ArteDar's Attic

Paper Iris Designing

2012-01-20T14:02:00.002-05:00

For this Saturday at 6 PM EST live on Ustream I'll be making my own designs to share and the how to's of making your own.
Here is a link to jump start you with free down loadable patterns. Make a printed copy of the two that are public domain. You will need them to play along.

These two patterns are public domain and can found on the internet.

Paper Stumps

2012-01-17T17:42:00.000-05:00

Paper Stumps:

'via Blog this'

A wonderful artist and GF...come visit her brand new blog...you won't be sorry.

Lindy's Stamp Gang Christmas Contest

2011-12-26T13:17:00.001-05:00

(click on the title Lindy's above to go to the blog and contest)

Come play...vote...and enjoy!

Here are my two entries:
Angel Art Doll. An original hand sculpted air dry clay art doll head I made and painted. I deconstructed an old plastic doll and put this together with a hand made gown.
She sat and looked sad without her body and cloths, so I put this together on my live Ustream show (Saturdays at 6 pm est) on Christmas eve.

This is another original I made on a Ustream show of the lil' bottle brush trees altered into Angels.
The stacking wood band boxes are decorated and sprayed with LINDY'S Starburst sprays.

Thank you for visiting my blog. I wish you the very best Happy New Year for 2012 with much Peace and Love.

All the Tags for Tim Holtz 12 Days, and a few more I made along the way

2011-12-13T13:38:00.000-05:00

I so enjoyed this year of Tim Holtz 12 Tags of Christmas. I made a few like his the first few days and then realized I need to stretch my wings and do my own thing and enjoy being inspired. Some days I made more then one and had a blast. Hope you all get inspired to make some in your own style as well.
Peace and Much Love

here is a direct quote from Tim's blog and I think it's awesome.
so here they are bloggers...here they are, all 12 tags! looking back there sure were lots of techniques packed on these tags, what a fun time. i know many of you have left comments saying you're sad the 12 tags are over - well in the words of dr. seuss: "don't cry because it's over. smile because it happened.". here are his tags...FAN~FREAKIN'~FABULOUS

Here are a few of Mario's Behind The Scenes pix

AND...one of these Priority boxes is coming to me because I won...I can't believe it and I'm thrilled.

Here are my 12 Days of Christmas Tags....

and more....

and more.....

I'm not done yet...will be making more with all the fab techniques I learn and hope to send some out to family and friends real soon.
Again, Peace and Love and have a wonderful Christmas

"THE GIFT" Tim Holtz 12 Tags of Christmas Day 12

2011-12-12T22:18:00.002-05:00

Well, it's true. This is the last tag for the Tim Holtz Blog...but I won't quit making tags anytime too soon. It's truly been an adventure and joy. How awesome that we could share our lil' masterpieces on his blog...and I was able to find new artists that I might not have never found without his wonderful new addition called InLinkz I spent a lot of time browsing other's blogs, websites and Flicker....more eye candy then one gal deserves...it was so overwhelming in a good way.
My tag is truly inspired by Tim, and this is a "big one"...in more ways then one. I have an ongoing everlasting relationship with thee Angels...they are one gift to us from God that no one should underestimate. I adore the chance to do a lil' Shabby~Chic...and I took it as far as I dared...so much going on and I LOVE IT!
Also, the many new techniques I learned and applied making these tags has been invaluable and I will try and pass them on to other willing friends and acquaintances along my artful journey. Oh, and one other thing I should mention. I was fortunate to have a lot of Tim's products and at last stopped "treasuring" them and actually used them....that was so kewl. You know what else? I have seen so many more great products during this past 12 days and I know I'll be seeking them out to include in my array of goodies to play with.

TIM and Mario, a huge thank you FOR YOUR GIFT TO US...mere words can not express the pleasure and gratitude I feel....I hope you have a magical and wonderful Christmas and Happy, Healthy, Prosperous New Year
Peace and Love

Tim Holtz inspired tags Day 11

2011-12-12T01:59:00.002-05:00

I went beyond beyond with this die cutting and shrink plastic....I think, or maybe not...I know a lot of peeps to pass 'em on too. This was FAN~FREAKIN'~FAB....it's been too long since I played this hard.

this is just 2 of the many lil' tags I made. size 2 3/4 X 1 1/4

Day 10 of 12 Days Of Christmas Tags with Tim Holtz

2011-12-10T22:28:00.001-05:00

I did it!...Tim's technique with the foil and clear tape transfer, but instead of lil' ornaments I made a stack of gift boxes with lil' ribbon bows. Then later, for my live UStream I made a simple and eloquent tag using the glass chandelier pieces I've been "treasuring". I felt the need to make one without the grunge even though it's my all time favorite aesthetic for many years.

Tim Holtz 12 Days of Christmas Tags Day 9

2011-12-10T01:17:00.002-05:00

(click the link above and visit Tim Holtz's blog) I'm having trouble getting his "blinkie" to work for me.

I had a late start tonight after having a long day out and about, but I had the need to get this made...after all I was a fan appreciation winner on Tim Holtz' blog yesterday....and to meet my personal challenge of a tag a day it got finished.
I made an Angel because they are near and dear to my heart and a big Christmas symbol as well. Tim's new technique is amazing and I can use this one again and again...love it!

TY gang for all the congrats and for following me here on my art journey. I have met some wonderful bloggers through Tim's blog and I think that's icing on the cake to be able to "follow" them now too.

Day 8 Tim Holtz inspired Christmas tags

2011-12-08T20:55:00.001-05:00

Again, I have enjoyed making Christmas tags today....I seem to be a bit obsessed. I really dig the Steampunk tag and the picture reminds me of Mario in some way, "Always Ready For Use", Tim's right hand man (I used Tim's paper line, note the words just under the train). The tag with the lil' girl looking at Tim's fracture doll is my fav and the one. I actually remember the 8 MM movies dad took of us and on Christmas morning we were just about blinded by the added lights to make a good home movie!! The last one had been started and waited for the finishing touches...not a Christmas tag, but fun just the same with the play on clock faces and bead faces mixed in...also one of my fav color combos, red, white and black.

Day 7 Tim Holtz Inspired Tag

2011-12-07T18:59:00.001-05:00

I had the best time with this tag today! This is what I posted to Tim's blog....

My name is Dar...I'm an Alcohol Ink addict...I'm on the 12 Day Tag program and it's helped me tremendously because I can use all the AI I want all day long everyday!!! Thank you Tim, but I wonder what will become of me when my program is over? Is there anyway you can provide a 364 day program? Myself and other addicts would be forever indebted to you :)
I had the best time with today's techniques...I adore what you made and I'm thrilled with mine and will post (as always). TY again and again...YOU ROCK!

Well, on to the pix.

Day 6 of Tim Holtz inspired Christmas Tags

2011-12-06T16:27:00.000-05:00

Today's tag was fun and challenging. I used my foil sticky back tape and embossed it with T.H. brick, first coat was Adirondack Snow cap ink then a blend of two acrylic red paints. The white was too bright so I toned it down with Caramel A.I.. Other Tim products used are, adage tickets, idea-ology paper of Santa and reindeer and the rosette die. I added other trims and am happy with my results.
Wow~we!!! I am building a wonderful collection of Tim H. inspired tags and it ain't any better then that in my book.

