A Fanciful Twist

Jump on the Gypsy Wagon, it's Halloween!!

On all Hallow's Eve when the air turns perfectly crips, and goblins and ghouls set out with a bag of tricks, you decide to venture into a ghost town.  A ghost town that has turned the evening into a night of frolick and games.  Of treats and screams and dancing witches.  Of monsters and madness... (as always, feel free to click on any image to enlarge)  Revisiting my fave photo from the party (below)...

 

Into the wagon all of you go.  It will be a long long ride, as the crescent moon shows us the way...

   

As you wait patiently, the wagon swaying side to side, making you woozy for certain.  You peek out the window for fresh air.  And you notice, you are passing the old cemetery.  You are convinced you see a faint ghost of a girl in a bonnet skipping rope on the left.  But noone really believes you...

    

You wonder if the swaying of the wagon is making you hallucinate, or if you are really spying ghostly apparitions.  You check the mirror, to make sure you are okay.  But wait, on the right, a monster greets you...

         

Eeek!  It is going to be a strange night for certain...  As the wagon sways and rocks more than ever...  Through the creepiest desert mountains you go.  Not a person in sight.  Down a steep cliff you descend.  Will you make it to tell a story at the end?

    

You are told by the driver to look to the right...  In the distance you can see the road you must take, to get to the ghost town...   

   

You drive and you drive for hours and hours, until a red light appears at the train station.  This is as far as the wagon will take you...  It is time for you to hop out...  Your witchy gypsy sisters will be back to collect you at 12:01 a.m.

       

You hear a strange sound as you jump out of the wagon.  You feel a section of your long billowing skirt get caught on something that rips a small piece off...  Oh me oh my, what could it be.  Oh it seems, the ghost activity has begun...  It was a ghost train passing by that has left you stunned!

   

You try to get your bearings, when just then you hear a cackling in the wind!!  You also hear tires, which warns you to take cover!!

The Mad Skelly Driver swooshes by as well...

      

    

And who is his passenger?  Why, it looks like the headless horseman himself!!

       

I think both you and I need to ask someone for directions, don't you think?  Let's see if we can find someone...  Ya, umm, I am not sure I want to ask that guy...

        

I think we should just walk on and see what we can see.  Our ride will be here for us at 12:01, so let's snoop around...

Oh my can you smell that?  It smells like the freshest kettle corn on the planet...

         

Perhaps we should wait?  Why you ask?  Well, I think I spy Phoebe's treat shop not far away...

    

Shall we see what treats she has for us on this fine Witch's day?

    

How will you ever choose, you wonder to yourself....

    

Oh just take one of each, they are free, money wise and calorie wise ;) ;)

Nibble nibble nibble!  Let's go see a show...  But first make sure you check and see that your taxidermist has your creatures on track.  You don't want to have to wait too much longer..

    

Such a lovely little shop, I say...

        

But noone will answer the door, perhaps the taxidermist is busy working on a creature?  Oh me oh my, she has her saw in hand...  Look away...

   

A better peek in her shop...

    

Perhaps we should let her be so she can get her work done...  Didn't you say you had to stop at the Blacksmith's to have something repaired??

   

I really think we should move on, the whole place is rather creepy...

    

Plus, I just saw a strange guy walk by with something very bothersome, dragging behind him...

        

I tug tug tug on your skirt, but you just seem to brush me off.  Are you the fearless witch or what? ;)

Didn't you say you wanted to catch the spooky show at the local saloon and theater house?  Hurry we will be late...  Let's make a run for it, the alleys in this ghost town are way too scary at night...

    

We pass the haunted Gazebo...

         

And town square...  Where there is haunted court house...

        

Hurry hurry, we might miss the show...

       

Oh, finally we are here...

    

And what a charming door...

        

In the saloon we go, where the show is about to begin...  Looks like the taxidermist decorated this place ;)

         

Pretzel while we wait?

         

Oooo, a light show illuminates a giant horned creature above the stage...

  

We wait for the show to begin...  Me in my striped socks and Witchy boots...

    

All dusty from the ghost town dirt that envelopes your soul...  I dunno about this show?  Shall we escape and go see what other mischief we can get into??

Apothecary, now that sounds like fun!!  Maybe they can make me some Original Sea Breeze, so I don't have to scour the earth buying every last original drop that the buggers who bough the Sea Breeze Co. discontinued when they bought the label and not the recipe??  Those numb skulls...  Changing a 25+ year formula.  I think on this day when my evil sister side can come out, I will turn them all into toads.  Slimey gross ugly warty toads...  Bwahahahahahaaaa!!!

