Late Night Tea

A few nights ago I had tea with my girls. I had promised them all day that we'd have tea--REAL tea--& fancy cookies. But, the day got away from me. And I am not one to break my promises, so we had a late night tea. We were all in our pajamas & it was loads of fun! We filled their tiny tea set pots & jars with real sugar & real milk & set out fancy linens for our fancy cookies. The girls set the table up with everything in its proper place. Some plates chipped, some pieces missing, but STILL all very functional. The girls were having a major Ooohh! & Ahhhh! moment.




And in other news: I've got loads to do, but not loads of time to do it....
I'm working on a couple custom orders, which are going way too slow for my liking....I'm photographing Ugly Biz Cards for the voting coming up soon. Be patient with me if the photos are not available for the peeking first thing Sept. 2nd. I'm workin' on it, I'm workin' on it.....I've got my BFF's swap package to send off. (It's Beck at Little Daisy Chains!) This was a swap that she & I decided to do on our own. It's kinda fun because there are no rules. We are just making & purchasing items that we feel would be fun for the other person. I'll make sure I take pics after I send it...I also need to photo some items for my shop...send some packages off on an adventure in the mail.....& prep for a day of boating fun tomorrow!!! And I'm sure there are tons of other little things I'm forgetting about that need to be done. All the while I'll be stopping to smell the flowers, or course.


BORING, BORING, I know.....


Have a great Labor Day Weekend!! You might not see me around this weekend. As I'll be busy & all. But.....I still love ya!
Oh yeah, & I'm looking for sushi stuff for a best friend of mine, he loves sushi. I've doinked around Etsy & will probably buy some stuff there. I'm thinkin' magnets? Notecards?...I even saw a cute sushi catnip toy! (For his cat.) Shall I try to draw sushi? I've never eaten the stuff! I'll need to do some research. It grosses me out. I'll gag while sketching. Bleck! Anyway, if any of you know of some great sushi crafts, let me know!!! Thanks peeps!
Oh & my new slogan is: Rock on with your crafty self!!!
I'm outtie.

An Afternoon at the Fair!

First of all, I'm shocked we actually went! The ole hubby complains every year that the fair is "Hot, stinky & dirty." (So we never go.) But, it was HIS idea that we should go this year! That's why I'm shocked. And, to give him credit, it was hot,stinky & dirty. Oh, & let me add expensive. But, I had a blast anyway!!!!

We started out trying to find the animals. We found them RIGHT away. Zoey picked up on the scent. Zoey was so wanting to pet the horse, but as you can see, she was a little afraid.

The bunnies were the cutest! Here, the girls pet the most OBESE bunny I have ever met. I should've asked his name. But, for our purposes here we'll call him "Chunkers" or "Little Bunny Lard Butt".

And we HAD to play those "impossible to win" carnival style games. It's funny 'cause I helped Zoey with one game: you had to shoot a water gun into a clown's mouth & the more you squirt in its mouth, the bigger the balloon blows up on his head. (Oh my gosh. Typing that out makes it sound so weird.) Well, we were competing with a little girl & her DAD! Whoever had their balloon pop first won. Well, thank the Almighty Lord of Heaven & Earth & Carnival Games because it was a TIE! yay! It was a good thing because I would've hated to see that little girl lose. HAHA!

The funniest part (looking back, of course) of our fair experience had to be when we visited the baby chicks. I held one right away. (Auh, they're so cute. ) I remember one pooping on my hand in Kindergarten. (That wasn't so cute.) I was hoping that wouldn't happen again. Zoey held the baby chick so gently. And then Pazely wanted to hold one. I immediately got nervous. She put it in her hands for, like, a half of a second. She pulled her hands away SO quickly! The chick dropped to the floor. Don't worry, it was OK. How do I know it was OK? Because it started running around like a chicken with its head cut off. HAHAHA! Ok, for reals-back to the story...I was so worried that someone was going to step on it. There were people everywhere! So, I crouched down & started chasing the little guy while yelling, "There's a chick on the loose! There's a chick on the loose!" No one seemed to even care. I finally caught the crazy chick & we got out of there FAST!!

And man, look at how glossy my forehead & face was! It was hot people. The poor girls had hot red cheeks all day!

My favorite part of our fair experience was sliding down a HUGE slide. AND--it was PINK!!!! Zoey & I went down side-by-side. I have to admit that when we got to the top of the many, many flights of stairs, I started to have a mini panic attack. Man, that was high up! I had to be all brave & cool for Zoey though, so I pushed her out of the way so I could be the first to sit down on the slide & ready for take-off. Not really! It was a blast! It was the only ride I went on because I wanted to be the photo-chik.

I also got to eat a giant elephant ear! I haven't had one of those since I was a kid. In fact, I don't think I've been to the fair since I was a kid!

I'm working on a custom order right now for a set of Paper Fortune Cookies for a bridal shower. All the sayings have to do with "love". I've had so much fun looking up quotes & finding the perfect sayings to print on the "fortunes". It made me think that I need to find a quote that fits ME just perfectly. I'm on the hunt...

