December 26th, Tuesday, 11:51PM
 
***SILVER MOON STUDIO AUCTION***
Just a quick hello to everyone! I want to let you know I am cleaning out my art studio due to my home being remodeled. I admit it, I am a total glutton when it comes to my art stuff! I don't like having to give up anything which I have amassed, but I really need to thin out before my second floor caves in. 

I will begin posting on January 2nd, 2007, and will continue to post weekly. I will be posting rubberstamps, books, supplies, my art, memorabilia I have purchased at conventions, some of my own collections and who knows what else? Once I begin, I am sure I will be listing all kinds of things I never expected to get rid of, so check often.
Happy New Year everyone!

December 19th, Tuesday, 12:10AM

This is the calm before the storm. This is tomorrow here. This is pure dread knocking on my doors. So, did I get your attention yet? This is not about the holidays. It is about me needing to pack up EVERYTHING in order to make my home 'dog friendly'. We began with an idea, and it has of course blown up into a massive undertaking. House remodeling... SCREAM!!!! The outdoor's almost finished. That means the inside is next! AYE CARAMBAS!!!
 
I have several theories on why I have been in the kitchen so much this season. I don't like cooking and there is always something better to do than being in the kitchen aside from going to get a diet coke out of the refrigerator.
    Theory #1    Life can be dramatic at times, so I have crowned myself as the 'matriarch' of my family. Both my grandmother and mother are both living, but cannot do the cooking anymore, so that gives me the authority to endow myself with this self-proclaimed title.
    Theory #2    It's about time I did some baking, it's only been 9 years since Steve has passed away. But tamales too? (See Theory #1) I was extremely obsessively determined to make many! I continued even after the bad fiasco. I learned and improved. I am strong, I am crazy!
    Theory #3    My cousin PeeWee loved to bake and cook. He used to always come over with a hot dish but, he is no longer here. So, I             have blamed him for keeping me a prisoner in my own kitchen since he passed away recently. I finally told him last night, OKAY! Enough!!! You made your point, you want us all to have cookies (and more) for Christmas. 
    Theory #4    The previous owners never used the kitchen, they lived here for about 8 years and she did not like to cook. We have been here 8 years as well, and now with the remodeling, I figured I need to use my kitchen appliances so that they can hurriedly become "used" before my kitchen gets updated.
    Theory #5    I am procrastinating the shocking reality of what lies ahead... packing!  
 
That is what I fear. You should see this place. To the average eyes it looks well-organized, it is an illusion. It might even look like an artist lives here, another illusion. The truth be told, a wacky compulsive thrift store shopper lives here, who has bought way too many items to make stuff with and instead has collected it and cherished it. I have commited a sin, I have coveted my finds, ALL OF THEM.

I like seeing and knowing where they are when I 'need' them. I am afraid my relationship with my things will end up in a bitter estrangement.
Wait art papers, where are you going? What about you, my rubber
stamps? Pleeeeeeeeeeeze don't go, not even for a day!!! And you, my
computer!!! How could you!!! I thought you loved me as much as I love YOU! 
 
See what I mean? The time is NOW. I have until mid-January to begin clearing up the two front rooms downstairs, my 'rubberstamp' room, and my Dia de los Muertos guest room, both upstairs, in order to rip out the carpets and have tile installed. We don't want to go up and down the stairs with the furniture. We have wall-to-wall, ceiling-to-floor "art storage".

So, the plan is that we will have to work in phases. This will be phase 1. Half of the upstairs will be shifted over to the north side, the downstairs will be shifted to the east side. Goodbye comfy bed, I won't be able to see you for awhile. You will be surrounded and piled by my faithful departed friends whom I hope will be back? I know some will choose to move onto someone else's home, but I can't even go there yet. I will miss them.
 
So, as I sit here blogging about my overwhelming task, again I stall the unavoidable. We are thinking this will be finished by the end of February, the entire house tiled, bathrooms and kitchen renovations, paint and more... with 5 dogs!

For sure tomorrow I will begin... I need another cookie first.
 
btw... Happy Birthday Stinky!!!
xoxo

December 15th, Friday, 4:44PM

Oh oh! This is my first time ever getting tagged! It's about time I responded. I believe this was posted on Maija's web log on December 6th (that's not too bad, at least it's the same year!) Now i have to list 6 weird things about me....
 
    1. I prefer to wear frilly foo foo clothes over jeans.
 
    2. I have my first case of acne right now and I hate it.
 
    3. The only Christmas decoration I have set up is a 2' black tree.
 
    4. About 8 years ago I went on a trip to Cozumel by myself for a week.
 
    5. My favorite all time movie is "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?"
 
    6. Someday I will have bat wings tattooed on my back shoulders.
 
Whoever reads this is welcomed to be tagged, you're it.
 

November 30th, Thursday, 8:42AM

THEY STOLE OUR LAND

November 21st, Tuesday, 4:41PM

A Real Thanksgiving Story 2006
 
When I was a little girl, my mom and dad would gather together with family and friends after Thanksgiving to create the yearly holiday ritual of making tamales.

Someone would be in charge of buying all the ingredients, they'd keep the receipts, everyone would share in the costs, they'd spend an entire day making them, and they'd all go home happy with bundles of warm tamales tucked underneath their arms in brown paper bags.

It was customary to always make red chili meat ones and green chili cheese, which were by far everyone's favorite. It was a long process just to prepare the food. The meat had to be pre-cooked, the ojas cleaned, and the masa made just right. Once that was finished after approximately 3 hours, the spreading of the masa began.

There were plenty of drinks being consumed, laughter being heard, stories being told, and music in the background to speed up the rhythm of the assembly lines. Some would spread the masa onto the oja, the next ones would add the chili meat and and the olives, and the last person would fold it and lay it very cautiously on the tray. Once there were enough made, the first pot would be ready to cook. The entire night ended with a feast to sample the day's hard work.

That smell of tamales cooking on the stove is what brings back those GOOD old holiday memories.
 
This year has been one of those years in which my family keeps snowballing into a flurry of unexpected trials and tribulations. I could blame it all on the mercury retrograde which has been quite active this year. Some could call it a domino effect, others might just say, "When it rains, it pours." Either way, it's here and it's been hard. You see, my family is pretty small. I have my George, my parents, my brother, my sister and her family, and my grandmother in a nursing home. There are not many of us, so when one of us hurts, we ALL HURT.
 
This week I felt the urgency to connect my family, it's been a "rock bottom" rough week. I longed for the days when Steve was alive. All I kept thinking was "That what does not kill us, only makes us stronger."

I had an idea, but I couldn't ask my sister or her family to help, as they have a lot on their plate right now, and Mom and Dad are doing what they need to do daily, just to keep themselves healthy and safe. Thus began my solo attempt to make tamales. I had not made any in at least 8 years, and never alone.
 
Many of you know that I am not "cook savvy". I prefer paper. So, I had to call my sister and mom to help me with the unwritten recipe. With my list in hand, George and I went to buy the ingredients, not having any concept of quantity, I of course purchased enough to feed the entire Salvation Army. We got home around 9 pm and I began slow cooking the meat in my roaster ovens.
 