   

OOooo, lovely deteriorating walls... 

   

Watch out, a monster is lurking...

         

He seems to be after all those little children roaming the haunted village...

         

Oh no!!  Another one, can you see him escaping the haunted courthouse??

    

Ahhhhhh!!  Run for your lives!!!

    

Keep running, that place looks scary too!!  

    

Phew, we are safe.  Maybe we need to have some brew before we go any further??

    

Wooo weeeee!  Feeling woozy now for sure ;)  Let's go get my fortune told you holler in my ear!  Okay okay, I hear ya, I hear ya ;)

   

Well, I don't know about you, but my fortune teller said, I was going to meet a strapping ole gun-slinger that used work in Old Tucson as an actor, ages ago...

Oh wait, there he is!  hee hee...

   

I best go get freshened up before I introduce myself... 

        

Oh, now that is much better...  Why, how do you to kind sir?  Oh you want to take me and my witchy friends out for refreshments...  Why of course...  (you girls don't mind coming along do ya?)

        

Yummy yummmmmm!

         

What a lovely evening with so much to see and so much to do.  Beautiful lights...

  

And ghoulish games for everyone...

    

You beg to go to the magical carousel before we leave. Known to go back in time...

        

Around, around, around you go, where you stop, nobody knows...

         

The magical wonderful carousel...

    

Now that was fun, don't you agree?  With so many more pictures, I could almost faint. So, I will add, the train ride into the hills was spooky wonderful, and the scary shows were a hoot...  

But now it seems it is time to go...  The magical mystical Gypsy Caravan is here to take us away...

         

  

         

Wave Good-Bye to the scary Jack-o-lantern man as you drive by...

         

And clap at the wonderful Hallow's eve you had while you look upon the city lights, as you make your way back to your world... 

 

For now, time is creeping away...  And we must get some rest before tonight's Halloween Festivities ensue...  We are going spooky creepy wonderful haunted tune folk dancing!!  Yipppeeee!

So,  as all good witches do on that one day of the year, as they prepare to go out on the Halloween Town...  We are dusting a polishing...

   

Treating ourselves...

    

Relaxing...

    

Waiting for trick or treaters, who never appear...

         

Watching our fellow witches on screen...

         

And wishing you all, a super duper, ScrumDillyUmptious Safe and Ghoulish Halloweeeeen!!

         

It has been a good time!! And a wonderful Halloween Season!!  The Halloween Party was so much fun, I must revisit it again today...  Many more fun holidays to come, and the most magical sparkly lovely one of all, with snow and stockings is not far away...  But first, Turkey and stuffing and family...

And hopefully a little relaxing too!!

This Witch is offically Exhaustified!!!!! 

  

I'll be back on Sunday with all kinds of good stuff...  Annnnnnd, I will enter you for a second time in the drawing (last post details) if you say hey in this one, and give me a squishy wart hug for venturing into no man's land for ya'll last night!! 

♥ xoxo, Over the pumpkin moon with witches and warlocks!!  You guys are the BEST!!  Just the funnest most loveliest ghouls around!!!  Thank you for playing with me! V 

A tune for you...

I think I want to rent Interview with a Vampire today, I have not seen it in years... And my fave, but no too spooky, must see, The Village (very tricky movie that is not scary).

Adieu!! ps:  Did you take your piano lesson today?

pss:  Thank You to Old Tucson, for making a fun Hallowen haunt, that I could photograph to my hearts content, and share with you!!

 

Do stop in for Haunted Tea Time...

This is my ghoulish attempt at a pre-post for a post that may or may not come to be for the spookiest day of the year (tomorrow).  You see, Mr. Lovee and I are fighting against the greatest forces of E-Ville (no joke), to try and bring you to the most hauntedest spookiest place around...

Between flat tires, dead batteries and forgotten rehearsals (Mr. Lovee), everything is getting in our way.  But I am bound and determined. 

    

So, we had to stop for a breather and have tea time, before we make our last attempt this afternoon.  Which really should be called treat time, because, really, who are we kidding?  We have tea-time as an excuse around here to have treats that, we have convinced ourselves, don't infringe on the daily alloted calories.  And we don't even have tea all that often. 

It is more like magical coffee time, of the extra strong variety...

      

Dare I say, the ghosts and goblins are not at bay.  They are hard at work, and endless play...  They stole an entire bowl of perfectly yummy sour cream butter sugar vanilla frosting!!  And they tried to open my bedroom door to the outside world at 3 a.m. last night.  So Spoookie!!  Although I blame that one on vampires.