Oh, & my DORK scrabble tile ring set SOLD yesterday! I'm kinda sad to say goodbye to the little guy! But, I'll have to come up with another cheesy ring set! Rock on with your crafty self!

YOWZA! It's the Sunday Featured Artist...Innocent Charms!

We're going international again! This week, I'm glad to show off the talents of Kara. I can honestly say as I look at her jewelry work & it only seems to get better & more fabulous! And this "Amber & Butterfly Necklace" in her shop, Innocent Charms, is to DIE FOR!

OK, the Q & A begins.......NOW!

Where were you born, where are you from, where did you grow up, & where are you living now?I was born in the historic city of Canterbury in Kent, UK. To be honest, being only 26 I have not left the County apart from the 7 months when I lived with my Grandparents on their ranch in California. My dream is to go and live in America.

What inspires you?Oh what a toughie, well I honestly have to say in my Jewelry making it's my beads, it may sound silly but they talk to you- well me anyway. It used to be quite hard cause I could only buy on the internet but now my dear husband, a couple of times a year, drives me the 5 hours to Bead Fairs and then I can feel and play with the beads. Also a lot of my work features Lampwork Beads and the twist, turns and patterns in them usually assist in my piece.
In my rare and not great papercrafts, which I am trying to expand, I honestly have to say other Artists and the world around me influence me a great deal. I also pull on my Art History A’ level quite a bit.

How long have you been crafting?Not long by many standards. I have been making my Jewellery and Polymer Clay Beads for about 4 years now, it's amazing how much they have changed in that time. Papercrafts, although, I have only recently started using again. My Mom is an Artist and has done many things over the years including designing labels for Gucci Children’s Clothing, so I always use to go and play in her Craft room since I was young.

Share about, or describe your favorite piece.Wow this is hard; my taste changes so quickly, which is why my style of Jewellery tends to. I suppose if I was to choose from my Etsy shop, it would be the piece entitled “Silver Circles” I love the Lampwork Beads Focal and it uses shell beads which I do love very much. But next week I am sure I will have another fave, as there are on my website http://www.innocentcharms.co.uk/.

What’s your favorite color?Well this is easy to answer and will never change: PINK! Is there any other colour in the world? Well not in mine. But I love colour combos too, like Pink and Brown, Pink and Turquoise, Brown and Turquoise and the old favourite Black and White.

What one thing did you believe as a child, that as an adult you now realize was silly?Honesty, it’s a sad truth now I realize, that not everyone tells the truth. I am such a child and Innocent person as my hubby tells me, I think people shouldn’t lie.
On a silly note I also thought my dad had a super fast car that could jump over bridges, now I just know he drove too fast.

How much time do you spend on your craft?Not Enough, LoL! Well for me it changes quite a great deal from week to week, but I suppose on average about 15 hours a week in my craft room, about half of that on Jewellery, but I also spend hours every day at the boring day job on the Internet looking into crafts, new designs and supplies, oh and on Nikki’s blog.

What were some of your most recent purchases from other Etsy artists?The most gorgeous handmade bag for my sister’s birthday from BeckyKay Designs, it's so well made and a bargain.
I bought- now don’t laugh- some smurf badges from Rainbow-Swirlz, my brother-in-law is smurf mad.
And I have ordered a custom order from Christine of MyBellaCole through her Etsy shop, Bella Colle of some of her great charms.
I really want soo much for myself on Etsy so I'm sure this list will go up, especially one of Nikki’s Banners.

Use three words to describe yourself.Crazy, Friendly, Tired

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given on pursuing your craftiness?“Follow your heart, your talent will eventually be noticed by others, don’t give up hope.” By 2 of my Aunts when I was thinking of giving up.

What are your goals or dreams in regards to your art?I want to take over the world, LOL, no in all honesty, I just want people to appreciate the world of Handmade and of course buy some of my creations. I want to be able to give up my full time employment and live in the world of craft. I also want to, every year, learn new techniques and make my work even better than the year before.

What is your favorite flav of ice cream?Well in all honesty I don’t eat ice cream much as I get a headache, but whenever I come to the states I have to get a blizzard from DQ.

What do you like to do when you are not being super crafty?Shop – for everything, handbags, shoes and crafty bits. I also love traveling.

What else would you like people to know about you?

I love people, all I want from life is people to be happy and to have as many friends as possible. I am a talkaholic, so pop by my blog if you wish but I can assure you I probably won't leave you alone cause I love talking and meeting new people, sorry Nikki at least now you know. LOL.

Thanks Kara!! Chat away my friend, I love the company! And, by the way, smurfs rock! Don't you remember my embarrassing story of searching for smurfs in the desert when I was a kid?

Have a great Sunday everyone & I'll have pics & stories TOMORROW of my adventures at the Fair from yesterday!

The Fair!

We're going to the fair today with the girls! YAY! I hope to have pics & stories to share...

The Good Stuff.

