ Sweet Maggi had asked me if I could wait on making her pendant until her sweet beautiful Rosalind arrived..and so when Rosalind was born Maggi emailed me some photos..not just any photos..but two of the sweetest little princess photos ever!!

Introducing Rosalind and Big Sister Audrey

Thanks Maggi,for giving me such sweet inspiration to work with and allowing me to post these images.Big Hugs.

These pendants are now available in the Etsy Jewelry Shop

I'm leaving you today with another "Polar"(Joshua's best stuffed buddy)Sighting.For the first Polar sighting click HERE.

As always,

thank you so much for stopping by

A daily dose of Wonderful and Altering fun!

2011-05-13T11:14:00.000-07:00

Everyone needs a pick me up every now and then..me,well..I get one each and every day..Yup..someone to tell me just what I need to hear...exactly..when I need to hear it.

I signed up for these email notifications a while back..All it is..well,..just some words to remind you of who and what you are..isn't that great!!

Leandra calls these.."Notes to Self"..and I think they are just wonderful.

These are some that I have received lately..

"sometimes you forget you were born to be a hero.

go be heroic and awesome and YOU."

"edit your life as you go,make revisions,omissions and additions,people,things,beliefs,

behaviors,

simplify,simplify,simplify!"

"Consciously fill your world with energy that supports you..It starts with you"

Well..

I told you they were powerful..

if you want to sign up for this daily dose of wonderful

go to

http://www.whatsmyworldlike.com/

------------------------------------------------------

Having fun altering a wee bit of this and a wee bit of that.

What needs Altering in your Life?

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover".- Mark Twain

Have a wonderful day friends!!

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Always Seeking

2011-04-29T09:26:00.000-07:00

I find inspiration in that wackiest of objects..

I came across this newspaper covered bird and it yelled,screamed

and kicked for me to bring it home and give it some legs to stand on..

"Seeker"

Don't we all feel like Seekers?Always searching,always asking?..

I know I am..

always wondering..

Am I doing what I am supposed to be doing?

What are you Seeking?

I also had a chance last week to try some etching..

it was fun fun fun..and addicting..

I didn't like the way some of these came out,but I learned a few things along the way..

-always wear gloves and eye wear

-Never use PCB(etching solution)inside..Phew..it smells!!

-Don't use the same mixture more than three times

-it helps to agitate mixture every 10-20 minutes

-before throwing out,neutralize with baking soda..when it stops bubbling,ok to dispose of.

"Fly" Stamped and Etched Copper with a hot air balloon image and mounted on to stitched fabric.

"Butterfly" Brass Cuff

"Hope" Etched and Stamped Copper

Sending prayers to our Brothers and Sisters hit hard by the Tornadoes.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Gratitude and Giveaway Winner

2011-04-18T12:42:00.000-07:00

So much to be thankful for..

..My Sweet big brother Bill..

He found this amazing anvil at a garage sale and after I gave a little squeak he generously handed it over to me..Isn't she a beauty..

..Confederate Jasmine..

I can smell the sweet jasmine as soon as I open my slider..

..."Polar"...

Joshua won this Polar Bear at Seaworld many moons ago..

it has remained his constant companion..they sleep,play and sometimes eat together.. I treasure little "Polar"...perhaps,just as much as he does..

..The Perfect Fit..

This morning when I came across the most beautiful round antique brass doo-dads..

As soon as I saw them I knew that they would at last complete my ocean blue beads earrings and "Memories" Key Necklace that have been in the corner of my room(along with all my other unfinished projects)for some time..waiting for the perfect fit to complete the piece....

..Playtime..

Thankfully this week I also had some time to play around with Sweet soldering..I'm getting a little bit adventurous and working on objects with fun shapes..

"Dragons Breathe" The colors in this stone just reminded me of dragons scales..

"Sunrise"..This sweet yellow glass reminded me of the warmth of the sun.

..Bloggy Friends..

Thank you so much sweet Bloggy friends..for every kind word and every sweet Hug.

