The Real Ninny Muggins

Check out my interview on "The Real Ninny Muggins" blog, run by two teenage creative-types: Madi & Breanna. Support these newbie bloggers & leave a comment! (I'll be giving away a Vintage Button Ring to one lucky commenter on their blog! Ends August 2nd!)

♥

Saturday Love.

I'm so excited to be a part of today's Mommy Marketing Moment over at Roof With a View! Go check out my interview & leave lots of comment love! (My feature is right under the crockpot BBQ chicken recipe.)

P.S. Look what's coming to the shop this afternoon. They're all cork lined, vintage bottle caps! (And inspired by my new favorite animated movie UP!!) I stayed UP late last night making them while watching a Dutch film. Crafting while reading subtitles is not easy you know.

Happy Saturday!

♥

An Interview of Sorts.

This can be your weekend edition of WhiMSy love. I've answered all the questions from the Happy Blogger-versary To Me post right here! And though I should have split this up into 2 or 3 different posts, I didn't. It's a doozy. I don't blame you if you pause to get a snack (or take a nap) & then come back to finish reading.

Frosted Treats asks: What's your favorite thing to create and what's your most popular (among other people) thing you've created?

I think my favorite thing to create would be my Vintage Button Rings. I love buttons & I love sorting through them to find fun color combos. It's a happy craft fer sure. It's the kind of project I can curl up on the couch with & get all cozy-like with a movie & a cup of something hot-n-yummy.

(*The picture at the top shows some of my first rings. The yellow one in the photo is the first Vintage Button Ring I ever sold.*)
The most popular item I've created is probably the fork easels. So far, I've sold about 150 of them, not including wholesale orders outside of Etsy! Woohoo!

The Writing on the Wall book art is the item that gets the most views in my shop. And I'm very proud of them: My books are at the Bellevue Arts Museum store!

But my owlies also caused quite a sensation last Christmas holiday season--& they continue to get lots of love. So, it's a toss up. All 3 popular, but for different reasons.

Madame asks: I am wondering what made you start your etsy business and your blog?

My blog came first. One night I was surfing around the internet & looking for nothing in particular. Mostly crafty-related items. I found a blog (which is now home of one of my most favorite crafty personalities: Jek) & I thought: "Wow, a blog? What the heck is a blog? This is neato. I'd love to journal like this & feature crafty stuff & do 'how-to' projects!" That same night I stumbled onto Etsy. I was interested in selling handmade stuff, but didn't know where to start. Etsy was exactly what I was looking for! (Even though I didn't know I was looking for it.)

At the same time, my mom & I were selling some vintage & handmade items in a little rented space in an antique mall. We did that for 2 years & I opened my Etsy shop just before this business closed its doors. In fact, I opened my Etsy shop without owning a good camera, so I wasn't even able to take pictures of my handmade stuff. I had to wait a month later, until an early birthday camera gift arrived! Four days after I filled my shop with goodies, on April 3rd 2007, I sold my first item. And guess what it was? A fork easel!

Have you always been this creative?

I like to think that I was born with glue gun in hand, throwing glitter-like confetti as I emerged from the womb, ready to make the world a happy crafty place. Seriously though, I remember always liking to make things as a kid.

My mom also taught me how to cross-stitch, which was one of my first crafty ventures. And she taught me to sew too---about 5 years ago. My family is not very crafty or self-proclaimed creative types. So, I'm not sure where I got it from. I was told that my birth father (whom I've never met) created an ice sculpture once. Did he have a creative spirit? Possibly. And though my birth mother pursues other things I think she has a bit of a creative soul. I just like to think about those kinds of things. I do believe my creativity is a gift. It's what I'm good at. If I couldn't make stuff every day I would, seriously, be an unhappy person.

What is your favorite thing you have crafted/created?

The most favorite thing I've EVER made is something that was a gift to my dad. It was a blank journal & I filled it with photos, journal entries & silly little ink doodles & sketches of a backpack trip he & I took when I was 17 years old. I just loved how it turned out. And I love how cool he thought it was.

Anonymous "shadow" asks: I've always wondered how you find time in your day to do "it all", esp w/ the wee ones. i have always hoped you sometimes take photos, write your blog, etc days in advance & then just choose a time to upload them. this way i feel better at my inability to keep up with your pace. don't you ever just chill, feet up, trashy TV blaring, glass of wine AND do absolutely NOTHING for a few hours?
Well, I find the time to do it all----because I make time to do the things I love to do. You must understand that my house is not perfectly clean, my laundry gets backed up on occasion, my toilets may skip a cleaning....but I am happy---& so are my kids. (I get this question a lot & I wanted to thank Danyelle for helping me put my thoughts into words when I read this article.) I also include my girls in a lot of the things I do or make. They create right beside me.

My mind is always ticking, thinking, creating, planning, dreaming. I don't have a set schedule of when I do things, I just squeeze it all in when I have a bit of time: when the girls are at school, during my wee ones quiet time everyday, at night when everyone is asleep, etc. I actually don't LIKE just sitting & doing NOTHING for a few hours. I do put my feet up, watch movies, & chill out. But most of the time, WHILE I'm doing those things, I have a crafty project in my hand.