      

I am indulging in every bit of Halloween I can wrap my life around.  Even though, it feels like Halloween already passed.  Drawing pumpkins and snowflakes and Christmas trees in summer, kind of throws you for a lopp-D-loop. (Christmas cards should be here anyday for the shopling)

  

So to keep me Halloweenie Happy, I made these delicious most moist lovely Queen cakes..  And then decorated them.  Such fun!!  I love those little attachable frosting thingamajigies, that you just attach to the the black frosting tube.  Did that make sense?

All I can say is, beware of who finds out about your baking.  You never know who might show up down the pencil drawn path to abscond a few baked goods...  (or who drags you out of sleep at 1 a.m. to be put on canvas...)

         

Did you choose your pufkin?

         

Yummy MUMMY!  A twilight Zoney cakey love...

Now, here is where this gets good.  This is going to be an insane weekend of fun giveaways that was not even planned intentionally!!  I know it is all going to seem mad.  But I picked up some awesome Day of the Dead treats for Sunday.  Which again is Dia de Bloglandia! 

By the way, did you see this?  How fab and funny is that?  Dia de los Plush!! Seems not far from here (few hours)...

So, back to business....

Let's consult the hand and see if I can pull the next 3 days off...

        

Oh wait, the hand says, wait, is it true?  Let me check this out...  Can it be?  This hand is a giveaway!!  Yes yes, a palmistry hand for one of vous!!

Leave a comment in this blog post or tomorrow's blog post to win this hand...  Leave a comment in each one, to enter your name twice...  I will be writing these names out and drawing from a hat on Tuesday.

Hand comes complete with little book (instructions of sorts)...

         

Annnnnnd, more treats to giveaway on Sunday for Day of the Dead. Annnnnnnd, if I can get it together I may or may not make an announcement tomorrow about something that has been sitting lonely waiting to be told since April...  It is not a book, and not a baby, and not a new boyfriend (unless of course, Javier Bardem is going to pick me up at 4:00 p.m. instead of the Mister).  Nothing like that, just something silly, but dear to me.   

      

Okay choose your treat, hurry I have to go ;)  (I can be bossy sometimes.  But have you met my Dad, is the real question?  Bossy central, but with lots of love)

I have to travel into the desert with my miners gear and some pirate Kiss guy this afternoon, to try to bring you some fun pics for Halloween!!  I am insane, insane I tell ya.  Of course, it runs in my family, so it is totally out of my control.  Don't tell anyone I said that...  (Mom, I wasn't talking about you, oh no, not you, hee hee.  No really, it isn't about you!!  I promise.  Hee hee snort, laugh, chuckle.  No really!)

Okay, grab a gumball and wish me luck.  I am off to try to bring spooksville to this bloglette tomorrow... 

         

Light a pumpkin candle!!  And hope on all stars,  that I make it out safe to tell the tale... Bwwwwahahahahaa!!!

Off to Dance, Dance Magic Dance, until I must retreat into the hills...  You know, you could get some goblin ideas for last minute costumes ;)

ps:  For those of you in the UK and Australia, who say you don't get to celebrate Halloween that much...  I have to say, I have found more spooky places and haunted places in your neck of the woods than I can tell you about...  Perhaps I should come visit and we can go on Ghostly tours??  Eeeek!!

See you here tomorrow ;) Love, Witchy Poo V

A Halloween Treat {For You}

Shhh, don't tell anyone I am here ;)  I have been whining that I want to go out and do something exciting.  So we set some time aside for it, and now I don't feel like going.  Isn't it funny the way things happen like that?

Anyhow, I'd rather come here and share a tiny lil' treat with you.  A free downloadable Halloween Card. Click here for Printable PDF File - it might take several seconds to open.  Takes me 30 seconds.

You get two per sheet, and can print out as many as you wish...  My Mom and Aunt send us Halloween cards every year.  I think that is so much fun!!

        

This is a foldable card.  I printed it with regular printer paper, which looks just fine, but a nice matte cardstock prints even lovelier.  And gives a nice sturdyness for folding and scalloping.  Although I like the card without scallops as well.

        

Because I can be a tad nutty, I even made you a silly little totally homemade printable envelope.  Click here for printable envelope template.  Upon printing, simply flip the vertical page once, clockwise, for view below. (for glue edges, I like to use a glue stick or double stick tape)

   

It is a funny shape due to the printer paper size constraint.  But if you cut the edge of the tabs all the way to the edge of your printer paper, your envelope will turn out even better.  You will understand what I mean when you print yours.  Example below. 