Now for the winner of a personalized Soldered Pendant

Maggi from http://justaddglitterandstir.blogspot.com/

Congrats Maggi!!

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Shhhhhh..,Brinner,and some more Practice

2011-04-12T12:47:00.000-07:00

We took the kids out of school and headed to Universal Studios..Shhhh..don't tell ok..and even though the park was packed and we did a lot of standing in line..it was great..Come on..kids need a break every once in a while..and so do Momma's and Poppa's.

Friday night Hubby had to work late..so the kids and I made the traditional Brinner(Breakfast for Dinner)..and now that the kid are older they help much more in the kitchen..Hannah made the chocolate chip pancakes..Joshua the scrambled eggs and Momma made Grandma's Arepa's(Traditional Colombian cornmeal cakes)..Yummy!!

And for those of you that have signed up for my Giveaway you will be happy to know that I have had some more Soldering practice...lots and lots of practice..I didn't realize at first how hard it would be to get the solder to flow "Just Right"..but at last I think I'm getting the hang of it..Here are some of my recent attempts..

..and with all this solder play I just had to make something for myself..Don't laugh ok!

Thanks for stopping by and

Happy Tuesday Friends!!

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

"I See You" and a Giveaway!!

2011-04-04T11:26:00.000-07:00

Spring Break started off with a Bang..literally..Look at the golf ball size hail that made a whole bunch of racket during an afternoon storm!!...Bang Bang cried the house...

But when the skies began to clear..we were able to get some things done..

Every Season we decorate the glass in the house..This day the glass called for some happy flowers..

and we gazed at the blooms that whispered sweet happiness..

..and we made time for even more planting..

and Hannah got a new Haircut..

and I even had some playtime..with my new soldering iron..I quickly realized that after taking the Stephanie Lee course with my Sis..I had to jump into not only torch soldering but iron soldering too..

"I See You"

My favorite line from one of my favorite movies.."Joy luck Club"..I get goose bumps just thinking about it..to see the clip I'm speaking of click here..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjpgeCKL2hg

..Anyhoo....I'm still learning and I'm still having issues..Like How do I clean the solder and get it shiny????Anyone??

And Since spring is in the air I thought why not a giveaway..How about a soldered Pendant??Now please remember..I'm new at this..but I can make a custom "I see you" Pendant with some of your sweeties inside..Or what ever you wish!!Just leave me a comment..if you dare..hehhee..and I will announce the winner on

Monday the 18th.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Sweet Corrine and some Inspiration At Last!!

2011-03-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I visited my dear friend Corrine at http://dosfishes.blogspot.com/ and she just happened to post about some of her lovely work..as I drooled over her collages..I commented about how beautiful they were..if only I could see one up close I said..well.. the next day she emailed me and asked me for my address and proceeded to mail out two of her beauties..Oh my..what a treat...And when I opened the envelope..little giggles came up from my throat as I looked at every inch of these darling gems.Thank you so much Sweet Corrine!!

This week I actually got around to making something..I'm thinking Corrine's collage cards inspired me..Anyhoo..I came up with some wrap around cuffs and some ACEO's...

"Temet Nosce" Know Thyself created by using leather,copper wire and findings..

Metallic Ribbon stitched with Chain and Crystal

Now on Etsy

"Delight In the Little Things"#366

"Serendipity"#367

and more..The ACEO's will be making their debut on EBAY tonight..

Thanks for visiting me today.

"We come spinning out of nothingness, scattering stars like dust” -Rumi

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

The School Grounds

2011-03-23T12:57:00.000-07:00

I will be the first to admit,that when we moved to our current home,I did not like the idea of having the elementary school in our backyard..but through out the years,the path to the school has witnessed these little legs grow..from small to big..

and I am ever so thankful

for every memory shared

on these wonderful school grounds.