Waking up early to the delicious smell of simmering beef, I was excited
to begin what i had set my heart out to do for my family. The preparation took about 3 hours, including having to toss the entire first batch of masa out, because not having used my kitchen aide enough, I had forgotten the power behind it. Imagine what flew all over the place!
 
As I made tamales, poor George diligently cleaned up my messes, washing load after load of pots, pans, and bowls. We worked for about 5 hours when the first batch was ready to cook. My mind wanted to keep going making more and more! But my body screamed STOP!  My surgical scar was hurting, my lower back was aching, and poor George looked like he was ready to drop. So, I called it break time. I took a rest and then a nap. That siesta suffice to say, lasted another 5 hours.
 
I went back into the kitchen, dreading what layed before me, knowing I was only about 25 percent through the task. It was now evening, and yes I was still exhausted. I began again, forcing my second wind.
 
It was late at night after the second batch had been cooked when I realized "OH NO!!!". I had mixed up the divided chili meats, there were some that had been seasoned, then in another bowl the meat which had not. So, most of the evening batches cooked ended up lacking salt and pepper. I cannot tell you how disappointed I was. Plus I was SO TIRED. I still had half of the meat left to ADD chili to, this was turning out to be WAY over my head.
 
After the unseasoned tamales had cooked, I put them in the freezer knowing which were which. I decided to freeze the left-over meat and use it for future dishes. With that decided, we finally called it a night.
 
I got up the next morning very early ready to continue with phase 2 of the tamale task, Operation: Green Chile. George had the job of roasting the fresh green chilis on the outside grill. I was enthused and ready to go, he was not. He was totally burned out from washing all those dishes the day before. But he still did it. Afterwards, he brought in the chili to peel over the kitchen sink. I was getting the last of the uncooked tamales out of the refrigerator to cook, when I opened the refrigerator door something seemed amiss but I could not put my finger on it. I proceeded to cook the tamales and George kept trying to peel the green chilis. Mind you, this is not a difficult task IF the chilis are fully cooked, obviously they weren't because two hours later, he was still peeling. I wanted to cook them again inside the oven, but he was determined to peel them since he had grilled them. He was not going to admit they were undercooked. We were off to a rocky start. Frustrated and it being almost noon, I went to bed and crawled under the blankets. I was feeling anxious, I wanted to get started and it was getting late.
 
The phone rang, it was my mom. "How are you Sylvia? Nana called me and told me you did too much yesterday!  Be careful, we don't want you making yourself sick. You are still recovering from your surgery." But Mom! I want to make green chili tamales today! That was the plan. Nothing is going right! Blaaaaaaaaaaah, the tears came down. She simply said "Stop. You have done more than enough, you are both tired. We don't need them, you have done enough all by yourselves, rest today." With that being said I ran down the stairs, yelling " George, George...stop peeling them, we are not making ANYMORE!" Thaaaaaaaaaaaaank God! The stress had been lifted, thanks to my mom and grandmother.
 
After this day's mess had been cleaned up I was ready to freeze the tamales from the night before. The first thing that freaked me out was that the bags I had previously put inside the freezer had all been shifted around! George had rearranged the freezer to make room for the rest. I therefore lost track of which were the seasoned tamales and which were not. So there again another crying storm.

After working so hard I felt they were not good enough now to give out as gifts let alone have for our Thanksgiving dinner.  The entire time I kept thinking how my sister-in-law Chris, always does everything right in the kitchen. I go and manage to mess this entire weekend from start to finish.

Well I spoke too soon. I then realized that the refrigerator had gone out, it stopped working. Our 20-year-old refrigerator had chosen this particular weekend to leave us high and dry. My holiday tamales were now all in jeopardy. At this point, I was ready to lose them all. I couldn't believe this, I felt defeated.
 
It was just then that my sister Irma called. "Sylvia, how did the tamales come out?" WAAAAAAH, I told her how awful EVERYTHING had turned out even with the best intentions. "How many did you make?" That is THE question, it's like asking how many carats is your diamond ring? Surrendering to another round of tears, I said to her "I don't know and I don't care anymore. My refrigerator is now broken. We have to go buy an inbetween one tomorrow." You see, we will be remodeling the kitchen soon; it is such bad timing to get the new one now, it won't fit. So, this was the final disaster of the tamale task. She then spoke and said, "Sylvia we have a refrigerator at our business which you are welcome to use. You can drive over there, we will meet you and freeze the tamales for the holidays!". I was so fatigued but happy knowing that we'd still have our tamales. So, we agreed. 

A minute later Irma called again. "Sylvia, don't worry. Sit tight." Gene and Paul were bringing their new refrigerator to our home. I humbly thanked her so much from the bottom of my heart, her response was "That's what sister's are for."

The refrigerator was delivered and the tamales as well as other food were transfered inside.
 
The tamale weekend attempt was not a disaster. It was a blessing, as family we all pulled together and it all worked out in the end. I felt my family closer than ever before. Through thick or thin, we manage to stay together and remain supportive. Luckily this Thanksgiving we will all be sitting at the table enjoying the tamales in which my family all had a big part of adding their own special seasonings of love and hope. Nothing will  taste better than that.
 
I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving surrounded by those you love.

We miss you Steve and PeeWee. You will always remain in our love-filled memories.
 
Celena and Nick please come home,
we all love you and miss you too!
  

11/30/06
I can't even tell you how I giggled at your story.
I had a funny Thanksgiving incident as well. 
My Sister was going to prepare her first holiday dinner,
her kiddos fell ill the day before.  She had to cancel
the party and the rest of us had to develop alternate
plans. She asked if I'd come over in the morning to
help her with the bird, I decided as a surprise treat I'd make her
family cinnamon rolls.

I was up till the wee hours with the rising of the dough
and getting all the stuff ready.  I got up at the rooster's call
to get them in the oven.  The house smelled of cinnamon, delish.
As I pulled them out of the oven the parade was on... could it
get any better?

I frosted them and they just seemed perfect.  I was
walking out to the car and tripped... the rolls slid down the wall
and landed frosting side down on the carpet.  I hope it was
the thought that counts!  :)

Any tamale, seasoned or not, is better than no tamale!
Hope you're resting!
Stephanie Wright
SWright426@aol.com

11/30/06
I’m just getting around to reading your Thanksgiving blog entry and I’m exhausted just reading it!  I have made tamales from scratch before and I KNOW what work it is!  I was the masa mixer!  But gosh, your experience was uh…. memorable?  I’m glad you saw the silver lining.  Of course you would, you are the silver moon!  The lining is always around you!  Hope you have recovered and rested!
Angie
http://www.picturetrail.com/artvisionz

11/30/06
I loved your post about the tamales (oh, they take so much time
and energy!) - I would love to meet you and laugh ... you are my kind
of gal.
Judy
http://judywise.blogspot.com/

11/30/06
This brings back memories... not that I have any traditions like this,
but there was one time that I got together with friends to make
Christmas tamales...
Lots of laughter, drinks, etc., long day, but the most memorable thing
about it was that at the end of it, all of my nail polish was gone, and
friend's husband laughingly was going to report me to the FDA for food
contamination... it WAS a lot of work, but the memory lingers on!
Lynda

November 12th, Sunday, 5:06AM

4:00 AM ramblings.
 
