the inner eye

Maurice

2012-02-15T17:01:00.000-08:00

Wow, I just finished reading Maurice by E.M. Forster in two days..what a feversih love story!!

I have seen the movie of course and am a big Forster fan, but must never had read this one. I came upon a nice copy with thick watercolor-esque paper that felt lovely to hold.

The main thing I did not know and maybe you don't know either, is that Maurice was published posthumously....sixty years after he wrote it!! Can you imagine? One piece I read quoted him saying that it was the happy ending that proved illegal..if these young men would've hung themselves, the world could've read Maurice 60 years earlier...

Of course as I was reading I was remembering Hugh Grant who looks amazing, but Rupert Graves..le sigh!! Must see more of him, even if it has been twenty years. He is kindof giving me a Keifer Sutherland vibe. Anyone have any suggestions?

Fall garden....winter greens

2012-01-06T15:16:00.001-08:00

Edythe and I went down to our neglected fall garden to see what was shakin and ended up with a big colander full of greens. Calzones were already on the menu so a feta, arugula and olive selection worked out perfectly, it was actually my favorite.

Preserved Lemons

2012-01-01T16:39:00.001-08:00

We have a small potted Meyer lemon tree and after about a year between blooms and fruition we harvested seven lovely lemons. Not wanting to use these for everyday lemon water, etc. I decided to try this recipe for preserved lemons. I will find out in a month how they turned out!

Lately

2011-12-14T12:21:00.000-08:00

The holidays are here along with fairly cold and wet and muddy and frozen weather. What to do? Make some presents and read..a lot!
Edythe helped me make these hooks. Functional art folks!!
Where are my keys??? Oh that's right, on the tiger hook where I always put them now!

I put in some hold requests at the library this summer and some of them are just now trickling in. Such as this thriller Before I Go to Sleep.
A really fast read!! Don't act like you're just going to read a few pages before dinner. Everyone will come home to a cold kitchen and you in your bed hurriedly turning pages.
I never would've picked this up but saw a review of it this summer.

Then for something completely unrelated, I found this at the goodwill on my birthday and really loved it!! Also very quick reads, I already finished number two in the series. Also, haven't read a series in a long time, so that is fun! Also I found out they made a movie/miniseries of these books and my fave Jill Scott plays the leading roll. I will be interested to peep her African accent. Go female detectives!!

My daughter's 2nd birthday is tomorrow, so we're adding that to the mix!! Hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season. Try to find a bit of quiet time every day if you can to reflect, breath and relax. Cheers!

Giving Thanks all over the Place!!

2011-11-24T07:11:00.000-08:00

My mother in law brought us this beautiful bouquet of leaves from the trees at her house, the colors are so fleeting and so attractive..beautiful!

Here is our little goose playing in the leaves downtown, the one second I could convince her to stay still!
I am so thankful to be here on this planet with all of my family and friends and I am thankful and hopefully more conscious everyday of our ability to start anew, begin again, make a new choice. Each day is truly ours to make decisions and changes for the better, the greater. Love and blessings to all.

Dia De Los Muertos and...

2011-11-09T09:41:00.000-08:00

What happened to October? Wow, the last time I posted was for the Equinox. I redid my alter for Day of the Dead and it felt good to remember all my people and to be more conscious of the passing of time.

These roses and quite a few other flowers were thinking it was time to bloom again! Our Indian summer tricked us all!

And a sneak peak of the first finished piece for our upcoming Beyond Printmaking Show at the Raven starting late November. More new work to come.

Happy Equinox

2011-09-25T10:08:00.000-07:00

As we move into the next season, my words of advice to my self are Self Care. Wishing good transitions to all.

Sixth Anniversary

2011-09-14T10:33:00.001-07:00

Labor Day weekend brought us memories of
six years ago when we tied the knot to the loud chorus of cicadas!

Beautiful flowers from the farmer's market made my day!

Serious.Studio.Cleanup..!!!!

2011-08-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

Wow, I really wish I would've taken some "before" pictures, but trust me..it was a mess! I got rid of so many old things, broken things, abandoned projects, 15 year old letters, etcetera etcetera!!
Now you can get a tour of the new and improved studio..looks like there's even some space for a table for Edythe!! (who's favorite thing, of course, is to go into Mama's studio!)

Our House, End of Summer

2011-08-15T15:50:00.001-07:00

New projects completed: stairs, water catchment, car port.

Moving On

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

Just finished my first Larry McMurtry book, and boy was it a biggie. I made it through the 800 or so pages very quickly and enjoyed it quite a bit. The description on the back mentioned "honky tonk glamour" and I was sold!
I think I will continue with McMurtry, he has a million to choose from, what should be next? Perhaps The Last Picture Show.
What have your summer reads been?

Can you handle it???

2011-06-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

Found independently of each other all in the same week!!!

Soon to be in my shop!

Gifts

2011-06-15T14:59:00.001-07:00

Lovelies for lovely friends.

Still life...

Circles and Focus

2011-04-19T10:27:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you're wondering "what's up with Megan?" What projects are happening? What's the story morning glory? I usually try to post on this blog at least once a month during the same time as I do my daughter's blog..but sometimes I am not sure what's happening. Once i hustle through my morning from 5:30-9:30 when I put the baby down I sit outside and drink my coffee and try not to spin too far from "The Next Step"...I am sure I've talked on here before about projects and general overwhelmedness and basically, walking in circles. How do we just put one foot in front of the other and do the Next Task at Hand? How do we overcome being overwhelmed by centering, focusing and I will also add- being a bit gentle with ourselves....?