I had this blog post saved in my files, waiting for a decent time to post. I looked at my friend Laura's blog today, katydiddys, & see she has a post that shares similar thoughts. It's funny when that happens...

Whenever I used to get pretty soaps or lotions for Christmas or a lovely perfume for my birthday, I'd always save using it for a special occasion. I guess a "special occasion" was a rare one because the unused lotions got lost in the back of the linen closet or knocked over & accidentally tossed out with old bottles containing questionable & murky looking liquids. The barely empty perfume bottles would get old & lose that smell they once had, & take on a new fragrance--a not so lovely scent. The soaps would remain unused & get dusty.

I once had a beautiful bathroom with nice towels, lush & pretty ones, so full & soft & new. But, they stayed untouched & kept their proper place as decor, while I used a skinny limp cloth that claimed to be my bath towel.

I used to make special purchases for my art & crafty supplies. I'd stumble upon beautiful papers or expensive trims, but I wouldn't use them right away. I'd save them for a special project that might come up. They eventually got saved too long & got lost in one of the many giant piles in the art studio, only to be bent or crumpled & then become useless for ANY project.

I received a place setting for 4 from my great grandpa several years ago. I packed it away for use on holidays or when special guests gathered in my home. I always forgot about those dishes until AFTER the "special" event happened. They were stacked extremely high up in my cupboard.

One day I questioned myself. Why am I saving the GOOD stuff? Why can't I use the good stuff now?

The answer to those questions did not involve a philosphical answer. I did not have to contemplate until the end of eternity to figure out what to do or why or how. I decided I COULD use the good stuff. And I WOULD use the good stuff. And I DID use the good stuff.

So now, not only does the beautiful china serve its purpose for holidays, but I eat my Lucky Charms from the bowls & serve fish sticks & spaghettios on the plates to my girls.

I use my expensive & pretty lotions when I'm going on a (rare, but not extinct) date with my hubby. But, I also use them if I am going to pick up a few items at the grocery store. And a squirt or two of my sassy perfume is just as appropriate when I make a quick trip to the Dollar Store as it is when I'm attending some social event!

And boy, does it feel good to use the FLUFFY towels!! It's a spa moment every day!

And now, when I sit down to get my craft on, I pull out the fancy trims & expensive papers EVERY time. It is so satisfying creating something truly beautiful without skimping on the mediocre.

Most of the time the stuff that was once good, ended up becoming ruined, destroyed & found useless. Or even forgotten. But when the stuff I saved for "special" occasions got used every day, it made me feel notably exceptional.

Life is too short to save the good stuff.

VIDEO?

Oh. My. Gosh. How long has this feature been on here? You mean, not only can I go crazy with pictures, but now I can go insane with this video thingie? Oh peoples, you are gonna see a different side of Nikki now! I'm so excited! OK, for my very first video it's Zoey at the last day of swim class a week ago. You are about to be bored for the next 22 seconds, like when your friend flips through a giant family photo album with you & you yawn with excitement. Humor me & we'll call this a test run, to see if it works & all. (But look at the boy behind her trying to "hurry" her up the ladder. He's so eager to jump off the board too, that you even see his little legs scurrying to the end of the plank waiting for her to swim out of the way so he can jump. What a punk! (just kidding!...kinda) Just know that 2 weeks earlier--in the shallow end--she was running out of the pool, scared of the water, with her swim instructor chasing after her!




Think of the possibilities! I could do crafty tutorials!! What about a "how-to" on making poisonous apple-acorn-berry stew? Silly dance videos? This is gonna be fun!

And I was tagged by Christine @ Bella Colle AND by Kara @ Innocent Charms. I'm great at being tagged, but not so great at being the taggER. It usually falls dead when it gets to me. Sorry, but it's true. I'll still play! (And please still love me after you see my list.) OK, I have to name 6 WEIRD THINGS ABOUT MYSELF...

1. I am fascinated by mannequin heads & I think they are very cool.

2. I once pretended to be Cinderella & called my daughter (Zoey) on the telephone to encourage her to pee-pee on the potty when she was being toilet trained.
3. When I was younger I remember trying to scare myself. I'd look in the mirror & try to make a scary enough face that it would frighten even me. It never worked.

4. When I was younger, I thought it would be fun to be an actress in the movies, just so I could kiss boys.

5. When I get someone calling me & it's a "wrong number", I pretend to be the person they were calling for & see how long I can get them to play along!

6. I can't roll my tongue. Or wiggle my ears. Or make armpit farts.

More posts to come later today!!

I Love To Blog

I wanted to share this pic with you from my Oakland trip. The team I went with got to go to Boedecker Park in San Francisco & have a par-tay for the homeless. It was quite awesome. There is free food, a kid's area (that's where I helped out at) with face painting, art, & a bouncy jumpin' castle, free clothes, live music & a dance team to entertain everybody, & basketball. It happens about 4 times a year. In the kid's area I was able to take a few pictures of a large mural on the side of the brick building right next to the playground equipment. I just loved it!!