On this day..we had no other choice but walk the path and enjoy

Perfect day for bike riding..

and some tire rolling..

and some swing set swinging..

and some treasure hunting..

and some slide diving..

and especially some ..sun catching..

and How I love this corner of the pavilion..It calls to me every time..singing sweetly as it echos the laughter of the children that played within its timbers.

"The Daisy follows soft the Sun"

by Emily Dickinson

The Daisy follows soft the Sun --

And when his golden walk is done --

Sits shyly at his feet --

He -- waking -- finds the flower there --

Wherefore -- Marauder -- art thou here?

Because, Sir, love is sweet!

As Always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Sometimes There just Aren't Enough Words

2011-03-14T17:16:00.000-07:00

The scream heard around the world.

When my sister Ingrid first called me and told me what she had

planned for us when I went up for a visit to NY for her birthday...well

..I just couldn't believe it.

Originally we planned to do as we always do..

Craft,of course..

but when the words came out of her mouth she said..

actually we are driving from NY to Virginia...

Huh?

Yup.

Huh?

Driving to Virginia and taking a Stephanie Lee metal smith Class.

What?

Yup.

Faint.

Head hit floor.

Recover.

Then came the scream.

So I arrived Thursday night in NY,about 10pm,

and the next morning we packed up the supplies needed for the class,

and headed out on our adventure..

It took about 7 hours to get to Virginia and we chatted,ate,laughed,

all the way there...

When we arrived we checked into our hotel,ordered more yummy food....

and laughed some more.

Saturday morning,with nerves in my belly we met up with the class.

Here we are in the class..

that's me on the left and Ingrid on the right.

Here's Stephanie teaching the class..

She Rocks!!

To see more on her class and upcoming classes check her out at

http://stephanielee.typepad.com/stephanie_lee_studios/

and the pieces she passed around were all so beautiful..almost wanted to cry with joy as I held them...

every corner..every inch..filled with tasty morsels for the creative soul..

Now if this magical class was not enough..and meeting Stephanie was not enough..and going on a road trip with sis was not enough..well..

.. I also had a wonderful chance to meet Cindy from http://www.sweetbeadstudio.com/..Omygoodness..what a special treat..

-Cindy,it was soooo great meeting you.Hugs my friend.

Now you might be asking ...Soooo did Cat learn anything at this once in a lifetime class..

yup!Sure did..

1-Relax.

2-Have fun.

3-The torch is my friend.

The plan for the class was to create a necklace that can also be changed to a bracelet.Well I didn't have a chance to finish mine so I finished it at home and later decided to completely separate the pieces.The main bezel piece was moved to a altered bottle I was working on.The bezel was created using assorted metals,solder,mica,crystal and wire....

...The sterling silver chain was turned into a simple large loop bracelet with crystal.

Sometimes..there just aren't enough words to express how you really feel..sometimes your gratitude is to big that it fills up your entire heart with joy..leaving your mouth empty and tongue-tied..Sometimes..you want more than anything to tell those that have touched your life how much happiness they bring you...and you just cant find the right words..and so..here I am..saying it all...sharing it in a way that others too can hear my heart .. and free this blessing into the night sky.

Thanks Sis.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Do you Believe in Love at first Sight?

2011-03-05T07:41:00.000-08:00

I do!

This baby called my name...the minute we set eyes on each other...

a Vintage #5 Underwood...Oh My...

and there was no denying it..I was in love...

...and as I cleaned him up..my heart began to beat faster..

such a treasure..such a joy..

...Go ahead..say it...You believe in love at first sight too!!

To read more about the Underwood Typewriter check out the link below!!

http://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/underwood5.html

As always,

thank you so much for stopping by

Background Beauty

2011-02-25T10:13:00.000-08:00

Last week I found the most wonderful tutorial from Katie Kendrick on making backgrounds..I was so inspired to give it a go...and in the process I was reminded of the beauty of the things we take for granted in the background of our everyday lives..so much to see if we really take a good look with open eyes and a open heart.

"Beautiful Life" Created on a book cover that was layered in distressed magazine pages using Nevr-dull,paint and gold leaf.