We have a large garden project going on, I've started the other Etsy shop which has been going strong and really fun for me. Then there's always artwork to bring home from the gallery, jewelry to bring to the other gallery, laundry to wash, dinner to make...wait, see?
I 'm doing it right now..!!

I would love it if someone would leave a comment (it's been awhile peeps!).
Let me know if you yourself have pointers for not getting overwhelmed and staying present with your busy lives. Take care!!

New Etsy Shop!!

2011-03-17T12:14:00.000-07:00

I've had an idea for awhile to open another Etsy shop for vintage finds. I've had a name and the idea for awhile and finally started it almost two weeks ago. I already sold some items! Awesome! I still need to get business cards and some branding products going, but I'm really happy with my first sales and have high hopes for this new endeavor!

You can see a few of my sold items below.

I also got to do some photos of my items with my friend Alberta. We had lots of fun and will hopefully do it again when I have more goodies.

With my daughter Edythe.

Modeling a snap shirt.

Please check out Arizona Star Trading Company on Etsy!!

A Visit to the Heard Museum

2011-03-01T08:12:00.000-08:00

Wow, if you have never made it to the Heard Museum in Downtown Phoenix, I would absolutely urge you to go! We were there on a rainy afternoon recently and of course didn't have enough time to spend, but here are some favorites:

I was really affected by the amazing cradle boards that all different tribes made for their babies. So many hours of work went into each piece, you can imagine the maker thinking of the baby throughout the process and the intention that comes with that.

Of course all the jewelry was out of control amazing blow your mind! One thing I noticed that was of interest is that many times you cannot tell by looking if a piece was made in 1910, or 2010. Many of the old pieces are very modern in design and perhaps ahead of their time.

These long earrings from Ecuador made my day! I even took a picture of the description to remember what it said.

The Heard has multiple museums in the valley and I would urge anyone interested to attend. Beautiful building and grounds as well.

Primal Power Opening Night

2011-02-09T08:24:00.001-08:00

My Dad setting up the musica.

Edythe and I.

Matthew, my mom, Edythe, and the Rays check it all out.

Doing a block print demonstration.

It was a fun night, thanks for everyone who came! The show runs through the 15th of March, please check it out if you can!

GALLERY BEYOND WORDS

Prescott’s Unique Contemporary Gallery
204 North McCormick Street
Prescott AZ 928.778.2713

Book Recommendations

2011-01-27T09:15:00.000-08:00

Wanted to pass on two books I recently read and would highly recommend:

.
-Radical Homemakers
Reclaiming Domesticity from a Consumer Culture
by Shannon Hayes

-The Wild Trees
A Story of Passion and Daring
by Richard Preston

I was going to share some quotes from each, but I had so many pages dog-eared, I thought I would just send a blanket recommendation!! Let me know of any amazing books you've been reading.

CHALLENGE

2011-01-12T09:15:00.001-08:00

The new year is always a good time to begin new things, abandon old ways that aren't working and to re-examine our day to day lives. I am doing a two fold challenge for January. No drinking alcohol (aw sweet nectar I miss you!) and a yoga challenge through Yoga Journal.
The yoga challenge is for 21 days to incorporate yoga as a daily practice. Already I am reaping benefits from both challenges and reflecting on habits, routines and our day to day-ness that can benefit us or become a detriment. I am a very routine minded person (even more so since having my daughter) and the main thing I have realized is we really can do whatever we put our mind to.
The time is now. The place is here. Dig deep kids, because this is all the life we've got.
Wishing everyone a productive and transformative year ahead!
(also we'll see when Feburary rolls around what I will really take from this months challenges and reflections!!)

Primal Power

2011-01-04T08:11:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
I've been a bit snowbound this week which has forced me to slow down, change plans, and make lots of new jewelry.

December was quite the big month and we've all made it to the other side alive and (at least somewhat) well. My next project is a show at Gallery Beyond Words in Prescott. The opening is during artwalk on January 28th. My dad will be there playing music and I will also be doing a block printing demo starting at 6:30. It's a lovely gallery and I hope to see you there!

GALLERY BEYOND WORDS

Prescott’s Unique Contemporary Gallery
204 North McCormick Street
Prescott AZ 928.778.2713

Beyond Printmaking

2010-12-03T09:30:00.000-08:00

The Beyond Printmaking show looks great! We had a nice time at the opening, although Edythe stole the show from me!!
The show runs through the first week in January so you have plenty of time to check it out!!

With my section of work.

Happy eating cheese with grandmar.

My friends Sadira, DaNece and Rich.

Opening at the Raven tonight!!

2010-12-02T09:27:00.001-08:00

Come see some amazing artwork and have a glass of wine with us!!

Some New Work

2010-11-11T14:40:00.000-08:00

Starting work on some new pieces for our annual Beyond Printmaking show at the Raven in Prescott. Will keep you posted on the dates for the opening, etc. Let me know any responses!

End of Season Findings

2010-10-25T09:55:00.001-07:00

I raided my mother in law's garden yesterday and look what i was able to find!

Such amazing colors, great still life for a painting!

Sneak Peak

2010-09-30T11:35:00.000-07:00

Some new fall/dia de los muertos/harvest/halloween designs...

did you see that harvest moon??! sooooo cool

Will be in my shop soon!

Harvest

2010-09-16T09:39:00.000-07:00

Apples from our tree that i want to dehydrate into apple rings.

A vignette of an abundance of pears and sunflower heads.

After thinking we had no peaches (again) this year, I spied these FOUR beauties! I tell you what, they were even tastier thanks to their novelty.