Carrie Sue asks: How do you always jump so high? haha! Well, this crafty chik has super powers don't ya know? No, I do not have superpowers, or a trampoline. I just jump--off of anything or nothing at all. Although, look at that wacky picture below. That's all me. (And you don't want to see how I landed.) I'm so giddy & happy 'cause I'm wearing some new owlie pajama pants I just got from a friend. (*Thanks Amy!!*) The key to "the jump" is all in the timing. And I do it with the self timer on my camera. I've collected plenty a jumpy picture over the years, even forcing loved ones & dear friends to jump for a photo. I need to get them in an album.
Kara asks: I was wondering when you first discovered your crafty side...did you go to school for art?? or figure out your were a crafty genius after you had kiddos?? I have always LOVED making things. But more specifically, I remember at a young age LOVING to give gifts that I'd made. The only art classes I've taken in school were a pottery class (with the wheel & everything!) & a basic drawing class, both in my only year of college. A "crafty genius" I am not. Now, a "creative superstar" on the other hand......haha!

I DO believe my kids are crafty geniuses though!

Courtney asks: When did you realize that you loved owls so much or have you always?? The owlies are a new affection for me. I think my sweet owl love began last summer. I started seeing adorable owls on Etsy & swooned. The sketch below is one I recently came up with. I call it "Uni-browl".

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!

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!!

YOWZA! It's the Sunday Featured Artist...Epicurious Market!

Yummy. Delicious. Scrumptious. Gourmet.....Just don't eat it! Seriously, don't those rows of "chocolates" look absolutely edible? But, they're not! These are the White Chocolate Truffle Soaps from Epicurious Market, created by Marcee. Don't you just want to lick your computer screen right about now? I did! Oops, I mean... "I'm sure tempted to!"
Epicurious Market is a very popular shop on Etsy. I recently bestowed an "Epicurious" gift to my last cupcake swap partner & I'm thinkin' it's about time I treated myself!
Let's meet Marcee, a "southern" girl, who describes herself as having, "...a big heart & a love for creating uniquely scented products."

-Where were you born, where are you from, where did you grow up, & where are you living now?
I was born in Kansas City, KS, moved to Chicago when I was 2, moved to San Francisco when I was 4, and lived in Sacramento, CA until I was 14. Then my family moved to Knoxville, TN and I have lived here for the last 16 years (except for a short 6 month stint we did in Tampa a couple of years ago). I am fortunate to have lived in several great cities and experience different cultures. But I say I am truly a southern girl at heart now :)

-What inspires you?
Hmmm... I woud love to say something deep or even something sweet (like my kids), but the truth is I am inspired by whims. Seriously I see something that looks cool, smells good, seems fun and off I go to create. Sometimes I will see my whims through, other times I will move on to the next. In general I am inspired by things that make me feel good, feel happy.

-How long have you been creating?
As I child I was more into acting and expressing my creativity through performing arts. By the time I was 18 I was already working in the corporate world. It wasn't until the last few years that my creative side re-emerged, and now I can't stop coming up with new recipes for products.

-Share about, or describe the favorite item in your shop.
This is a tough one because of course I am biased and love all of my items :) Seriously I will not offer anything that I would not buy myself. Right now though I really love my soaps, and my favorite is White Chocolate Truffle, mainly because it is a unique scent to find in soap, and it smells like something you would find in Godiva lol.

-What’s your favorite color?
This changes constantly, but I really like brown, especially when paired with pink or turquoise blue.

-What one thing did you believe as a child, that as an adult you now realize was silly?
The great pumpkin. Seriously! My parents fed me this big story about the great pumpkin bringing me a bag of candy at Halloween time (because the area we lived in at the time was not great for trick or treating) and I believed it, until the other kids in my Kindergarten class looked at me like I was crazy when I told them.

-How much time do you spend creating?
A ton. Every day I spend time reseraching new products and recipes, testing new scent blends, testing new products, changing my labels ...something. I really enjoy the product development portion of my business.

-What were some of your most recent purchases from other Etsy artists?
I bought some boxes and supplies from Box Bliss, I bought some lovely coasters from Bauer Designs , and my second set of kids bracelets from VM Designs.

-Use three words to describe yourself.
driven, eclectic, sarcastic

-What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given on pursuing your creativeness?
Surround yourself with people that are even more creative than yourself. It will push you to explore your full creative potential.

-What are your goals or dreams in regards to your creative ambitions?
I'm not sure. Right now I enjoy doing what I do, sometimes I dream about opening a retail store, other times I want to open a studio for other artists. The main thing is I have to keep it at a level that still allows me to enjoy the creative process. And other times my goals are small , something like coming up with the perfect cupcake soap lol.

-What do you like to do when you are not being super creative?
Go to the movies- I am a big movie fanatic, read (looking forward to the new Harry Potter book), spend time with my kids outdoors. It is easy to get on a roll and in a creative tangent, and become a hobbit in my own little world, so often times I have to force myself to leave the computer or my studio and actually live life :)

Thanks Marcee! I don't know how you pulled yourself away from all the yummyness that surrounds you to have an "interview" with me! And by the way, keep working on that cupcake soap girl! I needs me some!

If you just can't get enough of Marcee, take a sneak peek at her new fragrance line found on her blog: http://epicuriousmarket.blogspot.com/. She also operates another Etsy shop with her sister--Doll Baby--selling mineral makeup.

I'm off to purchase some "chocolates"! I promise I won't eat them!!

YOWZA! It's the Sunday Featured Artist...Reindeer Girl!

Nope. Reindeer Girl isn't a reindeer. And, she doesn't SELL reindeer's either. Reindeer Girl Designs is a fab shop with oodles of fun handmade jewelry brought to you by artist JoAnne, who's 33rd birthday happens to be next Friday, July 6th. (But, more about that later...with some PRIZE GIVE-AWAYS!...)

Sit back, relax, enjoy a cup of handmade love while you read on about another amazing artist...