12 days of Christmas Tim Holtz inspired

2011-12-06T00:20:00.000-05:00

Christmas Tags Tim Holtz inspired

2011-12-04T22:23:00.000-05:00

Day 4. I made 2 and had a hard time deciding which one to post to Tim's blog....sooo I enlisted hubs to pick for me....good choice honey! I'll be posting the painted one. I did not have his Die for the snowman so I held a piece of paper up to the screen and traced around it. Perfect size too, I might add.

Christmas Art and Crafts 2011 AND New Furbaby Lilly

2011-12-02T17:12:00.001-05:00

Halloween Art Doll Swap

2011-10-19T20:23:00.000-04:00

A lil' Witchy art doll made for the swap going in the mail this week.

Art

2011-09-26T22:12:00.000-04:00

I'm so behind in uploading some of my art work. What a huge chunk of time to format and get these uploaded. Sorry about not keeping up better...but...places to go...people to see....and things to do seem to get first priority...oh, and I have to have art play time too.

AND lastly....FLOWERS!

Halloween is Coming eeeeEEEEeeee

2011-09-14T23:18:00.000-04:00

First is a decorated ol' box that I put my lil' Skellie Witchy in....I think there's room for more! The tag goes to a DGF Laurel as a trade. I made this lil' skellie Witchy with my last pair of clay boots with toothpick legs. I had fun and was in the "mood" to make more Halloween themed tags.

Now I'm very busy getting ready for my next art fest with the gang from Ustream and YouTube. We are gonna have a blast and shop 'till we drop and squeeze in some art play time with work shopes as well. I'm getting my class stuff together ....not telling what it is though....I like the suspense.

Well, gotta go...things to do, ya know! Peace and Love

Arms Wide Open

2011-09-06T14:09:00.002-04:00

Free photo slideshow generated with Smilebox

This is a mixed media Art Doll that I made to accomplish two challenges. For my BGFF Carole Ann and Mitzi. Carole's given Indian name is "Arms Wide Open" and after spending a few glorious days with her bonding a friendship and getting to know her better this is what I made. I cherish the memories and this Art Doll will be a continuous reminder to me sitting in my art studio.

The base is an up-cycled Coffee Mate creamer bottle that I sprayed white paint in the inside and then removed some so the HEART (made from the cap) could be seen inside. Carole loves to wear black and white clothing but has no desire to incorporate prints so I did it for her in a place that she doesn't have to see it (the back bow) but to remind her that she is capable of going into that unknown zone and explore. The flower represents LIFE and who doesn't appreciate a little sweet aroma therapy to sooth the senses? The base is an alter CD painted silver to allow her to stay on a peddle stool not only to be admired, but for who she is, a person that knows we must LOVE our self first so others can LOVE in return. Here is some of the "found poetry" (I went on a search, actually!)that is on the head and hopefully will give you insight at just a few of the adjectives that describe her....but trust me, there's so much more to her. CLASS, RESPECT, JOY, HELPING OTHERS, ON FRIENDSHIP, ENTHUSIASM, SHE LEADS A HAPPIER LIFE, MAKES OTHERS COMFORTABLE, MOTHER, GOD, TUESDAY: from a dictionary page not only because I arrived on a Tue. but to symbolize she is an intelligent and wise woman, Time to go_____ text on sheet music: I chose not give you my personal interpretation and would like YOU (everyone)to see it your way.

I drew the arms on plastic packaging and cut them out. As I went through the journey of creating this piece it changed from Ranger alcohol inks to what it evolved into. I cut lil' slits on the sides to slip them in, but, the ribbon on the back hides the tabs and allows the arms to have movement.

In closing, I want to thank my friends for allowing me to continue my pursuit of happiness through my creativity. This is the path I know I'm meant to be on and am greatful to be able to share it.
Peace and Much LOVE, Darlene Gail

2011-08-24T19:56:00.000-04:00

Personalize your own free photo slideshow

As the scrapbook instructor at my local Michael's Arts and Crafts store I made these items for demo on the Open House Day September 10th, 2011 from 1 to 3 PM. I hope they bring an interest to the beginners, intermediate and advanced scrappers and hopefully sign up for some classes. There will also be classes for the Martha Stewart Punch Around paper punches and glitter. I see more fun in my future. If you're in the Rio Grande, NJ area please stop in and say hi.

2011-08-21T14:32:00.001-04:00

A 12X12 LO for my store Michael's Open House on Sept. 10th. I have more projects in progress and will post as they are finished.

Art Doll Swap

2011-08-13T15:02:00.003-04:00

HALLOWEEN Art Doll Swap

This is my fabric skellie that was painted with acrylics and has a metal zipper for the mouth.

Three categories, Pick one or all three.
ONLY ONE doll for each category, OR just one of any category.
Theme: Halloween
1) Paper Art Doll: must have embellishments: example: brads, beads, ribbon, etc.
2) Mixed Media Art Doll: found treasures, fabric, tins, clay, game pieces, use your imagination.
3) Altered Doll: any doll that is already made and can be altered.

DATE DUE: October 14th, 2011 in time for Halloween!!
Must be in my hands by this date or it will be returned to you at your expense.
Please allow enough time if sending from over seas.
I will have them swapped back to you for Halloween.

Size: Max 6 inches/ 15 cm (metric) long
Minimum 3 inches/8 cm (metric) long
Sign up here. Drop out no worries.

I do my very best to swap quality for quality, so please send in your very best work and what you would want back in return.
I will swap paper doll for paper doll, mixed media for mixed media and altered doll for altered doll.

Shipping and Handling: Mail your art in a bubble envelope or small box and I will recycle it back to you with your returns.
U.S. send the same amount in cash (well concealed) that it cost you to mail your pkg. to me.
Internationals can PayPal to my account the equivalent of $4.00 USA if in a box, $2.00 if in a bubble envelope. I will cover the cost if more to return to you. OR if you want free shipping you need to make an Art Doll for me....thank you very much, I need more ART DOLLS!!!

My UStream show about this topic will be added after the recording.

Come on and PLAY! You know you want to!!! Art Dolls are FUN and because you want to add to your collection or start one!!!

Message here for my email addy and I will email you my snail mail addy when ready to send your artydoll.
All my message posts here must be approved before seen here, so please put in your email addy. I will not post or give your info to the public or anyone.

Shaped Card Challenge for Laurel

2011-08-07T21:13:00.000-04:00

This is an original card I made using one of my lil' gurl drawings colored in with Prisma pencils.