        

Let me take a sec to put in my two cents on the envelopes...

Once they are cut out you might find a gap at the end where the tabs meet. 

   

    

    

A little of that can be taken care of by trimming the tabs all the way to the end the paper, as previously stated.

However, I find that if you cut right along the lines and "do" end up with this gap, a sticker could easily remedy that.  Or, you could even punch a hole in each tab and then tie them shut with a ribbon.

I love this cute little parcel effect...

         

I don't know about you, but wonky tabs don't matter to me, as long as I get a perfect lil' cardlette fit...

         

So, there you have it.  A wee Halloween Gift.  

By the way, In the right hand side bar you will find a new album called "Free Treats."  This album holds a bunch of the free printable items I have shared in the past.  Along with the blog link and the PDF link.  Simply click on image for details.  I know there are some others.  I just have to look for them...

I best be on my way.  Looks like I still might have to go do something fun and exciting.  Hee hee.  Maybe I need a few new pumpkins too. Mine are getting pretty freaky...

   

I announced the 4 giveaway winners from the Halloween Party in my previous blog post.  Wondering who they are?  Hope they claim their loot soon ;)  The lovelies picked by the random number generator are:  Tammy Sprinkle,  Connie Carpenter Macko , Tricia from Kooky Handbags, and Deb of A Nesting Place!!  YAY for you girls!!  E-mail me your addresses so I can ship out your loot!  Fun Fun!!

See you soon!!  ♥, V

ps:  Thriftventure giveaway next time.  I was going to do it this time, but I wanted to give you these cards at least 1 week before Halloween (less than one week)!!  Told you it would come fast! Eeeks!!  Do you have a costume?

Escape & Return

Hi, Helooo, Hola!!  Wow, that was one long party wasn't it?  So many of you were a part of it through your own blogs, or came to party with us on the day.  My goodness, what magic you all brought with you!  Thank you sooooo much, from the bottom of my black shriveled witchy heart (it's only black during the Halloween season of course).  I can't thank you enough.  So, just know, I thank you so much, as do the multitude of "A Fanciful Twist" characters!!

       

How has your party recovery been going?  I have had so much to do.  I cleaned up the mess and organized it.  Put some of the guys that only came out for the party in my car (they have to venture back to my in town house).  I fainted for a day or so.  And then, I escaped!

I have to say, I love all the little ghostie children that live on our property and hide in little wood sheds.  However, a girl has to escape every so often, so as not to go completely insane...

        

The children don't seem to understand.  And you have to be very careful or the ghostlings might make it so you can never leave.  So I promise them stories and treats upon my return.  (Okay I am spooking myself out now, heee)

Speaking of little ghost children in the wood shed...  I am reminded to share about a ghost story contest going on right here at Art and Sewl . Check it out!  Fun prizes to be won as well!!  I love ghost stories, especially those of the real variety.  Can't wait to read those!!

Now, on to the escape part - Venturing into the real world can be a necessary chore for those who work from a hidden studio in the country.  So through the tunnel between here and there I traveled (not really the tunnel from here to there, but a good idea)... I would say this song beckoned me.  Although, do you want to know a secret?  The Spanish version by the lovely Mikel Erentxun beckoned me more.  It takes me about 45 minutes to get from the country to downtown Tucson...

    

I visted some places that are so quietly squeal worthy!!  I can't even stand it.  Squeal worthy and part of the Day of the Dead beauty.  Which is very much a part of where I grew up, in and around Mexico...  Marigold's abound!!

       

Day of the dead is a lovely celebration of those that have passed.  Also known as All Souls' Day, which also happens around or the day after All Saints' Day (I think).  Also, I am participating in my friend Stephanie's (Rodrigvitz Style - beautiful blog!) event in about a week (Nov. 2nd).  This event is called Dia de Bloglandia.  Check it out!!  I Can't wait!!  That is when I shall share some of my photos I captured as well as where they came from... 

If you are near or in Tucson, you might not want to miss the All Souls' Procession (parade).  Here is a Calendar of events with the schedules on the Many Mouths One Stomach website (oh, their gallery of photos is wondeful as well)...  There are countless exciting events going on here right now.  A procession for children on Nov. 1st and all kinds of events that weekend...  I am pretty sure you can find out details about any Tucson event in the Tucson Weekly...

So, back to my escape...

After strolls through hidden courtyards downtown by the museum of art, where I do pottery...

   

I stopped in to see what my friends were up to.  I was playing hooky from actually working on clay myself...

