Maggie The Artist

Winter Blues

2012-02-10T22:48:00.001-08:00

We’ve been spoiled with unseasonably warm weather this winter in the Midwest after a month of no snow we got dumped on a week ago (like Mother Nature was eating a fiber one bar). I have a case of the winter blues. I think that maybe why I haven’t posted lately and also enjoying the nice weather. Here’s what I like to be doing:

*De-cluttering On the last nice day before the snow, I had gone through my stuffed animals and got rid of a bag to give to my church for our Youth Group’s Teddy Bear project. Most of my stuff is still in storage and my goodness! I have tons of stuff! Well after moving 2 times, you put lots away in storage. I so need to get rid of a huge chunk of it garage sale season will be around the corner soon!

*Fishing- After picking up a pole for the first time ever last year I am ready to go again. I never realized something like fishing could be so fun and relaxing but it is!

*The beach- Enough said.

*Photography- I want to as always do more of this.

*Sitting on my deck. I bought this awesome chair last year and I didn’t spend near enough time out on my deck but I plan to change that too!

*Swinging- I read in Cosmo magazine that swinging burns 200 calories, good for the leg muscles, and is something you’re never too old for. I took advantage of some swing time too and it was such good therapy!

On another note I am creating and I have to cram my Valentine’s posts in next week since I’ve slacked on that. Well not really I’m not much of a V-day person. Though I try hard to get into the spirit

Stay tuned!

Missing?

2012-02-02T10:00:00.000-08:00

Holy Crap!! It's February? Where did January go??? So much for keeping my goal of posting on a regular basis :-/ Sorry!!

But to be honest I've been doing some great things really. Loads of creating, enjoying the unusual warm weather (this weekend we're "supposed" to get dumped on), working out (lost 12 pounds so far!!), but not posting eeesh! Can you EVER EVER EVER forgive me??

I PROMISE I will be back to share what I've been doing lately.

But before I go I wanna share this link I've been invited to this art show of my fantastic college art instructor James. The show is this weekend. Excited!!!

I'll be back (In my Terminator voice)

Leave it alone and it comes home

2012-01-06T13:00:00.000-08:00

Do you remember the Nursery Rhyme Little Bo Peep? At the end of the rhyme it says "leave them alone, and they'll come home wagging the tails behind them". I think that can be the same about my mojo.

Slowly it's coming back. I have an urge to do more with vinyl records I have a project that I've already done but I have yet to share on here OOPS! I plan to get around to it promise!

Also I've been playing around with the idea of painting behind my bed. I wanted to do this for a while now, I wanted to use foam board as my surface because it's big enough but Wal-Mart ran out on a trip I took before Christmas. I also want do a technique that I haven't done since college either working with packing tape here is an example Alissa was my instructor when I was in college.

So slowly Mojo is making it's way back home!

Have a great weekend!

People in glass houses (or studios) shouldnt throw stones

2012-01-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

Its Hobby Lobbys fault. I just had to go in there and it always leads to no good. As you recall, I went there after my christmas shopping marathon as a treat to myself since it was closer than Michaels. I was in the back in the glass isle looking for a bottle for a another project idea I had. Hobby Lobby is known for its "creative inspirations" which are hung near just about every isle of HL. I own a personal stack of these ideas on a big hoop ring.

Anyways I snagged a couple new ideas to add to my stack including "A jar for everything... and everything in its jar!" meaning storage for items and supplies for your studio. A big uh oh flashed in my head. I have been feverishly working on finding just the right storage containers for my studio and I thought I had done a pretty bang up job with my cute mini sized storage containers from Staples (aka Office Supply Heaven). When I got home to put the new ideas on the ring I read the article. Stylish storage that "clearly" works! Well duh it is glass after all. Then I began to think maybe I should look into this as a storage option. Hmmmm.

I did have a few glass items laying around the studio waiting for the altering light of day so I pulled them out. As I empited my plastic containers and placed them on my create shelf I noticed first off how nicer it looked on the shelf. Second I noticed how much less room the glass jars take up as opposed to my plastic containers which I had to stack and silly me I forgot to take a before shot, I didn't take any pictures of the studio decorated for Christmas either oops. So here it is now:

As you can "clearly" see the variety of sizes of glass I had on hand. The jar on the far left was originally going to be used for a Christmas gift but I didn't end up using it so it fit my slides perfectly, next my pip squeaks glitter glue pens got a new home from a jar I kept my mini sea shells in (the shells are now in a Mason jar if you're wondering), the binder clips and my ABC beads are in some glass jars that was from dried beef, and lastly my newest glue pens (thank you secret Santa!) was a pickle jar lol.

You can add some ribbon to lids on around the jars, also attach some small tags if your label happy me not so much. I think that was one of my problems with the plastic having to label them.

I really love this new storage option! "I can see clearly now" Hee hee.

The Jeans Project: Scrap Bangle Bracelet

2012-01-03T13:00:00.000-08:00

Bangles are making a come back!

I had extra scraps from making my wreath I was thinking what could I do with them? They’re a few ideas and I will share them all in good time. But for today’s jeans project it’s a bangle bracelet.

One of my Christmas gifts from one of my sweet co-workers was a fancy scarf that came on a plastic hoop. Which happens to fit my wrist perfectly so why not make a fancy bracelet?

Sidebar: If you don’t have a plastic hoop, or even a bangle bracelet, there are other options including an empty duck or packing tape roll. You can use just about anything that’ll fit your wrist!

I used my Aleene’s turbo tacky glue to cover my hoop, then I just wrap the scrap around the hoop like so:

Once you let your bracelet dry you can use puffy paint or glitter glue to jazz up your bracelet. I left mine plain for now I like it that way plus I still need to get Tulip Beads in a Bottle which isn’t sold locally.

Variations: If you don’t have jean scraps you can use just about anything else you have on hand ribbon, other scrap material, yarn, and I’ve seen even tinsel at Christmas! The possibilities are endless!

I also recommend this craft for young girls and teens!

Resolutions?

2011-12-31T10:00:00.000-08:00

As the New Year approaches, it always seems fitting to make some resolutions. To be honest I don't always keep them and then sometimes it seems to silly to make them when you know you're going to break them 3 weeks into the New Year or maybe even shorter than that.

However I have kept some of my resolutions for example I made the resolution to make more cards then opposed to buying them. Once in a while I do still buy a card usually if I forget to make one or like during the months of August - December where I am just slammed with birthdays. But I can say my card buying is a heck of a lot less. I still often wonder if Hall Mark will call to me to ask if I'm okay.

Also I've heard people say they make promises or goals for the New Year and that sounds a lot better then resolutions. I like the word goals.

So here are my goals for 2012:

*Blog more. I really slacked off in this department this year

*Take a real trip. I have not been out of the state in over 10 years when I went to Cali in high school for band and this was before 9/11. I would really like to go to Hawaii I know that's a heffty goal but if I'd be even happy to go to Washington State or Colorado as well to see friends and family.

*Facebook a lot less. I am such a die hard junkie and I enjoy it a little too much.

*Learn something new- Last year I learned how to fish. No kidding. I just decided to get a license and a pole the rest as they is history. I actually caught a 6 pound bass all by myself. I bait my own hooks and handle my own fish. I enjoy it so much!

*Loose weight. This is an obvious one. But I really REALLY need to do this. I have put on so much extra weight and I've tried so hard in the past but I really want to do it this year. No more excuses. PS. I am working on a weight loss related blog just getting the tweaks done and I'll have the link soon!

I think that's a good goal list. Of course when June rolls around we'll have to check back to see if I actually stuck to it!!

Do you make any resolutions?

Happy New Year!

Easy Camera necklace

2011-12-28T11:00:00.000-08:00

I love photography. I even starting collecting old cameras (I plan sharing the collection later). Recently I was looking on a website and saw this cute camera necklace. However it was a little steep for me.

During my last minute Christmas shopping, I stopped at Hobby Lobby on my way home. I was looking around in the beading section at the charms. When I stumbled upon a camera charm. I knew instantly I could make my own camera necklace with half the cost!

Here it is:

All I need was a jump ring and chain. It took at the most two minutes. I squeezed the 1st jump ring a little too tightly shows you how often I use jump rings. Hardly ever. As you can see I kept things really simple.

It would of been easy to go bead crazy on something like this but since the charm small, beads would of taken away from the charm.

Some of the best projects are easy peasy lemon squeezy!

Fizzzzzzzzz

2011-12-27T22:29:00.000-08:00

That's the sound of my mojo fizzling out. I think it must of happened when I was boxing up the Christmas decorations. I kind of had an inkling that this was going to happen because of my lack of Christmas crafting.

After I got the decorations boxed up (I went from one box to FOUR), put away, my every day stuff out, and the floor vacuumed. I went to try and come up with an idea for a card for my friend Becki's daughter who has a birthday New Years Eve. I sat down with an idea book and nothing.

Lucky for me, I have been working on some posts for the New Year, which is one of my resolutions to blog a little more than I have been. So hopefully mojo won't stay too far away and I can go back to normal soon.

After Christmas

2011-12-26T13:00:00.000-08:00

It is December 26th. Christmas is offically over. Okay maybe for some it's oberserved today. Like my work for an example.

Did you have a nice Christmas? I did although I worked a chunk of it and only getting one night off Christmas Eve then reporting back to work at 11pm Christmas night. But I did get some awesome gifts including this from Santa:

Sharpies in every color woo hoo!

Friday I was super proud I got my Christmas shopping done by 10am. Since I had to travel to Omaha (let's face it shopping is better there since they have Target after all) after I got off at 7am, after touching down at home, then going to the bank, I hit the road running before 8am.

I stopped at Target 1st okay lie. I stopped at Hobby Lobby 1st but I always forget they're not open till 9am since Target is a hop, skip, and a jump away. Sidebar: I love Target really. I prefer it then Wal-Mart. I mean Wal-Mart is all we have in my town, which SUCKS beyond measure and sometimes if I go to Wal-Mart I will stop at the nice Wal-Mart across from Target on Maple Street in Omaha actually most Targets in the Big O are across from a Wal-Mart (except for 2). I got a few gifts there and a small tree for my studio:

Once I got home I did all my wrapping. I had seen on Alisa Burke's blog a cute way to wrap gifts which I ended up doing for a gift card for my secret Santa:

I took the bottom of a small brown paper bag and decorated with a correction pen (aka white out). I may have to do this more next year!

That is my one regret. I didn't very much craftiness this Christmas. I found so many awesome ideas but it got too late to do any of them. I wrote them all down in a
notebook or pulled ideas from magazines and stuck them in folders.

Maybe next year I will start earlier like in July.

Merry Christmas in another lanuage

2011-12-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

This year I learned how to say Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in Hawaiian so my friend Don Ho Ho Ho and I say:

Mele Kalikimaka Hau'oli Makahiki Hou

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Thank you to all who stop by and enjoy the Christmas season and see y'all next week!

Decorating continued

2011-12-22T08:30:00.000-08:00

If you remember, I recently shared my tree I finally got the rest of my decorating done. A lot of my decorations were either lost, or damaged during my 2nd move. Plus I didn't have much that was my own, and the last two years I did a tropical themed Christmas decorating. I wanted to do something different. With the help of Goodwill, and my dad I was able to achieve what I wanted so here are some shots:

This is an overall shot of my living room (it's kinda blurry)

My stocking :)

My blue Santa and a sparkly tree topper.

I love these star baskets from Goodwill. When I found the one and then two more I knew it was fate! I love kitschy items.

A Santa on top of my fridge.

This apron mom used to wear, I know the gal on the left is Sunbonnet Sue.