All About Me inspiration from InkWell DeDe

2011-07-28T21:27:00.002-04:00

(click on the Title All About Me to visit DeDe's UStream)
Today I watched "InkWell" DeDe Willingham's UStream recording "All About You Thursday" She is a fan~fabulous artists and always inspires me. I occasionally wake up in time for her morning shows but fear that I'll never get the opportunity to get randomly picked....I'm a late night kinda gal and sleep in. You have to be there so you can be asked and answer her questions in the chat so that she can create a personalized collage for you. I think it's a stellar concept because it allows us to get to know our art pals better and I take notes from the recordings. Well, anyway, like I said she gets me motivated and since I enjoy artful play I decided to gather and create my own page about me while I watched and listened to her.
Here are a few of the questions she asks and is always so gracious to allow the gals to also post their blogs, Etsy store, Flicker and what ever else you care to share in the art community.
NOTE: Her collage base is painted first and then her magic unfolds as layer by layer she makes a lil' masterpiece that she sends out to that person.
What is your favorite:
3 colors, white, red and black
Motif, ART,especially mail art and ATC's
flower, Rose and Gardenia (I couldn't find an image of the later)
collection, Black vintage ladies hats
animal/insect, gentle creatures of all kinds. I do have a cocker Spaniel and tuxedo cat
art supply, pencil and paper
about yourself, see below
one thing you HATE, this goes on the back and has the red circle with a line through it,
LOL!!! PEAS
I'm sure you will be able to see in my collage something about me.
Here is something you won't see but how I imagine myself to be.
I'm a silly smiling optimist who loves to dance, has good manners and is a bleeding heart, among other things.

If you make an "About Me" (yourself of course) please give me a link and share, I'd love to see.
Size: 8.5 X 11 mixed media collage All About ArteDar

Altered CD Swap @ A Lil' Scrap O' Heaven

2011-05-27T22:48:00.000-04:00

This slideshow customized with Smilebox

All the cd's were amazingly beautiful....I hope everyone enjoyed their returns. TY so much for playing.

2011-05-02T14:29:00.000-04:00

Free slideshow design made with Smilebox

moree fab pix for me to crop with! YAH! The neice sent me a great collection of her son dressed for Halloween through the years. LOVE THIS!
His Nana JodyAnne made some of the outfits, they are GRAND!
TFW
P&L

BLOG HOP WINNER IS......

2011-04-19T12:44:00.000-04:00

Our Hippity Hoppity Blog Hop winner for The Altered Page Angela Holt's hop is number seven; godmixmediagirl
Congrats and thank you EVERYONE for stopping by and I hope you get the chance to do it again and again. I'll try real hard to keep it up to date with new art projects as I complete them.
Have a happy holiday!!!

Send me an email with your address please.
>atticbabe@yahoo.com< SPRING HOP in subject line

Hippity Hoppity Blog Hop!

2011-04-15T21:13:00.007-04:00

SPECIAL NOTICE: NO NEED TO EMAIL THE "SPRING WORDS" the hop was broken and I'll just include EVERYONE that stopped by and left a comment. My 'follow' button to click is in the very top BLUE BAR... if ya care to follow. Thanks so much.
Easter is on it's way! So what better way is there to bring in the holiday than with an awesome Hippity Hoppity Blog Hop!

The word that means Spring to me is BABIES

You can start at the hostess' Blog called "The Bling Theory"
Angela Holt http://www.theblingtheory.blogspot.com/

and while you are there, please check some of the links to the side to visit her NING site, fan page and more!!

After you have completed the blog hop, don't forget to run over to Angela's USTREAM CHANNEL and Create with The Altered Page FOR AN ALL DAY LIVE CROP!!
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/create-with-the-altered-page#events
Any and everything will be crafted over there and you will meet some pretty awesome people that share in the creative process of The Altered Page!

Each participating Blogger has created something Easter/Spring to show off their talents and awesome creativity!

I made this "Spring~Chickie" at the top of the page with these supplies:
old rusty bed spring (try ebay for yours)
Styrofoam balls, 1 1/2
Yellow feathers
plastic toy eyes
orange card stock
Flower hat
hot glue

THIS IS HOW YOU CAN WIN MY PRIZE!:

a wonderful art supply grab bag and an ArteDar original art piece.

YOU MUST DO THE FOLLOWING!

1. Become a follower of my blog! (craft it forward)
2. Leave a comment on this posting
3. When you visit each blog, the ladies will have one word posted that they have used to say what Spring means to them. As you hop each blog, you will have to keep a list of their words and then you will email me AND ANGELA HOLT (her email addy will be on her blog) a total of 12 words to >atticbabe@yahoo.com< with SPRING CHICK in the subject line. Don't for get to list all 12 of the chosen words! I will then Choose from Random.org and post the lucky blog hopper on SUNDAY the 17th !

Check out the next blog in your hop. She is a very talented lady!! Show her some love and check out what she has been crafting!
Barbara (bluebelle) http://barbrex1472.blogspot.com

GOOD LUCK TO ALL!!!

Altered Old wooden spool made on Ustream 4-8-11

2011-04-10T19:36:00.000-04:00

UStream: Ol'Wooden Spools altered into photo or card holder.

Hand made air dry clay bunnies

2011-03-22T19:44:00.000-04:00

I gave a class on how I make clay bunnies on Ustream....it was fun and the winner of one of the bunnies was Riley. The round up~cycled boxes are for candy too.

I captured a lil' Faerie named Genevieve. I found her out back in my Secret Garden. Be kind to her Dawn and she will forever be happy to live with you.

My Flicker link.... TONS of my art to see (click on title)

2011-03-20T23:34:00.004-04:00

RANGER: INKS, ALCOHOL, DISTRESS, and GLOSSY ACCENTS on my ATC's

RANGER: INKS, ALCOHOL, DISTRESS,GLOSSY ACCENTS

On The Scrap Beach Challenges

2011-03-07T01:54:00.000-05:00

Hi gang! I love watching Kathryn create on the live UStreams and she also has a bolg and ning site that I enjoy as well. She gave everyone that is interested (and some prizes to sweeten the pot) some scrappin' challenges. I jumped in and have two of the 6 finished and I'm happy with them. Let me know what ya think! P&L, Dar

Altered CD 's Material list for the UStream Class Sat. the 5th @6PM EST

2011-03-04T02:52:00.002-05:00

SUPPLY LIST
*CD's or DVD's
*Pick a favorite theme and colors you like, clip art, ephemera and embellishments,fibers/yarn.... just as though you were going to make a lay out, mini album, card or tag.
*Glue: wet or dry, but I recommend gel medium (if you have it).
*Old paint brush (to apply glue)
*Plastic CC or brayer or something to smooth air bubbles from under the paper
*Tools (any)to make a hole: Crop~a~dile, needle punch/ ice pick, small drill bit and drill or Dremal.
*Heat gun
*pens
*ink pads and stamps
Hope to see you come play!

I'm hosting an Altered CD swap at my
YouTube,
A Lil' Scrap O' Heaven,
Paper Phenomenon
and here at my blog. If interested here are the rules.

Rules: OPEN THEME
DUE IN MY HANDS BY APRIL 30TH
*Let me know if you want to play with posting a messing on my YouTube page, here or any of the other web sites and how many you want to swap, or just have them to me by the due date.
1 for 1 or 2 for 2 (no more)
*Sign real name and screen name and date each CD and put each in a plastic baggie.
*Send an Address label or Address sticker
*Send well concealed same amount in money that it cost you to mail to me.
*Foreign out of U.S.A I will pay your return postage if you include an extra decorated CD.
*Send CD/DVD in a padded envelope because I will recycle it for your returns.
*Hostess gifts are sweet but never expected.
*PM ME FOR MY ADDRESS when ready to mail.
This is going to be fun!
I will swap CD according to effort for effort.
Please send in what you are proud of and would want in return.
I will message you when I receive your envie of CD's.

DUE DATE (IN MY HANDS BY, or it will be returned to you at your expense)
APRIL 30th (that's 2 months to get 'er done)
Mail early if you are not in the USA.