Joyce was making an incredible sculpture.  The body actually looked like fabric.  I will take more photographs as she completes him...

         

I dreamed of what was behind the beautiful blue door I often pass on my way to the pottery studio...

    

And I even bought some Christmas gifts...

        

I took some drive by photos of some of my favorite downtown places.  Which I then altered ;)

Grill, funky diner (once my college hang out at late hours), and the wig shop...

    

I thought this photo was funny, because I took it through my car window.  Which in turn, made my hands and camera turn up in the wig shop building facade...   

Then there is the Instrument shop...

   

After that I called up my sis to meet me at our fave place...

         

Where you will find a fabulous nightclub (Club Congress), and the Cup Cafe. 

   

           

Which has the best desserts in all of Tucson.  The banana creme pie here, will change your life!  ;)  If you like bananas that is... 

      

Sadly, we were in good mode and had no dessert. 

 

I had two cups of coffee a glass of water a cappuccino and a salad.  I don't know why I always sit with my legs crossed, up off the floor (criss cross applesauce)...

    

YIKES!   Talk about Speedy Gonzales. 

   

I thought I was hallucinating, but the floor really was made out of pennies.  Why had I never noticed that before?   I have been here a billion times in the last 15 years...

   

Anyhow, after all that coffee...  I got home cleaned, vacuumed, changed sheets, dusted, did dishes, fixed supper, and took care of Mr. Lovee after a stitch worthy dental visit...  Then I dreamt Tori Amos and I were having a very serious conversation, and I was dressed like a rapper (what?).  Then Tori and I were crying outrageously because a butterfly died.  ? I know? And I think I even sang Suede outloud in my sleep (chorus & bridge section).  I could hear myself.  Haha, blame it on all of that Caffeine...  Anyways, I am sharing too much of my psychosis, so let's move on...

It was so lovely to sit and chat with my sis.  She is a very funny girl!  Very very funny!

        

    

I also made her a blog banner last night.  Can you believe it?  She didn't have one.  I had not made her one yet.  Please convince her to keep blogging ;) 

I have to say, I LOVE making blog banners and buttons and I love designing postcards and gift cards and all of that.  I just love it...   I bet you didn't know this, but before I was the kind of painter I am now, I worked in giant scale funky abstract bright color wild ways...  Very modern.  I feel that calling me back a little bit more and more... 

So I guess it would be awful if I said Adios for the day without announcing the 4 Pirate's loot winners from the party.  Which includes, a giant jewel from the pirate stash for each winner. 

 

The names picked by the random number generator are:  Tammy Sprinkle,  Connie Carpenter Macko , Tricia from Kooky Handbags, and Deb of A Nesting Place!!  YAY for you girls!!  E-mail me your addresses and I will ship out your loot next week!  Fun Fun!!

Now I must be on my way to work on the Red Art Project, and get it shipped out.  It is such a great project to be working on!!  So exciting!

Make sure you have a cupcake before you go...  I am going to indulge in a little blog catching up before I get to work.  I love this post on Miss Vandroo's blog so much!  I want my doll house to look like that!!  I just love all her little tiny things pictures.  Her Hitty collection is incredible!!

Okay, I have officially put more links in this blog post that any other, ever ;)

Off I go, see you soon with a thrifventure!!!  Thanks again for being so wonderful!! 

♥ V ♥

Halloween Extravaganza

Can it be that the time has come for our Fanciful Halloween Fête?  Well well then my pretties, enter at your own risk...  The head Owl chemist, who makes sure all of our spells are running properly, welcomes you... 

   

Please take off your capes and hats, pull up a great big toadstool and stay for a while...  I am sure your bunions need some rest.  197 years of pointy shoes can do that to any ole witch or warlock.  Can I offer you some mugwort before we start partying?

      

We have lots to share, and sooo many treats, we shan't ever run out...

      

Don't forget to try one of each...

         

Now that you are cozy I will tell you a bit about our little party.  You see, this party has been going on at A Fanciful Twist headquarters starting every afternoon, for 4 very long evenings.  All sorts of characters (real and real magical) have popped by to share in the fun.  There were over 3,000 photos taken, and finally, a perfectly wacky table setting just for you...

 

Some of my art dolls decided they were real witches. I think they look quite charming with a little gothic flair, what do you think?

        

They are so gossipy about the other creatures from The Fairy Tale Forest.  If you could only hear them... One wants to turn everyone into bats, the other opts for trolls.  I tell ya, I have got a lot to deal with around here ;)

          

I do so hope you enjoy yourselves.  Also, this is a bit of a celebration for an extremely dear character that has come to inhabit our crazy world...  She has added more magic than I could have ever hoped for... 