"Live Like you Mean it" Created on Plexi-glass,Gesso,paint and ink.

"Simple Pleasures" ACEO Art Card Created using distressed magazine,texture plates,and ink.

"Sometimes I need

only to stand

wherever I am

to be blessed."

— Mary Oliver

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

My Eyes Are Open

2011-02-18T07:14:00.000-08:00

For the first time since I started selling my work on EBAY I have put the "Selling" and "Auction" part on hold for a while. I am still creating,but with a new mission and a new goal. I was so inspired after receiving all the treasures in the Giveaway I won from Riki at http://rikijewelry.blogspot.com/ that it gently pushed me in the directions of my dreams..and I finally made the decision,to open my eyes and to at last submit some of my mixed media jewelry pieces to a magazine for possible publications.With this shift of focus,creative time has been full of ideas for possible submissions.I must admit that it feels weird to create something and not list it for sale right away,..It almost feels as though I am keeping a secret of sorts, an exciting,thrilling,cant wait to blab all about it,secret.

Today,I can share some of the ideas that have passed my table and that I later decided not to submit them...I am having a blast with Resin and all I can say is I want to put resin on everything right now..Ooooh what fun!! I just know something wonderful will hatch from all this resin play that I can submit to a magazine..

"Shadow of His Wings"

"My Hearts Affection"

Resin Butterfly Transparency

"History" Resin Lace,Gauze and Rusties

'All men dream, but not equally.

Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds,

wake in the day to find that it was vanity;

but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men,

for they may act on their dreams with open eyes,

to make them possible.'

(T. E. Lawrence, 1888-1935)

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Getting through the Night

2011-02-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

Hello sweet friends.I know I have been away for some time,we have been struggling with runny noses,coughs,fevers and an overall yucky feeling that just doesn't seem to want to go away.I'm sure you understand that when your feeling this way you just don't feel like doing ANYTHING.Today,I must admit,the sky at last seemed to clear a bit,giving me enough time to look up and breathe.... and with the patio door open beside me,I can hear the sweet pitter pat of the fountain and the children laughing in the near by school and I can at last feel myself returning to my old self.Not yet feeling 100%,but we all have get through the night to appreciate the dawn don't we?

Last week I had planned on sharing some new cheese clothe from my "Doo-dads" shop,but never had a chance,so here they are.. The wonderful colors surprised me as they dried to these amazingly bright and vibrant colors..My personal favorites,Rust,Pearl Gray and nothing tops Tea Stain..and that one smells nice too!

Rust

Turquoise

Bright Violet

Bright Green

Pearl Gray

Tea Stain

I would also like to thank everyone that took the time to comment and send me emails in regards to my recent cuffs.I am so honored by all the words you share with me.

Here's a custom cuff for sweet Carmen at http://silverartisan.blogspot.com/ Thanks Carmen..Enjoy!!

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Its all about the Details

2011-01-24T06:13:00.000-08:00

When I drove Joshua to school, we came across a school of birds crossing the street.Oh they took their time,not a care in the world,happy little birds enjoying their morning walk.Joshua laughed and said "Isn't this the same group of birds we saw last week crossing the road..they sure do take a long time to cross.."

When I dropped him off he kissed my cheek, we gave each other a static shock, as we do every morning when we kiss.... laughed at the silliness of it.

Its all in the details.

I then picked up Hannah and we immediately played Rock, Paper ,Scissor for the radio.I won and put on Glee's version of Happy days are here Again..but then gave her control of the music and we sang and danced in our seats..that is until we turned the corner of her school and she doesn't want to be seen singing and dancing with Mommy."See ya Mom" she said smiling as she slid out the car.See you baby,I whispered.

Its all in the details.