Graphic 45 Design Team Call art submission By ArteDar

2011-02-28T16:42:00.013-05:00

ARTEDAR'S own design of an ALTERED DISH SOAP CONTAINER into a DRESS FORM and WIRE SKIRT and a tissue and crape paper skirt.

An ArteDar original pair of art dolls made with muslin fabric and painted with acrylic paints and covered with tissue paper.

An original design of a Captured Faerie by ArteDar. I gave a Ustream class and shared it with all who were interested in making their own.2011

An original hand drawn Steampunk Gurl colored with Prisma color pencils on a wood mixed media board with chain hanger.

An original Altered book by ArteDar made into a 'Pocketbook'.An original design by ArteDar of an altered book made into a 'Pocketbook'. An Ustream class was recorded for all interested in making their own. 2011

This is an original design. I made a gel medium transfer of a Steampunk Debutante woman image onto muslin fabric, and then designed a wire skirt and stand with handmade flowers of the same G45 papers.

An original design of an Altered pair of ladies Sunglasses with Graphic 45 paper, On the Boardwalk with an altered candy box to hold a mini album designed by ArteDar.

Graphic 45 Steampunk Debutante paper used for an original chipboard mini album that is stored in an altered cigar box. Hand made flowers made with same papers.

An original design by ArteDar. The dress form is Graphic 45 Steampunk Debutante transferred onto muslin fabric and fashioned with a wire skirt and G45 paper handmade flowers.

An original design by ArteDar. This is an altered dish soap bottle made into a dress form. I printed G45 Steampunk Debutante rose paper onto muslin for the lower part of dress form. G45 papers for the handmade flowers and wings.
I gave a free Ustream class on how to alter the dish detergent soap bottle into the dress form.

An original ArteDar design of an altered file folder made into a large card with photos, handmade flowers and trims.

An original ArteDar design of a Captured Faerie. This design was given as a free class on Ustream.

An original design by ArteDar of an altered book made into a 'pocketbook'.

An original ArteDar design of an altered book with G45 papers and trims.

List of supplies needed for the Captured Faerie class

2011-02-09T23:26:00.000-05:00

I'll give a second class on my style of the Captured Faerie this Saturday at 6 PM E.S.T. If you would like to make one along with me here is a list of supplies you will want to have ready. :)

Pick a color theme you love!!

*hot glue gun and glue sticks (3 or 4)
*clear bottle (bar~b~q, salad dressing or what you find),
*Straight twigs or sticks longer then your bottle~ very important,
*Girly image of your choice pasted on card stock for stability (nothing too flimsy like copy paper)
*wings (feather, paper, tin, clip art or what you like),
*any of the following of your choice, potpourri, moss, faux fiber for the inside of bottle,
*glitter of your choice,
*faux flowers (silk, paper or any of your choice)
*sissors and heavy duty shears to cut twigs
*Mod Podge and brush,
*tissue papers, book text, music sheet, napkins papers of your choice for the outside back of bottle.
*lace, ribbons and trims of your choice.

I hope to see you there!

The most amazing thing happened....

2011-02-09T19:54:00.001-05:00

I'm still in disbelief...I was one of two picked as winner in the Marion Smith's (Prima Flower Lady), 31 Day Challenge, 31 Vids, 31 Goals. She said she couldn't pick just one and said we were tie. I'm so humbled and proud at the same time. I was thrilled and not only get some of Marion's new WONDERFUL Vintage (metal) Trinkets and new Prima product line but that wonderful title of "winner". What a challenge and journey it was. My goal was to try and create art every day and try to get something accomplished in projects that were not finished. I DID IT!! 'cept for two days when I was packing up supplies, tools and photos for a live crop I was attending. I'm still making art almost everyday and that makes me happy. One of the other benefits from this Challenge is that it has brought so many like minded people together. I have subscribed to so many and now I can continue to be inspired and share art with so many awesome gals and guys.
I also had been chosen as one of the 'Featured Artists' of the 31 Day Challenge by a wonderful gal named Laurel (screen name scotia9338 or LaurelfromNJ) She sent all of a special art tag she made....I LOVE the Steampunk tag I received....just wonderful.
I've also learned a little more about recording videos and I am actively contributing to the art community on USTREAM....a live broadcast of me making an art project with a lil' give away gifty. I stream on Saturdays at 6 PM E.S.T. Come join, it's free and you can join the chat or just watch...lots of fun!

Here is one of my latest Altered Art projects. I used an empty dish detergent plastic bottle and transformed it into a dress form. I was inspired by the Winter CHA (Craft and Hobby Association) DCWV (Die Cuts With a View Paper Co.) They used life sized dress forms to display their new paper line....what wonderful couture dresses the artists had made....just amazing and so beautiful....can't wait to get my hands on the new line of papers to play with.

Altered Cd/DVD Swap (click here to see my YouTube on CD's)

2011-01-26T18:09:00.003-05:00

I'm a YouTuber....and it's been too much fun! I'm in the Marion Smith Prima Flower Lady's 31 one day, 31 vids, 31 goals Challenge.....I've completed 26 videos thus far.

My next endeavor is to host an Altered CD/DVD Swap. Here is the info if you're interested just post here or on my YouTube channel.
It's fun and easy....have the art in my hands by the due date and you will be in the swap. Open theme, what ever your heart desires. There is some eye candy and inspiration on my Youtube if you'd like to take a peek.

I will host an Altered CD/Dvd swap. posted Feb 25, 2011 due April 29th
Rules: OPEN THEME
*Let me know if you want to play with posting a messing on my YouTube page and how many you want to swap.
1 for 1 or 2 for 2 (no more)
*Sign real name and screen name and date each CD and put each in a plastic baggie.
*Send an Address label or Address sticker
*Send well concealed same amount in money that it cost you to mail to me.
*Foreign out of U.S.A I will pay your return postage if you include an extra decorated CD.
*Send CD/DVD in a padded envelope because I will recycle it for your returns.
*Hostess gifts are sweet but never expected.
This is going to be fun!
I will swap CD according to effort for effort.
Please send in what you are proud of and would want in return.
I will message you when I receive your envie.

DUE DATE (IN MY HANDS BY, or it will be returned to you at your expense)
APRIL 29th (that's 3 months to get 'er done)
Mail early if you are not in the USA.

email me @ for my address when ready to mail your art.
HAVE FUN PEACE OUT and ART ON!!!

Time Flies by...

2011-01-16T21:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, we all know how the times gets away from us....I'm so sorry I don't make a better effort to keep this blog up to date. Not that I have much to say or even much in pictures of art lately. I am staying busy with my 31 day challenge for Marion Smith Prima Flower gal on YouTube...and I have made some accomplishments. Take a peek when you get time...I'm ArteDar over there too.
Peace and Love, Dar

Day 1, / 31 GOALS, 31 DAYS, 31 CHALLENGES

2011-01-02T15:47:00.007-05:00

(click on the title above, Day 1 to view my YouTube)

I am challenging myself to have fun with this 31 day, 31 goals, and 31 youtube vids.
I have lots of W.I.P. that I hope to get completed. I'd also like to share some techniques along the way. What I truly love about this Marion Smith's (Prima Flowers)
challenge is that lots of other artists are gathering and I can subscribe and follow them to continue to be inspired creatively and in life in general.
I hope you can come and post an encouraging word or two to help me get all 31 days completed. Thanks so much! Have a HAPPY, HEALTHY, WEALTHY NEW YEAR IN 2011.
Peace and Love and ART ON!