      

Can you guess who she is?

         

We called on the good witch to release butterflies under the full moon, in honor of her arrival, just in time for this Halloween adventure...

        

The butterflies flew in a circle into the sky, and like a flutter of magic, they created for us this enchanted Halloween room in the garden, under the big trees...  Then they flew back around us, and have stayed for 4 whole days...

      

Well, if you have not guessed, it is my very precious new playable creature, from a certain magnificent pirate...

        

And she plays like a charm!  I have been playing so many haunting tunes for you, I can't hardly walk, because you have to hold levers open with your knees while you pump the pedals with your feet, whilst attempting to play and sing.  I have put in at least 4 hours of play time...

 

Shall I play a tune while you all grasp hands and go round and round?  Let me get ready here...

   

    

Be prepared to see a bevy of spirits float out as I play...  Spin spin, round and round, faster and faster, chanting those magical words...

 

         

Who would like to sing for us?  She fits perfectly in a world with this and especially this.  I am thoroughly obsessed with automata, and incorporating it into my next art piece..  I will have to take a video for you one day while playing her, I can't describe how exciting she is to play!!  Eerily wonderful...

I have to say though.  Be Warned...

        

She has already shown serious signs of being haunted.  The dog sits by her and barks when I am not playing...  Hmmmm.... Spooooky ;) 

I think it is time for treats, after all the dancing and singing... 

        

And perhaps, I should get out of my dark attire and go into the darker witchy attire?  We have some spells to work up before the sun sets.  One of the spells must be performed under the full moon...  Let me get my hat, and attempt to look like a respectable witch...

    

Umm, I dunno...  I kind of look like a scared pilgrim, and not really like a witch?

        

Hmmm, that's a bit better, oh this wicked hat of mine.  It must be cursed!!

        

Okay, this will have to do says the ancient magic mirror-  I'll see you out there, for spells!! 

          

Okay let's see here...

         

Nope, this just won't do, we must consult the Great Huge Spell book...

   

That's more like it...

    

    

Okay, what kind of spell are you into?  I want to turn rocks into diamonds... What do you think?  Or we could try turning my hedge into Javier Bardem again.  But that was such a disaster last time ;) 

Let me gather my supplies...

   

Have you decided?  What what?  You want me to make you ten years younger?  You want me to give you long tendrils of curly hair?  You want a chauffeur?  Oy, that is gonna cost ya...  I want ten shillings for that... 

      

I don't really know what I am doing.  So don't ask me to tweak your hair.  It could always turn out worse, and that is just no good, right?  I mean, what if I do the reverse of what you are asking?

I have collected my supplies.  I am going to try to conjure someone from the past into reality... What do you think?

        

I must work quickly, the sun is going down...

    

Hmmm, I think I want to try to turn 3 feathers into a man.  Don't tell Mr. Lovee.  No no, not someone from "my" past.  I mean, a certain type of man from hundreds of years ago.  You know, when men wore long curly hair, and ribbons...  When they carried swords on their belt and picked you up off the ground as they rode past you on a big white horse...  Like a romance novel.  What do you say? 

Okay, looks like I have to do a dance around the cauldron...

      

Oh no, I think I am doing something wrong... Did you hear that scary laughter???  What could it be?

      

Ooo, it is getting dark really fast, let me light some candles before I go check it out...

  

      

That's more like it.  Maybe light a pumpkin or two as well...

         

So our spell says we need a couple of witches to chant and dance around the fire...

         

Looks like it is starting to work already...  Go on witches, chant on!!

   

    

All of a sudden it got eerily quiet.  No sounds but the fire crackling...  Then I could see movement..  Was that a ship? What on earth??

         

What is that I see?  Goodness gracious!!  The spell, it's working!!  An apparition??

    

A man?  But wait, he was carrying a scary knife, not a sword.  And he has a boat, not a horse...  And he has long hair, but it is more like Kiss , and not so much like Prince Valiant...  What have I done?  It seems, I conjured a PIRATE?  But wait, what is he doing?  Who is that masked man??

      

Wait a second, I can hear him, he is trying to put a spell on me?  Oh no, it's working!!  It looks like, he is moving in to my Halloween garden boudoir!! 

Spellbinding!!

      

The party is getting wild all over again!!  All the night creatures are coming out to play!!  There is a pirate playing pirate tunes, and the party seems to have taken on a life of its own!!  Are you having fun??