Making pear sauce for Edythe from our pears. (So delish even without sugar!)

I made three pies yesterday (combined peach,apple,rhubarb) the above one for my dad. His bday is today, Happy Birthday Gramps!! We love you!

Kind of a blurry picture, but I love the stance! (from his bday in 2008)

Enjoyment, Appreciation and Privilege

2010-09-02T09:23:00.000-07:00

As summer ebbs and autumn is on its way these are words that keep coming up for me.
Enjoyment: Having a baby leads us to hopefully fully engage and enjoy the snatches of moments we get to ourselves; morning coffee, a bath, reading.
I just finished Elizabeth Gilbert's recent book "Committed" which I read in a week and laughed out loud quite a few times. One of my favorite parts is her describing her partner Felipe's habit of never getting right American celebrities names such as "George Pitt" and "Brad Cruise"!!
(seriously, i thought this was the funniest thing ever)

Appreciation: Even when we know we can surely count our blessings, how often to we truly take a moment and recognize our lovely,full, bountiful lives?
If you haven't lately, I invite you to do so.

Privilege: This has been coming up for me in terms of my daughter and what a privilege it is to see someone's first anything, (let alone everything) and to see recognition, cognition and kindness develop in such a gorgeously sweet package.

All of these words are a positive way to view our crazy world, look for the silver lining so they say. Because, really, what is our other option? As my father says " I choose hope".

Art Opening

2010-08-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

Last Friday my friend Maria Lynam and I had a great opening at NY Bagel on Gurley. My dad was there playing music. This a great cafe, please stop in and see our work if you can. It is on display until September 19th.

My mom and I with Edythe- her first art opening!

With my Dad

Hello Again

2010-08-17T09:06:00.000-07:00

I have decided to post some slice of life pics because I've been busier doing jewelry repairs and framing older artwork than making any new stuff!

For Christmas I got the Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day cookbook and it has been pretty awesome!

My favorite summer Greek Salad!

Matthew and I staying at the highly recommendable Motor Lodge in Downtown Prescott.

Sadira joined us for an awesome night out away from Precious Cakes,
go 80's Night and 2 for 1's!!

On the cover of Rolling Stone

2010-08-04T09:43:00.000-07:00

Or Pop Rocket that is!! Check out the recent issue!

Did you know I do Repairs?

2010-07-28T11:39:00.000-07:00

It's true! I can restring broken necklaces , bracelets and anklets on the highest quality bead wire.

I can drill shells for you and make them into jewelry.

I can wire wrap and chain link your prized jewelry as well as make earrings to match .

Tidbits of Life

2010-07-15T14:45:00.001-07:00

Deer in our yard eyeballing our peach tree.

An amazing sunflower in all its glory.

Peach Cobbler!

Beautiful monsoon skies.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY SALE

2010-07-09T09:14:00.001-07:00

Pictured here are just a few of the many things on sale in my shop. I am having a Christmas in July sale and offering a buy one get one 1/2 off promotion. Please visit the shop and tell all of your friends!!

Art Booth

2010-06-15T09:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend I shared a booth downtown with my friend Susie Thompson-Pixler. Saturday was pretty rough because of cold weather, but Sunday we recovered and had a great time. Thanks to my friends Raina and Alberta- my only sales on Saturday!!

Getting ready for the sale.

My trusty assistant.

Edythe visiting me at the booth.

Miss Susie of Red Boot Boutique

We found our work really complimented each other without being in competition.
Thanks Susie for a great experience!

True Love!!

2010-06-06T12:27:00.001-07:00

I bought Edythe this yellow Mexican embroidered dress and it is still too big for her, but was fun for me to put into a painting! Maybe there will be a series featuring the yellow dress!

Can I Keep Her?

2010-05-27T08:40:00.001-07:00

Inspired by our belief that Edythe loves whales!!

Two More Small Paintings

2010-05-20T11:13:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day Paintings

2010-05-13T09:54:00.000-07:00

Painted these for the grandmas!

Small new Paintings

2010-05-06T13:56:00.001-07:00

Working this small can be satisfying because it is fast!
These are 6" x 6".
I am using acrylic and watercolor crayons and pencils. Missing oil paint, but can't beat the cleanup!

Cultivate Graditude finished piece

2010-04-26T09:42:00.000-07:00

Here are the final images of the commissioned piece I made for my friends in Portland.
I love how it turned out!

New Paintings

2010-04-19T10:23:00.000-07:00

After thinking for the past year that I would like to do some painting I Finally busted out the paints and made two new pieces last week.

Painting is very different than block printing. Cutting very concrete lines and patiently carving away linoleum is meditative and slow. Painting is messy and loose.
It was fun and a good reminder to Just Make It!

Let me know any feedback you have!

New Installment of Altered Book Art

2010-04-12T13:11:00.000-07:00

Check out some new images from an altered book project I was involved in.
I am super jazzed about the cactus flowers becoming calavera eyes! Wow!

Happy Spring

2010-04-06T10:25:00.000-07:00

Edythe and the Radish

2010-03-30T09:08:00.001-07:00

I have began to write down titles for pieces to make later. While cutting radishes the other day I thought this would be a cute picture, and I like the way the two words look together.

Chain Chain Chain

2010-03-16T21:19:00.001-07:00

All will be available in my shop!

First Draft

2010-03-10T12:53:00.000-08:00

My friends asked me to make a piece incorporating the phrase "Cultivate Gratitude"
A great reminder for all of us.
This is my first draft drawing. I like the majority of it, just need to change a few things.