Where were you born, where are you from, where did you grow up, & where are you living now?I was born in Brockway, PA, a very small town in northeastern PA (near the ever-famous groundhog in Punxsutawney! :) See... there's NOTHING else up that way! ;) I lived there until 17, then a brief stay in New Mexico, before moving to the Philadelphia area for college and grad school. I now live in the Steel City- Pittsburgh, PA!

What inspires you?

Hmmm, as far as jewelry making, I really love the gemstones and all the colors, and just seeing all the possibilities in the raw materials—and I have always loved to look at and wear all kinds of jewelry! I also really dig making things specifically for special people in my life—those are my best pieces, I think. And I like to see things in stores or magazines or whatever and figure out how I can make an even cooler version! I like having things exactly how I would want them had I thought of it first!!

How long have you been crafting?

Only about a year—before that, I had resigned myself to thinking I just didn’t get any “Scarnati genes” (my Grandma’s last name—and SHE, besides Nik, of course, is THE ultimate crafty chick!!!). I started making jewelry in May 2006--just playing around at first...and it's been GREAT!!!!! It was suddenly like using a whole part of my brain that I never knew existed. And now I've also taken up drawing and painting—having a ball with that! And I flirt with (still from a reasonable distance- LOL!) sewing, stamping, and other little projects (like my favorite one, where I redid some plain picture frames with ribbon and beaded trims and stuff, and then decked out two of the photos in my Marilyn Monroe collection!

Share about, or describe your favorite piece.

Probably a tie between my “Obsidian Black Cat” necklace and “Opulent Amulet” (in my ‘sold’ stuff on Etsy! Yay Etsy!!) and a custom piece I finished recently, using these gorgeous beige cat’s eye beads, silver, and a rockin’ crow pendant by bibbidibaubles. I’m so proud of it!! http://www.flickr.com/photos/8169882@N07/502327404/in/set-72157600224974653/

What’s your favorite color?

Orange! Totally... :) Though I am also a girlie-girl and love pink--tons of it in my wardrobe!

How much time do you spend on your craft?

It depends…sometimes I’ll go a week or weeks without making anything. But Friday nights are a big craft night for me—Law and Order SVU, What Not to Wear on TLC, and I’m good! But even when I’m not actively ‘making’--or I should probably say ‘finishing’!!-- I have lots of UFO’s! I stay fairly socially active on Etsy. What a community!! It has been a wonderful thing, being there.

What were some of your most recent purchases from other Etsy artists?

I just bought some cute fabric-button barrettes from BellaJean, my very first ACEOs from laurali (I bought one of her fab ‘Zen Cats’ and also a phoenix), and some amazonite calla lily beads from jenNco2! (I have yet to buy some Whimsy goodness though!!)

Use three words to describe yourself.

Sincere, kind, and I guess I should make the 3rd ‘modest’?? LOL!

How awesome is WhiMSy love? (just joking!)

She is off the HOOK, for shizzle!! :D For real...that is one crafty chick! :)

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given on pursuing your craftiness? Just to do whatever feeds your soul. I think that’s good advice for everything, don’t you?

What are your goals or dreams in regards to your art?

I’d like to build a bigger customer base so I can start making ‘bigger’ things—using really good stones, fancier components, etc. Right now I don’t feel like it’s safe for me to make some things I want to (because they’d be more expensive). I also want to learn some new techniques—get better at wire and learn some weaving. And I want to keep having fun with it.

What is your favorite flav of ice cream?

Oooh, I SO love ice cream!! Very few I DON’T like! Black raspberry’s a fave from way back, and I love peanut butter cup—in vanilla ice cream—that’s hard to find!

What do you like to do when you are not being super crafty?

If sleeping were an Olympic event, I would be a gold medalist!!! Sleep, play with my fur-babies (2 super kitties), go to the movies, and I love good food…

What's your favorite thing to do in the summer?

Go to the beach, hands down! Especially my favorite place in the wooooorld, Stone Harbor, NJ. (And eat lots of ice cream, of course!)

What else would you like people to know about you?

How ‘bout: I love all things Marilyn Monroe, I really wish everyone would spay and neuter their pets and care for them for life (no more homeless pets!), I wanna take up ballroom dancing next, and Friday is my birthday!!! (Oh yeah, and I wish my mom had made ME a puppy party!!!)
Thanks, Whimsy!!!

No, thank YOU JoAnne! (As in: JoAnne Fabrics!) And, by the way, I love your Yummy Creamsicle Earrings! What a fun summer accessory! They remind me of an OrangeSicle ice cream shake I got at Carl's Jr. the other day. Mmmmm....

I think it is so inspiring to read about all these different artists. If you'd like to hear certain questions asked of the artists I interview every Sunday, drop me a line & let me know!

**Oh, yes, I almost forgot! Since Reindeer Girl is celebrating the big "33" on Friday, I thought I'd have a fun little "contest"/prize give-away! The 33rd person to leave a comment, wishing JoAnne a special happy birthday message will get a special treat from WhiMSy love in honor of her special day!! AND the birthday girl will ALSO be giving a present to the winner too! Cool, huh?

(One post per person please! Come on people, I think I can squeak out 33 comments, right? Help a girl & her reindeer out!) Thanks!!

YOWZA! It's the Sunday Featured Artist...Polka Dot Creations!

I imagine the YOWZA! feature to be a "sippin' coffee, feet up, chillin' out with your blog homies, mello Sunday, nap is a'comin' soon" kinda time. It's not a quick read. It's like your favorite column in the Sunday paper. Or a mini-chapter in a good book. I hope you enjoy this feature & are inspired by the way the featured artists create & think.