Dancing under the green globes and the trees...

   

We carved some pumpkins, the pirate and I.  The witches loved them...

       

The magic just won't quit.  It is all just fluttering around by itself.  Did you send the magic my way???  I want to catch it in my bell jar...

   

Now, I must go practice being spooky, and make my way to visit you!!  It might take me a few days.  But I am up for a few more days of partying, how about you?

          

And since I met a handsome pirate, with kiss hair, I am going to change into my witchy meets pirate wardrobe and head to your place!!  So many wonderful visits to make!!

          

But make sure you get enough dancing and munching in while you are here.  I certainly am, because the entire vignette is still set up under the billowing trees...  I never want it to go away ;)  We had friends over to enjoy a bit of it.

          

What a dreamy little event you guys inspired by agreeing to take part!!  Thank you oodles for joining in the fun!!  I can hear a little band marching up my street...  Could it be?

    

Happy Early Halloween!  And guess what the good news is?  It is only the 18th, so you get to keep celebrating for a few more days in this most exciting spooky magical time of the year!! 

Oh I almost forgot!!  I have 4 Halloween Pirate loot bags with wacky treasures in them.  Including large diamonds right out of the pirate skull's eye socket ;)  (not real diamonds of course)  I will draw 4 names from those who leave comments.  I'll let you know who the winners are in the next post.

   

Thank you guys for being so much fun!!!  See you real soon.  Oh and, on the 31st of October, I will share a little something exciting with you!!  Can't wait to tell you!

Now, let's play!!  ♥ V ♥  

ps:  I am getting this question a lot, so yes, I do have an online shop ;)  And the snail girl that you see inside the bell jar, can be found in my little shopling, as a matter of fact...  Thanks for the oodles of fun!! 

pss:  Monday Update - What an amazing weekend!  What incredible participation!!  I tried to visit everyone on the list, and think I just may have.  If my notes are correct ;)  The list of Partiers will be in my right hand sidebar until the day after Halloween.  Simply scroll down to view them.  Happy Monday!  Oh and, just because it is Monday, does not mean the fun has to stop!  Love, V

Halloween Party Countdown!!

Down a little dirt road in the woods, there was a buzz...

      

Or was it more like wheels and trotting?  We couldn't quite make it out.  We had to quietly skip past the bend in the road to get a better look.  But, we had to be very quiet because we did not want to scare anyone away...

      

Oh yes, dear me, it looked like a caravan of sort.  I sent a wood sprite to ask the folks where they were headed?

      

Seems that they were on a serious time crunch to get to some Halloween festivities...  I watched them as they drove away, they were all so fascinating.  I hoped I would see them again...  

       

The wood sprite flew around me, while whispering something about a memo...

      

But of course.  How silly of me to forget.  The party was mere days away ;)

Of course, I didn't really forget.  I have to say, I am in agony over not being able to tell you what I am up to.  You, the only few who show any interest in the madness that goes on at "A Fanciful Twist,"  and I can't tell you...  I wouldn't want to spoil a thing though.

So, here is the party 411.  Lots of information... 

On Wednesday evening (Oct. 15th), I will put up the "Halloween Partiers' List" in my right hand sidebar.  It will take the place of my regular blog roll until the day after Halloween.  As there is no way you can visit everyone on Saturday.  Unless you are a super blogger (with a cape), which I know some of you are ;)

I am putting up the list on Wednesday, because I am sure to have made a couple of human errors.  If your link is not on the list, please contact me via e-mail, and I will add it.  If there is any other error, e-mail me and I will fix it.  If you have decided you do not want to be on the list, e-mail me and I will remove you, I know life gets busy and you may need to change your plans.

Keep in mind that everyone is invited (whether or not they have a blog).  So you may be taken to some Flickr Photo pages or an Etsy shop, belonging those people who do not have a blog.  We welcome everyone...

If you have a burning question of any sort, please e-mail me.  I am catching up on adding links and answering e-mails today and tomorrow.   

[email protected] is my e-mail address.

This is going to be so much fun!!  Let's have a blast!!  I can't wait to see what you are brewing up!

      

So, I will see you here on Saturday.  My party blog post will go live at 12:01 a.m. (Arizona Time) on Saturday October 18th (maybe a tiny bit earlier if I get too sleepy).  And it will stay up for a few days.

Also - In the top right hand sidebar of my blog, is my party button.  Right now if you click on it, it will take you to the blog post inviting you all to join the party.  But, after Friday, that button will link you to the party itself.