I just woke up from a deep sleep and just felt the need to blog something... actually anything. Recently when I spent 5 days in Seattle with some art friends, I posed them a question. If you could name yourself anything what would your name be? Mine would be Appalonia. Why? I have no idea. I recall in the HBO Series Carnivale the bed-ridden seer's name was Apollonia. I prefer my spelling, as I am self-appointed, full of bologna. Sheesh, I am all ready in trouble with the early morning rambling!
 
I remember in my younger days there used to be a beautiful local celebrity always doing commercials on tv named Acquanetta. She was cool, she had an aura about her which radiated beauty and confidence. She used to be a b-rated movie actress, and ended up marrying a local car dealer named Jack Ross. Here is a link on her if you'd like to read more...
http://gammillustrations.bizland.com/monsterkid5/acqua.html So, what would YOUR name be if you could choose your own?
 
Yesterday I spent the day organizing my vintage photo collection. I cannot tell you how many I have... I know I have 5 bins full, all organized into categories. Yesterday morning it was 3 bins, by night time it was 5. I don't have more photos as of yesterday, only more bins in which the lids are now able to close.
 
I plan on working on a project tomorrow for RED DOG which will be Christmas-themed. It will be my last sign-up for awhile. The house remodeling will begin soon.
 
So, do you wanna know what the remodeling will consist of? I have 5 dogs, so we are pulling out all the carpet and adding a 'grunge style' porcelain tile upstairs and downstairs. The kitchen and bathrooms will be completely remodeled. I am turning this home into the "Moonster House". It will be an artist statement of who I am. I have been on the hunt at antique auctions for eclectic furniture pieces, actual church collectibles, and gothic type accessories. I am designing some iron gates to see into my front rooms and art room, but keep my dogs within a safe distance when people are over. When company arrives, those silly dogs THINK they are here to visit with THEM. Perhaps, they are right!
 
I am going to get rid of the leather couches in my formal living room, put them in my family room, and look for a really cool bed to have there instead. I have 20' ceilings in the front room, so I am searching for that massive utopian piece. I once bid on an Opium Den which would've fit perfectly in there, but the price went way over my head. The Opium Den was like a four-postered canopied bed all made of carved wood, with a wood floor as well. I envisioned pillows and plants strewn on its floor, like a mini-palace to sit in and hang out.
 
I have already picked up several rusty twin bed frames which I will hang from the ceilings and then dangle art and more from. I also recently picked up a stack of really beat up patina'd ceiling tins which I will nail onto a wall somewhere, i was so thrilled to find those recently.  
 
So, as you can see I will be creating my art within these walls these coming months. G. is busy doing the outdoors which he enjoys designing. I've always thought he should go into landscape design. He is to the exterior as I am to the interior. We hope to have this all finished by March 2007? Maybe I will throw an open house for the local art friends to come over! I am hoping my first house guest into the Moonster House will be Gypsy Froggie. We are setting our sights on about April.
 
Last but not least, my dear friend Pilar Pollock will be arriving this Thursday to stay here for a week! We have so much to catch up on, plus I have a busy week planned for her and cannot wait. I think she will be here in the knick of time before the jackhammering begins. Knock on wood.
 
Luv to all of you who have e-mailed me and have expressed that you have missed my blogs!

11/30/06

OMG!! I grew up in Mesa, Arizona in the 1950's and well remember
Acquanetta (sp?) advertising the cars for her husband Jack Ross and how
the rumors flew that she was a faded celebrity. She always dressed the
heavy glam and we sort of made fun (cruel children!).
Judy
http://judywise.blogspot.com/  

October 29th, Sunday, 8:11PM

Page and Peanut, Peanut and Page; two peas in a pod. Two soul mates, like little Stevie and I.  I was half hour late meeting my friends for drinks before my 30th high school reunion yesterday.  I got the call half hour before we were supposed to leave, my dad saying “it’s PeeWee, he just died an hour ago.” I was dressed, I had my make up on, and my hair flat ironed. I was going to stay intact and not cry. After talking on the phone for about 45 minutes, we arrived late for our pre-reunion drinks. Arriving flustered yet somber, I announced to the group PeeWee was dead. They knew Pete from his early 20’s, I knew PeeWee later on. We all toasted to his memory, to the life of a generous person who was good to everyone and was always the first one to help. I toasted my confidante. He was the keeper of all secrets, he took all of our secrets to his grave. 

Today we went to see how Page is doing. Page is Martha. Page and Peanut, Sylvia and Steve. I was looking at Sylvia as Silver Moon observed Page.  Soul mates left behind.  Just this week Martha made me bust out laughing at the hospital... We share the ‘dark side of the moon’ sense of humor. She asked me “When are you going to have your autopsy, ooooooooops, I meant your biopsy?” That was the good laugh I needed, Peanut  gave Page that look, I gave PeeWee the look of “this is GREAT!” and we all laughed, including Steve.

PeeWee wants to be cremated with no viewing. Me? I want…

I miss you PeeWee, I am sure you have given Steve a hug by now.  We were aware you intercepted our phone call yesterday, and I acknowledge that you only let me take one photo at my reunion of her. That will be our final secret.

Be free, fly.

September 25th, Monday 9:46 PM

My peaceful abode is about to become pure chaos. What my 5 dogs know as a quiet shelter will soon become intruded by jackhammers, saws, and hammers. Although I am excited to begin the Loony home make over, I am feeling apprehensive about the turmoil soon to engulf our privacy. What about my art supplies? What about my art time? What about my dogs peaceful routines? What about my layback pace I am accustomed to? My orbit is about to change. That scares me!
 
As a result I am hurrying trying to finish some commitments by the end of the week. I am near completion on two pieces for the 1st Annual Dia de los Muertos Day of the Dead Exhibition and Art Sale hosted by Soroptomist International of Prescott Valley. If you live in Arizona and are interested in attending this event, please email me. It will be held on October 13 and 14. I will try to post those photos soon on my website as soon as they are finished. Once those are shipped I have two more deadlines due very soon.
 
I also plan to get two more of my collage artworks in the mail to benefit Bernie Berlin's Artist Unleashed Auction being held on ebay the week of November 5 to November 15. Here is the link to learn more about it, A Place to Bark. The Winter 2006 issue of Cloth Paper Scissors has a great article on the upcoming auction on pgs. 46 and 47. What I am going to ship in addition to a few pieces she has of mine all ready are, FROLICS, which appeared on the premier issue of Cloth Paper Scissors Winter 2004 Premier Issue pg. 31 as well as one of my recent Altered Photos entitled Time Stood Still. I wish Bernie a very successful charity event.
 
My layer of paint should be dry by now, until next time!

September 5th, Tuesday, 12:22 PM

Today is the day after Labor Day weekend. It was not exactly labor-free for me, but I at least got some work done as well as some playtime.
 
