And here's my little helper during the filming ... Stanley cat wants to sew too!
Think I should put him to work for me? I could use some help around here!!
sewing with sticky back canvas - easy necklace tutorial
Want to make some fun jewelry? Of course you do! In this tutorial, I'll show you how to make a fun fabric necklace using Claudine Hellmuth Studio Sticky Back Canvas image transfers, scrapbook paper and a little stitching!
And here's my little helper during the filming ... Stanley cat wants to sew too!
Think I should put him to work for me? I could use some help around here!!
And here's my little helper during the filming ... Stanley cat wants to sew too!
Think I should put him to work for me? I could use some help around here!!
New girls on the blog
Remember about two months ago, when I told you I had a photo shoot and interview for the dutch Grazia? Well... it's in stores right NOW! Reasons for you to buy it? It's twice as big as usual, it's the beauty issue and I'm in it! And so are fab bloggers Andy and Rachel! It's pretty strange - yet exciting - to see yourself in a giant picture (it covers a full page!) with your hair & make up done, posing in your room and knowing thousands of people will see it. I really hope you like it!
Read / see the big version here
St. Louis here I come!
I'm headed out the door tomorrow to teach at The Mary Engelbreit Home Companion Workshop event! I am beyond excited to teach at this event. it was such an honor to be one of the selected instructors!
Other upcoming classes:
May 16th - Mixed media collage workshop in Mesa AZ
A full day of my my most popular collage class - Collage Discovery Workshop at the Mystic Paper store in Historic Downton Mesa! Call the store at 480-834-0286 to register!spaces still available!
Other upcoming classes:
May 16th - Mixed media collage workshop in Mesa AZ
A full day of my my most popular collage class - Collage Discovery Workshop at the Mystic Paper store in Historic Downton Mesa! Call the store at 480-834-0286 to register!spaces still available!
May 22nd or May 23rd - mixed media class in Reston VA
Love adding new techniques to your repertoire? Join Claudine Hellmuth and discover over 14 fun-filled methods using the Claudine Hellmuth Studio product line. In this 5 hour class we'll be creating a swatch tag reference book brimming with color,texture,paint and various transfer techniques. Class details and sign up information are on the The Angela's Happy Stamper web site. Spaces are limited so sign up soon! Full for the 22nd, Sign up now for the 23rd!
August 26-28th - workshops in Chandler AZ
I'll be teaching at the Creative Escape Scrapbooking event in Chandler AZ. Click here for more details
September 17-19th - Collage Beeswax Intensive in S. Portland Maine
This two 1/2 day, intensive beeswax collage workshop will focus on mixed media techniques using beeswax collage, color, and composition. Learn how to create a collage entirely with beeswax - no other glues or adhesives are necessary! You'll learn beeswax transfers, stamping in wax, layering collage, glazing colors and more! Even if you have never collaged before you'll leave this workshop feeling like a pro! . To register, visit the Artascope Studios Web site. Supply list also available on the Artascope Studios Web site here! spaces still available!
October 8-11th - 4 day Collage Discovery Intensive in Sedona AZ
The four-day workshop format will be a "Collage Discovery Intensive" inspired Claudine's books, Collage Discovery Workshop & Collage Discovery Workshop Beyond the Unexpected We'll start the weekend with a focus on color mixing and expanding our color palettes. We'll move onto to a concentration on composition and design principles. Then we'll learn a combination of painterly collage techniques, which will enhance the surfaces of your collage artworks. We'll play with image transfer methods and other experimental methods of working. To register, visit the Sedona Arts Center web site. Download the workshop itinerary and supply list, click here. spaces still available!
Meet up in Vienna
I'm so excited that people are excited to meet!! I'm thinking Sunday, May 9th, from, say, 2:00 - 4:00 (I know people have work during the week). Picking a location is the difficult part, as I've never been to Vienna! I've gotten lots of recommendations for cafe's, restaurants, etc., but I'm not yet sure where exactly any of them are in the city. Does anyone have a recommendation for a place that is centrally-located, easy to find?
Can't wait!!
Can't wait!!
Enjoying where I am
A 90-minute walk was on the workout agenda yesterday. It being a gorgeous day and one in which I actually had someplace to be midday, I decided that I didn't have time to head to San Francisco or my old neighborhood in Oakland to get in some strolling, but that I couldn't waste the beautiful weather by heading to the gym. So, I decided to take a long walk around town. Kiefer and I have lived here in the suburbs for seven months now and despite loving the house, we haven't connected with the place on the whole. We get out of town and back to our old haunts as often as possible.