I have had this drawing on my to do list for weeks. Why is it so hard to begin?
Once drawing I had a great time, what's more fun then drawing pretty flowers and contemplating all of my blessings?

Will post the finished project when it's finished!

Recent Projects

2010-02-28T13:56:00.000-08:00

Happy Belated Valentine's Day!

2010-02-17T09:44:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had a lovely heart day with your loves!

Custom Piece

2010-02-11T19:17:00.000-08:00

I love doing custom work because you make things you'd never make on your own!

Daily Drawing

2010-02-02T19:17:00.001-08:00

I am starting a new art/yoga book called The Painting Path and the first "assignment" was to use oil pastels and just have fun with the medium. This is the result.
Here is what i thought of some of it: It seems the large arm is a "strong-arm" metaphor , perhaps me trying to control my uncontrollable life with my new baby.
The glowing golden figure is my beautiful daughter. I notice the stripes on my shirt remind me of a referree outfit.

Hmmm.... well, it was fun and finished in the ten minutes she gave me between wanting to eat!
After crying at the drop of a hat today, I realize how tired I am and how I can't control this process, her process of growing and needing me in order to do that.
How do I move from a referee to a facilitator?

Let it go..................

Daily Drawing

2010-01-28T13:40:00.000-08:00

I am not planning out these daily drawings..we'll see what comes out!

Courage

2010-01-25T10:34:00.000-08:00

Two posts ago I was commenting on how you can have it all, it's just really hard work... imagine my surprise when I read last Wednesday's horoscope:

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): This would be an excellent time for you to do
a lot less of everything. You're entering a phase when you can actually
help your long-term goals by being less ambitious. The point is not to give
up your drive to succeed, but rather just put it to sleep for a while. Let it
recharge. Allow it to draw energy from the deeper psychic sources that it
tends to get cut off from when it's enmeshed in the frenzy of the daily
rhythm. Do you have the courage to not work so much, not try so hard,
and not push so relentlessly?

Seriously? This is the hardest thing for me to hear. I've had recently the best excuses to slow down, (pregnancy, giving birth, now the baby) and have instead pushed onward, upward..further, next. I realized I didn't take one nap while pregnant.
Nor have I since Edythe's birth..the days are already too short!!
So can I listen to some of this advice?
I'm not sure how to take it or how to apply "less ambition".
I am the sort of person that feels awkward watching a movie and not doing some accompanying task such as making jewelry, making lists, or at least looking at a magazine for ideas for future lists!!
I am a fan of reflection and repose, perhaps I can try to practice more of these concepts.

Wordless Wednesday...is it still Wednesday?

2010-01-20T22:39:00.000-08:00

Daily Drawing Returns!!!

Thought of the Day

2010-01-13T16:20:00.000-08:00

I read this yesterday and have been thinking on it all day,

"You can have it all, it's just really hard work."

This concept is on my mind after just having my baby daughter I am determined to accomplish (within reason of course) everything I want to accomplish.
I want her to know how capable we all our and how being true to our calling and nurturing ourselves is one of the best things we can do for our kids.
(I know, get back to you when she's running around crazy and getting into everything!)

Heart Thoughts

2010-01-11T15:49:00.001-08:00

Beginning to think of Valentine's Day coming up...
lots of red and pink jewelry on the horizon.
Time for us to contemplate all the people we love.

Wordless(ish) Wednesday

2010-01-06T14:00:00.001-08:00

seeking circles

also...big shoutouts and mad love to all the new souls of the holiday season;
Edythe Estelle Maxine
Campbell Soren
Holden Theodore

***********all born to Redheads, watch out world!!!!!!!************

Some Silver Love

2010-01-04T11:45:00.000-08:00

I have been admiring Linda Norton's work for some time now. She lives in Ajo! I especially love this piece, but really enjoy all of her work.

I am totally obsessed with this Cat Power song, I could just play it over and over again..which is what I've been doing! It is from her Jukebox album, which is all covers so I was curious who did it originally...
I wasn't too surprised to discover it was by The Highwaymen. Made up of some of my all time faves- Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson.
Check out their version here.
Not as haunting as Cat Power's version.

OMG, Team Dean and Hoppin' John

2010-01-01T16:10:00.000-08:00

So I looked at the date of my last blog post and it was Dec.7th, the day before I went to my doctor for my prenatal check up, was promptly diagnosed with pre-eclampsia and told to go to the hospital. The next two weeks were spent in Phoenix at the hospital with tubes,catheters, various other craziness that I'll spare you... and then this little baby.....

Six weeks early changes a lot of plans and I am now in the process of being a mom and trying to Be Here Now, instead of planning weeks ahead all of my glorious schemes.
I started this blog last January and have enjoyed doing it and hopefully being motivated through it, which is still the goal.
I have some ideas for daily drawings, etcetera that I want to begin but I am putting them slightly on hold while I get the house and everything under control.
(this goes back to doing too much, too soon and not being chill enough)
So in the meantime I will be posting small inspirations, images and goodies to keep me involved in the blog with out over doing it.

In that simple spirit, some pics of Hoppin' John that I made today. So good and brings Good Luck!! Can't beat that!

I am wishing us all peace and inspiration in the coming year.
We are capable and open, ready to begin.

Another Amazing Trade

2009-12-07T07:51:00.000-08:00

While getting ready for my baby shower I wanted to make an altar and began searching for goddess sculptures on Etsy.
I ran across the work of Katharina from Gislebertus and fell in love with all of her amazing sculptures!