My weekend began with a too quick of a jaunt over to Soul Invictus Art Gallery in Phoenix on Friday night. The owners Sandra and Rebecca did a great job in utilizing their space with room for art shows as well as a theatre. I have not attended one of their plays, but hope to very soon.

The reason I headed out that way was because one of my favorite edgy collage artists was exhibiting her originals as well as prints and blank cards, Lisa Albinger! What a sight to see her original work, I could've stayed there all night just staring into her collage compositions. I noticed that a lot of her girls she paints resemble herself. I came home with a stack of cards and prints in tow (yes, it was a total hoard session on my part!) I had wished to come home with an original piece right there and then (still pouting).

While there, a bevvy of belly dancers all dressed in the most elaborate costumes and jewelry came jingling in. Even that could not persuade my tired husband from staying longer, when he is tired, he is TIRED. He'd only been up since 4:30 in the morning, by then it was 8:15pm. So, I will return again and drive myself next time.
 
Saturday we headed east on a little road trip to Superior and Miami, two little towns which were once booming when the mines were active. Now we go to visit the quaint little antique stores. There is one I found that I especially love call the Miami Rose. It specialized in religious Catholic shrine boxes and more. I came home with a really rusty twin bed to hang on my wall for decor and a 'Spiritual Stand' which was used in funeral homes next to the deceased to hold their memorial cards.

I loved this piece immediately and now have it standing in my Dia De Los Muertos guest bedroom.
 
Sunday was spent at home the entire day working on my computer and helping my nephew Paul, who came over to help me organize my art closets. He was here for five hours, and did a job which would've taken me about 2 weeks. He told me it is always better for someone else to do it for you. Otherwise I'd be looking into each and every box and getting sidetracked, he is so right.
 
Monday was spent preparing a few side dishes(just chips and dips, ha! to me that is cooking!) to take over to my sister's house. She and my brother-in-law had the family over to celebrate Labor Day with a great spread of food. It was a nice relaxing day.
 
Today I got some sad news from Patricia Bolton of Cloth Paper Scissors . Her father passed away this past Thursday to cancer. It seems like if someone doesn't pass away by some type of accident, it is usually cancer-related. That is the beast in our society today that affects each of us personally. Please help Patricia by sending her your condolences through art. I am helping her spread the word to all artists to make a fiber inspired postcard to raise money for the  American Cancer Society. For more information please read her blog at Quilting Arts. I will be making one, I hope you can as well.
 

August 28th, Monday, 2:08 AM

I have begun to put away the bits and pieces leftover from my fun week spent with Nancy Donaldson and Marie Otero, who both stayed at my place after Art Unraveled. I felt honored to have these wonderful girls spend time with me.
 
We had a fun time creating art on triptych's, altering photos ala Nancy, and going to the Grand Canyon. We stayed a couple nights at the cabin, which was much more pleasant in temperature there than here in the valley. A lot of great photos were taken and I know we will all be using similar ones in future art projects. George was our patient and funny chauffeur who truly enjoys spending time with my art friends. And of course my 5 dogs were in heaven giving the girls lots of kisses.
 
Today I have not only begun to clear up and put away my supplies from convention, but also managed to slip away to the mall to do some baby gift shopping for my friend Cindy O'Leary, who just became a 'nonnie' for the first time. She has a beautiful granddaughter by the name of Piper Madison.
I also picked up outfits for Keith Lo Bue's new twin babies! The link to see them is http://www.lobue-art.com/twinpics.html. You will love these adorable aussie babies.
 
Once those packages got ready to mail out along with others I had on my list to send out, I went to visit my grandmother and then I worked on sending my web mastressa many new photos of artwork for my website. I have also added a new 'Reflection' which I read aloud to my Tuesday night class 'Then is Now', at Art Unraveled. It was a special class for me, as it was on Steve's birthday. So, do check my website, all should be uploaded soon.
 
Last but not least, I want to thank everyone who signed up to take my classes at Art Unraveled. I hope you enjoyed my class as much as I valued having you there. You all keep me inspired with your art and enthusiasm.
 
Luv to everyone, especially to Nancy and Marie. You both were gracious and generous guests. I loved having you over.
 
xoxo
 

August 4th, Friday, 7:25 PM

My friend David Caspar has gone back to his home in Germany. He left last night. I am really missing him today but instead of focusing on that, I will instead write about the wonderful time we shared.

Although he was here for 6 weeks, I wish he could’ve stayed longer. I cannot explain our friendship, we seem connected in a very strange way. One in which we have talked about but cannot understand, we only know that it is very special.
 
David and Steve both share a charm which everyone finds appealing. Steve had a presence which left everyone he’d had contact with devoted to him, as does David. Such kindness is theirs, the world would be a better place if everyone were like these two.
 
I will mention just a few of our best of times. Of course the San Francisco trip was great for all of us, including George. David and I  also took several road trips which were a short distance from where I live. Here is a great photo of David and I taken in Tucson by our dear friend Marsha.

We got to photograph a wonderful Catholic cemetery there as well as side streets we somehow ended up in. There we found the best photo opps of decrepit walls, windows, and doors.
 
I attended David’s fabulous collage class in Glendale. My God, I thought I was over the top in my collage skills, but David gave me the power boost I needed to go beyond my own boundaries. A new MOONster has been awakened in my art, yes…totally out of control and loving it! He is THE layer king.

 
My most treasured memory of this trip will be the music factor we shared together. Last time David visited in 2004, we were not flexible enough to try to appreciate our different tastes in music. He tried unsuccessfully to open my ears to his music which he not only loves but plays also. This time was much different with the two of us making the effort. The band which David introduced me to and for which I will credit for me liking his kind of music is a band out of Texas called THIS WILL DESTROY YOU.

I loved listening to their music on his iPod but getting to see them two nights in a row, was the best. The first night we got to see them was in Tucson, then the following night in Phoenix where we got to hang out with them for a bit. To hear them on CD is to love them, but to see them is to feel them.

Left to right: Chris (guitar), David, me, Raymond (bass), Andrew (drummer) and Jeremy (guitar).
 
THIS WILL DESTROY YOU are touring with another terrific band called SPARROWS, SWARM AND SING! until the end of August. WOW ,I really liked this group also because they are so outside the box in their music. They use an eclectic mix of the usual instruments plus an electric violin, cello, and glock-guitar. This unique mixture forms a wonderful conglomeration of sounds. Both bands and others will now be a big influence on my own collage art thanks to little David.
 
Then yet on another night, David accompanied George and myself along with friends to a Santana concert. We sat out on the lawn which is in my opinion a lot more fun than having an assigned seat. Whenever I travel I bring with me a star frame of Steve. This star frame also came with us to the concert and sat on the blanket next to me. Carlos Santana was one of  Steve’s music idols, he  recognized his spiritual side and spoke to me of it. Let me tell you what we observed while there, when Carlos plays the spotlight is always on his band member and hardly ever on himself. What strength to not focus on your own ego but on the others who help you get to where you are. 

Steve especially loved their song Europa which I chose as one of the songs played at his funeral service. When the band began to play this song, unplanned….we all removed our light up bracelets and pins and placed them on Steve’s picture frame. It was a very peaceful and harmonious moment for everyone in Steve’s honor. Steve would have been 30 this coming August 15th.
 