Even my bathroom got a few touches:

You can see them too well but on the left is my Cabana reindeer, my Christmas rubber ducky and peppermint soap.

I've had that sandsnowman forever of course you gotta have holiday soap :)

The tropical Santa I'm sure you remember from my past decorating posts. I even got a green shower caddy. Oh and Hermie from Rudolph he's my favorite character :)

Hope you enjoyed my decorating!

Christmas Cards

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

My shopping may not be done but my cards are! I thought I'd share a few of my favorites:

I made these cards with scrap paper I had.

The tree on the right is cut from a paint sample :)

Might be my fav

I stamped "Merry Christmas" on the inside of all my cards since well my handwriting isn't the best. Crazy thing is I may have my idea for next year already! Whoop for staying ahaed the game!!

Do you send Christmas cards?

Framed Holiday Art

2011-12-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

With Christmas just days away, I decided to share some last minute projects. This is one of my 1st Christmas prjocets.
I had came across a die cut from the stash that my awesome friend Vicki Chrisman gave me.
So I began to think what I could do with this die cut, and I thought why not frame it? I had out my stack of white scrapbooking paper and I traced and cut a 4x6" rectangle from it:

The die cut is from Deluxe Cuts

Before I cut out my rectangle, I painted a background using my Crayola watercolor paint brush:

Next, I cut out my rectangle and I'm ready to glue down my die cut. I used turbo tacky glue for this:

Last but not least I took a green Crayola washable glitter glue and traced some of the designs on the inside of the ornament:

Here it is in the frame on my wall:

I took a frame I already had something in and just changed it for the holidays. A fun and easy project!

I'm a klutz

2011-12-16T22:30:00.000-08:00

I should be sharing Christmas creative stuff. Heaven knows I still stuff to share and I think with the week before Christmas being Sunday, I'll cram everything into next week. So be prepared! But I'm trying to break my habits of not posting and post something anyways. So I will tell you a funny story instead deal?

I'm a klutz. I often joke and say I'm the "Bella" of the klutz world. If you read the Twilight Saga you know what I'm what I'm talking about. As much as I've hurt myself over the years it's not resulted in any stitches or broken bones YET. I suppose I'll pay my dues soon enough in that department.

About a week ago, we were getting more snow, and I own a little Toyota. For the record Japanese cars don't well in snow or mine doesn't anyways I always end up stuck resulting in me calling for help. I usually keep a small shovel in my car so I can dig myself out. I totally forgot about having one in my car this year. So I asked dad to get one for me.

He and I went to Menards that morning (last Thursday), to get me a shovel. The snow wasn't supposed to start until noon, it started at 11am. Dad and I leave Menards with my new shovel in tow, (I'm carrying it) walking slowly back to my car. It's already slick out, I didn't wear boots but my Nikes and wouldn't you know it, I slip and fall in the Menards parking lot right on my bum. First words out of my dad's mouth "Are you okay?" I hate when people ask you that when you're cleary NOT. I only manage to land really hard and nothing got damaged (except maybe my pride).

But I'm not finished with this story not by a long shot. So later that evening I get ready to go to work, I leave my apartment I live on the 3rd floor so you know that means taking 3 flights up and down everyday. I'm on the last set of stairs heading to the door, when I trip over my own feet (this time I'm wearing the boots) and miss the last two stairs. I wind up with a pretty sprained ankle. I lay in the heap for a good minute and slowly get myself up and limp to my car which I had started prior to falling. I know what you're thinking I should call in and go get the thing checked. Well I'm also stubborn and plus it was 10:30pm no one would be able to cover for me at that short of notice.

I decided to head to Hy Vee on my way and buy one of those instant ice packs. I make it to the check out line where the cashier tells me I should just go lay in the snow. We share a good laugh, because she had fallen earlier herself so she felt my pain. See we klutz's understand one another.

To end the story, I had an goose egg on my left ankle for a while not to mention some wicked purple bruising and earned the nickname gimpy for the week.

Have a great weekend!

Wordless Wednesday: Starbucks Christmas Tree

2011-12-14T11:00:00.000-08:00

How not to clean a hot glue gun

2011-12-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

In the midst of the Holiday Chaos, I thought this post would be a good for a chuckle.

I have a love/hate relationship with my glue gun. I love how awesome it bonds stuff together, but I dont like how messy it can get leaving spider webs all over. not to mention how many times I've burned myself on the darn thing.

Last Monday, I was working on some flowers to make a wreath like my jeans wreath for mom for Christmas. Well I noticed how gunky my little glue gun was getting, and I wondered how I could clean it. I went to one of my favorite sources besides google, ask.com, Which iccidently used to be askjeeves.com I wonder if the fired him? So I typed in the question: how do you clean a hot glue gun? If youre unfamilar with ask.com it will give the closet possible answer to your question. this was my answer: you drink grape juice. seriously I have proof

Well I about died from laughter. Really? If I drink a glass of grape juice my glue gun will be magically clean? How Martha Stewart right? I bet even martha herself would have a good laugh over that one. Oh in case youre wondering, after re gained my composure, I found a better solution to clean my glue gun with check it out. but still you gotta admit the drinking grape juice is pretty darn funny.

In the words of Larry the Cable Guy: If you don't find that funny you just need to get outta here"

Expirementing with chalkboard paint

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

I always like to try new mediums it's a great way to expand my mind creatively. However one medium and I don't see eye to eye, I am determined to change that.

The medium? Chalkboard paint:

This is it in acyclic paint form you can purchase it in spray paint as well. This could be my problem anyways if you re-call about almost year ago I had issues with the paint. But I am person who doesn't give up. I sometimes throw a tantrum, walk away from it for a while then eventually I go back to it. This is the case.

First off, some of my crafty friends have used the chalk paint (in spray form) and have raved how awesome it works. That could be my problem oh well live and learn right?

I came across a project in the Omaha paper they've been featuring 25 days of crafts. One of the projects is treat jars using the chalkboard paint. Here is the jar I picked up at Hobby Lobby:

I painted the jar lid with chalkboard paint. I did a few coats and waited:

Finally after like 3 days, I took some chalk and voila! It worked!!! Here it is:

As you can see the jar now holds my oreos. I'm really happy that it turned out. But I think next time I will use chalkboard spray paint instead.

Later days!

The art of Starbucks

2011-12-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

As you all know, I am a newly minted Starbucks junkie. I take my ~~addiction~~ love for Starbucks seriously. I have my own Starbucks gift card (on my 2nd I really should get a different one for the holidays), I'm on the rewards system, get their e-mails, and I'm a fan on Facebook. Like I said, this is serious shizz.

Friday, I had opted to stay in because the temps were going to pretty cold (We've been spoiled up until this point) but I had to get out and face the elements. I was due for a trip to Starbucks anyways with the holiday flavors finally out I had to get my Peppermint Mocha:

All hail the red cup!

As I drank the peppermint goodness I began to think. I saved the stir sticks everytime I get Starbucks along with the drink sleeves why? Well an artist habit, I save anything that I can make something out of it.

What do you do with 6 sleeves and 11 splash sticks?

Maybe a wreath? I'm open to any suggestions you may have. Because for once I am stumped.

Whatever I do, I know it will be awesome for sure :)

Almost Wordless Wednesday: Christmas Star

2011-12-07T12:00:00.000-08:00

After a very long hiatus I'm back with Wordless Wednesday:

The other morning the way the sun hit came through my mini-blinds made this awesome design on my Christmas tree star so I had to photograph it :)

The White Coke can

2011-12-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

Traditionaly The Coca Cola company does a Holiday pop can. Usually it's Santa. This year they decided to change it up. Also apart the Holiday campagin, is famous polar bears they're usually on the commericals. Because polar bears are endangered now, Coke wanted to do something about that so they changed the pop cans to benefit them so when you purchsed Coke, proceeds would go to the WWF.

However it was an Epic Failure. Here is the article and you can go on Coke's website too. When I discovered this I went out to purchase a 6-pack of the white cans before they're yanked off the shelevs and photographed it:

From a designer's standpoint it's a really neat design. Clean simple makes a point. However from some people's standpoint it looks like a diet Coke can. Which I suppose to some yeah I could see that but me I know my product and I did catch the commericals for the all white can.

I feel for the Graphic Designer who created this can their pain. They think they hit out of the park with awesome design, and then it's an epic fail among critics. But that's life and sometimes you're asked to re-work the design.

As the article states the polar bears will still be on the can it'll be the traditional red can. I did see a preview of the can it's just as nice and the polar bears do stand out. Once the cans hit the shelves I will share a picture on here too :)

The Jeans project: The wreath

2011-12-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

For the roses post click here

As I gear up for my Christmas decorating, I couldn't find a wreath that I liked, the it dawned on me: Why not make your own? Simple easy solution :) Since I was already making the roses I thought it would make an awesome to make a wreath.

And I was right :)

After making 11 roses for the wreath I got a foam ring from Michaels (you can get them in different sizes I choose the smaller ring) then I took leftover jean strips and wrapped them around the ring. My original plan was to use ribbon but I didn't have any long enough. I used Tacky glue to attach the long strip. I used a hot glue gun to attach the roses to the ring. Then a strip on the back for hanging.

I am so happy that this turned out. It's pretty rustic looking don't you think? You could probably hang it year round. Also for more Christmas feel get some red/green material or old t-shirts to make the roses. I think I'll make another for mom and it give to her for Christmas :)

Seeing stars

2011-12-01T11:00:00.000-08:00

Happy December! Hard to believe isn't it? Soon 2011 will be over and we will have another fresh shiny New Year. I had gone to Hobby Lobby not long ago and I purchased some paper star ornaments to paint. I got four of them.

Two I painted shiny black:

The other two I painted silver:

I also added two coats of glitter glaze paint. Stars gotta twinkle yeah?

I wasn't sure how I was going to use the stars in my Christmas decorating until I set them on my coffee table:

Look fab don't they? In the center is my tree from Party Lite and to the right is a candy bowl filled with candy cane kiss (YUM) and to the left is my Husker bulbs (more on them later).

There will be more decorating posts soon!

Have a great weekend!

The Jeans Project: Roses

2011-11-30T10:00:00.000-08:00

Read the start of the story check it out here

For my 1st Jeans project I am sharing something that is done with the scraps. I am working backwards, I realize but the other projects are still in the works. Check back soon for those!

I was trying to figure what to do with the scraps when I stumbled upon Alisa Burke’s blog on how to make scrap flowers. At first my strips were a bit short and the roses weren’t looking like the pictures. They looked more like rose buds. I had to walk away from it for a while sometimes you got to do that.

I decided that I would have to stitch some of the strips together. I finally got the hang of it:

I used hot glue instead of tacky glue which I couldn’t get to hold. I think I will make a wreath with the roses. I haven’t found a Christmas wreath locally that I love and its better sometimes to make your own. I need to get a light pair of jeans though. Also I’m debating if the roses need glitter on them or not.

Stayed tunned for the wreath I make with the roses!

Holiday decorating

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

Hi! How was your Thanksgiving? Mine was great loads of turkey consumed and new football tradition started the day after Thanksgiving (Nebraska vs Iowa). Now it's time to start decorating. So I bring you the first post of my decorating for the Holidays!

And what better way to the post but with the tree:

My first tree!! Yes I got a black Christmas tree. At first I thought about the pink tree but the black one just spoke to me. I choose silver ornaments, tree skirt and star. Once I plugged the tree in I knew I made the right choice!!!

My original plan was to purchase the tree and have it up Friday but I got it Saturday instead.

When do you put your tree up? Do you put it up the day after Thanksgiving? Or do you wait till December? I knew someone who waited until Christmas Eve to put their tree up! I don't think I could wait that long!