The sun was shining, it was early enough to not be too hot, and there was a gentle breeze. There is a trail near my house but there is little scenery and I've actually run many miles of it in the past seven months, so that didn't sound terribly exciting. Instead, I headed out with no destination in mind to wind through the residential streets and see where it is I've been living for more than half a year.
What did I find? Two parks that I didn't know existed. A cat that looked just like my Bear, except all white instead of all black. I tried to coax the cat to me with a magic kitty call and whispers of "NegaBear, come here, NegaBear." (Didn't work. Go figure.) I also found that there are roses in bloom everywhere and I played with the new Hipstamatic App on my iPhone for a few shots.
It was lovely. A different kind of lovely for me, who is drawn more to people watching and hustle and bustle than gardens and quiet strolls, but lovely nonetheless.
P.S. On the packing front.......it's all going to fit, carry-on it is! I feel so proud.
The sun was shining, it was early enough to not be too hot, and there was a gentle breeze. There is a trail near my house but there is little scenery and I've actually run many miles of it in the past seven months, so that didn't sound terribly exciting. Instead, I headed out with no destination in mind to wind through the residential streets and see where it is I've been living for more than half a year.
What did I find? Two parks that I didn't know existed. A cat that looked just like my Bear, except all white instead of all black. I tried to coax the cat to me with a magic kitty call and whispers of "NegaBear, come here, NegaBear." (Didn't work. Go figure.) I also found that there are roses in bloom everywhere and I played with the new Hipstamatic App on my iPhone for a few shots.
It was lovely. A different kind of lovely for me, who is drawn more to people watching and hustle and bustle than gardens and quiet strolls, but lovely nonetheless.
P.S. On the packing front.......it's all going to fit, carry-on it is! I feel so proud.
In the blue days
This outfit is something I wore on the weekend - don't worry, there's a skirt underneath ;) Love this denim shirt and my friend was sweet enough to let me borrow it again. I'm desperate for the perfect light denim blouse but with no luck so far. The cold weather is finally over and I celebrated by getting a few new items. One of them is a parka jacket from H&M but when I got home I noticed that one of the sleeves is very loose at the bottom, so it keeps falling over my hand. A little annoying :P But nothing gets me down with the sun shining!
Denim shirt borrowed from a friend - H&M dotted tights and lace up boots - Zara bag
Calling all American Girl blog readers in Vienna
I'm not sure exactly how to make it work, but I love the idea of a little meet & greet with folks in Vienna when we're there in a couple weeks. Perhaps I could pick a place, a day and time and anyone who is interested and available could join me for a coffee, a white wine spritzer, a chat. It's coming up quickly ~ we arrive on the afternoon of Saturday, May 8 and leave Thursday morning, May 13 ~ maybe something on Sunday, May 9 or one of the weekday evenings?
I have so thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated your thoughts, comments, suggestions on An American Girl these past few months and I'd love to say hello and thank you in person when I have the chance.
I have so thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated your thoughts, comments, suggestions on An American Girl these past few months and I'd love to say hello and thank you in person when I have the chance.
The Mansion on O Street
Today Paul and I went for afternoon tea at the Mansion on O Street here in DC. The best I can describe the place and experience as a kooky, amazing, mad hatter tea party + Miss Havisham house all rolled into one.
The Mansion is made up of 4 or 5 row houses combined together to create 100 rooms (some are hotel guest rooms), and 32 secret doors behind bookcases and mirrors (we only found one!). Each room is over the top decorated and everything that doesn't move is for sale.
A must see for anyone coming to DC! I would recommend the guided tour or self guided tours, rather than tea time. The food while lavishly displayed wasn't authentic English Tea like we expected but it made our visit even more eclectic and fun!
Here are a few camera phone photos from our visit!
Chandelier in main tea room
We had our tea in this room
Everything is for sale, including that angel!
Lots of odd juxtapositions: Santa with Vietnam Vets, travel mugs + a teddy bear? Of course!
Purple, green and yellow cauliflower!
Tables piled high with cakes!
Traditional English tea food? I don't think so ... (P.S. the bowl NOT the Twizzlers is $12)
Semi-creepy doll watching over the cakes
Fun 80's game. I bought it! only $3!
Wine Cellar room accessed by secret door through the kitchen
Betty Boop Statue? Don't mind if I do!
Trompe l'oeil painting on kitchen floor. Amazing!
If you are anywhere near DC or come here for a visit you MUST go to the O street Mansion. It's even a hotel and you can stay there if you like. The guest rooms are completely over the top!
Today was an amazing and fun day and not one I'll forget anytime soon!
The Mansion is made up of 4 or 5 row houses combined together to create 100 rooms (some are hotel guest rooms), and 32 secret doors behind bookcases and mirrors (we only found one!). Each room is over the top decorated and everything that doesn't move is for sale.