My friend David has gone back to his home in Germany. Today has been difficult, I miss my dear friend.

July 17th, Monday, 10:08 PM

For all the unpublished artists out there... I want to celebrate you tonight for your anonymity. I know of MANY wonderful and talented artists who are just not into having their works published whether it be in art or music. I really admire these types of people. I myself have an inner drive to be out there in the public eye (could be a "Leo Thing"), but with all the incredible knock out talent shining brightly in the spotlight it becomes very difficult to persevere.
 
I have worked alongside many of these artists and for some reason or another they have chosen to not pursue the yellow brick road to fame. I walk away humbled knowing that they are so great in what they do, expect nothing in return and are just simply happy with their current non-status.
 
What I am about to say ONLY represents myself and not all the great inspiring leaders who are out there guiding us, those whom we dream of being like, in doing all they do for us, juggling their personal lives with their art careers. How they do it, I don't know.
 
Once I have an article published or taught at convention I feel that I am personally selling myself out little by little. For me it is a fine line, I walk a tightrope. Part of me craves that fame the other part of me doesn't. I admire one particular artist who IS highly published but who does not make herself easily available, she seems to be modest yet very comfortable with her chosen path. I want to be just like that. Sort of a recluse. Those close to me know that I go back and forth with this dilemma. Maybe it is because I consider myself to be in the lower half of the totem pole of FAMOUS ARTISTS. Perhaps if the offers would come I would be grabbing them all, but then again... probably not. How much worth would it mean to me? Is it worth my personal freedom? Is it worth me stressing over deadlines due? Is it worth my art not being what I mean for it to represent due to lack of time?
 
So again I go back to where I began, to those special humble artists who just delight in creating for themselves and do it magnificently. You inspire me in more ways than you can imagine. I notice that when you are called to participate in a project, you put so much into it and soar freely without boundaries. Yes, I would love to be like you too. I am lucky to know you and realize that I don't even know a fraction of you out there who remain credit-less. Tonight I give you the much deserved credit you deserve. KUDOS and BEST WISHES!!!
Keep up your spectacular art, do it for YOURSELVES!!!

July 11th, Wednesday, 9:27 PM

Guest Blog from David Caspar

Our time is flying by very fast... I have now been at Silver Moon Studios for the past two and a half weeks. I must say that we're both having a wonderful time together. Every day is filled up with a million beautiful things to do; like ART, telling stories, shopping, taking photos, eating too much junk food (we have put ourselves both on diets this week!) We have gone on roadtrips with our good friend Marsha Siddoway, and a plane trip to San Francisco with Mr. George also. What a BEAUTIFUL city! We have watched movies, met up with old and new friends....and the list continues. As you can tell, we are having a blast of a time!
 
It's been very hard to think about me returning back to the real life, in Germany. That means back to school, back to work, and less time for fun. But that's okay... I still have 3 weeks of vacation time left before heading home with a suitcase jam-packed full of fun memories and dreams to last me for the next few years.  
 
I wish everyone that comes across this post a special friendship like ours, a friendship not from this world, but from the heavens.
 
Thank you Sylvia, for being a real friend. I hope to meet you all someday!

Best Wishes,
David Caspar

6/27/06 Tuesday
 
Yes! Your blog says it in a nutshell. I'm thinking of giving some of mine away. Just let it go out into the universe & let others interpret it. Then I'll feel like I have at least supplied the world with something! How true it all is...we must make it happen.
 
So glad you have the amazing David there to muse and create with. He is a real talent. I'll bet the air is virutally shimmering with energy at your house right now. Enjoy it, my friend.
 
Deb Trotter 

June 25th, Sunday, 10:09pm

I have taken my brushes to the sink to get washed for the 3rd time today. And this is my tub of brushes, not David's.

My artist friend David Caspar arrived from Germany Friday night. Since then we have been in my studio, each working independently but together. He is working on his exhibition pieces, which will be shown in Berlin later this year. I have been finishing my tip-ins for Jeri Aaron's project. I have one left to do, I have made two since David has been here.

Asides from our own projects, we are both working on switching a canvas back and forth; we both keep pushing it out further and further. What have I learned so far? I have learned that I have been a lazy and selfish artist. Having David here has been SO good for me. He makes the most amazing intricate collaged pieces, using whatever he finds at hand. Me? I buy stuff all the time, I buy more s*it to make art, than making the art itself. I buy things at the thrift store, at the art supply stores on clearance or sale, conventions, e-bay, yard sales, flea markets, travels, the list goes on and on...

Well, Ms. Loony Moony is realizing that NOW IS THE TIME to use that stuff. Why wait? Why do we ALL do this to ourselves? We cherish those purchased and found objects and supplies, when those items can be taken up so much higher. It can become an integral part of our souls and the universe to be left behind when we are no longer here. What a shame to have that stuff originally bought with a vision, and somehow in our busy daily lives became discarded. I have always looked at myself as trying my best to be generous with others, but then I go and unbalance myself by holding so much apotheosis onto "art supplies".

Elevate your true self... improve your art , go outside your own mercenary limitations by UTILIZING YOUR POSSESSIONS!

I happened by your site today while avoiding the task of cleaning my studio~ to be more able to see and use the crap I've bought over the years. Your post is so right on. Thank you for the encouragement and confirmation.
Graciel Evenstar
http://www.evenstar-art.blogspot.com/

June 22nd, Thursday, 11:01pm

ATTENTION ALL ANIMAL LOVERS! Please spread the word and nominate a wonderful caring art friend, Bernie Berlin for THE HERO OF THE YEAR AWARD Contest being sponsored by Animal Planet.

Bernie and her husband have been rescuing dogs and cats for several years out of the goodness of their hearts and have found many a good home for them, instead of unnecessarily ending their precious lives.

As a pet lover and owner of my own five dogs, I feel it is my honor to help Bernie win this contest. She just recently received her non-profit organization status which is a great accomplishment! Claudine Hellmuth is the vice-president of her shelter, and you can also click onto her website as well to enter Bernie in. To help you nominate Bernie, you will need the following information:

Bernie Berlin
375 N. Jones Road
Portland, TN 37148
414-732-3211
9/17/65

Please take a moment out of your day to not only help Bernie, but all the animals who benefit under such loving wings of hope. Please spread the word. I love my dogs and am counting on everyone in art orbit who love their own pets as well!

June 21st, Wednesday, 7:51pm

Whew! Time has definitely been zooming much too quickly around this Silver Moon. I don't mean to sound monotonous with the beginning of each blog entry, have I got you convinced yet? tee-hee

I taught a repeat class at The Creative Quest in Glendale last weekend, and had the entire family here for Father's Day the following day. I also had some very special guests, Sandra McCall and Les Gaines, who both honored me by having dinner with us. They are some of the first artists I met when I began to take classes years ago. It was wonderful spending time with them in my studio. Les strummed a melody on Steve's guitar that of late hangs on my walls as a decorative fixture, holding art cards between the strings and memories of wonderful days gone by.