31 days, 31 videos, 31 goals Challenge

2011-01-01T15:04:00.002-05:00

Come take the challenge....it will be good for YOU!
I WON....second runner up! HAPPY DANCE!!
It was a LOT of work and time. 31 vidios, for 31 days with 31 goals.
I created everyday something artistic and shared tons of art I have received from other artists.
Check out the vids on YouTube ArteDar

Christmas 2010

2010-12-27T19:27:00.000-05:00

Dick and I had a great time at the American/Philippine Christmas party held at the Grand Hotel in Cape May, NJ this year. This place was huge and beautiful decorated with lots of other areas to visit with live bands....so we danced and danced here and there.

Thee Talented Huba~Huba~Hubs and I love him!

2010-12-21T04:13:00.000-05:00

I went out to see the solar eclipse tonight as I waited out the "OH CHIT" of sissy Jo. OH MY GAWD, the work and suffering one must go through to cleanse one's self for the G.I. doctor. It took a looooong time for the event to start, but it's almost over now. Well, getting back to the other 'big event of the evening and wee hours of the new day....BTW, I haven't had any sleep yet. ...There I went, outside all bundled up in my coat and camera in hand to see the red moon and the solar eclipse (mother earth as we know it was shadowing the moon)....it was almost worth the wait staying up to see it. Besides smelly funky around here and having gone through half a roll of paper towels....hummmm....wonder if I'll use it all?
AND, how 'bout those EAGLE'S? MY, MY....my Huba~Huba~Hubs was blown away....guess pretty much like what we get like when we get a new art tool to play with (it is justified to have a box or two full of 'em!) ;)
okay....so now we are just 4 days away from the big day....the eve before Christmas is a big deal around here to us too....hope I get some sleep soon....starting to fade fast here, much like our moon.
OH YEAH, one more thing....I so can't wait for January 1, 2011.....so much still going on and another holiday to look forward to with all the traditions and trims.

PS: Where's Dar's art you ask....it's in the thought process....making sketches and notes....trying hard NOT to get disappointed that I'm not making anything now and have some things started and need to wait....but hopefully it will find me (the muse/fates/time) and I can play 'till my heart is content once again....BTW....I LIKE FREE THINGS TOO! but only if it's something that's not necessarily material...hugs and kisses are nice....

2010-12-01T17:58:00.001-05:00

ATC 's

2010-11-29T13:41:00.000-05:00

This is the first time in what felt like forever that I had the chance to create and play art. I made 15 atc's in mixed media for Inkwell's (DeDe) Swap. They have a theme....Christmas colors, red, green and white, Flowers~ poinsettia, heat embossed stamps on card stock. I hope they are well received.

my flicker photos

2010-11-26T10:11:00.001-05:00

My Flicker Pictures
(click link above)

Some of my art. I have been on an art break and really need to make something soon. If you are an artist then you know what that itch feels like. I get a kinda nervousness....the foot starts to shake as a bleeder for the bottled up energy....and my art studio is a mess....and I can't stand it that way. I've been taking supplies and art out to share with my sissy while she is here with me. I have to organize before I can even think about getting creative. I have to get in there soon....so much to do!

ArteDar's STEAMPUNK art

2010-11-06T00:57:00.007-04:00

This is me in the STEAMPUNK outfit I made from thrift store finds carring the Time Travel Log Book and Petey my pet bird. I gave a workshop class for this altered book at the Art For All 2nd ANN. ATC gathering and swapping event in Rochester, New York June 2010. We had a blast....I'll find some pix of the class with the project.

Steampunk art doll I made. Wire armature body, air dry clay head, and hands, green velvet skirt and lace.

My hand drawn sketch cut out and added to a mixed media background of different papers, metal bits, stamping and foil wings with bottle caps at the bottom and word 'FLY'. size 8 X 10, given to a GF as a gift.

This is my Altered Book......I call it my Steampunk Time Travel Machine and Log Book with pet bird Petey.

here we are outside with our top hat and googles

a hand drawn Steampunk woman I drew, cut out and added to an old dictionary text sheet of paper.

an altered sardine can with Steampunk flare.

a tiny altered tin with Steampunk flavor.

an Artist Trading Card

Hand drawn and Prisma color pencils

used as my personal trading card at AFA2010

I still have a few available for trade make a coment

and I'll see what we can do.

2010-10-17T23:42:00.001-04:00

Happy Halloween

2010-10-07T09:32:00.002-04:00

Mini Album for Halloween

2010-10-04T01:34:00.003-04:00

AFA'S ART in ArteDar's Art Studio

2010-04-23T01:07:00.002-04:00

2010-02-24T00:36:00.002-05:00

Just a few older works of mine. It's getting cold again and more snow coming. The most I've seen in many years. Reminds me of when I was a kid and lived in PA.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010

2010-01-03T14:52:00.003-05:00

Leslie
Leanne
Danielle
Lilly Bunny

Lilly
Yesterday was the family Christmas party....yup....feels strange to have it so late after thee big day....but it was one of the best. We played the Dirty Santa Gift exchange game....what a blast! AND YES, I did steal someone else gift so I could get what I wanted....it was an kewl leather bound address book....and I needed it....ROFL!
This year I made portrats hand drawn and colored with Prisma Pencils....they were well received and that made me very happy. I found some really nice large wooden frames with glass and monted 'em all except for Lilliy's, which I made mixed media on wood, 12x24". The other three are 8.5x11"....a good size too.

The party was at Sissy Jo's house and all my siblings with their spouse and children were there except for brother Jim. But, his son Jesse and GF Emily had stayed a few days with me and Dickie, I'm happy that I got to see them.
The food was made by everyone and the spinach appetizers and bacon wrapped mini dogs that I made were all eaten up....that in it's self speaks for them! We had ham and turkey and all the trimmings. The cookies were awesome and to die for....yum! So much food was left over that I had a break from cooking again today....love leftovers....LOL!
Well, anyway....we were asking the fab hostess' when the next party....come summer we'll be there and ready to go swimming and pig out on lots of homemade goodies....I for one look forward to it.

Making a Christmas gift for my Great Niece Lilly

2009-12-21T11:43:00.003-05:00

My Great Niece Lilly Mae....just a cutie!!!

South Jersey's First Snow

2009-12-20T09:37:00.003-05:00

Awwww....we have a white winter land....looks like it might still be here for Christmas.
MERRY CHRISTMAS and the best New Year 2010 to all.
Peace and Love

2009-11-10T15:42:00.003-05:00

DAY OF THE DEAD
November 1st & 2nd
This is a work in progress.
Needs more distressing and beeswax.
Celebrate the ones you love
that have passed into the light.
Dedicated To Mom & Dad

2009-10-29T19:09:00.003-04:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!
Hope ya'll get lots of goodies....candy, art supplies, apples and lots o' love!

Collage~A~Thon

2009-10-24T00:16:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the ATC's I've made tonight for the first Collage~A~Thon I've ever played in and the first one held at IllustratedATC'sMailArt.com.
Probably going back to it when I wake up. I was up way too early this morning for an appointment and with less then 5 hours sleep I'm wearing down fast.