A must see for anyone coming to DC! I would recommend the guided tour or self guided tours, rather than tea time. The food while lavishly displayed wasn't authentic English Tea like we expected but it made our visit even more eclectic and fun!
Here are a few camera phone photos from our visit!
Chandelier in main tea room
We had our tea in this room
Everything is for sale, including that angel!
Lots of odd juxtapositions: Santa with Vietnam Vets, travel mugs + a teddy bear? Of course!
Purple, green and yellow cauliflower!
Tables piled high with cakes!
Traditional English tea food? I don't think so ... (P.S. the bowl NOT the Twizzlers is $12)
Semi-creepy doll watching over the cakes
Fun 80's game. I bought it! only $3!
Wine Cellar room accessed by secret door through the kitchen
Betty Boop Statue? Don't mind if I do!
Trompe l'oeil painting on kitchen floor. Amazing!
If you are anywhere near DC or come here for a visit you MUST go to the O street Mansion. It's even a hotel and you can stay there if you like. The guest rooms are completely over the top!
Today was an amazing and fun day and not one I'll forget anytime soon!
Can she do it?
I am inexplicably obsessed with the desire to use only a carry-on suitcase for our trip. One carry-on for my things, that is, not for both of our belongings. (I may be a little bit of a kook, but I'm not certifiable!)
I don't really have a good reason, so it would be futile to ask why. There is no practical need for it, as we won't be trekking around with our baggage daily. But there is something so satisfying about being thoughtful and planning just right. I dream that I am a jet-setting world-traveler who can throw a few items into a bag and yet spend two weeks in Europe looking as though she's delved into her closet-full-of-clothes each day. Every item just right, looks and feels stylish and fabulous each day, never feels at a loss for something left at home.
Today is "practice packing" day. Really, that's what I wrote on my calendar - "Practice Packing." Kiefer is skeptical. I am giddy with anticipation. We'll see if I can do it!
I don't really have a good reason, so it would be futile to ask why. There is no practical need for it, as we won't be trekking around with our baggage daily. But there is something so satisfying about being thoughtful and planning just right. I dream that I am a jet-setting world-traveler who can throw a few items into a bag and yet spend two weeks in Europe looking as though she's delved into her closet-full-of-clothes each day. Every item just right, looks and feels stylish and fabulous each day, never feels at a loss for something left at home.
Today is "practice packing" day. Really, that's what I wrote on my calendar - "Practice Packing." Kiefer is skeptical. I am giddy with anticipation. We'll see if I can do it!
Sex & Abu Dhabi
After watching the Sex and the City shoebox about five times I'm desperate for some fresh material. Luckily, they just released an extended version of the SATC 2 trailer. And guess what... AIDEN is back - with 2010's most cheasy pick up line I must say. But my four fave girls in crazy outfits, new dialogues and hot men, that´s the best mirrage I've ever seen!
Join the Craft Corps!
I am so excited to be in Vickie Howell's new book Craft Corps. This book is perched right on my nightstand I am savoring reading it every night!
Vickie is a TV show host, author, knitter and savvy business gal extraordinaire. So when I found out I was on her short list to be in the book, I was beyond honored, thrilled & excited all rolled into one!!
Vickie has a "book trailer" and you can see my Vespa Girl artwork animated in it:
OK after watching that, you know you have to have this book!! Visit The Craft Corps web site for all the details!
Vickie is a TV show host, author, knitter and savvy business gal extraordinaire. So when I found out I was on her short list to be in the book, I was beyond honored, thrilled & excited all rolled into one!!
Vickie has a "book trailer" and you can see my Vespa Girl artwork animated in it:
OK after watching that, you know you have to have this book!! Visit The Craft Corps web site for all the details!
Speaking of speaking...
The big question now is - will we be able to communicate our desire for a day pass, a guest pass, a temporary membership? I gather that we'll be able to navigate the city well enough in broken German phrases and English as tourists. But what about when we venture into the "real world," those activities that are more suited to residents than visitors? Like going to a gym and conversing with someone about the amenities, the membership rates, if it is possible to get a visitor's pass. How do you say Visitor's Pass in German? I wonder if the iTranslate app on my iPhone knows that one.
apartment search
Our search for a new apartment in DC is on! We're starting early to give ourselves time to hopefully find the perfect place. We love our little apartment here on U St. but need to find a place a little cheaper so the search begins! And while we are looking for a less expensive place, I think it's an opportunity to also find a place that is the perfect nest for us.
Inspired by Jamie Ridler (if you don't subscribe to her podcasts you should!) I started a little dream board to help get clarity about what I would love our new place to be like. I used the mosaic maker to create this one.
from left to right on the top row:
1) A cute row house or other fun building
2) has parking
3) a small garden
4) inside details have character
5) a clawfoot tub!