I've been thinking about how I'm about to experience a little alone time soon. As in, preschool is starting in 12 days & for the first time both girls will be attending! I'm hoping I'll be able to actually clean something around here. The dust bunnies are just about in need of some leashes. But, I had a fantastic thought. I am going to have a party on that first day of preschool. A preschool party for mommy. I've always wanted to have a morning where I sit around & watch talk shows & sip some tea, put my feet up, read some mags & eat a whole bunch of frosted circus animal cookies. Or just a bagel. I'm totally gonna do it. Just one day. Sept 4th, here we come!

OK, the girls are outside right now with some neighbors making acorn, poisonous apple & bitter berry stew. They are smashing little apples that came from a scary thorny bush in our backyard onto rocks & making a sauce, juicing the berries in a sandpail of water & crunching up the acorns. Zoey just came up & said, "Momma, look out the window at us. We're working as a team...." As long as they don't eat it, I'm fine. I had to snap a pic!

And lastly, look what I got in the mail today!!! It was a suprise gift from my BEFF (Best Etsy Friend Forevers), Beck, at Little Daisy Chains. The artist who made these is from Portland & her website is http://seejanesew.org They are shrinky dinks & they are adorable! Thanks Beck!
Tonight I'm planning on working on another mini tag banner that the lovely Christine @ Bella Colle has requested. And, I want to get to playing around with those lids from yesterday's blog! Hopefully I'll have some goodies to show ya tomorrow!

I Came. I Saw. I Compressed.

It's fixed folks!! I compressed the files on my computer & now I am able to upload photos. Phew! I was starting to panic. And I did do a happy dance. It was actually a robotic compression dance. My 4 year old & I danced together while repeating the word "compression" over & over & over in a dorky robotic voice. Man, am I glad that trouble is over with!

So, as you can see up top, there is a pic of my latest cupcake apron. It's in the shop now!

Yesterday I finished a custom Mini Tag Banner for a customer who has an Etsy shop & she'll be using the banner at her jewelry shows displayed inside a Pottery Barn shadow box.

My latest little project are these cuties. I've got one left from my days at the artsy/antique booth. They are old "Ball" glass jar lids & I fill them with any number of trinkets & doo-dads & then close them up with a layer of pretty paper, cardboard & felt for the backing. I picked up 7 more lids (the last of the broken ones) at an antique mall this past weekend so there will be a limited supply.

I fill them with a handful of items such as: old keys, vintage pearls, sequins, old stamps, buttons, jewelry bits, or any other fun things I happen upon. This picture is just a sampling of the many things that could be found in the lids. Everything rolls & shakes around in the jar lid, but nothing comes out because they are nicely sealed. I have some really fun ideas for a few, making them into somewhat of a game. They could be used for a paperwpaperweight, although they are not heavy. Either way, they will look cute in your studio, on your desk, or on a coffee table. I got the idea from a book a couple years ago, but I can't seem to think of the name. They made larger ones from ash trays. I made my first one from a large glass heart that I picked up at a thrift store. It sits in my studio & is quite lovely.

I haven't come up with a name for them yet. I like the idea of just calling them "Trinkets & Doo-dads" though. We'll see...

Waaah! No Pics.

Hi there! I am really bummed because I can't get my pics to upload onto my computer. I mean, pictures on a blog are like the frosting & sprinkles on a cupcake. I'm trying to fix the problem, but mostly I'm just pretending like I know what I am doing. (It's really, REALLY frustrating as I cannot list any fabulous items in the shop.)

I haven't been able to list my cutest cupcake apron EVERS! It's my first full apron with a tie around the waist & neck. It's blue & white checked & one lovely cupcake has been applied right across the front chest piece (or whatever that part of an apron is called)! The cupcake has been done in mostly blues-y turquoise with accents of pink mini rick-rack & a dark pink button on top. All vintage embellishments. And a sweet double ruffle of some sort of gauzy trim has been added to the top & 6 pockets across the midsection. It's a really sweet & girly apron!

I also went to my monthly scrap booking last night (even though I don't scrapbook). I worked on a secret project for a swap that I'm doing with Beck from Little Daisy Chains. I cannot reveal yet. But, it was supremely cold in that building tonight. One of my friends, Kelly, left early because it was too cold. I stood firm through the chill & pushed on in the midst of freeze. The AC was locked up & no one had a key. But, I did get a robe from the costume/prop closet. (Thanks Heather!!) If only they would've had slippers. Seriously, I was sniffling by the end, my toes were icicles, & I think I was starting to experience hypothermia related symptoms.

I also finished my custom mini tag banner for CANDIES. She's going to photograph it when she receives it & use that picture as her Etsy shop banner too, with a little mention of where the item came from in her shop announcement. Cool beans, huh?

Ok, I cannot continue anymore. I hate not having pictures. It's all just dry cake.