No way around it

2011-11-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

I admit it. I am a bad blogger. There I said it.

As I've said before there could be a million and one excuses that I would love to say why I haven't been blogging or I wish something uber cool happended like I got super-hero powers and have been saving the world on a regular basis. Nope alas I've been lazy. It's not like mojo ran away from home again, my creative flow is still good. I have the posts written but they sit in the drafts file waiting for the light of day to show up on here. Then the laziness sets in and I don't finish or even put up pictures.

I do know a few of you in the blog-o-sphere feel the same way from time to time. So I know it's just not me. And it's not that I don't like to blog I love it in fact, or whine like it's a chore that I hate (like laundry for instance). I've just gotten so darn lazy!!

What I need is a kick in the pants maybe that will help. Hoping to be back soon!

Happy Thanksgiving!

From a good pair of jeans

2011-11-07T12:00:00.000-08:00

Next to my PJ's jeans are my favorite article of clothing to wear. Recently I had a pair that had a good run. The bottoms of the legs started to wear as they tend to do I cut them and continued to wear them. Next the became my painting jeans when I worked on my bench, finally they were my fishing jeans this summer. I finally decided to retire them (and since they were starting to get snug). But I couldn't throw them away perish the thought! As an artist the is rule numero uno: Never throw something away unless you can make it into something new.

I for one love making something from a pair of jeans remember my purse? Okay that was jean shorts but you get the idea. In the past I've made a pillow out of the legs of jeans. But I never used the entire pair before to create various projects. Oh yes it can be done! I bring you The Jeans Project. I will be sharing on here from time to time a project made from a pair jeans. Some will require more than 1 pair one of them that will be a long term project (hopefully not too long).

I'm very excited about this project, I think it's a very good way to expand my creative mind a bit you know? Not mention how awesome it is for jeans that kind of have a back story to them. Who knows maybe it will inspire you to hack up a pair of old jeans yourself :)

Stay tunned!

Halloween a recap

2011-11-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

Wow. It's flipping November 1st already!

So my Halloween was average shockingly. Saturday I did go to a Haunted House in Omaha called Scary Acres it was okay. I did get startled when air was shot at me twice. I had fun but my impression of a haunted house is different then perhaps others I was expecting more "scares". The Haunted House I really really wanted to go to Mystery Manor by the time we got done with Scary Acres and go to MM there was a HUGE line :( I was disappointed!

What did I do on Halloween? Not much. I watched Live with Regis and Kelly Halloween Special (that's tradition) I actually took down my decorations. I know what you're thinking but really I don't think I will have time the rest of the week to take them down. However I need some larger boxes to store my carriage, Mr. Bones, and Freaky in. I then made mummies (pigs in a blanket) and cut my finger in the process. I watched Beetlejuice, consumed way too much orange soda, and then went to bed. Excitement I know!

I will be back later to share pictures of one other pumpkin I decorated then I will share some birthday cards I made. I was actually thinking about Christmas cards recently YIKES!

Later Days!

More decorations

2011-10-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

Are you tired of me yet? Let this be a lesson to me not to cram everything Halloween in a week and with it being Friday, I still have my other pumpkin to share, my costume, and the spooky treats I made. So I may still have Halloween posts in November so forgive me.
I had gone to Michaels not long ago again they had stuff on sale for Halloween so I found this lovely Halloween cameo:

At 40% who could resist??

This next decoration has a back story:

I've had "Freaky" for I think about 5 years, anyways when I moved last April, I didn't pack him in anything because of his size. Well my friend Robbie and I were taking the van back to my parents house and freaky was still in the van. I planned to put him storage. Robbie put the van in reverse, Freaky fell backwards as well and off went his head! Poor Freaky broke. I was bummed because Freaky was unique he was the only one like when I took him home, we put candy in his head every year and it seemed like a tragic end.

Jump to now. Dad took crazy glue and fixed Freaky. He now happily occupies the corner of my living room. I plan on finding a box big enough to house Freaky and he is going to be wrapped tightly in bubble wrap this year.

This next one is a paper mache skull I painted that I got from Michaels:

I added so glitter to it and stuck it on my bookshelf. I had planned to do more but couldn't think of anything else? But it's still awesome!!

That's it for me I'll be back next week to catch up!
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Life is art

2011-10-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share this qutoe I came across another blog out there:

I think everything in life is art what you do how you dress
the way you love someone and how you talk you smile
and your personality. What you believe in, and all your
dreams the way you drink your tea how you decorate
your home or party your grogercy list the food you make
how your writing looks and the way you feel

life is art

So true :)

Pretty pumpkins

2011-10-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

I always try to take a different approach with my pumpkins. I'll admit I am not an awesome pumpkin craver by any means. But of course hand me paints and I'm golden. This year, I picked up two I guess they call them pie pumpkins? To decorate (there's still time I may get another to decor). I saw this on I ♥ to create's website last year and I wanted to give it a try.

First you paint your pumpkins white which I forgot to up load a picture to Flickr but I do have the pumpkins before they're (so just pretend they're white ok? ok):

Followed by a pastel coat of paint:

I just added white to paint I already have.

Next I bought some tulip paints to add funky designs:

The downfalls: I didn't get the brand of Tulip paints the instructions called for :-/ (because I went to Wal-Mart instead of Michaels) and I had some issues with the paint dripping and I had to let it dry in between rows. Also the instructions suggested using toothpicks to do some scratching, I couldn't do that either. For the reason my pumpkins had a glossy shine to them so when I went to scratch the paint came off. That's why I also had issues with getting the paint to stay on the pumpkins. I could see doing these again next year but using the correct materials and a different pumpkins.

I just did finish these Tuesday so I went and got another pumpkin to paint from another idea from I ♥ to create and I'll finish it in time :) I'll be sharing it soon!!

Along came a spider

2011-10-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

Okay so I was trying to come up with an awesome idea for my co-workers for Halloween. I didn't feel like cards this year. Two ideas later I found this also in Family Fun magazine:

Spiders! So easy to make too! You just take 4 black pipe cleaners and wrap them around a sucker, add wiggle eyes, bend the legs and ta da! You have a a spider treat! Here are the tags I made to go with them:

The Happy Halloween stamp is from the dollar bin at Michaels the ribbon is from Studio G I found at
Wal-Mart. Here is the otherside:

Isn't that witch a pip? Also dollar bin from Michaels.

Third time is the charm sometimes when it comes to projects!

Spooky jugs

2011-10-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

The week before Halloween. It's unusual for Halloween to be on a Monday of all things. I guess stranger things have happen. As I mentioned Saturday, I have so many craft projects lined up this year and hardly have time to do them. I suppose there is always next year but then I may find newer ones and the cycle begins again. Next year I'll start crafting in August.

Today's project is a "Go Green" and super easy project:

Spooky Jugs!

I got this project from Family Fun magazine. This book is jammed packed with projects. Here is what you need:

Milk jugs (clean of course) with lids

Sharpie marker

Craft knife or scissors (if a kiddo does this project have an adult help with cutting k?)

A strand of lights

All you do basically is draw a spooky face on the jug with the lid on the keep it for denting up, then cut a hole in the other side of the jug. The magazine calls for about a half dollar sized hole. I used my craft knife to start the hole then used my sharp scissors to make the hole wider. Also I cut the hole where the label is or towards the bottom is good.

Then you instert the lights in the back of the jugs. I have two right now but I think before the week is over I'll three jugs. Here is the one lit up in my studio:

And here is the two together out on my patio:

You can use the smaller jugs too if you have them. I choose purple lights as well to be different other white lights work just as well heck if you have enough jugs you can make a ton of spooks to line your sidewalk!

Oh and here's my Halloween lights:

I know it's far away but they're skull and pumpkins

Awesome huh?

I are here!

2011-10-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

Really. I am here. I've been just swamped with so many creative Halloween projects that I may not get them all done in time (we'll see). Plus my costumes ideas we're both epic fails. I do have sort of a back up or two in mind. Nothing special just simple stuff.

I thought about dressing up as my favorite computer game hero Flo from Diner Dash

She totally rocks!

I have everything but apron, my shoes are pink not red if I can find a pair cheap maybe I'll go that route. Otherwise I can just go as a DJ or something creative like that. I don't know maybe since I am artist why not go as myself sort of?

We'll see what I come up with. I'll be back next week with a ton of great posts!

Pumpkin tin

2011-10-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

I finally am getting started with my Halloween crafts. I have a ton to! This awesome craft is from I ♥ to Create's blog by The Naughty Secretary Club Jennifer Perkins check out the post here

Materials:

Tins or canisters

Aleene's tacky or quick dry glue

yarn

felt

scissors

Here is my tin:

I've had this tin for awhile waiting so eagerly to be altered it would have made an awesome frame too.

You begin by gluing down one end of your yard then take the yarn and wrap it around your tin until you have this:

As you can see I choose oragne for my tin to make a pumpkin :) Cut access yarn off and glue down end

Then cut and add your felt pieces. I added green ribbon around the top of the lid by wrapping it like the yarn.

Pretty cool huh? So easy to do! I think it would be awesome to make smaller ones out of spice tins if you have any of them laying around.

Doesn't it look awesome on my bookshelf?

Stay tuned there will be more spooky crafts to come!!

Halloween Decorating 2011 edition

2011-10-10T10:29:00.000-07:00

I sat down to watch The Corpse Bride the other morning after work, getting into the Halloween spirit you know so I decided to photogrpah and share my decorations this year. I decided to keep the post to one since last year I did three. A lot of my decorations are from last year but I added new stuff to the mix.

Let's start with the kitchen:

I got this sign at the $ Tree loves it! Plus since my kitchen is black and white totally matches.

Yes I own a Hallowwen pot holder, I still need to locate an oven mitt

These usually go on the window, but I thought they would look awesome on fridge :)

Living Room

On the right is a candle holder from Party Lite which is seasonal. So awesome. Next to it is my blocks one side says boo the other eek! (If notice on the bottom shelf I have Oliver sitting there)

This is my side table by my chair I got Twilight bear last year, this year it's the pumpkin bear name trickers? In the middle is a sweet tealight holder from Michaels

Do you dare take a treat from my bowl?? This is a target score from a few years back. In fact I use it reguarly. The boney hand is from OTC long ago.

My Studio:

This is my shelf that is an old fruit crate. As you can see it's my scary pictures, mint tin shadow box, spiders, my rubber rat and my pumpkin skele animal.

These picturs were a $ Tree score too I have been wanting larger ones and was excited to get them (cheap too)

I never got to show this last year but:

My Halloween pumpkin carriage!! This has to be one of my favorite decorations (besides Mr. Bones)

The floor mat is another $ Tree find I did have it outside of my door but it kept sliding around so I stuck in the studio.

Do remember this bag? Makes a great door knob hanger! Instructions to make it are here.

Bathroom:

Yes even my bathroom has some decorations. I wanted to go all out with a shower curtain, etc. Haven't done that yet who knows there's still time :)

My sink simple just my pumpkin soap dispenser and my jack-o-lantern pail.

Checkout my towel:

Skulls! I love this!!!

One last decoration to end this post is on my door:

Totally love it! As you can see you can flip it to say the witch is in or the witch is out Awesome!
Have a great start to the week!

Woo hoo!

2011-10-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

I just posted earlier this week that there was a threat The Simpsons would be ending soon but I saw this article threat averted!! The Simpsons will have two more seasons!! That's pretty awesome if you ask me.

Just had to share!

Would you rip a t-shirt off a mannequin?