6) hardwood floors + studio space for me!
7) pets allowed
8) pets allowed again!
9) washer + dryer in unit + A/C!
A place that feels safe and cozy, with Paul and pets, within 6 blocks of a metro at a price we can afford. Asking too much? Universe help us make it happen!
Inspired by Jamie Ridler (if you don't subscribe to her podcasts you should!) I started a little dream board to help get clarity about what I would love our new place to be like. I used the mosaic maker to create this one.
from left to right on the top row:
1) A cute row house or other fun building
2) has parking
3) a small garden
4) inside details have character
5) a clawfoot tub!
6) hardwood floors + studio space for me!
7) pets allowed
8) pets allowed again!
9) washer + dryer in unit + A/C!
A place that feels safe and cozy, with Paul and pets, within 6 blocks of a metro at a price we can afford. Asking too much? Universe help us make it happen!
Speaking of those goals...
Just had a conversation with Kiefer:
Me (speaking with a hint of giddiness in my voice): Do you realize we'll have 2 weeks of no working out?
Him: What do you mean?
Me: In Europe, on our trip, we'll be gone for 2 weeks.
Him: So.
Me: So, we won't be going to the gym.
Him: Why wouldn't we be going to a gym? There are gyms in Vienna...gyms in England, too.
Me: And we'll go to them?
Him: Um, yea (slightly exasperated tone).
Me: To work out?
Him: Yea (again with the tone). And, actually, it's really important that we check out the gyms while we're in Vienna so we can find out what the situation is like before we move. It could be a deal-breaker.
Me: Oh. Um. Right.
All kidding aside, I have actually been thinking about this for a few days. I recently embarked on a new workout plan to get in shape for a Figure Competition . I don't think I'm actually going to compete (really can't see myself spray-tanned, sporting a bikini and heels onstage), but I do want to be in that kind of shape. I've been working hard for just two weeks now and I was, I kid you not, thinking that it'll be a shame to lose the momentum while we're out of town. I laughed at myself when I considered this because I am actually going a few steps beyond my normal diligence with that thought. But it did cross my mind. It didn't occur to me, however, to think of ways in which I wouldn't have to break my routine. It did occur to my husband, which shouldn't surprise me.
This brings me to the other question that has been on my mind. What is the fitness situation like in Vienna? Are there gyms like there are here? Small gyms? Big corporate gyms? Is there a fitness culture? Do people work out much? Are the gyms open early/late/all the time? I like to go to the gym first thing in the morning. Kiefer likes to go late at night. Will we be able to keep our routines?
For Kiefer, having access to a gym and the ability to work out daily is essential, personally and professionally. My career and livelihood is not tied to the fitness industry, as his is, but health and fitness is an integral part of my daily life. How much of our lifestyle, if any, will have to change? Will we be oddballs or will we fit in better there than we do here (being more focused on health and fitness than a lot of the general population around us)?
All I know is that I'll be packing my workout gear and my iPod, that part of our exploration will be to find a fitness center that offers day or guest passes and that I'll probably feel a whole heck of a lot better doing that than I would if I didn't workout for an entire two weeks.
I do draw the line at sticking to my strict no-carb diet on the trip. I will most certainly be partaking in all the glorious food and drink that Vienna has to offer. Which means that finding a gym may be even more important!
P.S. Gyms/Fitness Centers doesn't seem to be a major topic in any of my Vienna Guidebooks, so if anyone in the city has a recommendation, please don't hesitate to share! Danke shon.
Me (speaking with a hint of giddiness in my voice): Do you realize we'll have 2 weeks of no working out?
Him: What do you mean?
Me: In Europe, on our trip, we'll be gone for 2 weeks.
Him: So.
Me: So, we won't be going to the gym.
Him: Why wouldn't we be going to a gym? There are gyms in Vienna...gyms in England, too.
Me: And we'll go to them?
Him: Um, yea (slightly exasperated tone).
Me: To work out?
Him: Yea (again with the tone). And, actually, it's really important that we check out the gyms while we're in Vienna so we can find out what the situation is like before we move. It could be a deal-breaker.
Me: Oh. Um. Right.
All kidding aside, I have actually been thinking about this for a few days. I recently embarked on a new workout plan to get in shape for a Figure Competition . I don't think I'm actually going to compete (really can't see myself spray-tanned, sporting a bikini and heels onstage), but I do want to be in that kind of shape. I've been working hard for just two weeks now and I was, I kid you not, thinking that it'll be a shame to lose the momentum while we're out of town. I laughed at myself when I considered this because I am actually going a few steps beyond my normal diligence with that thought. But it did cross my mind. It didn't occur to me, however, to think of ways in which I wouldn't have to break my routine. It did occur to my husband, which shouldn't surprise me.