And with that, here's my next guest, Lisa, who has an Etsy shop called Polka Dot Creations :

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

I was born in New Jersey, am from New Jersey, grew up in New Jersey, and am living in New Jersey, now! I grew up in an area that was a suburb of New York City, and now I am in an area with rolling hills, countryside, and horses that is only 45 minutes away from where I started. It feels like a completely different place, though.

What inspires you?

I get most of my inspiration from seeing what other things that people are making. Magazines, shopping, polymer clay workshops, and most recently blogs and etsy are all great sources of inspiration. I like to see something appealing and figure out how I could add my own twist to it.

How long have you been crafting?

I've always liked to make things, especially things I could wear. I used to finger-knit "ribbons" for my hair when I was in girl scouts. And I made about a million of those embroidery-floss friendship bracelets in high school. I was into rubber stamps for a long time, before they were cool. I found polymer clay 11 years ago, and pretty much all of my other crafty supplies fell by the wayside. I'm a complete and total clay addict, but recently I've been getting the itch to make more things that I can wear - not just jewelry - and I've bought myself a sewing machine so I can learn to sew, too. I've successfully made a few aprons, a few tote bags, and a skirt so far.

Share about, or describe your favorite piece.

That's hard, because every piece I make is my favorite until the next one ;-) Right now, I'm on a kick of making claythings to coordinate with designer fabrics. I think I would have to say my favorite piece is anything I currently have on Etsy that has fabric as a backdrop :-)

What's your favorite color?

Ok, that's easy. I'm a chartreuse gal. I like anything in that yellowy-green family.

What do you like to do when you're not being crafty?

I'm a computer geek - I designed and maintain my entire website. When I'm not being crafty, I like to fiddle with my website and maybe add some nifty new feature.

How much time do you spend on your craft?

It depends. There are times when I can go months without making a single thing, but I'm still usually immersed in craft in some other way. My website, in addition to being the place where I sell my clay creations, is also a book store. Anything you could ever want to know about polymer clay can be found there. So, even if I'm not actively making something, I'm still involved in the whole polymer clay community. When I'm in a particularly crafty mood (like right now) I make something practically every day. If I'm not making something, I'm reading about it, in a book or a blog.

What were some of your most recent purchases from other Etsy artists?

Well, I bought that cute button ring from you, Whimsy love , a bunch of notecards from Trail Mix Designs , a fun pillow from Vanessa and Company and I kicked off my Etsy obsession a few months ago with a backpack from Janine King Designs .

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given on pursuing your craftiness? "Just go - you need this, and we'll be fine!" (said by my husband when I was hemming and hawing about spending 3 days away from home on a polymer clay retreat) He was right: I did need it, and they were fine here without me. And now I take a weekend away every couple of months to take a class or get involved in a polymer clay guild activity. I come home refreshed and full of inspiration, and the boys enjoy a weekend in their pajamas with Dad.

What are your goals or dreams in regards to your art?

Well, for me, a lot of the joy is in the creating of it. I have my book store to help me pay for the supplies so that I can keep crafting. I like to sell my work because it validates for me that it's good enough for somebody else to like it ;-) Someday, I think I'd like to have a little creativity shop, where I sell books & videos, but also have a little section for my crafts to sell, and also an area for people to just come and be crafty together or take classes, etc.

What else would you like people to know about you?

Hmmm, well, I'm just really into the whole craft blog / etsy/ flickr thing right now. I didn't "get" how it was such a social thing until recently, and I think it's great! I've been into online message boards since I called my first bulletin board system in 1989. I ran a few BBS's in the early 90's and recently had my own message board online (The Polka Dot Cottage) for the past year. I recently closed it since I was spending all of my spare computer time blogging and didn't have any time left for it, but the archives are still around for anyone to read http://www.polkadotcottage.net/ . I also have my own internet radio station: Polka Dot Radio http://www.polkadotradio.com/ which is fun for me, when I'm not too busy with crafty things to actually update the song list regularly! I have dreams of being "Super Crafty Spotless-House-Having Cookie-Baking Mom", but the dishes stacked up in my sink tell the real truth about me...

Thanks Lisa! And, by the way, I love your clay button creations!

You can also check out her blog at http://www.polkadotcreations.com/blog/

Happy Sunday everyone! And Happy Father's Day to all you pops & daddies out there!

YOWZA! It's the Sunday Featured Artist...Katydid Designs!

Katydid Designs is really a nifty disguise for Laura Bray, an artist & crafter, residing in California. I met Laura through blog-world. Her paper doll girl cupcake picks caught my attention, as mentioned in a previous post. We had a secret cupcake pick exchange & from there, our crazy cupcake bond has begun. (Next we'll be exchanging altered books & collaging in each other's pages!! I'm so excited! Maybe I'll give you a peek in upcoming blog entries...)

In November 2006, Laura shifted from the world of Human Resources consulting to a more handmade atmosphere. Her Etsy shop, Katydid Designs, opened on May 7, 2007. With creative ideas unleashing, her shop is filling with unique goodies & sweet treats! A peek inside her store reveals original paintings, collage artwork, watercolor &/or mixed media notecards, custom paper dolls, cupcake picks & gift tags. My favorite piece of hers (besides the cupcake picks) is decorated with--guess what--? A cupcake! Laura's Literary Cupcake Notecards come in a set of 6--for six bucks! A portion of the profits are donated to the Friends of READ Orange County, an organization that supports the adult literacy program of the Orange County, California Library. The blank notecards are printed with original watercolor/mixed media artwork by Laura. They really are frame-able pieces. They are THAT special. I know, cuz I've received one in the mail! And yes, I did a cute little cupcake dance when I opened it. (She even painted the bubble manila envelope with the cutest little blue birdie! MAN, do I feel special!!!)