She was open to doing a trade and it turned out her parents live in Prescott! Small worlds right?!

These are the pieces I traded for her amazing piece pictured above.

I love how the altar came together and want to thank Katharina again for her openness and kindness. Check out her shop!!

This Friday

2009-11-30T06:43:00.000-08:00

Please join me and two fellow artists for a holiday show and sale!

Thirty-Three

2009-11-23T13:09:00.000-08:00

I turned thirty-three on Thursday. Sounds like a pretty good number, double the fun!
Some thirty-three facts, according to wikipedia:

The atomic number of arsenic
A normal human spine has 33 vertebrae when the bones that form the coccyx are counted individually
33 is according to the Newton Scale, the temperature when water boils.

A significant number in modern numerology, one of the master numbers along with 11 and 22

33 is the coming of age of a hobbit in J. R. R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings

Well, I do feel I am coming of age, at least a new age. Wednesday is my last day of work at the coffee shop. The Jerome gallery is wrapping up at the end of December.
I am cleaning the slate, clearing a path for my daughter to join me here.
Wish me luck.

Beyond Printmaking

2009-11-16T18:39:00.000-08:00

A group of nine women printmakers currently has a show up at the Raven in downtown Prescott.

It's a great mix of work and very affordable.

This show will be up until January so you have plenty of time to check it out.

We're considering having another opening in December, I will keep you posted.

We did a show here last year and were successful.

This year the art director hung all our work inter mingled instead of in sections.
It looks great!

Hope you can all make it by!

Bisbee Butter

2009-11-05T13:44:00.001-08:00

Bisbee is known for its Bisbee Blue turquoise, and now it might be known for another alliterative title- "Bisbee Butter".

Apple Butter that is! The great place we stayed at had some amazing apple trees that we were told we could help ourselves to. Well you don't have to tell me twice!!

I am a big fan of free fruit, urban harvesting , etc.. AND these apples were deliciously tart and gorgeous as well. Hardly a worm was found!

All I've been doing for apple butter is cutting up the apples, (peels on) and putting them in the slow cooker with nutmeg and cinnamon- not even any sugar!
This batch turned out delicious and a very charming shade of burgundy.
I cooked the apples on low for about 7-10 hours.
And walla! Awesome Bisbee Butter!

......Bonus round... the first person to comment on this post receives a jar of the aforementioned butter...send me your address.....! fun!

WOW!!

2009-10-29T18:19:00.001-07:00

I went over to Matt's classroom to bring him some food and spied this AWESOME drawing one of his students did for him...

I guess it's true what they say...there's no messing with The Dean!

YES!

More Altered Book Art

2009-10-26T16:17:00.001-07:00

Okay, Crazy....

2009-10-22T13:57:00.001-07:00

So let me introduce you to my Tomatillo plant.
Planted in May along with everyone else, she grew very big, but no blooms.

I think she thought she was a house plant because she was hanging out with all the other house plants. Then... last month, right as we're about to pull all the plants up in the garden and put the houseplants inside,etc...
She blooms.

Lots of blooms!

And now little tomatillo husks and fruit are appearing!
On their own time line I guess!
So should I leave her outside and hope she doesn't get frozen...

.....or bring her in and try to coax the little husks along?
Life isn't crazy enough evidently!!!!!!!!

I Heart Bisbee

2009-10-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

I have always loved Bisbee, but had not been back to visit for awhile. Matthew had never been and for his official First Fall Break we went.

It was truly gorgeous with beautiful days and cool nights.

We relaxed and enjoyed ourselves immensely.

Good friends and perfect Arizona weather!
We stayed at the Gardens and would definitely recommend!

Some Beginning Preparations

2009-10-05T15:48:00.000-07:00

I know we all love this time of year!
I am excited to be on the ball enough this time around to be working on some Day of the Dead jewelry and artwork.

Halloween and Day of the Dead jewelry with skulls, reds and lots of wood and bone.

I am hoping to participate in a Day of the Dead Celebration at Sharlot Hall and these pieces are being made for that event taking place November the 1st.

Also made these postcards that were quick and fun!

Looking forward to cleaning and re-doing my alter and will be sure to share pictures of that with you!

Pomegranate Prints

2009-09-30T16:10:00.001-07:00

I have been thinking of natural dyes and natural ways of making art work.
These are experiments with pomegranate juice as an ink.

Gorgeous colors!

I am thinking of adding graphite to these images, but they are also nice as is.

This was fun to do, I am also going to try strong brewed tea as a colorant.

I am surprised at the variation of color. Fun!

Happy Equinox!

2009-09-23T15:30:00.000-07:00

Well, yes I know I am a day late, but I thought this too nice not to share.

Hope you all head a lovely day yesterday and more lovely (cooler) days to come!

LOOT

2009-09-18T08:07:00.001-07:00

Goodies from the gem show in Tucson!

We had a lovely time visiting friends and buying beads.

Now I need a week locked in my studio.....

Have a great weekend!

The Approaching Fall

2009-09-10T16:41:00.001-07:00

Getting some inspiration by the changing seasons.
New pieces in the shop.

Going to Tucson for the Gem Show this weekend, lots to share when I return!
Enjoy your weekend.

24 Hour Trip

2009-09-07T18:59:00.000-07:00

The best thing about Flagstaff could be it's close vicinity to us! A get away without too much time wasted in the car!

Matthew and I came to stay the night at the Monte Vista for our fourth wedding anniversary.