This & That & Stuff & Things

This might be a longer post with a lot of items that don't relate at all. But, I've so much to talk about! First of all, my body is so sore. This weekend the fam got together for some picnic time & boating. My bro got a new knee-board for his b-day & I thought I'd give it a go. I have never been so frustrated in my life. I really wanted to conquer that thing. It brought back all my past feelings of extreme competitiveness in one huge surge. I actually got up on the board 2 times, but my knees were not all the way in position & the board just started going all loopy & wobbly & I couldn't hold on. I tried so hard to pull myself up MANY times after that, but eventually my arms just gave out. I got a picture of my brother on the board. Just pretend it's me on there, only I lasted about 4.2 seconds. Poo. And Grrrrr.

I stumbled upon a copy of our local arts & entertainment magazine called 'The Reactor', & found my little 'WhiMSy love' highlight inside! It was quite cool to see. And, it was really fun to see other Etsy artists that are very near to me! I might have to send some a message with a quick "Howdy neighbor!" attached. Check out the little highlight by clicking HERE. It's on page 32.

I am LOVING all the fabulous biz cards you all are sending me back! I can't wait to take pics & show them off!! Check the list below to make sure I have received your biz cards. Remember, the deadline is September 1st!! Judging will begin on September 2nd!!

1. JoAnne @ Reindeer Girl Designs
2. Beck @ Daisy Chains (Received!! YAY!)
3. Claire @ Absolutely Small (Received!! YAY!)
4. Christine @ Bella Colle (Received!! YAY!)
5. Jen @ Jen Bowles Design (Received!! YAY!)
6. Kara @ Innocent Charms (is working on it...)
7. Jeanetta @ Splendid Designs
8. Ginny @ iSew.biz (is working on it...)
9. Jennifer @ Crimson Cat
10. Melisa @ Melissa P. (is working on it...)
11. Meredeth @ Notuboc (Received!! YAY!)
12. Jennifer R. @ Nellableu (is working on it...)
13. Geri @ Altered Crow (Received!! YAY!)
14. Carrie P. (Received!! YAY!)

I really wanted to add a lot more, but my computer is spazzing out & freezing up. So, you'll have to wait until tomorrow. I have a new cupcake apron to list tomorrow, & I'm finishing up my first ever WhiMSy love custom order--a mini tag banner for CANDIES, & I got these cool little thingie mabobbers at a local antique store yesterday & I'll show you a neato way I'm transforming them.

So, I'll see you tomorrow!

YOWZA! It's The Sunday Featured Artist...Pamela Michelle

Ok, it's back. YOWZA! is here for your Sunday leisure-reading enjoyment. YAY! I also want to extend an invitation to anyone who would like to nominate a favorite artist/craftster for this feature. Just list their link in the comments section & I'll check 'em out for future YOWZA! spots.

My artist for this week is Pamela Michelle. I ran into her blog a few months ago, but I can't remember how I stumbled upon it. You know how that goes. I was immediately attracted to her wacky & fun-loving personality that seems to ooze from her blog. I saw a bit of myself in her humor too. And, I think her art is really cool too!

Pamela is a graphic designer by day & a painter by night. In her Etsy Shop you can find paintings, prints, etched necklaces, & ACEO's. Ok, now for a little Q & A...

Where were you born, where are you from, where did you grow up, & where are you living now?

I've lived in and around the Dallas area my whole life. Every time I try to leave, something good happens that makes me want to stay. So I figure I'm stuck here for the rest of time. Which is not bad at all. I love it here, good people, great art community, warm weather what more could you ask for?

What inspires you?

I'm inspired the most by nature, feelings, and mid-century modern art, also graffiti art and many countless other things. I basically just keep my eyes open at all times. Well, unless I'm asleep....or blinking, well because that's just how it is.

How long have you been crafting?

Crafting is something I've been doing for a long time. Hummm....I don't really remember when it all started. I've just always been picking up things here and there and making stuff. I think I fell in love with painting at an early age. My mom used to give me water colors and a paint brush to keep me occupied, and it worked. I would paint and paint for hours until she had to pry the paint brushes away from my kung-foo gripped hands.

Share about, or describe your favorite piece.

Favorite piece? geeze, that's a tough one. Um....all of them? This question is like asking me which one of my babies I like the best. It's always hard for me to answer. Eak, I'd say my most recent is always my favorite. But sometimes it's my least favorite, so then I end up painting over it and making it my favorite. So, yeah all of my work had been my fav at one point or another. :)

What’s your favorite color?

Blue! no, green....and black and brown!. oh oh and red too! Crap, you meant one. Oh, whatever, I like colors, and a lot of them. I'm a color whore.

What one thing did you believe as a child, that as an adult you now realize was silly?

Haha. I thought there was an ugly mental witch living behind the toilet that would reach around a grab you if you sat on the pot too long. I was really frightened of her. I don't know why I thought this, no one ever told me this story, and I don't remember watching a movie with a potty witch. I even told my sister about her, and she believed it. We would always check on each other after the other used the restroom, especially at night.

How much time do you spend on your craft?

Much much time spent doing what I do. But I love doing it, so it's kinda like play time for me!

Use three words to describe yourself.

pretty darn goofy

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given on pursuing your craftiness? "Please don't leave your dirty paint water out in the open over night. The cats like to drink it then knock it over. And I don't want to clean that up again." -Brian, my fiance :)

What else would you like people to know about you?