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

Funny question to be asking huh? let me explain. On a recent trip to my local Goodwill, I thought just that. most you know that I am a thrift store junky and Goodwill is one of my favorite haunts. I've been going pretty regularly because I have been on a on-going project of organizing my studio. So I've been looking for just the right stuff for my studio. I have shared my Goodwill treasure hunts check them out Number 1 and Number 2

Back to the shirt. When I entered Goodwill the inside entrance has items ~~of temptation~~ mainly furniture and of course Halloween decorations. Honestly, I wasn't looking for anything decoration wise for Halloween (Truth is I haven't found anything good there this year which is a total bummer). Except on the table was a mannequin torso was a vintage Halloween t-shirt. Remember I've mentioned that I like certain vintage items. Mainly t-shirts, anything beach vintage, or if it catches my eye. I just glanced at the shirt and went on in.

As I walked around the store cruising the shelves, (I love how they color coordinate them by the way) I had seen a Caboodle case. Do you remember those? I had stuck it back on the shelf I wasn't sure what I'd use it for or if I could commit to it. I try to make that a general rule of thumb when going to Goodwill, If I can find a use for it within in 30 seconds or after walking around for maybe 2 mintues then I get it. I continued my treck when I thought about that ~~stupid~~ shirt. I hid my items I planned to purchase so I wouldn't A. lose them or B. walk out to those outside doors looking like a theif and checked out the shirt. Upon closer inspection it was very cute even though it wasn't my size I thought it would make an awesome bag...

...Then I noticed the price $3.99. Okay that isn't really too bad for a t-shirt though some people have complained that Goodwill is "overpriced" I usually will argure with anyone on that but I did think that was a little steep since I was going to ~~destory~~ recycle the shirt into something else so that only took 30 seconds. Plus could I really rip a t-shirt off a mannequin/torso? Maybe if it was say I don't know a Bret Michaels or Kenny Chesney t-shirt but since it was a Halloween t-shirt cute as it was I passed.

No I didn't get the Caboodle case (if you're wondering) which was cheaper $2.99. Should have but I couldn't find a real logical use for it and I'm sure I'll come across another one someday you never know.

What did I get at Goodwill? Are you wondering? Check it out:

First up is that cool tall shot glass from Jimmy Buffet's in Keywest Florida. I Love Jimmy Buffet and I thought it would make a fun vase. I got two rubber stamps one of a dragon (pictured to the right) for .99 cents (for both). Yes something that usually can cost probably around 10 bucks at Michaels and Hobby Lobby only .99 cents a steal! A cute magnet for my fridge, the little pumpkin basket was my only Halloween score it reminds me of the one mom has, and the mini crate is a vintage Pepsi one = cute, it'll go into the studio for sure.

Total cost: $8.00 and some change. I figure it's a good shopping day at Goodwill if I stay under $10.00.

I really wanted to take a picture of the t-shirt that got away but there was a guy who it seemed couldn't tear himself away from an organ that was for sale. Oh well.

Have a great weekend and next week I'll have pictures of my Halloween decorating you don't want to miss it!

Say it isn't D'oh!

2011-10-05T22:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning I was reading the Omaha World Hearld an article about grilled cheese when I turned the page to see.. Is it the end for the Simpsons? Suddenly grilled cheese was a distant memory.

The show I grew up on could possibly be ending?? The show began in 1991/1992-ish when I was 8 years old. I remember faithfully watching The Simpsons promptly at 7pm every Sunday infact I think it's the only show I know that has kept it's original time slot.

When I showed the article to my dad another die hard fan he goes "All good things must come to an end" In a way he's right but still it's hard to hear. Of course it's still a rumor at this point.

I am planning on sharing some of my favorite episodes if you remember last year I shared my favorites on The Treehouse of Horror episodes. So stay tunned!

Random

2011-10-02T22:05:00.000-07:00

So I looked back at posts for September and noticed only I made four posts for the entire month. I honestly don't think that has happened since I started this blog. I think somewhere along the line I lost my drive to post.

For once it isn't the Mojo that has ran away with the Spoon. My creative drive is in cruise control right now. Like a happy medium. I have a Flickr account that I forgot about so I'm trying to get stuff posted there that I can use on here until I get Internet home.

The other main issue is Sunday School. I haven't any kiddos at all yet. Two of my students have transferred to another church. The rest? I am really not sure why they aren't coming and it's sad. That leaves a huge hole in my life. Once upon a time my church congregation was larger until an event that happened in my teens shook things up so it has changed everything greatly. Anyways we meet next Sunday to discuss options.

I am going to TRY and get back into the groove of posting. Just hang in there with me a wee bit longer. Okay? Promise it'll be worth it.

Creative Nesting

2011-09-24T12:00:00.000-07:00

So it's Fall. The weather has been crisp in fact I had to wear a knit stocking cap the other morning! Plus the dead give away was the leaves "falling". I went up to Dead Timbers (a local lake outside of Scribner) to do some fishing and for such a small-ish park area, I was in love. It would be a killer location for photoshoots!

That is one thing I did a ton of this summer was fish. I did that more than go to the beach very unusual for me. I haven't fished since I was about 10 years old, I didn't think I'd enjoy it as much as I do! Sometimes I don't cast very but the other day I was casting pretty awesome it's all in the wrist :) But fishing is something you can do till it snows then you can ice fish. I am not sure I'm down for that.

I know I am totally behind on sharing but I assure you that I am creating. Some people have a "nesting" phase, I think it's possible for artists to have a "creative nesting" phase. I am still working on a major cleaning and organization of the studio, when I think I'm done, I always think I'm done but then I get into this mode of how can I improve it?
I've been checking out Goodwill for certain items for organization. I recently read on the Naughty Secretary's blog how she re-organized of her studio. I've taking some of her ideas for inspiration.

I am debating on another work surface because I have given up my desk for a computer so my space is limited. A habit of mine is to work from the floor of my studio, even though I had the desk. I still work at the desk sometimes but it's hard. I do have the perfect thing an old piano bench. Currently it's holding my bedroom stereo so I would need to get something for the stereo then I can move it into studio if I choose.

I am working on sharing a tour of my studio and I'll be sharing my photos and the cool stuff I picked to organize my studio. Currently it's a mess again because I went to Goodwill today and bought more storage type items.

That's it for me. I shall return next week with a project (or two) and the return of wordless Wednesday!!

Feeling spooky...again

2011-09-14T22:28:00.000-07:00

Even though I am really REALLY bummed summer if officially over. I do like fall football, pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin pie blizzards, the colors, etc. Minus the cold weather.

If you've been with me for a while, you know one of my favorite holidays in the universe is Halloween (besides St. Patrick's Day). I've been in the "planning stages" and I think I'm going to decorate this weekend (maybe). I also am working on Day of the Dead early this year as well. I am excited to decorate my apartment since it's my own space and I can go all out if I want to.

I will be sharing projects again soon and pictures of my studio next week. Just bear with me. Dad retired last Friday and his party is Saturday so once that gets out of the way then I'll be back to normal as I possibly can.

Later Days!

What 9/11 has taught me

2011-09-11T00:16:00.000-07:00

I was trying to figure out what I was going to post for 10 year anniversary of 9-11. Most people remember where they were, what they were doing, etc. I being different wanted to write about what 9-11 has taught me because it's obivious that it was a huge life lesson and I haven't done a randomness list in awhile either.

What 9/11 has taught me:

*Freedom isn't free. We're always been told that growing up, but when 9/11 happened it was a 100% true. I think we've taken it for granted.

*To be more patriotic. I remember after the attacks my job Oriental Trading Company, everyone was calling in ordering anything that a flag on it. Some people I remember were mad that items were sold out like a person was planning a party and they kinda grumped do the fact this happened they couldn't get what they want. In a way they're right but it's another thing we take for granted. Some ways it's sad that it took a tragedy for people to become more patriotic who probably didn't think twice about it. I admit I'm one of them. It's true what they say United We Stand I am a firm believer of that now.

*To love family and friends more. That pretty much explains itself.

*Life is WAY too short "Nuff said

It's amazing how much has changed in 10 years. I was 18 and I had just graduated high school, I had now idea what I wanted to do with my life. A year later I enrolled in college.

I put 10 flags out on my patio Friday 1 for each year. And I will have a breif moment of silence it'll have to be early because it's actually the first day of Sunday School today.

Peace to all today, may never ever forget!

The Picker Sisters

2011-09-05T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hi, I am here physically. I am working on some various projects and will hopefully be sharing them soon. Onto this post.

Before the anticipated Husker game Saturday, I was looking for something to watch on TV at dad's. I don't have cable at home anymore (a luxury I gave up) so whenever I go over to dad's to do laundry I pretty much watch TV while waiting. Okay it's usually Sponge Bob but that's besides the point.

Anyways, I was watching on Lifetime an episode of this season's Project Runway (I miss watching that show) afterwards there was a show called The Picker Sisters

The show is about two designers from Extreme Makeover Home Edition. The blond Tracey I remember because she had the pink tool belt and hardhat. Anyways the show is about the two of them (I can't remover the other designers name) starting their own furniture business I-10 in LA. They both travel the states for junk to turn into furniture. Seriously.

Stuff that you would have never thought twice about. A lot of the stuff was rusted and I kept thinking really? They're going to make a piece of furniture out of this? But the more episodes I watched the more interesting it became to me. When dad came home he got into it too.

Of course they had help from a guy named Alan who transformed their ideas into reality. Here is a few things they turned into furniture:

An old fan: became a lamp

An old retro radiator: became a chair

A really old tree stump: several stools

A hood from a VW Beetle: A love seat

A pest a side sprayer: Lights

Ready for the one that amazed me the most?

They had gotten a silo and turned into hanging chairs. That one was neat.

Most of the junk of course they had to buy off the owners. One of the places they went to they actually got to do a trade because the guy was an artist he made really funky sculptures out of the junk. He was the one that had the VW hood. But they never showed what they were going to send him it should of been the loveseat.

Overall I liked the show and it's true what they say: beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder and it proves that artist/designers CAN make something out of pretty much anything as long as you set your mind to :)

Later Days!

Creative Bomb

2011-08-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

Yeah this is SO me

Most you know that I have my own apartment now and I have an extra room that has become my studio or creative space whatevs you wanna call it. Before when I lived with my roommates I just had an area and a closet, even when I lived with my parents I had a desk but granted I had that desk since I was like 10 and it was the "center of the universe" for junk to be put on top of. So needless to say I could sit there.

When I did any creating at home or art school homework I usually did it down stairs at the table or on my drawing board. Living with roommates I did my projects on the floor or with said drawing board (have drawing board will travel). Now that I have my own studio complete with desk and even a easel (living the high life here peeps) if I have done anything creative, have I sit at the desk? Nope I promptly sit on the floor and work away. While the poor desk is ignored.

It's an artist habit I know because I'm used to working from the floor. Plus the fact is the nearest outlet isn't by my desk it's on the other side near the closet I don't have an extension cord (yet) for my glue gun so I've been gluing from that spot on the floor.

The other thing I've been making huge creative messes lately. Like a creative bomb has gone off in the room. My studio also double as an office too, I do my bills (at my desk)there and I have my bookshelf in there as well so I grabbed books to read. The last mess was a pletohra of creative stuff, books, etc. I finally got around and cleaned it. I cleaned a little too well because I couldn't find certain things.

Sitting at work one morning I says to myself "Self, you need to oraganize the studio better" For the most part it is oragnized in my humble opinion fairly well. However I do still two rather large totes full or creative stuff not gone through or anything so when I have to look for something, I never know where to start in those totes. So the other morning after work I took the liberty of emptying those totes, sorting everything, and putting stuff in proper places.