On my way to work,I noticed for the first time a true feeling of comfort. I did not mention that I had received a new car for Christmas and normally this is a wonderful thing,but I get nervous driving and don't like to do it..but I have to and its just something I learn to deal with.Anyway,this morning,the sun was warm,the traffic was light,the music was soft and the chair had at last that broken in feeling..I felt relaxed and for the first time enjoyed this feeling of driving.I took note of it and was full of gratitude..for the car,the breeze that slid through the crack of my window,for Michael Buble on the radio,for the way my back fit the chair perfectly.

Its all in the details.

And when I got home that afternoon,I discovered the most wonderful package in the mail.It was a giveaway I won from http://rikijewelry.blogspot.com/ last week. I cannot express the joy I felt opening each and every treasure..it was Christmas in January and I was so delighted with the idea that I would actually get my hands on one of Riki's beautiful etched boxes..Oh my,my heart is a flutter.

Every piece,hand wrapped in tissue paper and tied with lovely ribbon...Hand written notes for me..yes me.

Sweet Riki..Thank you and yes..

..its all in the details.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

With Thanks to the Field Sparrow

2011-01-17T11:03:00.000-08:00

Monday's With Mary

"With Thanks to the Field Sparrow,Whose voice is so Delicate and Humble" By Mary Oliver

"I do not live happily or comfortably

with the cleverness of our times.

The talk is all about computers,

the news is all about bombs and blood.

This Morning,in the fresh field,

I came upon a hidden nest.

It held four warm,speckled eggs.

I touched them.

Then went away softly,

having felt something more wonderful

than all the electricity of New York City."

Yes,Indeed.Thank you field Sparrow.

Some new pieces.

"Follow your Heart"Altered Wood Shadowbox

"Dream Big and Laugh Hard"

Felt and Lace Cuff

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

"Lesson Learned" by Cat Kerr

2011-01-10T09:21:00.001-08:00

I started something new....for the wrong reasons....but I didn't care....and what happened was...the powers that Be...wouldn't hear of it...and so as time went on...and after receiving warning sign after warning sign.....my heart became heavy.. my mind stale with inactivity....when by Grace...I understood at last.

We cannot fool the heart into doing something the heart does not love,we cannot let the spirit lie dormant.We cannot let imagination and creativity linger low below the knees weeping for a chance to climb.

This I tell you,is my disclosure.My lesson learned...for when my spirit soars,I will offer up the wind,...and when my imagination is uncontainable, I will set it free,....and if my heart is heavy,I will find the courage to lighten the load.When all there is to do,is change the course.

Lesson Learned.
"Courage" Altered Wood Box Assemblage

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Drool,Sweat,Dizzy and Tears

2010-12-30T11:48:00.000-08:00

Some weeks ago Dear Sweet Kj from http://karenjasper.blogspot.com/ wrote a post about "K",a friend in need of some of funds to help with college...to read the post click "here"...well I asked if it would be alright if I auctioned off one of my ACEO's to help with K ...I created this ACEO,and it will be going up on auction tonight on Ebay.

Be sure to check it out "Here"!!

"Wishes and Dreams for K" #359 Created using layers of paper and ephemera,a vintage reprint,swarovski crystals,rub-ons and a final layer of beeswax.

My fingers have not created mixed media in some time and after creating this card I was inspired to keep going and in doing so my flame for collage began to burn again.

"Together" #360 Mixed Media Collage ACEO with layer of Beeswax

"Take a Chance" Doll Assemblage

After playtime I started thinking about the Artists that inspired me when I first started falling in love with the idea of Collage, almost 10 years ago now.

Brilliant minds like..
Hannah Hock

Raoul Housmann

Robert Rauschenberg

These,along with so many others, make me drool,sweat,swear,feel dizzy,laugh with joy and sometimes they even make me cry..Isn't that what its all about.

What makes you Cry?..and sweat and drool?

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Contagious Copper,Giveaway Winner,and December Fun

2010-12-27T18:42:00.000-08:00

Hello friends..I hope you are all enjoying every minute of this wonderful Holiday Season. I have really enjoyed having everyone home..the only downside is that I think I may have had a marshmallow overload.. I don't think I can look another marshmallow in the eye...at least not for a while anyway..it all started with a cup of cocoa..

and then continued on with rice crispies treats, marshmallow popcorn balls..and ended with nutter butter sandwiches..Ugh..no more..I just cant..