I only drink coffee on Fridays now. I had to cut back. So if you're wondering why I'm in such a non-stop happy mood on Friday, it's not because the weekend is around the corner, it's because I have way too much energy and I don't know what to do with myself.

So, go check out Pam's art & buy something while you're at it. Artists rock! Especially pretty darn goofy ones!!

Bonding While Baking...

I have been anxious to show off the day of cupcake baking I had with my girls on Wednesday. My hubby didn't get it. He was baffled at our cupcake party plans. He thinks there has to be a REASON you bake cupcakes, like a holiday or birthday or some other celebration. NOT AT ALL!! Any day is a cupcake day in my book! (And it always helps if you have a box mix!)

And what makes crafting & baking even MORE fun?? Making messes along the way!

"You've got a glob of frosting stuck in your hair? Who cares--we'll chisel it out tonight!"....."You dropped a load of batter on the carpet? That's OK! Leave it there!--It's easier to pick up when it's hard & chunky anyway!"....."Sprinkles all over the floor? Cool! It looks WAY better that way!!"

Confetti cake mix rocked the house. And chocolate, pastel pink, white & soft blue were the choice of frostings. We decided our fun would be in honor of Pazely's two front teeth, who were about to see the end of their days. (Her surgery went awesome! Thanks everyone for your thoughts & well-wishes! Hi Olivia! Pazely says "Fank-you!".......OH, & random funny story in the middle of my cupcake party blog: After Pazely had her two front teeth removed, Zoey came home & saw her little sister for the first time since Pazely got home from the hospital. They were sitting at the dining table together & Zoey said, "I don't think I will play with Pazely too much. I don't want to catch what she has!")

I had to steal a picture of "Bowl Licker Pazely" at the end of our long line of cupcake-batter-filled tins awaiting their friend "the oven". I even bought a brand new 24-mini muffin tin for the occasion. I've never owned a mini tin! YAY! Presents for Nikki!




And here are the lovely cupcakes! We had so much fun using all our new sprinkles, picks & embellishments I've received from my last two (& only two) cupcake swaps! We packaged up several cupcakes in a box & brought them to a neighboring family. Another box went to the mechanics at my family's auto shop. You gotta share the cupcake love!

Cupcakes rule.....ya dig?

OFF With Their Heads!!!

Isn't she beautiful? I think so. She is located in a unisex bathroom in some restaurant/rest stop between here & Oakland. I can't even remember where this was. But, I was warned about her before entering. I didn't even have to pee, I just wanted a photo! She totally stares at you while you're on the toilet. I guess she is rigged with sensor motion detectors & she's supposed to say things like, "Stop that!" "Get out of here!", but she was broken. She has been there a while, because when I showed the picture to my mom, she said, "I've been there!!" It was when I was about 9 years old, if I am correct. (That was about 23 years ago!)

Poor gal. She's GOT to have prune fingers by now...

I saw these on our last day in Oakland while shopping with my new-found-Oakland-girlfriends. They were from a shop called "Diva's Beauty Supply".

These wig-headed beauties were from the same beauty supply shop. I scored big at this store & at 2 neighboring stores called "Angel's" & "Rainbow". I got some big earrings which most of the girls there wear. It's what I call my 'Oakland makeover'. I'll have to take a pic soon & post it one day. My husband has not commented on them yet. I have about 4 pair, so he'll have plenty to comment on.





This is my favorite one! I spotted her one night while our group had a free night in San Francisco goofing around Pier 39. She lives in a shop called 'Krazy Kaps'.



And, just a side note: I'm taking the wee-est one (Pazely/3) into the hospital tomorrow for surgery. She's getting her 2 front teeth removed. She & her sister had a bad head-bonking accident a couple months ago. I took a final "BEFORE" shot tonight of her mouth. She's gonna be the cutest toothless girl EVERS!

Cupcake Overdose.

I got my cupcake swap package today!! And I had SO much fun! My girls were as eager as I to open all the little treasures. The funny thing is, the girls & I were just about to head outside to the park for some picnic & swimming fun when we stumbled upon a large package outside the door. I cannot believe how spoiled I feel. I got so many fun little things. And Jeannie had mentioned to me earlier how much she enjoyed the wrapping part of the package as well. And, oh-my-gosh, they were the cutest things I have ever seen. First of all, she gave me two boxes folded to look like cake slices filled with goodies, & a couple other sweet little folded boxes embellished & velcroed shut (filled with goodies) & 4 adorable bags embellished & glitterfied (filled with goodies). I see my daughters pink turtle got in the picture too.