I had to recruit Les to join mine and Sarah Fishburn's MUSE-IC 2007 project. For the past two volumes, we have been fortunate enough to have original composed CD's contributed. The first year was from Opie and Linda O'Brien, and this past year from Tad Foser, who is the guitar genius husband of
Tawnya Romig-Foster.

After returning from a trip the week before this past weekend... I came home with a respiratory infection caught on the plane, but did not have time to take care of it with all the hullabaloo going on, therefore it became first on my list of things to attend to this Monday. As a result all else had to be cancelled for this week. I had to basically stay in till I either got better, or until I was unable to spew out some contaminated lunar germs.

As a result I have been getting some sleep in, drinking lots of fluids, and working on the tip-in art project. The deadline for the project to be in the mail is July 15th, but my own due date which I have self-imposed and am trying desperately to fullfill is by this Friday, the 23rd of June.

My very exciting reason is that German artist David Caspar will be visiting me and our friend Mars Art for 6 weeks! I have been planning to be commitment- free for sometime now, to be able to get up and go on a road trip with David and Mars Art, should the whim arrive on any given day or night. I feel like we have so many plans and so little time.

After David returns home, I will be only a week away from teaching at Art Unraveled. Immediately after the convention, I will seize my two little fellow bohemian art friends, Nancy Donaldson from Canada, and Marie Otero from Down Under to join my lunar orbit.

Well that about wraps up a little glimpse into my boring, drab, humdrum lifestyle for now. BUT JUST FOR NOW, I will be back!

xoxo

June 7th, Wednesday, 10:19pm

How is everyone doing? Here in AZ the weather has been scorching caliente. All the time I go out I seriously come home and pass out for a few hours. The heat seems to affect me worse the older I get. Of course it doesn't keep me home either! Today I took Nana out to eat, and to the thrift store. This was her second outing with me since she landed in the assisted care home in January. She is doing so much better and is doing great on her outings. Of course I came home with a carload of stuff from the store, I picked up like 2000 nice big envelopes to design a project someday. I have been lucky lately in picking up rad clip art books, I found another one today. I found some 1914 edition books in great condition with the marbled covers. Old books are my weakness. I love to smell the paper.

Okay so I get home and find a great surprise in my mailbox. It was my ATC Quarterly. Back in April when Ronna Mogelon (co-editor along with Susan Valyi) contacted me about submitting work for an article, I was more than happy to help out, even though I was not familiar with her zine. I have a few pages in this zine featuring a few of my cards and my process.

That is not why I am blogging this. The reason I am talking about this is 'cause I want to shout it from the rooftops that this is one of the highest quality zines I have ever seen! The entire zine is done on feels great paper and the COLOR printing is the best I have seen! They do a standard page format folded in half, this issue #3 has a total of 24 pages including it's cover. The articles are all well-written with well thought of layouts, I am giving this zine 11 stars out of 10. You all know that 11 is my special number! Every atc photo is edgy just the way I love them. Believe it or not, my atc's seems to be the most tame compared to the rest. ATC Quarterly #3 not only prints really cool atc's to see, but interesting articles relating to teaching, displaying, as well as highlighting really rad artists like Julie Durocher, Ed Giecek, and my dear friend Sarah Fishburn. So, my advice is this is definitely a zine worth subscribing to! I am for sure.

May 24th, Wednesday, 12:49am

Today was my day off, I spent the day with my friend Deanna who is now selling The Wizard Embossing and Diecut Machine. Of course I had to order one, and she knows me well, it was inside her car just waiting to come inside my door. What I really liked it for would be for pressing metal. It presses paper, and she also showed me how to make paper casts. As soon as I get my dies I will be creating stuff with it, and will incorporate it into some of the tip in projects I am currently working on. So, it will be fun to experiment with and hopefully take it to new artistic heights! If anyone is interested in looking at The Wizard, email Deanna at bbaranowsky@cox.net, please tell her you read about it in my blog. She will give you the scoop on all it can do and what kind of dies are availabe, etc.... HOT TIP: Right now they are having an annual sale on a great selection of embossing dies and alphabets.

Hope everyone is having a great week!

May 17th, Wednesday, 1:17pm

I am back from my first Sculptra facial invasion. seriously, it was not baaaad at all. The anticipation of sitting on the dental type chair and waiting for the doctor to come in is always the worst. I got about 20? injections off of 4 vials. It was not painful, a little bit pricky but not nearly as bad as i thought. Can I tell yet? Yes, I can see a little difference. The only care I need to do is to massage the areas for 5 minutes, 5 times per day. 1 down, 2 to go.

NEWS FLASH: What did Maija Lepore put in my egg salad sandwich? That of course is our joke of the day. She just got a new puppy and was telling me about it over lunch this past Saturday, thanks again Maija for the sandwich! But, what did you put in it? It turns out as of yesterday, that we are picking up dog #5 today. No intentions of another dog, it just happened. So, how? Well it turns out that my almost two year old (Lulu) English Bullie's mom is being sold. When we got Lulu as a puppy we fell in love with her mama, she has such a calm disposition and gorgeous and fat. So, when we found out yesterday that the breeders were trying to sell her, we discussed it this fast....YES! We want her! So, tonight she is coming home.

I am going to clean up some art stuff, put away laundry, then begin my tip ins that are coming due next month? I have to check my calendar.

May 14th, Mother's Day, Sunday, 11:36pm

I cannot tell you how much peace and love the art community showers me with each Mothers Day and other days of the year. This week has been very active with emails, cards, gifts, encouraging thoughts, and prayers.

I taught a workshop yesterday at the Creative Quest in Glendale, and was getting a bit worked up over it during the week as I had a VERY special person attending whom I have not seen in awhile. I wanted to give her recognition but chose to not do so until class was almost ready to wrap up.

I have so many heroines in my life and Deanna is definitely on the top of my list. She is with the Mesa Police Department's Victim Assistance program, and was the one along with Bea (another angel) who responded to our 911 call on Valentines Day, 1997. Deanna took such good care of me, George, and my family.

I began to tell our story in my workshop yesterday when she announced she was going to be leaving. I began the story and found myself unable to continue, I had to let Deanna take over. And she spoke much better than I could've.

She recounted how when they received our 911 call, they were all so saddened to find out upon arriving at our home that the young 20 year old victim was "one of their own". Steve was with the MPD Explorer program, and had a passion to become a police officer. Steve was given a beautiful funeral service, and had a police procession to the cemetery. As Deanna told the story it was a solemn and honorable moment, I know Steve's spirit was felt by all in there.

Thank you to everyone who has given me such heART felt support since then. I believe I have now come full circle. I can say today that I am REALLY happy person! I am who I am because of him and you. Remember my philosophy? We must all travel from Point A and Point B to get to Point C with NO regrets, just lessons learned.

I keep getting asked why I don't teach too often. Two reasons. I have mild OCD, but when it comes to preparing for a class, it gets into full blown mode. I get very obsessed with the smallest details, making lists, making sure over and over that I have not forgotten anything. I know I am in trouble when I begin to spell the same word over and over when I go to bed. The second reason is that my art has always from the beginning been from Steve's and my heART. It is very draining on me, as I put so much of our energy into a class. I truly LOVE what I do when I am with you, nothing makes me happier. I am not your average person, as you all know who know me. I am quite an oddball, and love being me. I try to spread good cheer, excitement, and of course art when I teach. One day I quit doing Victim Assistance for the Mesa Police Department when I realized that I had the ability to touch more lives through my art. My dream has come true.