Laura is also a teacher of general arts & crafts classes. She has a website, www.katydid-designs.com where she not only sells her artwork, but also business tools to help artists and crafters make a living doing what they love.

Her blog, katydiddys, is also a friendly read. Check it out by clicking HERE.

Laura's motto? "If it stands still, it can be embellished." And she does mention in her Etsy profile that her husband, baby daughter & dog are constantly active!

Here's a bit of Q & A with this awesome craftin' gal!

Where were you born, where are you from, where did you grow up, & where are you living now?
Born in Cleveland OH and lived there until I was 12. Then (thankfully!) my parents moved us all to Southern California. I live in "the OC" now.

What inspires you?
Vintage, retro, sparkles & sweets.

How long have you been crafting?
I was really crafty as a child, but had a bad art teacher who blew-up all my dreams of a career as a fashion designer. I spent most of my adult life in business-HR & finance, then had a surprise pregnancy and decided to be more authentic about my life & rediscovered crafting & art. I've been doing the crafty thing for about a year now. I'm sorry I spent so much of my life denying myself of my creativity.

What’s your favorite color?
Pink, Robin's Egg Blue

What one thing did you believe as a child, that as an adult you now realize was silly?
I believed that *$%#% art teacher!

How much time do you spend on your craft?
I try to work at least 1-2 hours a day, but I do have a 2 year old, so that's not always possible!

What were some of your most recent purchases from other Etsy artists?
I just bought some cool vintage wallpaper for a craft project I'm working on from Unfinished Business & some cupcake earrings from Stuck on You. Those are for a cupcake swap I'm in.

What are your goals or dreams in regards to your art?
I'm hoping to get some of my original watercolor paintings licensed. I'd love to walk into Hallmark & see my work on a greeting card!

If you could be a cupcake, what flavor would you be?
Probably lemon poundcake because I'm a little zingy. And I would definately have sprinkles on top-I love to accessorize

So, bring your sweet self on over to Katydid Designs & support this sweet artist with a sweet tooth for the sweet things in life! You'll get no cavities! I promise. ( I've been told she may accept some form of cupcake bribery as payment.)

YOWZA! It's the Sunday Featured Artist.....ME??!!

OK, I am a dweeb. I had an artist in mind to interview, but sent the questions too late & it's all my fault. Sorry folks! I do have great artists lined up to interview in the coming weeks.

But, as a subsitute, I'll interview......myself! Tacky, I know. I thought it was better than nothin', but maybe not? So here goes:

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

I was born in Renton, Washington. I was adopted as a baby & grew up in different parts of the U.S.: Florida, Louisiana, Virginia, North Carolina, & different parts of Washington-namely, Anacortes & Richland. As of now I reside in Richland, WA just a couple minutes from a lovely river & I love the small town feel here. (Although, my hubby & I have a dream to someday live in a big city, in a "flat" or studio apartment, when our kids are grown & on their own!)

What inspires you?

All sorts of things. Anything. Mostly just seeing things in silly ways, childish ways. My kids are great motivators for helping me keep a different view at life. Also, being surrounded by other artists at Etsy just gets me in that creative frame of mind.

How long have you been crafting?

Since I was a little, but I don't remember an exact age. I was always in love with fancy pens & papers & little cute artist-y things. And I always gave handmade gifts. My mom taught me to cross-stitch at about 11....I made skateboard stickers & had my brother walk around our apartment complex & sell them at 13...I remember making little boxes from posterboard covered in glue, fabric, & ribbons at 14....I got into stamp collecting & now use stamps in a lot of my crafting. (Soon to come to Etsy!) Gosh, I decoupaged, did paper mache, played with polymer clay....Those are jus a few examples. I was into everything! I loved trying all sorts of crafts. I couldn't stick to just one thing, & I still can't! Sometimes I think that one day I'll be forced to pick just one thing. I don't know if I could.

What is your favorite medium to work with?

I love pretty papers! And fabric! And buttons! Those, right now, are my favorite things. Oh yeah, & I really am getting into the whole "photography" thing. Just a bit. The picture up top is one I took from my birthday road trip in April.

Share about, or describe your favorite piece.

Gosh, they're all so wonderful, how can I pick just one? I'm TOTALLY joking! I would say my vintage button rings. The green & yellow button ring I call "Tiny Bubbles" is really fun! I've loved old buttons for a long time & use them in a lot of my crafty pieces. The rings are a fun accessory & make me smile! I where a giant light blue & white one around to attract potential customers! (You can see it in the last picture of the vintage button rings listings.)

What do you do when you're not bein' all crafty?

I love being silly with my girls, & thrifting, going to yard sales, blogging, & reading creative magazines & books.

What are some of your favorite things?

A few things I love.... the color pink, cupcakes & the 1940's & anything vintage, old toys, avocados, Etsy, peanut butter, Jesus, ice cream, my family, polka dots, sidewalk chalk, laughter.

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

Well, one time I remember searching in the desert beside our house looking for 'smurfs' with a friend. We never found any....

How much time do you spend on your craft?