Luckily, it was also Flagstaff's First Friday Art Walk.
This was super cool because you can go into all the shops in the evening instead of trying to fit them all in the next day.
Also, I must say, I was quite impressed with the crowds, the food at all the galleries, the music and the camaraderie of galleries and shops alike.
Even the local bead store had wonderful live music and quite the spread.

We went to Brandy's for breakfast mainly for me to check out more artwork by Shonto Begay,
which was wonderful but hard to see amongst the breakfast rush.

Mattthew and I both used to live in Flagstaff so we cruised our old hoods and made a long stop over at Bookman's. Getting out of town , no matter how close or far, helps our perspective.
And how about that rain on Saturday! Who-hoo!!!

Some ideas for new Block Prints

2009-09-01T17:09:00.000-07:00

This is a drawing I made before I was pregnant.

This is an idea I had on how we can be connected to the world through our grief, how it is beneficial. The tears become seeds which bloom into flowers. Maybe a good idea, but I need a different perspective, this one looks too familiar.
Getting back into the groove of printmaking, Monday was my first day beck in the lab.

Mar and Lar Make it to 36!!!

2009-08-24T13:53:00.001-07:00

This past week my parents celebrated their thirty-sixth wedding anniversary!

They are truly an inspiration to me and everyone who knows them.
I think they still like each other!!
They still have a good time together!

Maybe it's because Mar's so cute! (and keeps us laughing)

Matthew and I are are so lucky to see them at least once a week and to share this life together.

We wish them many more years of the good life
and we love you!!

Matthew and I will celebrate our 4th anniversary in two weeks!

My New Mantra

2009-08-22T11:33:00.000-07:00

"She's got everything she needs, she's an artist. She don't look back."
Bob Dylan

Came across this Bob Dylan song again recently and remembered how much I liked it.

We really have everything at this exact moment that we need to take us to the next moment. We're exactly where we need to be right now.

After a trying couple of weeks, I am ready to have a good time, anticipate the change of seasons and get busy being positive and kicking ass!
Printmaking is on again and after a full summer of jewels, jewels and more jewels I am ready for a shift.
I made my goal of having at least a hundred items in my shop and now I suppose I'll just keep going!! The shop is brimming with cool stuff so please check it out!

Matthew's Celebratory Dinner

2009-08-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

I made this Plum Pie for dessert at our congratulations dinner party in honor of Matthew's new teaching job. I added blueberries to the pies and served them with vanilla ice cream.
They were awesome!

Give this a try if you have some summer plums!

Our Friend Judith

2009-08-11T15:10:00.000-07:00

It's been quite awhile since I've written.
(Wasn't I the one who started off with blogging every other day?!)
Alot has happened. Matthew got a teaching job, the days are creeping into September
and a change of seasons, school started for the youngsters yesterday,
and our friend Judith passed away.

Through thinking about her this week, I realized how in basically every big event in my life for the last twenty years, Judith has been there.
High school and college graduations, marriage...lots of birthdays and parties.

The lesson when someone dies is always remember how prescious every day is and how fleeting this life is. To appreciate people and do your best. Every day.

Do what you need to do today, let people know what you think, proceed with conviction.

Enjoy yourself and laugh, laugh, laugh.

Like our friend Judith.

What Cool Breezes Do

2009-07-23T14:18:00.001-07:00

It is so beautiful outside right now, I thought I'd share some outside photos.

Matthew's sunflower patch is starting to bloom.

The beginning of veggies!

Cool rain catchment barrel bought for cheap at an animal feed store. This filled up So Quickly! We need many more.

Crazy Lupita.

The view from above.
We're going camping tomorrow! I'll return with many beautiful photos. Have a great weekend!

Your Lousy Career

2009-07-16T22:12:00.000-07:00

So i read the first Twilight book and was all into it, and then finished and now...don't have the next one. All checked out at the library, don't really want to buy one.
So... in the meantime, I picked up "Nine Stories" by J.D. Salinger.
(from my downstairs guest room/ bookstore!)
I was really into all his stuff in high school, so it had been awhile. Very abrupt and poignant.
Then last nite I heard Colbert talking about J.D. Salinger. He's still alive. Writing, but not publishing.
I loved the following passage from Uncle Wiggily in Conecticut:

"Like hell it is. Who called who? And who came two hours late? You're gonna stick around till I'm sick of you. The hell with your lousy career."

For some reason I just can relate to that concept- your lousy career!!

This is a picture of J.D. Salinger

Wordless Wednesday

2009-07-08T13:21:00.000-07:00

Altered Book Exchange

2009-06-29T13:49:00.001-07:00

I wanted to share with you an Altered Book Exchange project I am involved with at the moment.
This is the first time I've done Altered Books with a group. It's super fun and exciting!

In our project my friend Jen Casados got a group of 10 folks together to do the exchange.
To begin you send out a list of all participants addresses. Everyone picks out their own book and then sends it to the person below them on the list.
Next you have a month to do whatever you want to your book before sending it to the person after your name on the list.

The only rule set was to alter at least 4 pages in the book.

I am showing you some of the altered pages in the second book I have received.

It's really exciting to see what other people think of to do in their alteration of the book.

And let's not forget- it's nice to get mail!!!
Especially fancy altered mail like this!

Jen got all kinds of people involved, artists and others and I think everyone's really going to town with it. We might have another group going soon.
I would recommend anyone starting an Altered Book Exchange! Get some creativity flowing and have some fun! Thanks to Jen for getting ours off and running!

Jazz, Rain and....

2009-06-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

Am I really going to yoga class? Or am I content to stay home. Billie Holiday, some jewelry making? Sounds pretty good. Dang, it's only Tuesday, that's pretty early in the week to be skipping class.