I did have some playtime this week ..having a thrill with copper..I didn't realize it would be so contagious and fun...Here are some new earrings that read "Know Thyself" in Latin..

And some hoop earrings...

and a rustic looking necklace that I hand stamped "Dream"...

and what about a copper and leather cuff...Mmmmm I'm still working on this idea..

But even though my mind may tend to wander off, the kids help me to come back down to earth...here we are having fun with new rollerblades and scooter!!

You guys didn't see that mess in the garage did ya?Eeek..I have to do some cleaning..

Now for the winner to my last Giveaway...The Winner of my last Giveaway is Dari from http://musingsofaseawitch.blogspot.com/ Just email me and let me know what you would like me to put on your cuff!!

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Winter Blessings

2010-12-18T13:01:00.000-08:00

Hello dear friends...I know its been some time since I stopped by and shared a visit with you all..this time of year we have many wonderful Goings-on,and I have been determined to enjoy them all..

I'm sure like all of you..we have had this and that to take care of..mixed in with deadlines,to-do's and organizing....but this year...I am feeling in the moment...

Filled with pride as my sweet young lady Hannah sang in one of her many Chorus performances...

and making memories with Joshua, his classmates,and some Mom and Dads, huddled together as we froze our behinds off on a field trip to a local fishery..one field trip I will always remember..Brrrr..

and thankful for having the opportunity to plan school parties and spend beautiful moments with my little man ....

...and humming as I decorate the house ...

and sneek a peak at "Their Tree" in the den...filled with treasures made by the hands of my "Not So Little" Little ones..

So now its time for a school winter break and I'm feeling cozy with the idea of cuddling together,wrapping presents,making hot cocoa,watching Polar Express,visiting family and making memories...mmmmmnnn...sounds lovely.

Blessings to you all dear friends.

As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

It's Beginning to FEEL a lot like Christmas...and a Giveaway!!

2010-11-29T07:05:00.000-08:00

Oh yes Indeedy!!

As soon as I saw these K&C beautiful Christmas die-cuts..my heart went a pitter patter!!!

"Merry Christmas" Altered Mini Wood Block

"December the 25th" Altered Mini Wood Block

"Tis the Season" Altered Mini Wood Block

(Now on Ebay) And with that Christmas music blaring through the house..I couldn't help but offer a giveaway..For the winner..one of my new bronze bracelets.. personalized with whatever you wish..as long as the words fit!!Here are some of my other bracelets..hand stamped and shaped by me.I happen to love love love Latin phrases..and here these cuffs read"Let your Light Shine"&"Light from Darkness"Of course the winner can choose to personalize their bracelet with any names,or quote they please!!
I will announce the winner Dec.27th.I'm sorry for this extra long Giveaway..but it will be the only time I can get it done.
Just leave me a comment on this post if you are interested in the Giveaway and If you can,please pass the word along!!Much appreciated!!
As always,
thank you so much for stopping by

Let the Beauty we love Be what we Do

2010-11-21T17:13:00.000-08:00

Luscious Silver..How I have enjoyed your touch as of late.Yes I know..

perhaps it's not as much fun as using a variety of doo-dads,but I cannot
deny the electric shock wave of joy I feel as I hammer and shape.
This journey has come full circle.
Here are some new offerings in the shop.

"My Heart" with personalized circle pendants.

With Lori's Blessing from http://loritimesfive.blogspot.com/ she has graciously allowed me to use her Blog title for my mommaXblessings line..Thank you Lori!!

And oh the fun of oxidation!!Look at the beautiful patinas,in my darker pieces.

Now where will this new journey carry me.The unfamiliar road is full of bends and branches,but what I knew when I first started selling my mixed media work on-line,almost three years ago now,I know it still stands true today.The destination matters not,as long as we continue to do what we love.