But it doesn't stop there oh no. To put stuff in proper places it meant emptying other locations of stuff (meaning my drawers on wheels from my college days, etc) then placing for example paper in a drawer then giving it's own happy little sticky note label so I know exactly where everything is.

Needless to say, I have let off one HUGE, creative bomb in the studio worse than the one before, they are causlties my desk and chair are covered in stuff. Now me I had no idea it was that bad until I stood up from my spot on the floor and got a better view of it. That was when I knew to give up for the day and close my studio door so I don't have to see it.

It's now Friday? I haven't been back in there since, well only to grab an item here and there. I quickly get out of there. I suppose since I'm off this weekend I should finish the mess I made so it looks like a clean studio again.

Does anyone have a backhoe I can borrow?

SOLD!

2011-08-17T08:05:00.000-07:00

My big bench on display

My little bench on display

Lot # 19!!

Pictures from the auction :) It was very fun time. My big bench went to my good friend Tori and her husband Chad for $150. My little bench went to Mark Harmon who is the choir direct of my high school for $80. Not bad at all!

The offical numbers aren't in yet but once I find out I will share on here!

Later days!

Bench Auction Part 1

2011-08-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

Okay. I will "offically" posting about the bench auction tomorrow with pictures that I am going to pull of my Facebook page because the Alltel site is still down it's my only other option but for now here is an artilce about the auction from my local paper.

Sometimes you just gotta roll with the punches...

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

... Even if you don't like it.

The bench auction is in 6 days, seis (spanish), ono (Hawaiian), sechs (German) you get the idea.

I just checked my e-mail on my phone to find out that on Friday the 12th, from 4 to 8 we get time to do touch-ups on our benches. Honestly that isn't enough time ideally. My bench needs a little more TLC than the others I'm afraid. Do to the vandalism it received two months ago, plus with it being nasty hot (heat index over 100) the keyboard has became a bit wrapped my plan was to replace the whole thing but with my work schdule and I get only 1 day or night off (Thursday) this week. Plus it's a process to make the keyboard.

I should of done it on my vacation I had the time just didn't get around to it. I thought for sure I get more time before the auction to work with her. Live and learn I guess. I am going to weigh my options and see if (somehow) I can pull this off. Otherwise I will just do paint touch ups and replace the missing pedal then whoever gets my bench I will offer to replace the keyboard for them. It's the least I can do.

Bench auction

2011-08-04T02:16:00.000-07:00

I am here physically not mentally did want to share this link about the upcoming auction on the benches which is less than a week away EEEKKKK!! Sounds like it's going to be a smashing time. :)

Later days!

14:59

2011-07-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

Andy Warhol once said that everyone would be famous for 15 minutes. You hear that phrase a lot today seems kind of true in a way.

For me my 15 minutes (okay 1 year and 2 months) is coming to an end. My bench and the other 29 came down Thursday. In that instant I realized it's almost over. In two weeks from today the benches will up for auction and be sold then taken who knows where. After this is over I go back to being me.

I hadn't realized they were coming down so quickly. Okay lie I knew around the end of July but when I noticed one being taken down I drove to where my bench made her home for the last 2 months and realized she was gone. It took them at least 2-3 days to put the benches up. I haven't gotten her back to do her much needed repairs yet. My bench is like my child in a way. She started out as a simple sketch then she became a 4 x 5 foot reality. She was my claim to fame and made me like a real true artist.

You can check out the article from my local paper here

You're probably wondering what's next? I wish I knew. It's a fear of the unknown for me how do you top the bench? I guess just take it one day at a time. But let me tell you it was fantastic ride.

I'm baacckk!

2011-07-25T22:56:00.000-07:00

Hello! I am back from my vacay it was a great week. However, it seems the Alltel pic site is still down :( not sure what's going on. I don't always have access to a computer (I use the library a lot) so my cell camera comes in handy and it automatically transfers pics to the ablum on this site. My brother has a laptop I may have to ask if it's okay to take it out of the house and use the WiFi at the library to get stuff posted on here.

For now I am going to finish up the 30 day blog challenge (even though I am a little behind on it). Then hopefully I can get back to some regular posts around once I get the picture situation figured out.

Day 23-Favorite vacation I had 2

Well when my dad goes on vacation we never really go out of state. I've been out of state on my own for camp, band and youth trips. We usually as a family take road/day trips to different places in Nebraska. This year we went to North Platte to check out Golden Spike Tower. North Platte is home to the largest railroad yard. Also North Platte was home to Buffalo Bill Cody from 1886 to 1913. Cool huh?

Anyways this was a pretty good vacation and was one my favorites. My 2nd favorite was when we to Kearney to see the famous archway If you've seen the movie About Schmidt Jack Nicholson tours it.

Seeing places like that in our state makes me appreciate it a lot more. Every State has something that makes them unique if you just look :)

Oh one more thing it is offical my town now holds the Guisnness Book for the largest open faced sandwich!

Have a great week!

July 22th Day 22 30 Day Blog Challenge

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

Day 22-Favorite city

Omaha, Nebraksa

Don't get me wrong I love Fremont but Omaha has tons to offer. It's only about 30 minutes away. Loads of shopping, resturants, etc. I went to school there, as well. The only thing there is a lot of crime and violence in Omaha so I don't want to live there but I do like to visit!

July 21 Day 21 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-07-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

Day 21-Picture of yourself

UGH. I really dreaded this post. I don't like pictures of myself, I rather be behind the camera than infront of it, but I have to be fair so this is me from a year ago:

Typical fashion sunglasses and a bandanna!

July 20th Day 20 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-07-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

Day 20-Nicknames

I am the Queen of nicknames no joke I've collected a few over the years.

The most common nickmane for me is Mags. Mainly my family and a few friends call me this.

Bubbles, Freckles. These were what my Grandpa called me.

Trouble by some of the secuirty guys at work other people have called me this too :)

Miss Maggie

Maggie Moo by my 8th grade Science Teacher

Bean

Sweetie or sweetheart

Pumpkin

July 19th Day 19th 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-07-19T22:00:00.000-07:00

Day 19 Something you miss

This was a tough one too. But something that I miss is my childhood. I do act like a big kid at times, but looking back I grew up kinda fast. I wish I would of enjoyed my childhood more, because there are times I wish I was that carefree freckled faced brat that I used to be.

Of course now a days I think it would be tough growing up in this decade. Things were so simple when I was young. Parents have a million and plus stuff to worry about. It's a whole different world now.

July 18th Day 18 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-07-18T23:00:00.000-07:00

Day 18-Something you regret

Wow this is really hard one. I try not to have any regrets. But I do a couple I wish I was smarter when it comes to money. Almost a year ago I became pretty wreck less and got myself in pretty deep trouble with my bank. It wasn't good.

I also regret that my student loans aren't completely paid off either. The problem has resulted in me having bad credit for 7 years. My car is in Dad's name because of that. When your young and stupid you pay for it literally.

July 17th Day 17 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-07-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Day 17-Something you're looking forward to

SUMMER! Isn't that obivious? I can't belive it's almost over though :( it goes way too fast!!

July 16th 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-07-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

Day 16-Dream house

That isn't hard a beach house would be my dream house:

This is kind of what I have in mind somewhere I can go out the door and there is the beach right in my own backyard!

July 15th Day 15 30 day Blog Challenge

2011-07-15T22:00:00.000-07:00

Note: Since I am vacation next week I will be catching up on my 30 day blog challenge that is two months late this was the easiest posting option for me since the Alltel my pic site is still down after 3 days. So starting today through next Sunday will be these challenges hopefully when I come back I can sort of get back to regular posts around here well as regular as they get. Enjoy!!

Day 15-Bible verse

"And HOPE does not disappoint us because God has poured out his love into our hearts, by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us" Romans 5:5

What I love about this verse (actually the whole chapter is good) is the word hope. That is one of my most favorite words. It's used a lot in Relay and I've come to rely on hope. The amazing to be reassured that hope dosen't disappoint.

Anixous

2011-07-15T11:00:00.000-07:00

Today is a big day.

Not only is it my 10 year high school reunion (Again WOW). But today I am doing a photo shoot of my friend Shelli's girls Emma and Izzy whom I've mentioned on this blog before.

I haven't done an actual photo shoot in 2 years when I took pictures of my friend Becki's girls. Between that time it's been mostly nature type photos, playgrounds, and my personal fav the wire jungle. It's also a paying gig. I had put out there on Facebook recently that I wanted to do a photo shoot you know purely for practice and fun just to get a feel for things. I had no idea I get a great response that I did or that my friends (who are awesome by the way) we're willing to pay for my time.

I've been doing an independent type study of photography with a book I have by Tom Ang called Digital Photography Master Class Advanced Photogrpahic and image manipulation techniques for creating perfect pictures. The book is really cool it's jammed packed full of information plus and the end of each chapter there is an assignment like an actual class. Bonus I can pace myself and not have the stress of an actual classroom setting. Eventually I would like to go back to school but for now this works.

Back to my reunion. I still can't get over that it's been 10 years since I've been in high school. My high school years were good better than Jr. High (or middle school) years. My sophmore year was a bit rough to start but got better. I was in band, art club, and student orientation staff. Neither one of my parents went to any of their reunions. I've tried to convince dad to go to his with no avail. Mom said her high school years "sucked" okay maybe she didn't say sucked but you get the idea.

Sometimes it seems like it was yesterday that I was 18 and a brat to boot. Really some may find it hard to believe that I was a brat but I was. It wasn't until a year almost a year later I went to college, I grew up a bit sometimes I was still a brat. The last 10 years have been a roller coaster for yours truly.

I graduated with a pretty big class around 300 or so. I knew most of them since I was in band, we were band geeks together, a lot I knew from Jr. High and some I went to grade school with. I've reconnected with a ton of them on Facebook too. I know not everyone will be there but it'll be nice to see the ones who were able to make it.

Wish me luck!

Time for some randoms!

2011-07-13T01:10:00.000-07:00

*Stupid Alltel pics website has been down, can't upload my pics onto here :(

*What's more depressing then these words: The site is currently unavailable

*Can't do a wordless Wednesday without photos!

*How long has it been since I've done a WW?

*Really wanted to show the awesome bull grill I saw while visiting the wire jungle

*And the awesome graffiti I spotted in alley downtown

*Is amazed that my town actually has this said awesome graffiti

*Figures if I can't create at least I have my camera

*And that's better than nothing

*New name for Twizzlers: Swizzle sticks, not to be confused with the kind you stir your yummy alcoholic drinks with

*Was asked the other morning at work if I was using the microwave to cook said swizzle sticks

*My high school reunion is Friday meaning

*I've been out of high school for 10 years YIKES!!

*Makes me ask What's my age again?

*Lady Gaga's new CD = Pure awesomeness

Our town's in the record books!!

2011-07-11T23:14:00.000-07:00

This past weekend my town in Fremont celebrated John C. Fremont Days. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday are filled with endless events. It's a pretty big deal for our town. One of the highlights was this check out the article here

Saturday we set the record for the biggest opened faced sandwich. Made with Spam. We have a Hormel factory in Fremont. I didn't get a chance to see the sandwich made because I was at the car show, but still it was amazing to hear our semi small town broke a world record.

I would love to find an artist world record to break. That's on my bucket list.

If you could break a world record what would you do?

C is for Card and a chair

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

I feel bad. I haven't shared anything too creative lately. I haven't done much and it stinks. I just can't get myself into a project. I know I've mentioned it a thousand plus times before (a thousand and 1?) but it is an occupational hazard of being an artist. I'm hoping once I go on vacation soon I can get some much needed creative time in.