Medley

Where Did The Time Go?
Fill Me
Dead Fish

2009-10-16T01:46:00.003-04:00

Mommie and Bonita love....awwwwww.
More kisses....I love 'em!
Bath day is a bitch too.
Spooky, our Halloween cat. Rescued his preegy mommy and have a total of 4 kitties. This one is the friendliest. 3 yrs. old and all are fixed and healthy.

Nikki's 14th Birthday

2009-10-08T13:37:00.002-04:00

art

2009-10-05T01:09:00.004-04:00

2009-10-05T01:06:00.002-04:00

Art 10-5-09

2009-10-05T00:59:00.001-04:00

Flicker Site What I Wore Today (click me)

2009-10-03T01:03:00.006-04:00

It was my surfing that brought me to this Flicker site. So I signed up and made my first post today. I was going out of town and dressed casual.

2009-09-28T13:37:00.002-04:00

2009-09-19T23:06:00.002-04:00

2009-09-19T22:38:00.003-04:00

2009-08-27T18:35:00.002-04:00

2009-08-27T18:35:00.000-04:00

more art

2009-08-27T18:30:00.006-04:00

Some more of my heart and soul.

Summer Time Is A Busy Time...

2009-08-27T18:10:00.004-04:00

Yes, I do love the summer months. It brings many of my family members to come and spend their vacations with us. We are only 10 minutes from a few popular beaches and the board walks. There are many novelty shops and lots of dinning choices. When brother James comes I like to cook some of our mom's receipts. His son now drives and brings his GF too....I just love to hear the giggles and see that young love in full bloom.

I've had some time to draw and make art projects for one of my most favorite Artist Trading Card sites (ATC'sFORALL.COM)

I've made some matchbox art dolls and 4x4 chunkies and much more. What in the world would I ever do during my retirement years if I did have art. I can watch a good movie at the theater....Juli and Julia was superb....but waiting for my fav TV show is taking too long. Come on Survivor!!!!

Grandson Gage is getting so big and beautiful, naturally. I need to see him more often for sure 'cause they grow up way too fast.

Well, here's a few pic of what I've been making.

Altered CD/DVD'S for SueW's swap 2009

2009-05-31T17:35:00.008-04:00

I have 3 altered cd's ready to send off to Australia for ATFA.com SueW's swap.

I sanded all most all the silver cd stuff off and then went and added silver alcohol ink and other inks. Then with the can of air I sprayed while wet and liked the results. The clip art is adhered with Crafter's Pick Decoupage....I like it because it's so clear and is not sticky. One of the CD's has layers on the front and back and is mostly transparent when held up in the light. Well, all of them are mostly transparent and that's why I didn't use lots of layers of papers and ephemera but I added lots of sparkels powders....they all are shinny and well protected.

I hope they are well received.

2009-05-17T00:54:00.002-04:00

These are pictures taken in my garden of the book I altered to take with me in June to the Indi Art Fest. I had a hard time trying to stop playing in and on it....I love how it's coming along....the best is coming when other artist get to put their mark on it....can't wait!!!!

2009-02-27T02:27:00.005-05:00

I'm just as slow as Maple syrup in Feburary....these pictures are from Valentines Day. We had the best time and romantic evening together. Heart shape pizza and a lil'vido to keep the energy going. We went to KMart and played with the automated sing and dancing stuffed toys and of course like usual we make a true fool of ourselfs and dance right along with the cutie toys and people just smile and walk by fast.....HEY! Why don't they ever wanna stop and dance with us. Oh well, who knows....at least we are smiling and having a good time with out forcing it. I always said the best things in life are free. Enjoy that sunset if you should get kicked out of the store for being silly and having some ol' folk fun. Man....I just reailized that it use to be a lil' bit more mischify....new word, eh?!

Also....all pics are chitty because I don't have photoshopprogram...

OHHhhhhh....NOT the one I of took of the MAGNIFICENT swap art piece I received from TOPAZ!!!....I love love love.....LOVE this piece....the whole thing is stunning and Patti deserves ALL the Light and Love and Peace in her life for this treaure I received. She said she hope I like it because she made it for me...and I told her I was thinking of her when I made hers. Mine is a gem called treasure..really....I MEAN REALLY....I'm thrilled and it goes from here to there and room to room and I'll put her in a wonderful resting place for a bit...sooner or latter!!! I LOVE LOVE LOVE this one Patti....it was a pleasure and then some (surprise ATC!!!YEHEA):):):) to have had an arty swap with you. Thank you again and agian. Can I pour any more sugar and honey on ya?!! I hope to....just know I'm sure willing to go a second round any time you are. Truely....OXOX
Peace and Love, Dar

Mermaid of Cape May

2009-02-12T04:11:00.003-05:00

This is a larger mixed media piece with lots of layers on a 12x12 heavy card stock. I'll add the bees wax to seal later. I like the way this turned out. She looks like she's coming up from the depths of the ocean to great thee!

Chunkies for Coffeelatte's Swap at AFA

2009-02-12T03:47:00.007-05:00

I'm still going to add more to these. They need the fun fibers and charms dangling from the eyelet I already set in the corners. I may add some bees wax as a sealer and a few more bits.

I still have time to play with 'em a bit more. This is the first time I made Gothic girls or punk rock and it was fun.

2009-02-07T20:10:00.003-05:00

The ATC'sForAll.com web site is a fun place to swap and share your art. I hosted an Altered CD/DVD swap for the second time. I received 118 cd's from all over the world. Places of interest are Singapore, Cyprus, England, Germany, Israel, N. Ireland and other United Kingdom locations as well as many Untited States even as far away as Hawaii. I put up a slid show at PhotoBucket if you want to have a peek. Enjoy!

http://s719.photobucket.com/albums/w...view=slideshow

Altered CD ll Swap

2009-02-07T20:09:00.001-05:00

Photobucket Album

More Suzi Blu art by ArteDar

2009-01-14T15:58:00.002-05:00

Hand drawn....This is Goddess Psyche as a butterfly. I will also put this one on birch wood to wood burn....she is a favorite of mine.

This is birch wood that has been painted with acrylic paints and also wood burned. I added tissue paper flowers and texture magic dimensional paint (flowers and vines on left side), it is 12x8" and ready for the bees wax sealer.

This is on of my most favorite paintings....I adore her cheeks...again this is Goddess Psyche as a butterfly on 8x11" watercolor paper....yet to do is more added elements to make it a true mixed media and bees wax to seal.

I guess you can see that this has been a butterfly moment in time for me....I just love 'em, but will move on to something new and exciting eventually.

I call this one My Fair Lady Bug....on water color paper and a work in progress.....more to do to get it as a mixed media piece of art.

Goddess Positive Body Affirmations

2008-12-27T14:25:00.003-05:00

For my Suzi Blu Goddess Class we were to write all the negative things we feel about our own body and then turn them around and create POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS. I had the best time with this project and tend to go a bit beyond....but I love the process of making a 3~d forms even more then drawing and painting. When I draw and then paint it takes me back to feeling like I'm coloring in a coloring book....just too easy~peesy...but to build something is way more challenging and exciting to me. I used lots of bits and pieces that I have accumulated over the years. It's fun to dig it out and find lil' treasures and often I see things I want to pass on to other Goddess art sisters...as I'm doing this I must have sent some powerful teleapathic waves 'cause Verlene gives me a phone call as I'm thinking of her....is that not freakin' KEWL!!?