I opened "WhiMSy love" Feb 28, 2007, but didn't start filling the shop with goodies until the last day of March! Now, I craft whenever I can! I craft when my kids are eating breakfast, lunch, or dinner. I create when they're in their bedroom for naptime or "quiet" time. I make stuff when they're poopin' on the toilet. I love to sit outside on beautiful days & watch them play while I get all crafty. And, at night is finally...mommy time. I stay up late crafting & blogging & checking out Etsy-ville.

What were some of your most recent purchases from other Etsy artists?

Oh, I just bought a gift certificate from Epicurious Market for one of her cupcake wax melts to give to a cupcake swap buddy.

I found a sweet little vintage daisy charm from lovely bits.

And, I bought a postcard of an old truck from bella arte by bella jean to frame & give to my dad.

Use three words to describe yourself.

Silly, friendly, creative.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given on pursuing your craftiness?

Well, I can't think of any particular person who's given me advice. I mean, my parents & family are always saying nice things. I think I just keep telling myself to "Go for it! What have you got to lose?" And, I really feel like I'm becoming who I was meant to be as I'm discovering more of my artsy insides. I the neatest thing being surrounded by people that are just like me--with creative spirits & crafty passions.

What are your goals or dreams in regards to your art?

I would love to be able to help "bring home the bacon". I would love Etsy to be successful, & who knows where it could go from there. Someday I thought it would be fun to volunteer at helping kids do artsy craftsy stuff. Get all messy & creative, ya know?

What else would you like people to know about you?

I love to laugh & be silly & have fun. I love creating stuff SOOOOO much. I love all the great people I've met through Etsy & my blog & I can't wait to see where my handmade adventure takes me!!

YOWZA! It's the Sunday Featured Artist...Bella Jean!

The artist I'd like to introduce you today snuck her artwork into my mailbox in a rather "secret" way...I "won" a set of notecards from Bella Arte by Bella Jean on Etsy & when they arrived in the mail, I fell in photography love! You see, Bella Jean, also known as Dani, is a photographer. She's a small town girl, an animal lover & though she has no formal training in photography, she has an artistically gifted eye!

I've got a couple of her postcard prints on the way. I'm planning on framing the Old Pick-Up Truck fine art postcard for my dad & his mechanic shop. And I'm keeping the Vintage White Noise fine art postcard for myself!

My favorite piece of hers is one that came in my set of four notecards. It's a view of some buildings in a city. Click HERE to take a peek.

But, I'll stop blabbing now & let Dani tell you a bit more about herself...
Where were you born, where are you from, where did you grow up, & where are you living now? I was born and raised in Ponca City, Oklahoma. Now I live in Geuda Springs, Kansas. It is a very small town (around 200) and while it is great to live in the country, it is a pain sometimes because we have to drive to get gas or groceries.
What inspires you?
Everything! Since I live in the country, I always find myself looking at old abandoned items/houses and thinking how cool they look!

How long have you been taking pictures?
I have been taking pictures since I was little girl. My Grandma gave me a Kodak when I was little and I took pictures of all sorts of stuff. I also had a Polaroid and liked to take pictures of my Donny & Marie dolls in different outfits!

Share about, or describe your favorite piece.
I think my favorite piece is the Sleeping Sunflowers images (print or postcard). A few years ago I saw this field of dying sunflowers and thought how cool they looked. They looked sad or like they were sleeping with all of their heads down. By the time I thought about taking a camera, they had cut the field down so I had to wait until the following year to capture the image!

What's your favorite color?
It would have to be blue. All shades of blue!

What one thing did you believe as a child, that as an adult you now realize was silly?
That using real eggs in my mudpies would make them better. -How much time do you spend on your craft?It depends, sometimes I take oodles of pics but other times I don’t. One of these days I will post some ACEO’s that I have done but those are collage/paint that I do sometimes!

What were some of your most recent purchases from other Etsy artists?
A soy wax candle from Epicurious (so lovely!):http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=5453480
A notecard from JaredKS (love his work!):http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=5426423
An ACEO card from StilettoHeights (one of my fave artists):http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=5397806

What's the best piece of advice you've been given on pursuing your art?
Just Do It!

What are your goals or dreams in regards to your art?
I would love to take some classes sometime so I can really understand everything there is know about photography. I also want to develop my own images in a darkroom someday!!

What else would you like people to know about you?
I would like people to know that I have fibromyalgia. I was diagnosed in November of 2006 and it has been a real struggle to deal with. I want people to become more aware of this illness because there seems to be a lot of misinformation out there. This website: http://www.fibrohugs.com/ has a lot of great information and I urge anyone reading this blog to check it out!

Thanks Dani!!

Check out Dani's Etsy shop & purchase any one of her (very reasonably priced) postcards, prints, bookmarks, notecards, stationery, or magnets! You will not be disappointed! Trust me!!

YOWZA! It's the Sunday Featured Artist...Daisy Chains!

Ok, I don't know why I call the artists by their shop name, but that's how I know them. But Daisy Chains first name actually IS Daisy. And her last name IS Chains........Not really.

I'd like you to meet Rebecca, or Becky, or Beck, for short. I met Beck while chatting up sales in an Etsy forum & her quirky humor & silliness told me she was definitely on my "kool kat" list. Someday I'll make the drive to Oregon for a cup-o-coffee with my new friend, but for now I sip my imaginary brew while I get a chance to let YOU meet a fabulous artist...

Beck's Etsy shop, Daisy Chains, grew as an idea in her head because she was tired of going to local department stores to shop for children's jewelry for her daughter and coming up empty handed. You can also access her shop, & find out a little bit more about her business, by visiting http://www.littledaisychains.org/ Now, read on...