So, as I contemplated what to blog about today, I wondered what have I been doing?

Lots of jewelry and work on the shop , lots of outside work, and???? Shouldn't there be an And, I mean the days sure are flying by like the hours are occupied! So, I went out in the rain and took some pretty pictures to show you a little something of what I've been up to.

I cleaned the upstairs screened-in porch (which we never use) and have set up a little painting area alfresco. I got the glass for my palette and everything, so I should be busting out some paints by the end of the week.

I tell you, I love this weather, but my chiles and tomatoes? Not so much. They're wondering why I planted them in the fall!!

Some new Jewels

2009-06-09T15:36:00.001-07:00

Check out some new pieces!

Why yes, that is a sterling silver Pegasus!!

Ocean Jasper, ya'll!

Can you say Magikal Fairy Princess Crystal Necklace??

Check out these and more over at my Etsy shop!!

Artists have the Best Art

2009-06-07T17:28:00.001-07:00

One fantastic thing about being an artsy fartsy sorta gal is TRADES! Most artists you know probably have the best collection of art, we can't buy it, but dang it we can trade! I just made an incredible trade with my fellow coop member Ellen J.D. Roberts.
Check it out:

Also, check out my end of the trade:

In these trying times we should always be on the lookout for barter opportunities. It's a win win!!

Yes We Can!

2009-05-28T15:57:00.001-07:00

Paul Hawken's commencement speech:

"There is invisible writing on the back of the diploma you will receive, and
in case you didn't bring lemon juice to decode it, I can tell you what it
says: YOU ARE BRILLIANT, AND THE EARTH IS HIRING. The earth couldn't
afford to send any recruiters or limos to your school. It sent you rain,
sunsets, ripe cherries, night blooming jasmine, and that unbelievably cute
person you are dating. Take the hint. And here's the deal: Forget that this
task of planet-saving is not possible in the time required. Don't be put off
by people who know what is not possible. Do what needs to be done, and
check to see if it was impossible only after you are done."

Saturday June 6th is our annual group show opening in Jerome at the Cooperative Gallery.
Our theme this year is "Yes We Can".
It's so easy to get overwhelmed and negative these days, I enjoyed the opportunity to make a new piece ( a close up of my Rosie the Riveter is above) and also to be reminded that against all odds, we are capable. Perhaps we are expecting outcomes and privileges instead of counting our limbs and our blessings.
I loved the above excerpt of the commencement address! Appreciation is key ya'll!
If anyone is interested in attending the opening with me, let me know!

Portand, land of Beauty

2009-05-21T15:49:00.001-07:00

Here are some pics of Portland as promised. We had such an awesome time and I only wish we could have stayed longer. The green growing things, not to mention the flowers really blew our little Arizonan minds...."so this is what water does?!"

We were blessed with perfect weather, amazing food and some of our favorite people in the world! Art you say? Museums? Oh yeah, if you go, remember all museums are closed on Mondays. Dangit.

Before I Forget...

2009-05-14T13:36:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Wanted to do a post on some fellow Etsians and time just keeps ticking by!
The photo below is from HankieTankie, and is very similar to a piece I bought for myself in Portland at the Saturday Market. I thought what an Awesome Idea! I am a big sucker for vintage linens..but after a point you run out of surfaces- not anymore!
Now we can wear them!!!

Etsy has a shop local section and I ran across this awesome shop by Desert Soapstone, selling soap of course, but also this AMAZING gardenia patchouli solid scent. I'm not kidding when I say this could be the best smell ever. Kelli from Desert Soapstone and I met when she brought me all my goodies and we hit it off! We hope to be working on some networking and upcoming shows together. Check her out for wonderful products!

A while ago I was looking for instructions on printing on fabric and came across Jezze's awesome blog that I follow and her amazing etsy shops. I have yet to purchase anything but I love everything she makes! She is a busy lady. I won a drawing she was having for a cool embossed notebook which she sent me all the way from her home in South Africa! Probably about time I send her a little treat in the mail!!!!

This is just a taste of what is awaiting you on Etsy! Check it out!

I will be blogging soon on my amazing quick trip tp Portland.....stay tuned!

The Finished Jerome Window

2009-05-05T17:15:00.000-07:00

Kind of hard to see thru the glass, but still pretty cool!

Very fun to do!

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop

2009-04-28T16:46:00.000-07:00

This weekend my mother in law Connie and I attended a workshop on rainwater harvesting at Manzanita Village, a co-housing community here in town. Supercool! We ate really good food and shoveled LOTS of dirt. We learned about tanks for holding water as well as basins and berms that you make with dirt to hold water.

We received books written by Brad Lancaster from Tucson and the workshop was taught by Andy Millison.

Some of the co-housing guys playing drums!
Everyone from Manzanita Village was so nice it was crazy!

This is where the cistern will go.

I encourage everyone to look into some type of water harvesting- it makes sense ya'll!

Enjoying

2009-04-22T17:56:00.000-07:00

The small things. Notice and see.

That Song

2009-04-16T17:30:00.000-07:00

Do you have one of those songs that just really gets you? You probably have more than one, you probably know exactly what I mean. I was just making chicken burgers upstairs when I heard my song and.... I started thinking. I was imagining how different life would be if just one action hadn't happened. One fork in the road chosen differently, I had tears in my eyes thinking "does anyone else get this song like I do? Do I have a kindred spirit somewhere in the world tearing up every so often over words and music?"

Goodness! Being a sap of this level is SUCH a full time job!!!