I bought old bed springs from Ebay a few years ago and have only one left to play with....unless I feel the need to get more, ROFL!! I love a bargain and get the out dated wall paper catalogs from my local stores....that's what I used for the wings....painted with StewartGill Galactca glitter paints....awesome stuff!

I took apart an old vinny pair of sun glasses for the arms....my fav!

Venus of Willendorf

2008-12-17T22:32:00.002-05:00

She is made with air drying clay (Crayola brand). I'm very happy with the results....this was an exciting project for the Suzi Blu Goddess Class. This is a keeper!

Venus Goddes of Willendorf

2008-12-17T22:20:00.001-05:00

She is made of air dry clay (Crayola brand). She will get a few coats of acrylic paints when she is dried. When I hold this in the palm of my hand it feels spiritual....I LOVE this class.....and I get to keep my art for a change.

Goddess of the SOUL Psyche (and Eros) Stupid Cupid

2008-12-17T21:36:00.003-05:00

PSYCHE, Goddess of the soul. She exemplifies a woman's search for authentic personal growth, like the symbol of the butterfly emerging into the light from it's dark cocoon.
12x12 mixed media. feathers, German Glass Glitter, a siver Cupid pin that represents Eros....stupid cupid! This is an awesome story.

Be, Divine Healing Art Journal

2008-12-17T21:27:00.004-05:00

Be Divine Healing Art Journal for SuziBlu's Goddess Class

2008-12-17T21:24:00.002-05:00

This is my smaller healing art journal....where I put my home work. I made pockets to hold the PDF and tabs to take me right to the page I want. I like how it's getting chunkie and expanding all around the sides. Soon I hope to get some drawings and more art in there....but for now I'm still working on my larger 12x12 pages for the other Art Journal.

Front Cover Be. Divine December 1, 2008

GODDESS'

2008-12-03T15:52:00.002-05:00

My Suzie Blu Goddess Class is all about making large mixed media collages of the selected Goddess'. Here is two...Demeter, who is just like me. I used a picture of Sally Fields because I've always adored her and the movies and television shows she has stared in....I have been told often by different peolple that I look like her too...what a wonderful compliment.
Of course to me Marilan Monroe exemplifies a sex goddess to me....how gorgious she was...she is my idol and will be Aphrodite.
These are bouth 12"x12" and will fit nicely in a big scapbook. There glitter and feathers and lots of wonderful mediums....is there a law against have so much fun making art? I'd be guilty for sure if there where. I have not finished these yet....that's the beauty of collage....more can always be added.

My SuziBluClass

2008-11-08T19:12:00.002-05:00

I am so enjoying this class with an AWESOME very talented and inspiring young Missy named SUZI BLU.....what a treasurer and gem. So down to earth and approachable.....we ALL LOVE her to death!
Now that I'm feeling much better these days and have my blood pressure under control and the meds are not knocking the wind out of me I'm getting deeper into the class and process of mixed media. I also have to learn what program to download that is combatable with that web site....ning....so I can copy and save the vidios of the class.....I sure would hate not to be able to save them......there is so much knowledge in each one.
Well, now to the fun and exciting part of this blog. We all were put to the challenge of making an oracle card or tarot or your own card. I had made two that were sooooo serious and melodramatic....I just couldn't stick with them to the end....well some day I'll get back to 'em....but for now I'm sooooo happy that I went ahead and lighten up and went for the whimsy and made a Bumble Bee I call Buzy. She has some art tools in her six lil' hands and has to remember to "stop and take time to smell the roses"! Suzi put her on the top of the photo page as a featured picture....I was stunned and I'm on cloud nine....it really made my day. ...and has also valadated to me that I do have a bit of talent....well, hell yeah! I so love to draw, paint and create. I'm really learning how to add the layers for a mixed media that is getting so popular. Now I can't wait to start my next pieace.....whimsy it is......I'm not going to try and get so imotionaly deep and anilize my every art work......this was fun and enlighting for me.

Grammy and Gage

2008-10-27T22:24:00.003-04:00

This is my son Cary at age 35 and his first child Gage Elliot born May 2nd 2008. I was honored to be at their side and watch this child come into the world....what a miracle to witness. Three months later hubby and I were present and sponsors as Gage Elliot was Baptized. I have an hour and thirty minutes to travel to visit my children so I always pack a bag and stay the weekend and they have come home here to stay with us a few times too. I just had a visit and can't get over how fast the baby is growing.....he's actually crawling across the room....just so adorable and a pleasant happy baby. I took pictures with the diggy and he would laugh after the light flash....we had so much fun and I just kept clicking away just to hear him laugh and laugh. It worked again later after he finished eating that same evening but not the next day. Guess it just wasn't as funny....we will have to find something else that tickles his fancy. I can't explain just how fulfilling it is to see my son with his son......I feel as though my life has come full circle and couldn't ask for anything more other then to watch Gage grow up into a handsome happy young man with children of his own.....which would then make me a GREAT Grandmother.

Fall Rolo Contest for ArtTraderMag

2008-09-07T09:10:00.004-04:00

I finished my fall rolo's just under the deadline. Due to the magazine by the 10th I'd say I was cutting it close.
A Whitchy Night is a collage I made with a copy of a lady from one of my old cabinet cards. It has a background of book text.....a blood~curdling story text fits right in....who likes witches anyway?! Black ink transparency with white ink pen doodles and skellie and trimmed out with black and orange crepe paper.
The Friendship Offering is just a lil' mouse I drew with pen and Prism color pencils. It has my siggy round wheel at the top that I have put on most of my rolos. The back is crepe paper and my addy from one of my cut~ up business cards and a mother of pearl button.
The atc Pumpkin's Inner Child is pen and color pencils and will accompany a post card I made for MailArtWorld.com's collage challenge wk 3 and swapped with Sir Pumpkin Stuart.

Just days ago I finished up a themed swap I hosted at ATC'S ForAll.com, Art Doll #002. It was another huge success, I think. I made 32 (one for me too!) atc art dolls for all the players. Each has a different face but the atc bases are all pretty much the same give or take a few with different beads for the legs. I used spray paint on the plastic coated playing cards....it stuck good and I was happy with the three different color paints I used. Yes, they were time consuming with poking lil' holes for the beaded legs to go through and dipping each head photo in the melting pot of Ultra Thick Embossing (UTE) after gluing them to stiff cardboard and cutting them out, but I think it was worth the extra time to make hostess gifts for everyone....I had received so many RAK art dolls that I just felt the need to give back. I guess they don't call me Extreme Darlene for nothing!

Post Card Challenge

2008-08-19T14:34:00.003-04:00

My friends at MailArtWorld.com and I are taking the challenge thanks to Cathy Parmelee. Every Sunday for eight weeks we will receive an email with her selected random clip art images for us to play with. We have to use at least half of the images on our 4x6 inch post card. Then we can post 'em and see if there are any "bids/takers" to swap with. No shyness allowed!
Thank goodness we are allowed to alter the images and use some of our own stuff. I had a great time putting this PC together and even used this theme and made more.
This one is called Spelling Bee. One of the others I made is a spelling bee girl in a rose garden with some of the lyrics of the song...pardon me, I never promised you a rose garden....I used my own photo of our roses here in Cape May.
This is gonna be a fun eight weeks without a doubt!