For Kiefer, having access to a gym and the ability to work out daily is essential, personally and professionally. My career and livelihood is not tied to the fitness industry, as his is, but health and fitness is an integral part of my daily life. How much of our lifestyle, if any, will have to change? Will we be oddballs or will we fit in better there than we do here (being more focused on health and fitness than a lot of the general population around us)?
All I know is that I'll be packing my workout gear and my iPod, that part of our exploration will be to find a fitness center that offers day or guest passes and that I'll probably feel a whole heck of a lot better doing that than I would if I didn't workout for an entire two weeks.
I do draw the line at sticking to my strict no-carb diet on the trip. I will most certainly be partaking in all the glorious food and drink that Vienna has to offer. Which means that finding a gym may be even more important!
P.S. Gyms/Fitness Centers doesn't seem to be a major topic in any of my Vienna Guidebooks, so if anyone in the city has a recommendation, please don't hesitate to share! Danke shon.
Goal....keep an eye on the goal.
I had to make a "big" decision today. Do I go to yoga this morning or not? I love my yoga class - I love the class, the teacher, the progress I've made with my Bird of Paradise, and I love it as part of my Saturday Morning Routine.
Recently, though, I set myself new fitness goal and the schedule I need to follow to meet this goal requires me to hit the gym today for a shoulder/bicep weight workout and a bit of cardio. It also means I've been at the gym every day this week lifting weights and doing cardio workouts. And, boy, does my body feel it! I love my yoga class, but it is quite a workout in itself. To attempt both yoga and my workout today would be too much.
So, yoga, I love you, but I'll have to come back to you. Perhaps I'll be able to take on more next Saturday, but in the meantime, I'm going to revel in the fact that I'm making this decision without too much hemming and hawing and worrying about whether it's the "right decision to make." I'm just going to grab my iPod and go.
Recently, though, I set myself new fitness goal and the schedule I need to follow to meet this goal requires me to hit the gym today for a shoulder/bicep weight workout and a bit of cardio. It also means I've been at the gym every day this week lifting weights and doing cardio workouts. And, boy, does my body feel it! I love my yoga class, but it is quite a workout in itself. To attempt both yoga and my workout today would be too much.
So, yoga, I love you, but I'll have to come back to you. Perhaps I'll be able to take on more next Saturday, but in the meantime, I'm going to revel in the fact that I'm making this decision without too much hemming and hawing and worrying about whether it's the "right decision to make." I'm just going to grab my iPod and go.
still missing you
It's hard to believe that it's been a year since we said good-bye to our Toby and helped him cross over the rainbow bridge.
Our hearts still ache for you Little T. It's not the same without you!
Our hearts still ache for you Little T. It's not the same without you!
Work wear
Let me introduce you to my street in Amsterdam. Every single brick is taken out and it's a pretty radical make over. Tyra Banks would be proud! Not the prettiest location, but we didn't have much time before the sun set. I wore this easy going outfit to a big brainstorm session of my internship. It was held at a café in the park near my house and the scones were delicious, I have to go back soon! Perhaps in the weekend I'll squeeze some pastry-time in.
H&M skirt, top & shoes - Wolford tights - Zara coral bag
H&M skirt, top & shoes - Wolford tights - Zara coral bag
Phew!
Volcanic Ash Shuts Down Air Traffic in North Europe
I am VERY glad that we weren't scheduled to travel to England today!
Lights, Camera, Fashion!
We all know shows like the City show us a polished version of reality. Nevertheless, watching it is one of my favorite no-brain activities and I get pretty cought up. After seeing an episode I feel like packing my bags - or at least my LBD - and heading to New York as soon as possible. Lights, Camera, Fashion! I came across the season 3 trailer and hadn't seen it anywhere yet so I thought I'd share the scoop ;)
workshop updates
This weekend I taught at a wonderful store in Fredricksburg VA, if you are in the area, make sure to stop by Scrapdoodles! Great store, super classroom, amazing people! I can't wait to go back and teach again!
My next class is just around the corner St Louis at The Mary Engelbreit Home Companion Workshop event! You don't want to miss this one! Click here for all the details and to register!!
I've also been hard at work on my online summer class for Big Picture Scrapbooking. More details on this one when registration opens! This is going to be an AMAZING 12 week class LOADED with ideas and techniques!! I am even surprising myself at all the fun things I am coming up with for this class!
Other upcoming classes:
May 16th - Mixed media collage workshop in Mesa AZ
A full day of my my most popular collage class - Collage Discovery Workshop at the Mystic Paper store in Historic Downton Mesa! Call the store at 480-834-0286 to register!spaces still available!