Anyways but I do have a card that I did a month ago that I have yet to share on here:

Ugh deal with the blurry picture please! Rarely I do vertical cards most of mine are horizontal gotta change that up a bit. I chose a different kind of style with the card too. I had originally planned this happy birthday tag for another card design luckily I have another tag soo....

I think this is also the 1st time I'm using this greeting stamp too? Got it at Hobby Lobby and I want more of them :) so easy to use!!

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Now for another funny. I love our new Menards it's so much fun to walk around and near patio sections was this chair:

This is called the King Pin. And it's HUGE! I totally felt like Goldilocks when I sat in it! What I love is the 6, count em 6 cup holders enough for well a 6-pack. Of course depending on what kind of six pack you go for :)

The chair can be yours for only $99.99 a king sized price too!

Have a great weekend!

Stuck at the Prom 2011

2011-07-07T23:28:00.000-07:00

Last year I mentioned that the Duck Tape website does annaul "Stuck at the prom" contest. I totally forgot about this year! Go to the website here and check out the awesome entries!

And if you want to vote for one of the Top Ten couple you have till Monday!

Sunburn???

2011-07-06T22:15:00.000-07:00

Most of you know me by now that I have a weird sense of humor. The oddest things amuse me. I've learned not to be so serious about certain things. I am always looking for something funny to share via Facebook or even here. It's been a while but I got this "interesting" postcard in the mail the other day:

Believe it or not this postcard is for my eye doctor. Now you see when I got the postcard in my cute little mail cubby it was address up so I didn't see the picture right off the bat now it just my address, then my eye doctor's office address, a few of the name brand eye glasses he provides, the office number, the website, and a small picture of the office in the lower corner.

Nowhere does it say "Reminder you're due for you're yearly eye exam please call, etc, etc." This is what I found humorous because I was just thinking about that and was trying to remember if I had to go in for an exam because some are every year or whatnot. Lucky for me I put 2 and 2 together and figured out what this postcard was for. Because it was a year ago this month I got my new glasses.

Wait a minute your saying, YOU wear glasses?? Yes I do wear them sort of. Mainly I wear them at work during the night when I have to stare at the computer screen all night. Of course you're also wondering what does a sunburn have to do with getting new glasses? Well you're guess is as good as mine.

Still it made me laugh ahh, the humor in the simplest things :)

What's made you laugh today?

What have I been up to?

2011-07-02T23:23:00.000-07:00

Sheesh. It's hard to believe it's July. I was still on June literally I didn't change my calendars till the day (July 1st) was almost over ha. I'm stuck working the very long holiday weekend. I'm not in the very festive of July 4th this year. I don't know what it is. I don't feel doing anything at all. So not like me! I just keep thinking "I can't wait for it to be over" Like Christmas.

Anyways. Thursday I had the day off was planning to go to the beach when I drove home from work that morning I noticed my speedometer wasn't working, the check engine light came on I knew it couldn't be good. So I got a hold of my friend who happens to be a mechanic (it's nice to have a friend in the line of work let me tell you) he said that he'd come over after he got off work at 7pm. So I figured I really shouldn't go anywhere and then having my car break down somewhere (that's my luck) so I grounded myself. How funny huh?

It turned out to my speed sensor. My awesome friend was able to fix the problem by turning off the check engine light. Who knew? The sensor will eventually have to be replaced but he did teach me how to read my RPM gage (I totally feel like a Fast and the Furious chick now!) so in case the speedometer goes out again I know what my speed is.

One of things I did besides clean my apartment is I went through my crafty totes. It felt good to oraganize them and go through everything. I also did some organization in my 1 of my hall closets. I stuff cluttered on the shelves it bothered me so I got some storage containters and a large shower caddy holder (I love them it's my 3rd) to put stuff in. I read on another blog that you should a take a before and after picture to get perspective. Well typical me I dove right in and didn't snap a before photo oh well.

Enough babble here is what I am currently working on:

I found this album of concerts pictures from the last time I went to Kenny Chesney in 2007. It's half done so I caught up on that and I have pages left so I planned the current Kenny Chesney concert photos and hopefully to scrap them soon. I have SO MUCH to scrap it isn't even funny.

I plan to do hopefully get some time on my vacation to do that we'll see. I'll be back next week with some good stuff I promise :)

Have a great Holiday weekend!

On stranger tides

2011-06-28T21:54:00.000-07:00

Finally I got to see Pirates of The Caribbean on Stranger Tides Friday. This is my review of the movie.

Johnny Depp of course returns as the infamous Captain Jack Sparrow in search of the fountain of youth. Not all the original characters are in this one Captain Barbosa and Gibbs are in this one as well but missing are Will, Elizabeth, Pintel, and Ragetti. I knew that Will and Elizabeth wouldn't be returning, but I was bummed about Pintel and Ragetti because though they had minor parts in the last three movies but they made the movie. Mick Jagger does make a cameo once again as Jack's farther in begining.

There was a few new characters Angelica Jack's love interest and Edward Teach AKA Blackbeard. Plus a few other characters a missonary, and a mermaid that they capture.

I did like the movie it made me laugh there was good action scenes but I felt it was lacking something. Maybe it's because I am used to the major characters from the last three and them not being in this one made it difficult for me? I can't say. But I noticed it leave a chance for 5th I didn't get to see if there was anything hinting at the end credits because the people I went with were inpatient so I don't know.

But I still give this movie an A because I love Johnny Depp and Jack Sparrow. I'll just have to re-watch it when it comes out on DVD

VBS recap in photos

2011-06-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

Yeah I know it's been a week since VBS (throw the book at me!!) and I am majorly behind in my blogging is an understatement at this point I still have a birthday card for Rhonda that I haven't even share yet and her birthday which was June 4th. Oh and WAY behind on the 30 day challenge which may never be done at this point.

*Sigh*

It's not that I don't want to blog or anything it's just that with VBS last week and working all night leaves you zero time for anything else, i.e. cleaning, cooking, blogging, creating, etc when all you wanna do is sleep (or pray for death) after chasing 7 rowdy girls for 8:45am-11:45am Monday-Friday after being up for 8 hours. Which ends up being about 10 hours I think???

I failed to take much pictures with my phone or even with my camera for that fact. Now don't me wrong I was happy to have so many kids heck, I went from zero to 7 (well 8 counting Dalton who showed up a total of 1 day) kids. It was just they required a little more care (and a traffic cop would of been nice too) who knew girls could be so rowdy? And after having boys the past couple years you'd think I'd be used to it? I am once again proven wrong. Other than that the week, went pretty well I think and you know me I'll do it again next year. Here is the photos I have:

My girls Izzy, Mariah, Payton and Mariah's big sis Alexis
in the cheetah masks they made :)

Practice makes perfect! Getting ready for Sunday!

Here is Mr. Dalton on his only day the last day too!

The kids did fuse beads in crafts one day So of course I had

to make something too!!

I actually miss the kiddos last week it felt weird not going to VBS after work. I can only pray and hope the kids I had this year will come back next year!

Tales from Tattoo parlor

2011-06-24T12:00:00.000-07:00

I'll admit it since getting my 2nd tattoo, I'm already after my 3rd. There is something about the sound of the tattoo gun, and the smells at the parlor that just make you want a tattoo it does me anyways. Sunday was my friend Shannon's birthday so as her present to herself she got her 6th tattoo.

While hanging out shooting the breeze with our ink slinger Paulee, I had mentioned while picking up Shannon's birthday cake, that I had seen one of the other benches on my way. Well it of course it brought up mine and Paulee was impressed he gave me quite the compliment about it. Shannon showed my drawing of Wonder Woman to him too after praising my work he says to me "Have you ever considered being a tattooist?" Honestly it never occurred to me.

I was speechless! I admire Paulee and any tattooist a ton because of their awesome job they can take an idea and transform that into an amazing piece of art on your body. Sidebar: other favorite tattooist besides Paulee? Well, that's easy it's Corey Miller from LA Ink .

Paulee said it's like going back to school again he then told us his humble beginnings, how grew up basically around ink and built his own tattoo machine at 14 (which now is illegal so don't go building your own peeps). It sounded a lot like Corey's story.

I'm not sure if the path of tattooing is in my future though peeps. It's not because of the blood (which I admit I am a little squeamish about), or the needles which I can handle in getting said tattoo just not in an hospital or doctor's office (weird I know). It's the fact DUH tattoos are permanent and I'm not talking Sharpie Marker permanent here. I would be so worried I'd make a HUGE mistake and that would be the end of it.

However, I was honored by Paulee giving me such an awesome compilment from an artist to another artist is always a huge plus in my book. I always love hearing praise from my creative peers :) but it has inspired me to come up with a sketch for my 3rd tattoo. I said to my shelf, "Shelf, why didn't you think of this before? You're an artist after all" I'm still working out exactly what I want to do, and it will be a while before I get #3 I mean come on #2 is only a month and a half old although it is hard to resist temptation :)

Have a great weekend everyone!

Award time!!

2011-06-23T22:34:00.000-07:00

My friend Jesse gave me this fantastic award the other day and it totally brightened my day :) You know the drill there are questions you must answer then you hand out the award to your most deserving blog peeps.

So without furhter ado...

What is my favorite color? Tough one I have many but most favorite is green

What is my favorite animal? Frogs

What is my relaxation place? The Beach which I haven't been yet grrr.

What is my vacation hot spot? See above

Do I have a boyfriend? Nope sassy and single :)

What color scheme did you wear in outfits this week? Black mostly to work and a lot of blues

What movie did you watch last? It was the Green Lantern on DVD I think?

What is your most used phrase? Seriously??

Do you study or do you work? Work, work, work

What is your favorite number? 18

What are the names of your favorite friends? Too many to write down... I have to agree with Jesse on this one!

Do you drink soda, and if so, do you prefer Pepsi or Coca Cola? If it's not Dr. Pepper, then Coke

What items do you carry with you always? Cell phone, my purse, my camera

What is your favorite day of the Week? Friday when I don't work it that is!

And now the fun part Tag! You're it! I'm only tagging a couple people since I tagged most in my last award post of course you're all awesome :)
Sarah Pencil to Paper

Bettyann Langley Girl

Melissa So about what I said

Check out their blogs!!

A bit behind

2011-06-21T22:12:00.000-07:00

Hey there, I have lots of catching up to do including VBS, and I have a tag-post yet to do but I wound up sick Monday night plus we had a very scary storm here and a tornado touched down here too check out this aritlce from my local paper here very lucky.

I will be back tomorrow with a better post!

Something good

2011-06-14T02:35:00.000-07:00

With VBS this week, my posting will some what limited but I did want to share this nice write up about the benches in my local paper and my bench is mentioned :)

I did get the keys re-attached by the way.

See you soon!

A little rant

2011-06-09T00:34:00.000-07:00

Okay, Normally I don't rant on here I try not to, I like to keep stuff like that out of my blog but an issue has come up and I need to vent it out on here so forgive me.

My bench has been vandalized. I woke up Tuesday afternoon to a text from one of my friends who asked if the black keys were glued onto my bench, I responded yes, she said that some were pried off. Well I instantly woke up threw on clothes and headed over to my bench. Sure enough 6 of them were pried clean off and just tossed onto the ground. Oh and one of the pedals is missing as well that happened barely a week after the benches were put up. I was devastated! Who in their right mind would do something so stupid?

I've dealt with a lot of vandalism in my life because my dad is a janitor with our public schools and I've gone with him while he's dealt with broken widows, spray painted swear words on windows, and the building being egged to name a few.

Then my own personal experiences. My old car was egged and also my driver's side mirror was smashed by a baseball bat in 2009.

The art association warned us that this could happen. It happen with the fish project 5 years ago but still. Some people have suggested to me that my bench should be re-located because they think it's a bad location (the high school) plus it's by a semi busy street. I e-mailed the art association about it. I am really not sure if anything can be done about it but it's worth a shot.