Today I will celebrate the day with my own mother, my family, and friends. I have never felt so much at peace.

Happy Mothers Day to all who are moms and to all who have moms. Yes, that is you.

xoxo

May 4th, Thursday, 11:22pm

I am feeling restless today. I have gadoodles of things to do but can't focus at the moment. I get so frickin anal when it comes to preparing for a workshop. I will be teaching next Saturday at the Creative Quest in Glendale, AZ. Once the class is over, I have to catch up on some doctor appointments plus I signed up for a tip in project being hosted by Jeri Aaron. I am anxious to get started on that, but feel I have to immerse myself into every little detail of my class first. I am looking forward to teaching it and seeing how everyone's Archives books turn out.

Okay time for TABOO TALK! At first it was the tattoo'd sleeve, now it is Botox! I got my first shots this week. Did they hurt? A little bit, but they all happened so fast, six of them between the brows. I love my dad dearly, so much that I inherited his sags, bags and creases. I have some distinctive marionette lines which I will have treated beginning on May 17th. By being open with this, I do hope to be your stepping stone if you have any questions. I am scheduled for 3 treatments, a month apart. So many women keep this a secret, what for? I guess my approach is to educate and to keep up with the times! Perhaps me and my 3 English Bulldogs can all go in for a group discount and have our jowls all lifted at once! They will make me look pretty good!!! Poor doggies. I do adore them all.

Oh, I just heard a good song on my iPod, I had to check the name.. it is called, Ghost of Love by The Proclaimers. What a beautiful mellow song, now I have Marilyn Manson blasting Beautiful People. What a crazy mix!

I worked on a Silver Moon style codex binding today. That means it is off kelter but it works for me, don't worry I will not be teaching this catastrophic project.

If you get a chance check out my friend Tiff's blog, she is doing so great with Photoshop and she is just learning! Who wants her to teach an online class? I do I do!!!!

Tomorrow morning as all Fridays, is my Jenny Craig weigh in, I hate Friday mornings! Especially after being at San Antonio's Fiesta last weekend, OYE!

Enough of this-n-that, I wish everyone a fun weekend full of art and love adventures!

April 29th, Saturday, 11:53pm

I just got home from spending four fun-filled days in San Antonio. It was my first time visit there, and what unplanned good timing it turned out to be, it was FIESTA time aka Mardi Gras in San Antonio! Fiesta THERE means 10 days worth of good food, family, activities, parades, parties and much more! I had no idea it was Fiesta until we had arrived.

Some of my top highlights were that we got front row seats for the Battle of Flowers Parade, after battling our own hesitiations on attending NIOSA the night before. NIOSA stands for Night In Old San Antonio, and it certainly lives up to its name. I had asked some of the locals during the day if they had attended NIOSA and what I should expect if I decide to go. I heard comments like, "Oh, I went back in 2001 and it was my laaaaaaaaaast time, TOO MANY PEOPLE!" or "Do you know anyone in San Antonio who can accompany you there?" hmmmmmmmmm, warning bells. BUT, we finally decided... When in Rome, do as the Romans do... we went, and had the best time! Nobody can throw a shindig like the Texans! Although it was really crowded, that only added to the party atmosphere, to be amongst everyone listening to live music, drinking margaritas, and eating all kinds of ethnic foods. People wore crazy hats, Mardi Gras Beads, and lighted pins. Evidence of cracked cascarones (brightly painted confetti filled eggs) laid strewn all over the grounds as everyone merrily crawled about 1 foot per minute. Just joking Y'ALL... more like 1 foot, 1 inch.

Then today we hooked up with my friend Katherine Brown who drove us around to see the non-tourist gorgeous parts of San Antonio. Last but not least, on the way to the airport we stopped at Stamp Antonio. What a wonderful store full of papers, embellishments, and a large assortment of rubber. I saw Beckah Krahula's Repousse class samples there which had me wishing I lived a lot closer!

When I go back to San Antonio, I will plan next time to be there again for their annual celebration. Wanna go? Let me know. tee hee

April 15th, Saturday, 1:01pm

This week has sped by so fast again. It was George's birthday and we did some fun things, we went to see Cirque Du Soleil's Corteo one night, I especially loved the Vintage Italian Clown costumes in this performance. The production like with all of them, was stunning. The performances are always worth more than the price of their tickets. I wanted one of their shirts so bad, but couldn't make up my mind, so I left without one. I hate that, when I can't decide. I wanted all of them.

The next day we all (family) met for Chinese food, again for G's b-day. That is never my first choice, but after all it was his pick.

Then last night we continued his festivities by taking mom and dad to go see Lila Downs in concert. I was turned onto her music by Karen Michel. In case you don't know of her, Lila did some of the music for the movie, Frida. Well, I have heard her music... I have it downloaded on my iPod, BUT to see her live.....kicked up her music to a whole new spice factor! I now have visual images of her, that woman owns the stage! She has a broad vocal range, I prefered her Cantina songs which were sung in a strong sultry alto voice range. She can certainly belt out the tunes. And on top of that, she is gorgeous and can dance. Yes, G. now has a new girlfriend. The Moonster can be very generous with G man! The opening band was called Charanga Cakewalk. I am now a fan of their music, if you get a chance to go see either, GO!!!

I worked on some art this week, and took a day off on Thursday to go into Phoenix for a few art supplies. My assemblage I have been working on is now being fine tuned.

I pretty much went off my diet this week as well as exercising, I will blame it on G. Have I mentioned my goal this year is to lose weight? I have lost 18 pounds so far and will keep working on it. Even if I eat fat food once in awhile, i will still continue my goal to lose. As you all know, I hate mornings. I could easily be up all night long. I always felt getting on the treadmill was a morning thing, that it would screw up my sleep pattern at night. Excercise is not my friend, I never get visited by those much talked about fun endorphines, UNTIL tonight. I got on the treadmill at midnight and cranked up some Lila Downs and FINALLY felt the those cwazy little endorphines! I really think i will hang out with them more often at the midnight hour.

April 5th, Wednesday, 9:53pm

Artwise: I have been working on an assemblage, it's been sometime since I have worked on one and am enjoying it very much. I am using wood, porcelain, and wire. My art evolves as I keep painting. Sometimes something doesn't happen as intended, but then another idea usually pops up and improves the previous disappointment. That's what makes my process enlightening. I never know which direction I will be headed in. While I wait for pieces to dry, I am also working on altering some found objects as well as some vintage photos in preparation for Art Unraveled.

Lifewise: This past weekend we attended the annual Steven Fernandez Technology Center benefit. I proudly came home with a vibrant and splendid silkscreen created by my fine artist cousin Frank Ybarra. The art print is entitled "Our Lady of Guadalupe, Arizona." It is a treasure and one which will most fortunately grace my art studio.