My next class is just around the corner St Louis at The Mary Engelbreit Home Companion Workshop event! You don't want to miss this one! Click here for all the details and to register!!
I've also been hard at work on my online summer class for Big Picture Scrapbooking. More details on this one when registration opens! This is going to be an AMAZING 12 week class LOADED with ideas and techniques!! I am even surprising myself at all the fun things I am coming up with for this class!
Other upcoming classes:
May 16th - Mixed media collage workshop in Mesa AZ
A full day of my my most popular collage class - Collage Discovery Workshop at the Mystic Paper store in Historic Downton Mesa! Call the store at 480-834-0286 to register!spaces still available!
May 22nd or May 23rd - mixed media class in Reston VA
Love adding new techniques to your repertoire? Join Claudine Hellmuth and discover over 14 fun-filled methods using the Claudine Hellmuth Studio product line. In this 5 hour class we'll be creating a swatch tag reference book brimming with color,texture,paint and various transfer techniques. Class details and sign up information are on the The Angela's Happy Stamper web site. Spaces are limited so sign up soon! Full for the 22nd, Sign up now for the 23rd!
August 12-14th - 3 Day Collage Discovery Intensive in Fish Creek WI
Inspired Claudine's books, Collage Discovery Workshop & Collage Discovery Workshop Beyond the Unexpected. We'll start the weekend with a focus on color mixing and expanding our color palettes. We'll move onto to a concentration on composition and design principles. Then we'll learn a combination of painterly collage techniques, which will enhance the surfaces of your collage artworks. We'll play with image transfer methods and other experimental methods of working. Call the Art Center to register at 920.868.3455 . Visit the Peninsula Art School web site spaces still available!
August 26-28th - workshops in Chandler AZ
I'll be teaching at the Creative Escape Scrapbooking event in Chandler AZ. Click here for more details
September 17-19th - Collage Beeswax Intensive in S. Portland Maine
This two 1/2 day, intensive beeswax collage workshop will focus on mixed media techniques using beeswax collage, color, and composition. Learn how to create a collage entirely with beeswax - no other glues or adhesives are necessary! You'll learn beeswax transfers, stamping in wax, layering collage, glazing colors and more! Even if you have never collaged before you'll leave this workshop feeling like a pro! . To register, visit the Artascope Studios Web site. Supply list also available on the Artascope Studios Web site here! spaces still available!
October 8-11th - 4 day Collage Discovery Intensive in Sedona AZ
The four-day workshop format will be a "Collage Discovery Intensive" inspired Claudine's books, Collage Discovery Workshop & Collage Discovery Workshop Beyond the Unexpected We'll start the weekend with a focus on color mixing and expanding our color palettes. We'll move onto to a concentration on composition and design principles. Then we'll learn a combination of painterly collage techniques, which will enhance the surfaces of your collage artworks. We'll play with image transfer methods and other experimental methods of working. To register, visit the Sedona Arts Center web site. Download the workshop itinerary and supply list, click here. spaces still available!
Hope to see you at one of my workshops! Let me know if you have any questions!
Ich vermisse dich, Dad! (I miss you, Dad)
Handsome fella, eh. That's my dad. My dad and my mom, to be precise, in St. Goar, Germany in the early 1970s.
Dad died two years ago on April 10th, which was this past Saturday. As I did last year, I spent a few days conflicted, trying to figure out just what/if/how I am supposed to mark the occasion. I don't live near family with whom I can gather to share the memories over a cup of coffee, which sounds like the best and most comforting way. I'm nowhere near the cemetery, so I can't visit his grave, and I'm not religious, so going to church or praying doesn't have the same meaning or provide solace for me as it may for others.
But as I was trying to think of "a way" to mark the date, it struck me that maybe I don't have to. Maybe it's enough that I think of him all the time, not in a "he's looking down on me" kind of way, but more just a strong presence that found me while he was sick and in the hospital and hasn't really left since he died. I don't ask for his guidance on matters or try to speak with him in any way, but I just feel him there and often find myself thinking...hmmm....I wonder what would dad have thought of this?
In the few years prior to my dad's death, my parents were able to travel some to visit family in different parts of the county (one of the advantages to us all being scattered throughout the US). In 2006, they visited me in California when I graduated with my masters degree and on that trip we went out for lovely dinner in San Francisco at the well-known restaurant, Farallon. My dad took in the entire menu and finally settled on a dish of Opa, a fish I had never heard of and I don't think he had either, which was precisely why he wanted to try it.