So they keys are in my possession, I just have to re-attach them sometime this week, I want to do it when it's a bit cooler since it's been so stinkin' hot and it might be a bad combination with the glue.

Anyways vandalism is by far the STUPIDEST thing ever. These benches are ART and should be treated as such. Just because you can touch them, sit on them, etc you should still treat them with RESPECT. I don't think a lot of people realize how much work went into mine or the others.

Some people need to grow up and find something better to do then ruin someone else's hard work. They need a good slap on the hand or upside the head.

Altered Mirror

2011-06-06T22:11:00.000-07:00

Hey, how ya doing? Summer is my favorite time of the year if you haven't figured that out yet. It's hot as blazes but I'm not going to complain (too much) since it's been COLD up until now.

Since it is summer after all I thought I'd share summer crafts/projects. This one I did a few years back one of my first altered projects ever!! It proudly hangs in my studio:

When OTC started their scrapbook line many, many moons ago I bought this mirror to alter. For the longest time I didn't know what to do with it. So I took my Hawaiian papers, and did a collage using stuff from magazines and stuff I had at the time. Heres some close ups:

Sorry not good pictures but you get the idea. Also I never got around to hanging it up until now either. It sat in a box at my old place so when I got to my new place I made a point of hanging it up. I had to add ribbon because when I originally altered it, I did it upside down (oops) and I had to remove the hanging brackets.

But it turned out pretty good for my 1st attempt at altering.

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So Relay was last Friday it went okay. I am covered in bug bites it didn't rain but we wussed out because there was lightening around 2am but I came back Saturday morning and helped clean up. Here is the only picture I snapped on my phone because I was so busy:

It's hard to see but that was our guest speaker Ron Brown he's the linebacker coach for Nebraska. Very good speaker.

Have a great week!!

Photo fun

2011-06-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, with today being Relay my post is going to be a short one. Check out this link from Yahoo! It's about the 10 most photographed places in the world. Being a armature photographer, I found this article very interesting. If you like to travel or take pictures you'll enjoy this article too!

Have a great weekend!

Day 11 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-30T22:46:00.001-07:00

Day 11-Favorite TV shows

This is pretty easy. Normally I don't get to watch much TV anymore because of my work shift mainly I watch re-runs of the shows that used to be on TV but my Top 3 are as followed:

Grey's Anatomy. I loved this show since Day 1. A loyal Grey's fan ever since it used to be on Sunday nights. I have it taped now so I can catch up. I used to be a big Derrek Shepard fan but now that he and Meridtih are married (finally) this season I'm rooting for Mark Sloan. I've always liked him anyways but he's really proven himself from the player to a real man I think he deserves to be happy.

The Simpsons:

I loved this show since I was a kid and the show started around 1989? If I remember right. Back in the day parents used to think the show was bad well ha it's lasted this long! I'd have to say my favorite characters are Bart, Homer of course and yes Maggie. Hey even though she's a baby she's a riot!

Last but not least:

Sponge Bob Squarepants. Yes I'm 28 and still watch cartoons. I grew watching Nick cartoons the originals Ren & Stimpy, Doug, AAAHHH Real Monsters, Angry Beavers, Rugrats, and Cat Dog. Since then cartoons aren't as good as they used to be. I never was a huge fan of Pokeman and the Japnese stuff that happended when I was in Junior High. To be honset with besides The Simpsons, Spongebob is actually one of the decent cartoons that's out there. It's really really funny. I get a bang out of him and Patrick.

Those are my picks!

Day 10 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-30T22:46:00.000-07:00

Day 10-Something you're afraid of

Wow. Another tough one. To be honest I've been though a lot of scary moments in my 28 years already. I mean I am afraid of the normal like snakes, mice, and bats those things terrify me like no other because we used to get pretty bad in our (my parents) old house growing up. Nothing more scarier than waking up to a bat flying around in your room or your cat trying to attack said bat!

I'm also afraid of losing my family and my friends. Which is a pretty normal fear I guess.

Day 14 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-30T22:45:00.000-07:00

Day 14-A picture you love

I've shared this photo on this blog before but it's one I truly love:

Taken at the Fremont State Lakes July 18, 2010

Death of a frog?

2011-05-30T22:41:00.000-07:00

As you may recall for my birthday I got my swimmy frogs that I wanted. I was really stoked, I've been wanting pet frogs forever. Dad and I went to Learning Express the Monday before my birthday to get them. I picked the tank I wanted, got their food and care instructions.

Now this isn't my picture. I've tried to take photos of mine but they wouldn't hold still so I got this from Google but this is the same as mine.

I named my frogs Cosmo and Wanda from The Fairly Odd Parents. The awesome part about the frogs the require little care just fed two pellets per twice a week, and their tank doesn't have to be cleaned in 3 months.

Or so I thought.

A week ago I had gotten home from my weekend of work, after a quick power nap I was getting ready to go to church when I noticed one of my frogs upside down. Yes it appears one of my frogs well let's just say it croaked. I was shocked!! The frogs had been acting well goofy is the nice, clean way of saying on here. I can't say if Wanda killed Cosmo or what happen for sure. I quickly removed Cosmo from the tank and I tossed him. I was worried that I was doing something wrong in their care, so I grabbed the instructions read them over for like the millionth time, nope it seemed I was doing everything okay. So it's a mystery.

And the only who knows the truth still swims alone in the tank.

(insert dramatic music)

The End (or is it??)

3 Day Weekend!

2011-05-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

It's almost unbelievable that I get a 3-day weekend. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday off. That is rare let me tell you especially in my line of work where I am required to work every other weekend and rotate holidays.

So what are my plans? Have no idea. Honestly I really want to go junking really, really badly. I've driven by one of our local haunts the other day and I saw a pink wooden chair that I had to have but didn't stop. I'm hoping it's there. I also would like to go back to Cabela's totally love that store. Plus I should get some studio time in.

Whatever I do I know it'll be major fun =)

Have a great weekend!!

How about some cards?

2011-05-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

Yes I actually got some creating done woo hoo! I made a couple cards:

This card is for my friend co-worker Nancy her birthday is Memorial Day. I've mentioned Nancy a couple times on here a wonderful lady. She used to work with my dad and my friend Vicki.

Nancy loves animal print so I had these colorful animal print scraps for a while now. I loved how the card turned out!

This is the inside of the card. The front says "Have a Wild" I know Nancy will love it =)

I have a couple friends graduating from college this year too. I grabbed a couple images from Crafty Secrets Girlfriends pad:

I love this image! I thought this would make a great card for my friend Mandy.

My 3rd card is still in the works. I haven't found the right colored paper for the background.

Thanks for stopping by!

Bragging Rights

2011-05-23T22:48:00.000-07:00

So I'm back with more news about my bench check out this article from the Omaha paper here FYI if you click on the bubble that's to the right of the screen where it says "Related news" you'll get the list of all the artists including yours truly :) :) :) :)

Also:

Yup that is my nameplate!! Pretty darn proud, it's very rewarding. I am now a real artist :0)

What an awesome feeling.

It's finally up!!

2011-05-21T22:47:00.000-07:00

The wait is over!!! My piano bench has finally made it's appreance!!

Doesn't it look lovely? It's actually on the corner of my high school. For those of you in town it's 16th and Lincoln. Nice location yeah? And you know what they say location, location, location!!!!

I couldn't be prouder of myself and the bench. We've had our ups and downs but is now has paid off.

WOO HOO!!!!

Checking In again

2011-05-21T00:39:00.000-07:00

Wow it's been a week (flips at her calendar) yup it's been exactly one week since I last posted. I thought this 30 blog challenge would keep me at posting.... not so much.

What have been doing? Still not creating it's starting to get to me! I just need to sit down and find SOMETHING, ANYTHING and do it!!!!

I'm preparing for VBS however, it's going to be harder this year because we're not having our teachers meeting until June 1st and if you remember last year I had to go into the craft projects blind because they weren't included with my materials. All I know it's a jungle theme. I gone through my inventory at church to see what I have first before I go and buy materials. But I think I may just say the heck with it and just get new stuff.

With VBS, the kids have craft time as a group, but with my age level (I usually teach the little ones Pre-K and K) I rather have them do more crafts because at that age they have such a short attention span plus it's hard for them to sit still for long periods of time (believe me I know) if they're kept busy and amused they won't be bored or running amuck.

VBS usually runs during farthers day and Flag day so I like to include a craft for those days. I think they're important just as much as VBS itself. I am also planning some summer related crafts this year too but tie in Faith into it as well. I actually went onto OTC's website and ordered some catalogs. I hate to admit it but they do have some pretty decent crafts. I made a list but still I think I will try to go to Michaels next week before I order to see what they have then order after the Holiday.

Also I like to have a craft for when the kids are stuck inside when it rains, which the past couple of years has happened. I also have a Frisbee golf game that went over big last year so I'm sure we will be playing that a lot.

So I will catch up on my 30 day Challenge next week.

Later days!

May 14th Day 14 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-18T00:31:00.000-07:00

Day 14-A picture you love

I've shared this photo on this blog before but it's one I truly love:

Taken at the Fremont State Lakes July 18, 2010

Day 13 30 Day Blog Challenge

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

Day 13-Goals

To go back to school

To travel and see the world

To one day have my own art show

To be debit free

I know it's a short list but that's all I can think of at the top of my head

Day 12 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-12T23:00:00.000-07:00

Day 12-What you believe

Of course I believe in God.

But also I am firm believer in Karma. You know the saying "What goes around comes around" (It also is a Justin Timberlake song) I've witnessed more times than I count.

I also believe that when things get really, really bad and you don't that it will ever get better, eventually it does get better. I'm usually the stubborn one and hate to admit that. Sometimes you reach rock bottom before you see the light at the end of the tunnel.

The wisdom of Bob Marley

2011-05-11T23:52:00.000-07:00

Today is the 30th anniversary of the passing of the great Bob Marley. I'd like to share some really awesome deep qutoes by him:

"Who are you to judge the life I live?

I know I'm not perfect

-and I don't live to be-

but before you start pointing fingers...

make sure you hands are clean!"

"You may not be her first, her last, or her only. She loved before she may love again. But if she loves you now, what else matters? She's not perfect - you aren't either, and the two of you may never be perfect together but if she can make you laugh, cause you to think twice, and admit to being human and making mistakes, hold onto her and give her the most you can. She may not be thinking about you every second of the day, but she will give you a part of her that she knows you can break - her heart. So don't hurt her, don't change her, don't analyze and don't expect more than she can give. Smile when she makes you happy, let her know when she makes you mad, and miss her when she's not there."

"Some people feel the rain. Others just get wet."

"love the life you live.

live the life you love."

"He’s not perfect. You aren’t either, and the two of you will never be perfect. But if he can make you laugh at least once, causes you to think twice, and if he admits to being human and making mistakes, hold onto him and give him the most you can. He isn’t going to quote poetry, he’s not thinking about you every moment, but he will give you a part of him that he knows you could break. Don’t hurt him, don’t change him, and don’t expect for more than he can give. Don’t analyze. Smile when he makes you happy, yell when he makes you mad, and miss him when he’s not there. Love hard when there is love to be had. Because perfect guys don’t exist, but there’s always one guy that is perfect for you."

"The best thing about music is that when it hits you, you feel no pain."