Grandson Gage's Baptism

2008-07-27T14:40:00.002-04:00

Today husband Deogracias and I stood up as our grandson's sponsors for his baptismal. He was born May 2nd 2008 and was just a few days shy of three months old. What a good baby he is too....not a single whimper or noise out of him the whole time. His half brother Simon, 5 years old was also baptized today. They both looked so handsome in their white suits. Pastor Elliott was awesome....he made it a day to remember. We thank the holy trinity for our many blessings and will do our very best to support the kids in any way we can.

Altered Spoons

2008-07-18T19:59:00.002-04:00

I'm in a swap at MailArtWorld.com....and this is what I created.

ArteDar's Birthday June 23rd

2008-06-24T00:31:00.003-04:00

Aww....another year older! The time goes by much too fast. I had a wonderful day. Phone calls from family and friends wishing me a happy day.....a beautiful card from my adorable husband...a nice marble cake with whipped cream frosting...dinner at a seafood restaurant...a lil' shopping spree for arty stuff.......who could ask for more! I saw some really nice postings at my fav website ATC's ForAll.com....I especially liked the diddy Jean wrote for me and how my buddy SusieT slipped and gave up the fact that I'm not really 39 years old.....well, always 39 summers old and now 56 winters old.....winters are always harder ya know.

My son and his family will be coming to stay this coming weekend.....I'm so excited! My tiny grandbaby....here.....with me!!! Oooooooh, what fun we all will have.

4th of July family party is coming up soon and I can be with ALL the sisters, brother, nephew, nieces and the great nieces and nephews and also a few close friends thrown in there to round it out. Lots of good homemade food and a pool party....I'm looking forward to that day too.

Here's a picture of me at the Uries Resturant eating Dungonus crabs (all you can eat).....I thought I would be able to put away a ton of 'em....but I got full fast. There is a lot more meat in them then the Maryland Blue crab that I'm used to eating. It was yummy!

Memoral Day 2008

2008-05-27T11:35:00.000-04:00

I stayed very busy this holiday weekend. We had outings to the grave, went to a craft fair, did some cooking (of course) and spent time with my hubby. He is a retired vet now (20 yrs. Coast Guard) and was just 8 yrs. old during WWII when the Japanese bombed Manila in the Phil opines and killed his parents and left him homeless for quit some time. He ended up at the convent with the sisters and working in the kitchens for the Japanese....he took leftovers to the nuns and they always had him taste it first to make sure it wasn't poison. When the dust settled and the USA came in things changed for the better and an old friend of his father (prison captain) adopted Dickie. He had food, shelter and many chores but did not have affection given to him....anyway, you wouldn't know it because he is the kindest and most giving person I know.

I was inspired by an artist, Suzi Blu and began cutting wood into 5x5 (app) pieces to draw and wood burn on. I painted 'em with acrylics, spray varnish and antiquing gel (and sprayed again).
So far this is what I have done....and they are gifts for our MODS at ATC'SForAll.com

Have a safe and blessed Holiday.

Rolo's and Sleep Over

2008-04-10T12:27:00.000-04:00

I had a fantastic time at ShoreArtShelly's April 3rd thru 7th Rolo Sleep Over. I learned new art medium techniques and applied it to these rolos. My own hand carved rubber stamp.....thanks to Shelly.....Gel transfers thanks to Bluellen and the ArteDar rubber stamp she made for me....Alcohol inks on transparencies thanks to Roc...yummy fibers thanks to SusieTex...and I have a rolo almost finished for Moggy and will post when done.

JackiR's Quilt Topper

2008-03-18T21:50:00.000-04:00

Jackie's theme is blue and yellow. I'm hopping she likes this....I just love the moon!

Art Doll for M A N U Z

2008-03-18T19:20:00.000-04:00

Here's your arty doll Sas.....I hope you like her. The body is a chandelier crystal with wire arms and clay face and hair that I painted.

Hump Day

2008-03-12T14:18:00.000-04:00

Here it is the middle of the week. I'm on the rolo train again....getting some made lil' by lil'.
My hubby made me dinner last night. I am sooooo proud of him! Pork chow main......yummy! And he HATES to cook....so now I know how much he really loves me.

This Saturday is my DIL Baby shower. Family will gather and have a great time.

Dickie's at the car dealer's again! 4x's to get the same thing fixed....do we have a lemon? Hope not. We love this luxury SUV.

Sunday Quilt Day

2008-03-02T21:36:00.000-05:00

I made some quilt tops for my swap due in a few weeks. I'm very happy with them. I really love the whimsical Fairy....my fav colors.
I had a nice long nap and now I'll go make rolo's.

Saturday

2008-03-01T23:36:00.000-05:00

We went to visit my son and wife. I so love to see and spend time with my kids as often as I can. It was a great day. Took my circular saw and we cut the bottoms off of three doors so the would close, now that new carpet had been installed. Denise is expecting Cary's first baby in April. We pray that they stay healthy and safe. I really love the name they have picked out. Some how when I said it for the first time in front of them it just didn't come out right. I felt so dumb and so bad....I wish I had it to do again and said it right. Gage....I said "cage"....sheesh!
I have a deadline coming up fast for quilt top swap. I have 4 finished and 4 to go. April I have more, but I'll think of them later. So many things to do and not enough time. I hear this said by many....and I so agree.
I'm getting itchy fingers to start on my next project swap. It's going to be a magic pyramid. I make my own base and one of 4 sides. Three sides are sent to the hostess and then mailed around...we put 'em together....and voli!!! Something so kewl and I'm so looking forward to it.
Gonna go rest.

Tue. Feb 26

2008-02-26T14:14:00.000-05:00

I finally got the quilt tops going and have two finished for a swap with artist friend Dana. Her theme is Tress with swirls in the colors blue, purple and green. I hope she likes what I made. I may add some seed beads to it if she would like.

Weather is still freezing cold.....I hate it! Keeps me indoors....which is ok with me because I get more art created. I do so love the spring and summer best of all the seasons. Gardening is a fav as well as going to the beaches for long walks.

I must comment on how proud I am of myself. I'm trying to loose some added weight and what ever it is I'm doing is working. I make lots of fruit smoothies, my girlfriend DeeDee got me started on and I feel much better. My jeans are all baggy and I can slip 'em off without unzipping....KEWL!

Sunday Feb 24, 2008 ATC's

2008-02-24T23:12:00.000-05:00

Tonight is the Academy Awards…..I so love to see a really GOOD movie…..I have a few that I would like to see now. The women all dressed up…..SHeeSH….one of my fav things to do myself! Putting on a gown and make up just seems to make me feel like a queen and so feminine. What gal can ever forget her first prom and the gown she wore and how it made her feel?

Last night I drew a few ATC’s for a swap. I had made the art dolls out of clay, wire and beads and they were there right in front of me. I thought they made a good subject and was happy the way they turned out. I do believe I used every different kind of pencil, pen and chalks on them too.

I have a big phat list of to do’s….better go and get something made.