Sounds reasonable enough, but I remember being really surprised. I had never pegged my father for the adventurous type, regarding food or otherwise. He liked hamburger meat and mashed potatoes, potato chips and popcorn. I didn't even know he liked fish! Fishsticks, maybe, but fish?! Opa?? Truth is, I never really thought of my dad as existing much beyond my known world of house and home and family and I didn't really start to know him until the last few years of his life. Sure, I knew him as my dad, but I didn't know him as a person, as an individual, until much later in life.
Come to find out, my dad did indeed have a love for going new places, experiencing new things, and trying new foods. So, when I think to myself....hmmm, I wonder what dad would think of me moving to Vienna, I think back to that dinner at Farallon and I know that he would be thrilled. And when I wonder what I can do to honor his memory, I realize that just embarking on this adventure with Kiefer is paying homage in some way to my relatively new found understanding of him as an individual and not just my father. While I can't exactly say that I'm doing it "for him," I know that he would be so proud and excited for me. I only wish he were around to come visit us there once we're settled.
But you can be sure that I'll enjoy all the wienerschnitzel, apfelstrudel and sachre tort I can, just for him.
Put a ring on it
Rings: Ydeltuyt T: ZaraI was lucky enough to receive these two amazing cocktail rings from Ydeltuyt, a new online shop. I love a big, chuncky ring to spice up an outfit and these definately do the tric! The black ring has some shades of brown in it as well, so chic! And they're really affordable too, so it's worth checking out the shop.
And...This chick's got style on Paris VOGUE!
I'm in a Paris VOGUE online feature on bloggers around the globe! When they asked me to represent the Netherlands, I did a little dance in my living room. It's an honour to be on the website of what I regard as one of the leading magazines world wide. Bonne journée!
Casual Friday
I'm the girl who comes into work all dressed up most every day. Not necessarily suited up - pants or business-suit, that is - more often a dress or skirt and blouse. And, yes, I wear heels to work. Often.
Not today, though, and not so much for the past few weeks and I'm trying to get to the bottom of the problem. Probably not high on the list of major problems that must be solved, but it's an oddity and I'm curious. (I am a librarian, you know, we like to research things).
My gut tells me that it's because my heart isn't into it at the moment. "It" being my work. I am distracted. I have so many other things I would much rather be doing and I'm afraid that I'm starting to resent my job for keeping me from all these other activities. And, so, my appearance is an outward expression of my lackadaisical attitude toward work and my "well, if I have to be here..." attitude. That's a pretty obvious diagnosis, but it'll have to do for now because I've just used my last 15 minutes of workweek to write a blog post. See...I definitely have a problem!
Is there such a word as travelitis....honeymoonitis....kind of like senioritis?
I must admit, though, it is much easier to get around the library quickly in kicky sneakers than in heels! Maybe there is something good to this casualness after all.
illustration friday: linked
Here's my submission to this weeks' Illustration Friday theme of "Linked"!
Have a great weekend everyone!
Have a great weekend everyone!
and excited girl!
I just spent a few minutes at Mimie's Microcosms reading her review of several coffeehouses in Vienna and had my first......oh my gosh, we'll actually be in Vienna in a few weeks! moment (the visit, not the move yet - can't get too far ahead of myself). Intellectually, I know the trip is coming up. I even purchased a few travel necessities this weekend. But this was the big AHA! moment.
As I read, I could picture myself sitting in the various spots very well, drinking my Grosser Brauner and taking in the scenery. Kiefer and I are coffeehouse people and, well, Vienna is the home of the coffeehouse, so I can't think of a better place to be.
If you're in Vienna or have been there and have a favorite place, please share!
As I read, I could picture myself sitting in the various spots very well, drinking my Grosser Brauner and taking in the scenery. Kiefer and I are coffeehouse people and, well, Vienna is the home of the coffeehouse, so I can't think of a better place to be.
If you're in Vienna or have been there and have a favorite place, please share!
Lazy Girl....
I was going to blame it on the fact that we have a friend in town and, well, I can actually use that excuse for the weekend, but yesterday and today....my lack of writing.....all me....a bit of laziness!
And I don't know whether this is lazy or smart, but it just dawned on me that while I'm sitting at my computer, I pick up my phone to check my email rather than open a new tab on my browser to open gmail, just so I don't have to toggle back and forth. And this is now normal. I don't know....lazy? or efficient?
And I don't know whether this is lazy or smart, but it just dawned on me that while I'm sitting at my computer, I pick up my phone to check my email rather than open a new tab on my browser to open gmail, just so I don't have to toggle back and forth. And this is now normal. I don't know....lazy? or efficient?
Escape from Illustration Island Podcast!
I was excited to be interviewed by Thomas James of the Escape from Illustration Island Podcast last week. The episode is now online click here to take a listen!