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

I’m a true Oregonian born and raised!! I've never lived anywhere else. I totally love it here and could never imagine leaving all these lush green trees. Besides, with the Mountain and the Beach both about an hour away I really couldn't ask for more. I love the outdoors.

What inspires you?

My kids for sure! I love seeing the world through their little eyes. Everything is so much simpler and lighter to them. They always view things on the bright side and I love that! They are my little reminders that sometimes life really is how we see it!

How long have you been crafting?

I didn’t start crafting children’s jewelry, or jewelry in general, until October of 2006. It blows me away to think that October was only 7 months ago!! I’ve totally picked it up and have been running with it ever since.

Share about, or describe, your favorite piece.

My favorite creation really varies daily and depends on my mood or on what I’m wearing that day. I think it is pretty safe to say that I have no idea; I kind of just like it all!! If I had to choose what I liked making the most I’d say bobbies for sure. It’s crazy how many different things you can glue on the ends of those things!

What’s your favorite color?

Green. Always been a huge fan of green. I have a pair of green chucks that I wear nearly every day. My husband thinks they’re hideous but they just say “Becky” when you look at them. They’re bright, silly and so darn comfy… I totally love them!

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

That if you had an umbrella you could fly off of a roof just like Mary Poppins. I realized it was silly a little before I was an adult though, I was 8. I was at a babysitter’s house and my friend and I had the brilliant idea that we were so going to fly off of the roof with an umbrella!!! We climbed a tree, umbrella’s in our hot little hands, stared over the edge giggling and trying to get the other to go first and I tell you once you jump, um you don’t fly. You thump. ;O)

How much time do you spend on your craft?

I quit my Office Space-esque job about a year ago to spend time with my three children. It’s funny, you’d think a stay at home Mom would have tons of time to craft away, but really between volunteering at their school, cleaning the house, running errands, meeting up with old friends for lunch, picking the kids up after school, doing homework and making dinner, my day soon becomes night. I usually don’t have time to craft until they’re all in bed. I craft to the Television. Monday’s, Wednesday’s and Thursday’s are the nights I get the most done!! I love ABC.

Use three words to describe yourself.

Simple. Warm. Silly.

Thanks Beck!

I always like to mention MY favorite piece of each artist I interview, & I must say, I love the bobbies too! But I have a little fondness for the "Put Put" turtle ring in Daisy Chains Etsy shop. When my brother, sister & I were little my mom made us call farts "put-puts". Not stinkers, or tooties, but "put-puts". Did you really need to know that? Probably not. But, when I see that ring, it makes me smile & brings back memories. Stinky memories.

I can say first-hand that Beck's customer service is superb & her products are adorable, right down to the packaging! So, go visit Daisy Chains. The girly girls in your life will thank you!

YOWZA??

Due to my busy-ness the "YOWZA!" featured artist segment will not be posted this Sunday. Sorry! Stay tuned for next week's artist...

YOWZA! It's the Sunday Featured Artist...Tabitha Emma!

I think I like the name "Yowza!" for the Sunday Featured Artist segment of my blog. It's totally corny & fantastic & I love it!
Let's get right to it!...
I discovered our next artist on my beloved Etsy, where her shop just oozes goodness & fun!
Imagine cake...& ice cream...& frosting...& sprinkles....& lovely sweets that take you back to your childhood...
NOW, imagine those things, PLUS toss in some thread, rick-rack, zippers, lace, beads, & bright funky fabric...& you've discovered 'tabitha emma'!
Tabitha's line of sweet-(pun TOTALLY intended)-things include, not only her scrumptious line of dessert style bags, but other fun purses & bags for girls--& the young at heart!
So, let's meet this seamstress who bakes up a mean bag!

Where were you born, where are you from, where did you grow up, & where are you living now?
I was born in Sydney, Australia, in a hospital that no longer exists. I grew up and still live in Campbelltown, which is in the South West outskirts of Sydney.

What inspires you?
Childhood memories. I used to love playing tea parties, dress-ups, dolls etc. These games are reflected in my work.

How long have you been crafting?
Forever. My mum is an artist so she encouraged me and my brother to be creative. We also had access to a lot of craft supplies, we would do paper-machè, painting, play dough, craft, knitting, cooking and sewing. Then when I went to high school I discoved textiles and fell in love with sewing and designing and went on to do a fashion design course which I finished last year.

Share about, or describe your favorite piece.
Probably my slice of cake purse. I came up with the idea about 2 years ago but never got around to making it, then this year when I launched my etsy shop I discoved the original sketch and decided to try & make it. I’m really happy with the way it has turned out.

How much time do you spend on your craft?
Probably too much time. I work on it every moment I get and I have been known to stay up late or get up early to work on something. I also neglect things like doing my ironing as I would much rather be sewing.

So, you create using a lot of dessert themed foods. Do you actually like to eat those sorts of things?
I must admit I am a bit of a sweet tooth, but I do work at an ice-cream shop part time and I see just how much little children love sweet colourful foods. I also enjoy cooking as a creative outlet, you should see the cakes I make at Christmas time.

What's the best piece of advice you've been given on pursuing your craftiness?
Never give up and believe in yourself. The design industry is a tough world and you have to learn not to be too sensitive but constantly strive to do your best and push yourself. There is a lot of competition out there, but people without talent have become successful so if you have talent you are one step ahead.

What else would you like people to know about you?
I love design of all types and I wish there was more hours in a day for me to experiment and develop my skills. I really love etsy because there are so many creative people on there, which really inspires me. I also hate to throw things out as I believe I will one day find a use for it and I am running out of places to store things, I need a bigger house!!