I also wanted to share some new work that I'm very excited about. Let me know what you think.

Oh yes, and if you want to hear My Song, check it out.
Have a wonderful weekend! AND a birthday shout out to my homegirl Sadira!!!!!!!!!

Window Display for Jerome

2009-04-08T19:20:00.001-07:00

So we have a display window at the gallery in Jerome, and I've never put anything in it because flat prints seemed kind of boring, so I had an idea.

I thought about creating a scene that would showcase relief printing while telling a story. I walked around the goodwill and looked at every item in the context of- "can i print on that?"

My idea is to portray a woman leaving. I have lots of bags and also there will be notes, cards etc.

I am doing the window not this friday but next so I will photograph the scene in its entirety.

I really love the shoes and the phone!!!

This wooden piece is for mail/letters/bills and keys, I would definitely print on another one of these. Here's to expanding our possibilities!

Good Lord, the WIND

2009-04-03T16:40:00.000-07:00

Seriously folks, it's ridiculous. Also ridiculous (but not as bad) is that I haven't blogged since last weekend and here it is this weekend. I've been busy putting lots of gorgeous jewels in the shop.

I finished re-reading American Nomads by Richard Grant and I heartily recommend it! I dog eared about 20 pages if that tells you anything. I am now reading an Ellen Gilchrist book "I Cannot Get You Close Enough" which is very good.

There is new thrift store in town and I rescued these gems:

I have some artistic weekend plans and tonight I will be watching movies and staying out of the wind!!!!!!!!!

Doubt

2009-03-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

While in Jerome at the gallery yesterday I was overwhelmed with feelings of insecurity and wonder regarding if I was on the right path, if I was doing the right thing "trying to be an artist". Everyone was selling so much more work than me, succeeding so much more than me. I felt depressed and wondered what is it going to take? What is this secret formula I seem unable of possessing?

Why doesn't everyone like me??? Notice I said me and not my work. Why are we so hard on ourselves and seemingly ready at a moments notice to throw ourselves under the bus? Why is it so hard to believe in ourselves?

This kind of thinking and wallowing doesn't happen to me that often so I think I take it particularly hard when it does. Today of course was a different story. I went outside with my coffee and looked at the beautiful blue sky and marveled at how nice it was without 50 mph winds and thought; okay- what's the plan?

The nature of creativity alone is a topic, but once you add pricing, selling and the "audience factor" you can really screw yourself up. I reminded myself of one of my favorite quotes on the subject- "Through the work comes the work." In other words, get busy.
This is your job. Just make it. The rest will sort itself out.

Please check out this talk by Elizabeth Gilbert who wrote Eat, Pray, Love. It's very inspiring, but it's about 20 minutes so be ready to sit down and contemplate.

Where I'm From

2009-03-24T20:27:00.000-07:00

So, how was the trip? Well, it is always a mixed bag; depressed areas, old people getting older, Wal-Martization of the ma and pops...(in this case even Bashas is like a mom and pop compared to wal-mart)...

Also, open country, amazing sky, and an abundance of what I started referring to as
" Quality Rust".

We got to see family members on both sides who are making it, suffering, struggling, juggling, retiring, ....hoping, just as we all are everywhere.

We saw old cars everywhere, various piles of piles promising some rarely needed but indispensable tool. Who has saved all this junk? And who will eventually have to deal with it?

And then, after our rounds were made, our commitments satisfactorily taken care of, we saw our other reason for coming; our sense of strife and any sort of worry lifting as we turned the corner, to the "end of the road" and made it , back again, traveling six hours to get here...
to the river.

Perfect Weather for

2009-03-18T15:47:00.000-07:00

Southern rock, a cold beer, a road trip.....

Oh yes, the road is calling. Matthew and I are such

jet setters that you will find us heading to Eastern,

Arizona this Friday. Specifically Duncan, Safford

and Clifton. And the River.

Must make it to some running water to at least say

Hello.

I am excited to be getting out of

town at all. See some new sights, visit

old haunts, see our family and bask in

the sunshine.

I will see you all next week with new awesomeness

and fancy photos from another side of our state.

Cheers!

2009-03-16T18:49:00.000-07:00

After hitting the wall on Saturday and not being able to make it to Sadie's fabulous party, I did accomplish some Sunday stuff. We raked some leaves and went up to Granite Basin, as you can see from these new photos.

It was a gorgeous day, not too windy and we got to feel cool in the Old Truck.

The week ahead is busy.. Spring Break for lots of folks. Should have new goodies to show shortly.

I am re-reading the first Richard Grant book, "American Nomads". It's so good, but it's one of those books where I know I've read it yet, if so, how am I not remembering all this awesome stuff? Good nightly history lessons!

Weekly Wrapup

2009-03-13T14:49:00.000-07:00

The week has flown by as usual, but I will say it was productive and hopefully the weekend will be as well. Matthew and I actually have a day off together on Sunday and we will be going on a drive in the New Truck. A drawing to share that I made yesterday.

Also, I have joined Facebook finally so everyone can relax! Have a great weekend!

Wednesday..... oh really??

2009-03-11T19:21:00.000-07:00

Full moon? Oh yes. For those of you well versed in "Moonstruck" that was Cosmo's Moon...!

So some new experiments with wood burning to share.

These are fun because after working with so much linoleum and carving I am craving something LOOSE and free. I also am enjoying getting back into having words along with the imagery. For many years I couldn't make a piece of art with out Words on it!

I also seem to have some paint and big brushes rolling around in my head. We shall see!