If you haven't listened to Escape from Illustration Island before, this one is a must add to your iTunes list! I listen to it while I am working and always look forward to the new episodes. Also check out the EFII blog/web site. Lots of good info for illustrators and artists!
If you haven't listened to Escape from Illustration Island before, this one is a must add to your iTunes list! I listen to it while I am working and always look forward to the new episodes. Also check out the EFII blog/web site. Lots of good info for illustrators and artists!
illustration friday: dip again!
This is another submission for illustration friday's theme of "Dip"
I wanted to create something today just for Illustration Friday in addition to custom artwork piece that I submitted to earlier.
The past few weeks have been lots of travel and prep work for classes and I haven't gotten to make as much art as I would like. My hands are getting itchy to make something just for fun!
In this piece I am experimenting with incorporating more line work and minimal color. Something I've been wanting to play with a little bit more! We'll have to see how it develops.
So here's my "Ode to Dip" with the most delicious Nutella!
Perhaps more civilized Nutella connoisseurs wouldn't treat it as a lowly dip and use it as intended as a "spread"
But I believe when eating Nutella it should be a dip!! Dip those strawberries right in the jar!! mmmm mmmm YUMMY!!!
I wanted to create something today just for Illustration Friday in addition to custom artwork piece that I submitted to earlier.
The past few weeks have been lots of travel and prep work for classes and I haven't gotten to make as much art as I would like. My hands are getting itchy to make something just for fun!
In this piece I am experimenting with incorporating more line work and minimal color. Something I've been wanting to play with a little bit more! We'll have to see how it develops.
So here's my "Ode to Dip" with the most delicious Nutella!
Perhaps more civilized Nutella connoisseurs wouldn't treat it as a lowly dip and use it as intended as a "spread"
But I believe when eating Nutella it should be a dip!! Dip those strawberries right in the jar!! mmmm mmmm YUMMY!!!
illustration friday: dip
Here's my submission for this week's illustration friday theme of "dip"
This is a custom artwork that I created for a client. These sweet kiddos love to swim in the pool!
Have a great weekend everyone!
This is a custom artwork that I created for a client. These sweet kiddos love to swim in the pool!
Have a great weekend everyone!
A new world of friends
In my last post, I was lamenting the fact that I have a difficult time making new friends and the implications this would have on my life in Vienna. Yesterday, as I was reviewing some recent comments I've received on blog posts, it hit me......I already have made connections!
Through An American Girl, I've already "met" quite a few new people and I completely overlooked that the other day. I have a few regular commenters from Vienna and elsewhere that are friendly, funny, thoughtful, helpful. In many cases, these commenters have blogs of their own that I follow. And I continue to get comments from new people, which never ceases to surprise and delight me.
This seems, in a way, to be a new kind of friendship, these blogosphere connections. Whether they ever translate into "let's go get a cup of coffee and chat" friendships is kind of beside the point.
I've been thinking a lot about blogs and friends and the connections we're making online these days and what it all means on a social, emotional, personal relationship level. It's a little too early in the morning to delve into that (and I've used up all my pre-work-writing time), but for now, trying not to sound overly (or falsely) sentimental, I would like to recognize that these connections do have meaning.
So, thank you, to my American Girl friends and supporters......and Happy Friday!
P.S. I just looked at the calendar......exactly one month until the Honeymoon in England and Vienna! I'm so excited I can hardly breathe!
Through An American Girl, I've already "met" quite a few new people and I completely overlooked that the other day. I have a few regular commenters from Vienna and elsewhere that are friendly, funny, thoughtful, helpful. In many cases, these commenters have blogs of their own that I follow. And I continue to get comments from new people, which never ceases to surprise and delight me.
This seems, in a way, to be a new kind of friendship, these blogosphere connections. Whether they ever translate into "let's go get a cup of coffee and chat" friendships is kind of beside the point.
I've been thinking a lot about blogs and friends and the connections we're making online these days and what it all means on a social, emotional, personal relationship level. It's a little too early in the morning to delve into that (and I've used up all my pre-work-writing time), but for now, trying not to sound overly (or falsely) sentimental, I would like to recognize that these connections do have meaning.
So, thank you, to my American Girl friends and supporters......and Happy Friday!
P.S. I just looked at the calendar......exactly one month until the Honeymoon in England and Vienna! I'm so excited I can hardly breathe!
A touch of pink
Taking pictures today was a pretty difficult task, haha! I thought we finally had summer coming our way, but it was raining, windy and cold and the sun made my eyes squeeze :P But I wanted to make an outfit post no matter what, so I hope you like it :)
Dress I got in Hong Kong - Zara leather jacket and leather bag - H&M ankle boots and tights
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