"Don't worry about a thing, every little thing is gonna be alright"

Day 9 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

Day 9-A picture of your friends

Well this another I can't do a picture on this one either because it would hard to get all of them for picture! I have lots of friends and thank goodness for cyber space and the blog o-sphere otherwise I wouldn't be touch with most of them! And thank you to those who follow me I'm grateful to YOU for being my friends and putting up with my crazy creative shenanigans! :0)

Day 8 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-08T22:00:00.000-07:00

Day 8-A place you've traveled to

Yes I've actually been to Cali. I haven't really been to very many places but when I was Senior in high school (10 years ago) I got the opportunity along with my band class to travel to Sunny Cali and play at halftime for the Silicon Valley Bowl in San Jose. Of course we did a lot of tourist things like visiting the Rock Alcatraz (my favorite), The Golden Gate Bridge, saw the Full House - House, Ashbury Lane, ate at Planet Hollywood, Pier 39 and Fisherman's wharf. It was a pretty amazing trip. I don't have pictures because my camera broke I do still have a few items from the trip like a replica prison key, and my pass from the game.

We had only like after Christmas until the New Year to enjoy Cali so a lot was crammed in. But it was the most fun I think I ever had. Plus my first plane ride ever this right before 9-11 happened when you didn't have to do all the stuff you do now at the airport.

I'd like to go back one of these days and see other places too.

Day 7 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-07T22:00:00.000-07:00

Day 7-Favorite movies

Oh boy this another tough one because I ♥ movies. It's going to be hard to narrow it down but for this I will

Top Gun - All time favorite movie

Pretty in Pink

The Fast and the Furious all 4 (I have yet to see Fast Five)

Titanic

Juno

Footloose

Pirates of The Caribbean all 3 (can't wait for the newest one!)

Some like it Hot

Rebel without a cause

The Ugly Truth

The Old school Bond movies

And many many more! I like a lot of the older movies because to be honest that's when movies were the best. Don't get me wrong some of today's movies are awesome but now a days it's all 3D or about aliens.

An unsettled creative mind

2011-05-07T00:39:00.000-07:00

AAACK. I'm between a rock and a hard place creatively. I hate being in these "ruts" I want to create something and yet I have ambition to does that make sense? Since my completion of my bench I think it left me burned out because I was really down to the wire with that; which I hated because I honsetly don't think the bench is as good as it should or I wanted it to be despite what everyone says. Artist are always the worst crittics especially on themsleves. Where someone says "Oh that's reallly good" I'm thinking "What could I have done better?"

I'm itching to take photos the wire jungle is back up in full swing and I need to continue my play ground photography project which has been a long going project for awhile. I visit different parks in the area and photo graph the equipment-very rewarding work. I really want to do it when grey outside and I keep forgetting to pack my camera and snap photos right when I get off work since I live near a park now. I also want to do a photo shoot again for practice there are some great locations in town. Plus I need to do more small town photography as well.

Also, I need to go junking I've seen some great creative projects to do but it involves going to the locate junk haunts to find what I am looking for.

AND I really, really REALLY need to scrap I have so much stuff that needs to be scrapped like Relay stuff from the past three years. Sunday school stuff, etc, etc.

I just hate having back burner projects like that I've tried to avoid this from happening. Plus there are a million and 1 excuses too.

I'm hoping I can get out of this rut soon now that the weather is finally warming up and Relay will be done soon than I can focus on what's important my creative well being.

Day 6 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-06T22:00:00.001-07:00

Day 6-A picture of something that makes you happy

This was a tough one I to actually think about it but here it is:

These are my two Sunday School kiddos Jocelyn and Dalton. They're brother and sister both super cute kids. I love teaching Sunday school and VBS. I've been teaching for quite a few years now and love it. When I see this picture I can't help but smile :o)

Day 5 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-05T22:41:00.000-07:00

Day 5-Your siblings

I don't have any recent photos of my brother or sister terrible I know.

So yes I have one each a sister and a brother

Jenny is 39 and will be 40 in October

Barry is 34 and will be 35 in December

Huge age difference huh? No matter I love both equally so much!

Day 4 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

Day 4-Your parents:

This is a picture of a picture of my parents David and Willa Mae Bade

Married February 15, 1969 married 42 years

At that time mom had graduated in 1968 (they met while they worked at Campbell soup) and since she was about 19 or so she had to get permission to marry dad.

They're very awesome parents! and I'm a total Daddy's girl and proud of it!

Day 3 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-03T15:00:00.000-07:00

Day 3-Your first love

Oh crapola. When I saw day 3 I almost wanted to wuss out but that's not part of the rules.

My first love? Well to be honest I had my share of crushes and I was crushed by most of them too sadly. I've only have had two boyfriends. The first well to be honest I don't he was my first love because we were pretty horrible to each other we fought more than we acutally dated.

So I'd have to say my 2nd Boyfriend was my first actual love. I felt the butterflies, and I was head over heels for him. He changed me in a good way he made see things differently then I used to look at things. What was best about him is that he loved me for me. He didn't judge me by my bra size or how I looked. He loved me for me. He understood my pretty crazy life and got things about it. He was fun, encouraging, caring, loving, everything a boyfriend you'd expect.

Even though he now is married and has a family, I don't speak to him as much I used to we're friends on Facebook. One of the nice things about us we were pretty good friends before we dated. I'm glad we're still friends today.

I honestly don't know if I can ever feel that way about anyone again I'm pretty convinced that you only get one shot at it and that's it. But you never know I guess. I try to be optismistic it's really hard when you see all your friends, classmates, get married before you.

So that's my first love it wasn't as painful as I thought.

Day 2 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

Day 2-Meaning behind your blog name

Okay well that's a no brainer really. I just came up with Maggie the Arist. Essetinally when I started this blog almost 2 years ago I started off as a chatty kinda blog it wasn't until I started checking out the blog-o-sphere and what other creative people like me were doing when I started to get visual and share my projects. Then I decided that I didn't it want it to be just on creative stuff either. I wanted a place to rant, talk about life itself, my weird sense of humor and whatever was on my mind. I like variety and that's what my blog is like my intro it says:

"A blog about me being an artist, a Sunday school teacher, tossed in with a wild sense of humor, posts about non-art stuff, and about life. So sit back, relax and enjoy my creative/crazy world!"

That's basically it in a nutshell of Maggie The Artist.

Day 1 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-01T22:49:00.000-07:00

Day 1-Introduce, recent picture, 15 interesting facts
Well y'all should know me by now so I'm skipping that let's see a recent pic? How about my new tattoo?

LOVE IT!!!

15 Interest facts? I mean I have 100 already but okay let's see

1. My Hibiscus tattoo is my 2nd tattoo

2. My name in Hawiian is Makie

3. Despite getting my tattoos and have my ears double pireced, I hate needles in a hospial or a doctor's office

4. Never broken any bones or gotten stithces (yet)

5. I don't smoke but I have a collection of cigarette lighters

6. I love wild/toe socks

7. I am a total bookworm

8. I am German on my dad's side and Heinz 57 on mom's which consists of Irish, English, French, German and little Indian

9. I actually love blonde jokes

10. Favorite Actors: Jim Carey, Johnny Depp, Paul Walker, and Vin Dissel (short list of them)

11. Favorite Actresses: Drew Berrymore, Kathrine Heigel, Cameron Diaz

12. I can be pretty obsessive on certain things

13. I hate snakes

14. I'm a total tomboy but I do like girly things like shoes , purses, nail polish

15. I want to loose 50 pounds but I'm a bad dieter/exerciser

Well I hope that is some of that is new without me cheating and looking at my 100 things list ;-)

30 Day Challenge

2011-04-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

So I came across this on other blog out there and I thought I could give it a whirl because well I haven't been blogging as much as I would like to so I thought this would be a great chance to get back on the horse as it were so for the month of May will be the 30 day challenge

Here are the challenges for each day:

Day 1-Introduce, recent picture, 15 interesting facts

Day 2-Meaning behind your blog name

Day 3-Your first love

Day 4-Your parents

Day 5-Your siblings

Day 6-A picture of something that makes you happy

Day 7-Favorite movies

Day 8-A place you've traveled to

Day 9-A picture of your friends

Day 10-Something you're afraid of

Day 11-Favorite TV shows

Day 12-What you believe

Day 13-Goals

Day 14-A picture you love

Day 15-Bible verse

Day 16-Dream house

Day 17-Something you're looking forward to

Day 18-Something you regret

Day 19-Something you miss

Day 20-Nicknames

Day 21-Picture of yourself

Day 22-Favorite city

Day 23-Favorite vacation

Day 24-Something you've learned

Day 25-Put your iPod on shuffle, first 10 songs

Day 26-Picture of your family

Day 27-Pets

Day 28-Something that stresses you out

Day 29-3 Wishes

Day 30-a picture

So this should be wicked fun!

The Birthday

2011-04-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

Okay. I am offically birthdayed out. Thank goodness it's like Christmas and comes only once a year!

So my post yesterday I admit was on the bitter side but I do admit I did have a pretty decent birthday as far as birthdays go anyways so in pictures I will share my day:

It's a bit blurry but Starbucks in all their awesomeness sent me this so I can have a FREE Drink so...

I got a nommy Venti Strawberry Frap :o)

My co-workers are totally awesome I got goodies from them too (even though most were house warming/birthday gifts but whatever):

A coffee pot from Chris

Shannon gave me work appropiate sandals (they have to have a strap in the back) and some vampire love novels

Marlaine gave me the ulitmate in office supply goodies and stuff for my apartment sponges, etc (her daughter works at 3M so she gets the ULITMATE office supply heaven hookup!)

Nancy gave me a sweet green bling ring

Robbie gave me this gorgeous metal James Dean sign *swoon*

Then I did a little birthday retail therapy for me and got this sweet purse from Gordmans I love purses. I'm totally in love with the black and white lately this is like my 3rd black and white purse.

Plus like over 50 or so Facebook birthday greetings that was awesome! I admit I don't normally like being surprised but on my birthday I admit it was pretty awesome the LOVE I got which I needed.

Until next year!

28 candles

2011-04-27T08:19:00.000-07:00

Good Grief I'm 28. I know what you're going to say. "You're still young" Please. In 2 years (TWO!!) I'll be 30 (YIKES), Of course truth be known I feel a lot older than my actual age because I've had to grow up fast. My whole life has been like that. I joke that I'm actually instead going 30 it feels likes 40.

And there's "The dreaded birthday curse" Where bad things happen on my birthday making the day not so happy. I'm not exaggerating here or being dramatic. Okay last year was a good birthday granted but rarely that happens. This year I have to work, come home sleep, get up for a staff meeting, then go home sleep some more and then go to work by then my birthday's over. Celebrating will be have to be another day and I'm okay with that.

But I miss that person that used to make a big stink over her birthday (ME) it was like a national holiday in my eyes. I used to take work off because I felt it was WRONG to work your birthday. However after I got to a certain age I had to plan and try to throw my own birthday parties my parents were cool with that. I know you're thinking that's totally wrong but that's how I liked it. Now I'm that age where it's just another day. Where did this person come from??? I do have some plans just to get my 2nd tattoo Friday other than that I don't want anyone to go through the trouble my gift list is short here is what I want:

Personalized plates for my car (getting May 3rd!)

Swimmy pet frogs for my apartment

A new tattoo (Friday! That's my present to myself)

My free coffee from Starbucks (waiting for that to come in the mail!)

Oh and have my Facebook page blown up with birthday greetings.

That's it. I'm not trying to sound bitter or anything it's just after so long of holding out for that magical special birthday you see on TV or in the movies you give up hope on it and take what you can get and be greatful. I will have a full report though of anything interesting that may happen today.

So as they say in Hawaii Hau'oli La Hanau (Happy Birthday) to me!

PS. I set the post to be a true actual b-day post of the time I came screaming into this world at 8:19am :)