Thanks Tabitha! (Um, I think you have some frosting on your lip...)
Tabitha's slice of cake purse happens to be my favorite also! I'm a sucker for any type of dessert-- real or not!...(stomach grumbles...)
Tabitha has more accessory & fashion products arriving soon at her Etsy shop. Also, check out her blog for extra creative goodness!
I think I'll go eat a cupcake now...

SUNDAY'S FEATURED ARTIST...BELLA COLLE!!!

(Ok, I need to come up with a more schnazzy title. Something rhyme-y & nerdy would be fun! Any suggestions are more than welcome...)

I'd like to introduce you on this fine Sunday to a beautiful artist, with a kind soul & a sweet spirit. I call her "bella" or "bella baby", but her real name is Christine. She's a self-taught collage artist & her Etsy shop, bellacolle, is filled with wonderful collage artwork in the form of pendants, necklaces, charms, & bracelets. Her items are sweet & charming &, in a way, they take you back in time. A tiny piece of the past. Artwork with an innocence.

Bella is Italian for "beautiful" and Colle is French for "paste and glue, or collage"... And Christine believes that your life should be surrounded by beautiful things, your life should be a beautiful collage of family and friends.

And now, for the question & answer portion of our piece entitled "SUNDAY'S FEATURED ARTIST...BELLA COLLE!!!".....(applause....)

What do you find as an inspiration when creating

To tell you the truth, it's my God and my family that inspire me daily.

How long have you been crafting?I

have been crafting as long as I can remember...I have always enjoyed working with my hands, painting and sewing. If something catches my eye-like something someone has made- I get sassy and think "I can do that." Most of the time it flops or I realize it's harder than it looks, but through it all I have found a few things that really get my excited! Collage and Art charms is what I love doing now.

Share or describe your favorite piece...

Right now, it's kind of silly, but the larger collage I have listed in my etsy shop, "the remote fairy". The picture in the piece is actually of my husband when he was 10! Yes, he was the inspiration because he always loses the remotes!!

Cheerios, Froot Loops, Shredded Wheat or Lucky Charms?

The mom in me picks the Shredded Wheat, but the "gal" in me picks Lucky Charms. I love the marshmallows!

How much time do you spend on your craft/art?

I try to do at least something everyday to promote Bella Colle... I probably make a collage or charm every other day, which takes me 3 or 4 hours. Time slips by when you are doing something you love.

If you could try out a new craft/art, what would it be?

I have always wanted to take up photography! You know, develop your own film, learn special techniques for lighting..etc.

Anything you'd like your adoring fans to know about you?

I'm just your average gal, nothing exciting. But, I would like to say, I love my God and my family and my country deeply. I enjoy creating something new from something old. I want to create things that would inspire others, make them feel special and smile when they see it. I have really enjoyed all the etsy friends I have met. I hope to make many more friends. Let's have fun, let's create!

(applause!.....standing ovation!....more applause!!!)

I love bella's work & I do have a favorite piece of hers, but I don't want to share it with you because one day it will be MINE & I don't want you taking it!! But if you are quiet & don't tell anyone, it's right here. Shhh!

Bella can also create custom pieces for you to call your own. Visit bellacolle's blog, mybellacolle, where you can peek into the life of this southern born/Wisconsin residing gal, view her artwork-in-progress, & meet her HOT new assistant Rosie! The mood she creates is an informal & relaxed one. Christine says: "Like the beautiful front porches of the southern homes I grew up in... we can sit back and talk, and enjoy a nice glass of sweet tea."

So go pull up a rocker, grab a thirst-quenching beverage, & check out this artist that you'll soon call "friend". Oh, & tell Rosie I said, "Hi!"

Featured Artists Coming Soon!

I know it's not a new thing, lots of other artsy bloggers do it! But, it's new for my blog & I'm so excited to expose other artists & their craftiness!! (In a good way!) I'll be featuring a new artist every Sunday. I got the idea from fellow Etsy artist Brezomayo Designs blog.

I'm thinking of having a question/answer segment in my feature. So, what kinds of things would you want to know about an artist? I've received ideas such as...."What's your inspiration?"..."How long have you been crafting?"....."Share or describe your favorite piece."...."How much do you spend on your craft?"....."Froot Loops or Lucky Charms?".....(That last one was from me.)

I don't want it to be all staunch & serious. Fun & silly & upbeat! And watch this Sunday for my first featured artist!

I guess "I'm IT!" (I've been tagged...)

I must admit, when I read the comment in my post that said, "By the way, you're IT!" I thought that meant, "You're the stuff, you're "the bomb", etc. Guess not. What a dork I am!

The rules are that I must list 10 random things about myself & then tag someone else on their blog, & the circle continues & goes on & on & on.....

1. I once balanced a hockey stick on my nose for 8 seconds.

2. Some kid in 5th grade gave me the nickname "skinny stars". (What does that even mean?)

3. I like to stay up WAY late, & do everything--& sometimes nothing.

4. I love to sing & sometimes imagine I'm a lounge singer. In a classy joint, of course.

5. I once wanted to work at Seaworld. I think sea creatures are so neato.

6. I'm adopted.

7. When I was younger, I read on a small piece of paper hidden in my baby book that I was "caucasian". I didn't know what that meant, so for a little while I thought I was from some African tribe. (You can stop laughing now.)

8. I was once a floral designer, one of my favorite jobs.

9. If I was not allowed to be creative, I think a part of me would die.

10. I have 2 little girls, & they are the best part of me.