And, I think the best part was that she sent my girls each 3 cupcakes made out of real cupcake liner, tissue paper & other embellishments-- & INSIDE were hiddent little treats. The cupcake was just a disguise! I already told Jeannie (this is the 3rd time now) that I am SO STEALING THAT IDEA!!! How cute would that be for a free giveaway at my shop with every order? A sweet WhiMSy love treat wrapped in a cupcake? Love it. I think my favorite store bought thing she sent was a beautiful cupcake ornament. (It's in the lower right hand corner of the picture.)And my favorite handmade thing? It's so hard to say!!! I loved everything, but one of my faves is a little pink & white polka dot tag Jeannie made with a shabby chic looking cupcake & glitter. It's adorable. The cupcake picks will get a chance to be used tomorrow. The girls & I will begin "Operation Cupcake". Thank you so much Jeannie! I feel like I have been rained upon from cupcake heaven!!

So, now I can reveal what I sent to my partner, Jeannie. I sent her a tea towel with a cupcake stitched on it, a package of kitschy plastic flower cupcake toppers from A. Bel Emporium, a package of my pinwheel cupcake picks, a cupcake colored pencil drawing, some store bought cupcake thank-you notes, vanilla frosting lipgloss, 2 cupcake gift bags, a matchbox decorated with a cupcake (& filled with matches), a cupcake notepad, cupcake earrings, a cupcake tag, round cupcake tags from Scrapbooking Mama, a set of 5 pink/purple painted clothespins with magnets on the bag (to use on the fridge for art or messages) with stickers embellished spelling out "sweet", a set of handmade notecards & MY favorite thing I did for Jeannie was to make her some waterproof cupcake mailing labels with her address on them.

Tomorrow I decided will be mannequin head Wednesday. I will post my shots of mannequin heads along with some stories from my Oakland trip.

I'm glad to be back. I feel back to normal physically, but my brain does not feel back to its usual self...

Home Is Where the Art Is.

Oh my gosh you guys, what a really cool trip! Where do I even begin? Well, I guess I should start with the whole 'art detox' thing. I imagined on this trip that I'd be mourning the nearness of my girls, freaking out about not being surrounded by creative supplies, & whining because I couldn't make stuff. BUT, I was so darn busy that I didn't have time to even think those things. And when I wasn't busy, I was tired or sleeping.

I did have a bit of drawing time on the trip down to West Oakland. AND, there was one really cool night when I realized I had brought 9 blank note cards, -- & there were EXACTLY 9 West Oakland girls that our group had met in our drama camp who we really bonded with. So, I stayed up until about 12:30am the night before we were to leave & drew each of them a little drawing on the front of the note card & on the inside I, along with the other 2 female leaders, filled the card with encouraging words, bible verses & our contact info. It turned out to be really awesome! Even though they were really quick little sketchy drawings, some of the girls thought the cards were purchased that way. They didn't realize I had drawn them. I tried taking pics, but only a few came out. I drew: a cupcake (duh), a slice of chocolate pie with some sorta berry filling (weird, I know), a bucket of popcorn, jellybeans, a slice of watermelon, a cherry, a choco chip cookie, a bubble wand with some bubbles (one girl **Hey Angelina!!** really liked bubbles & I really wanted to make them for her), & a double scoop ice cream cone.

And as far as photography....MAN! There were so many cool things I wanted to take pictures of, but it just wasn't the proper scenario as we were often whizzing by awesome & quirky things at high speeds in our van caravan. Bummer. I did what I could though &, for some strange reason, I got a lot of mannequin head shots. That's cool with me! (My computer is acting up & for some reason I can't get a pic loaded. I'll try again later.)

So, basically, I was able to play with my art a bit on the trip. And, even if I were to have zero supplies with me, I still got my fix from seeing amazing grafitti, or from staring at wonderful murals done by children. I got my fix from painting faces at a park where a party was going on for homeless people. I got my fix by asking someone, "Did you make that?" & realizing a shared passion with a new friend....It was SO good to step away & not have my head in the same position over my art table with the usual supplies, & same old craftiness. It was so good to not be DOING, but instead just BEING. I don't feel guilty for being away from anything artsy, because I wasn't really away from it at all. I just surrounded myself with it in a different way then I am used to.

It was very odd to be so distanced from the regular patterns of my everyday life. But I liked it.

I can't wait to tell you about my home away from home, about the interesting people I met, about the art I saw on my trip, about my West Oakland makeover, about my highest point & my lowest point.

There is so much to tell.

Oh, & I was soooo happy to come home & have a custom order request for one of my Mini Tag Banner's in the shop! YAY! I'm working on it tonight & the colors are pink, turquoise, white & a bit of silver & black. I'm also working on one for Bella Colle! Double YAY!

I.H.I.P.I.T.T.Y.T.

I'm Home, I'm Pooped, I'll Talk To You Tomorrow!!
Love,
Nikki

Art Detox

Does anyone want to join me in my "art detox" for 9 days?....I didn't think so.....I'm planning on journaling while away in California, so when I get back maybe I'll post some of the best bits from my journal & give you a taste of my adventures. I hope I have many stories to tell.

I was given a great idea to use my increasing passion for photography as an outlet while in my detox: Take pictures of the food, the kids, anything. I'm really excited about that! We'll also be visiting Pier 39/Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco & I'm hoping to taste some crepes I remember having while on my honeymoon 8 1/2 years ago.