Thanks to everyone who contributed to the auction and helped out with making the evening a huge success in honor of Steve.

March 30th, Thursday, 10:19pm

I wake up with the moon. You know how there are sunshine people, I am the opposite. I live for dark cloudy weather and the moonlight. That is what brings me to life. During the day I drag around and do a little bit of this and that. I feel as if I have not been productive.

As I sit here and blog, paint, cut, and glue I am looking out my window at the dark sky and feeling so energized. I go to get something out of the closet, something else falls. I can't pick it up, I am too busy heading back to my studio. My surroundings are literally crashing and falling around me, I do not care. I am in total bliss, with a paintbrush in my hand and the moon watching over me. Nocturnal Lunar Art is my second nature. Being cwazy is my first. xoxo

March 20th, Monday, 1:02 pm

This month is passing by so quickly. But I have accomplished a lot as well. I posted my classes I will be teaching at Art Unraveled, I made a class sample to be taught at The Creative Quest in Glendale, and I am working on some new art projects right now, 4 of them!

On a personal note, I checked on the man and his dog and both are doing great! It rained so hard this weekend, I was thinking about him feeling safe in his nice warm home. His face has filled out in the past month, and his dog looks very content.

I have been connecting with a lot of people this month. People I have known for many years but just don't take time to call them or visit with them, family and friends.

I spent the day with my son's Aunt Olivia this past Saturday. Her and I can talk all day. We love to talk about family history, astrology, and connecting with the other side. Anyways she told me something that really touched me that I would love to pass on to everyone else. Her mother, Nana Rosa would continually say to her "Always look for the good in people." How easy and simple is that? So many of us are always doing the opposite, we hone in on a person's negativity, and in turn we are being negative ourselves! She always mentions to me how they grew up poor and are still poor. Aunt Olivia, richness is not measured by the almighty dollar, it is measured by love and happiness. You are the the mother lode of wealth!

March 2nd, Thursday, 11:42pm

I try not to bitch and moan on my blog, tonight I will give myself permission cause it's not about you, it's about me.

Seems like I am always surrounded by these little piles of stuff to put away. Many times I feel like that is my life! Putting stuff away. Okay, so I go out, I stop and run errands, bring stuff in. It usually goes on the kitchen table. It stays there for awhile, perhaps 3 days. Then I go out to the mailbox, more stuff to put away. Then I come upstairs and begin to clear my space. What I do is carry stuff from this room to that room, making another little pile.

My system is to plow through the house all at once. So, i will begin on the east side and work myself towards the west. If something is in that one room I am working on, and it doesn't belong in there, I make a pile to take into the right room where it belongs. So, I am constantly putting away piles. Do I ever catch up? Of course NOT, as soon as I am finished down to the west side, the kitchen table is now cluttered with more paperwork to file, more stuff to put away upstairs, plus folded laundry turns into more piles, as do the clean dishes. I am sick of these viscous little piles that take up mountains of my time.

March 1st, Wednesday, 12:36am

Today I dropped off my torso at Ink It and was totally amazed at the wonderful talent and response from the art community for participating in their charity to benefit the breast cancer project. I have my favorites mentally listed to place some bids. I hope I get the one I REALLY AND TRULY WANT. Okay, so there are several of them.

Next on my agenda is to design a workshop for The Creative Quest. But first I need to clear up my workspace to unclutter my mind!!!

Hope to see you at Ink It on March 8th!

February 23rd, Thursday, 8:55pm

Today has been a great slow-paced day, where I get to stay in all day, check on the dogs, and continue working on art. At the moment i am working on an art torso for a charity auction event being hosted by Ink It to benefit the Phoenix chapter of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

I am donating a 22" torso, one which has occupied my art studio for years, begun but never finished. Since committing my contribution I have experienced such a major blockade on how to proceed with this project. The art I LOVE to create may scare away most people, this is an auction, hello! I need to tone my thoughts down, but interpret it in my style. So, again...I've given myself a new dare!

I stared at the torso for days. Originally it was headed to look total grunge and shoddy, of course, how else? But to make it worthy of anyone who has ties to breast cancer is what has really made me stumble and fall. Until I thought about my two grandmothers. I have a paternal grandmother I never had the privilege of knowing who passed away when I was only 4 months old. Nana Candelaria fought a courageous 2 year battle and passed away on December 15, 1958. I mourn for this woman whom I have only known through her photos and a few stories passed down from my dad and aunt.

Then there is my maternal grandmother, Nana Nona who is a very quiet, demure woman yet most valiant. She is 86 years young and beautiful. To me she represents the model of acceptance, faith, and strength. So, there I am up again off the floor. I'm working like a luna-tic woman on my art torso, telling both of my grandmothers through art that they belong to my heart.

February 11th, Saturday, 11:14pm

Today is all about him and his dog. He has been walking for years now, his loyal companion at his side. Today I learned he cannot bear the summer heat that will soon be upon him again, adding more deep furrows onto his sunburned face. He is getting older, he is tired. I looked into his loving companion's eyes and they spoke to me, she too is weary and needs to stop this endless journey.

Today we have given them an opportunity. A new chance. They will be sheltered from the elements. They will soon be sleeping safely in their own bed, not under an eave or a hundred year old tree. I am following my heart, we are all following our hearts. Our Valentine Hearts, the loving hearts. Please pray that we are doing the right thing. Today is the 11th, before Valentines Day. I pray I did the right thing.

In loving honor of Steve
Valentines Day 2006.

January 28th, Saturday, 7:03pm

Whew am I ever worn out!!! We (George and I) spent 2 weeks in Italy from New Years Eve. until mid-January. It was the BEST trip I have ever been on, I already wish to return to Venice someday. What a magical city that is! The entire countryside of Italy is gorgeous, so rich in its history and all its people so nice. I have not even had a chance to look at my pictures taken since returning. As far as journaling, I did what i ALWAYS do, I journal the first day and forget about it for the rest of the trip. My journal is now the plastic bag which contains receipts of restaurants and stores visited, as well as the variety of hotels we slept in, from a modern day hotel to a renovated 1000 year old monastery.

Once G and I got home, I began the dreaded task of turning my "art room/catch ALL" room into my guest bedroom, finally! Remember that was referenced in my first blog written? But the idea had been there for several years. Well I had two weeks to transform it, as my first houseguest of the year arrives tomorrow. Toni Curtis of Louisiana will be here, check out her website, I believe it could still be under construction, but keep checking back. http://www.heartofthegypsy.com. Toni is a doll artist whom I met at Art Unraveled in 2005. We have been "sistahs" ever since.

Anyways, I will post pics once my camera is charged of my new bedroom. It's theme is "Dia de Los Muertos", inspired by my trip to Pozos in October 2005, where I went to take Michael de Meng's workshop. So, I have been non-stop up and down the stairs, and back and forth to the garage. Today I had a spur of the moment yard sale to get rid of lots of stuff which unbelievably came out of that room as well as furniture. Was it ever cold outside!!! But all is now gone, I can rest for the evening, and get myself geared up to have an artful time with Toni.

I hope the New Year is treating everyone great so far and will continue to do so.