So, this will be my last blog entry until I return from my trip with the youth group. We'll be doing dramas & skits in Oakland & assisting local organizations in their interactions with the homeless & others we meet. Our message will be simple: Jesus loves you. I'm really excited about this great adventure I'm about to embark on. It will be strange without my family, but there must be something I'm supposed to learn on my own in this chapter of my life.


On the agenda for the rest of the day is finishing the girls' laundry, stocking the fridge for the fam, & Zoey is helping me sharpen all my colored pencils to take along. Although, I think she is having a bit of a practical joke fun by sharpening both ends of each pencil. I will be picked up tomorrow morning at around 6am. I'll smother my sleeping girls faces with kisses & then I'll be on my way. I've obsessively packed double the amount of undies I'll need & I've got just the last bits (toothbrush, makeup, etc.) to pack tomorrow. My sweet mother will be taking care of the girls during the work week until their daddy gets home. I don't think she realizes what she's in for.


Thanks to all my blog friends for your well-wishes! I will miss you, seriously. I'm starting to get clammy hands already.

Sweet Mail Surprise!

I can't believe I'm even taking the time to write today, (with all the packing & laundry I should be doing), but I HAD to!!

I received a cupcake surprise in the mail today from Geri at Altered Crow Designs. She is working on creating a blank accordion-style cupcake book & she sent me her prototype! Geri wanted me to have her first one because my "cupcake humor inspired it!"And the funny thing is that I noticed it on her blog a few days ago & commented on how much I liked it. I didn't even notice that "WHIMSY LOVE" was spelled out in bright stickers on the book! HAHA! Thank you Geri! Also, Geri is part of the Ugly Biz Card Contest & she put one of the cards she decorated on her Library's "Etsy Board". Wasn't that an awesomely sweet gesture?? I have the bestest blog buddies EVERS!

And, thanks to all who have sent my biz cards so far for the Ugly Biz Card Contest! If you can, please write on the back of your cards: "artwork created by (insert your name or etsy addy). Some arrived without this information--no biggie! I know I had asked last minute. I'll write your info on the back. They are looking great! (Last day to get the cards to me is Sept. 1st! Then, the judging will begin...and prizes will be awarded! YAY!)

OK, I must go searching in the basement for some suitable luggage...

Crafty Break

You guys, (guys=Northwest slang) I'm freaking out that I'll be away from any crafty-ness for 9 whole days. A big-'ol-crafty-break. It'll be like having a crafty fast. Or as one blog buddy mentioned "It'll be like detox." I think it'll stretch my creativity fer sure! Remember how I'm going to Oakland, CA from August 4th to the 12th? I'll be helping out some youth do skits & dramas & work with inner-city kids & local organizations in their work with the homeless & others in need. I'm nervous. I'm excited. I'm gonna miss my girls like crazy! There will be 4 guys & 4 girls in our group & 4 adults going. I'm really excited to be with the teen girls, it's something I've always had in my heart to do--to hang out & help motivate & just be the biggest dork EVERS! This group I'm going with seems very quiet & I haven't "broken through" yet. I've been around them a handful of times & I thought they might have warmed up to me by now. They are very quiet. Reserved. Hmmmm. My dorky ways will soon conquer their inhibitions.

You know what though? That drawing thing came at a great time because I'm totally planning on taking a sketchbook & tons-o-colored pencils. Don't know how much time I'll actually be able to sketch, but just in case, ya know? Just knowing some sort of artsy supply is near, will help me be OK. And the funny thing is, I have had this stash of colored pencils in my crafty supplies forEVER. There are bits & pieces of all different brands, but I seem to have a good selection. I guess?

I did another cheesecake drawing after I gave my brother HIS cheesecake. I really like how it turned out. I'm working on a cupcake one now. Feel free to mention any dessert or "sweets" I should give a try at.

Speaking of cupcake, I'm busily trying to get my stuff together for my cupcake swap buddy. The send out date is Aug. 5th, but I'm hoping to get it out tomorrow. I'll post pics when I get back from my trip. AND, that means I'll have a package of cupcake goodness waiting for me upon my return!! YAY, it'll be Cupcake Christmas!


Oh, this might bore you to death, but I did the cutest thing for my girls. I have NEVER been away from them for more than one night. This 9 days thing is big. So, I put each of their names on 9 different brown paper lunch sacks. Pazely has 9, Zoey has 9--each numbered. Each day they'll open one bag & inside there will be a note & a little prize from mommy! On the first day I put supplies in both of their bags to make a paper chain to count down the days until mommy's return! I'm trying to make this trip as easy on them (or me?) as possible. Now that I think about it,I might need to make myself a paper chain...


And I thought I'd mention my 2 bestest treats this summer. Nescafe brand Ice Java Iced Coffee syrup in Chocolate Mocha flavor. I mix it with milk, toss in some ice cubes & sip it down with a straw. And, The Laughing Cow brand creamy Swiss cheese that I spread on a cracker & gobble up. Yummo!