Have an awesome party prep week, and I will hope to see you here on Satruday, to partttteee!!

See you very sooooon!! ♥ ♥, V

ps:  The little house Thriftventure name drawn, belongs to comment number 26!!  That would be the lovely Cherry's Jubilee, Yipppeeee for little house love!!  Please e-mail me your address so I can ship you your lil' house!!  ;)

Windy Autumn day...

Hello from a cloudy little day in the studio, where wild winds whip around, and sway back and forth...

      

The winds were so outrageous last night, they knocked the power out.  I can't imagine what tornado winds must be like, eek!

I had a lovely lovely evening out with a friend last night, but seem to have gotten awful poisoning from my seafood, so I am moving very slow today.  And dreaming of blowing bubbles from a pencil drawn fountain...

      

There is a huge storm brewing, which makes for a lovely day to lay low and read.  Even though my to do list unfolds and wraps around the garden...

As I peered out the window this morning, I could see the grey loveliness...

 

I love cloudy days because normally it is sunny central here.  Which I do love as well...  But cloudy days are sort of magical and enchanting...

The storm is quickly making its way...

   

As for parties, seem's like the Halloween Party is only a week away or so!  I am so excited!!  I am diligently adding links to the Partier list.  Just know I am adding everyone, and will let you check out the list a few days before the festivites begin.

Rememeber this party is meant to be fun and not stressful at all.  You can share anything you'd like, and it doesn't have to be full blown Halloween Spookiness.  For example, I love glitter and black and orange & costumes.  But I also love harvest festivals and such.  Sharing what tickles your fancy, is what it is all about...

I have been jeweling a few creeepy crawlers...  There is glitter in everything around here.  You can even spot sparkly speckles on the Mister.

      

How about some fun with this week's little thriftventure giveaway?  I bet you thought I forgot?  It is not an easy one to part with.  Such a little cutie, and you know how I just can't say no to wee houses...

So here it is...

      

I can already envision little teeny tiny flags streaming across the front door.  I was going to save it for a later giveaway, since it is a little more holiday based.  But, you can doll it up for any event.  Add a little moss around the edges, and call it Happy Little House Love...

 

This little house is hollow, and open at the botton, so it is perfect for hiding treasures...  Between you and me, there is a little opening on top, that leads me to believe this little house may have been created to be a clever tissue holder.   Whatever the case may be, it is this week's happy thriftventure giveaway...

I will draw a name in a couple of days.  How does that sound?  ;)

I am crawling back to my cozy space, to watch sap stained ribbons whip around in the wind...

 

And to enormously enjoy Anthropologie's newest catalog, with wonderful Icelandic backdrops (see more of their photos here).  As well as taking time to enjoy Arizona Ghost town stories, oooooooooo....

It was fun to read about how much of a "personal pilgrimage" this Iceland photo shoot was to Anthro's creative director...

 

      

Have a lovely wonderful day!!  Mr.  Lovee is serenading us while I type... 

 

See you in a few days!! ♥ V       

An Autumn Tale...

What is it that we love about autumn so much?  I have been asked many times, what I love about Halloween, and I have to say, I think it is a menagerie of things, but it also encompasses much of what is simply autumn based.

I love that the idea of fall brings certain things to mind, like, hay rides, pumpkin patches, changing leaves, a crisp breeze...

 

I love the feeling and aroma of baking on a cool day.  I love browns and oranges and reds...  But, I think it also has to do with that which brings wonderful memories of childhood.  My Mom is the master of the festive feeling.  She can have a festive holiday all by herself on a plain and ordinary day.  I like to think I get bits of that from her.

Oh silly me, I didn't offer you any tea while we sit and chat...

 

So, my mom always makes a big deal of the changing seasons (which I enjoy so much).  And there is always love and laughter surrounding that.  I remember the sound of the sewing machine creating elaborate Halloween costumes.  The stop and go of my mom's foot on the pedal...

      

And all of the glitter and sparkle that came with preparing for October 31st, as fall wound its way into our lives.  There was also the beginning of baking pumpkin based treats.  Collecting big beautiful leaves and spraying them with fairy glitter...  So, perhaps that is where the love of Autumn, and then the dress up part of Halloween, began for me...

I chose this day to pick the last of the roses.  Scattering them about.  Taking tiny snippets of herbs that faintly whispered good-bye, until next summer.  I held them to my nose.  Memorizing the tingle of lavender as the scent filled my senses.  I put up my feet, and drank in the breeze...

 

And, for the first time, I had a tug at my heart strings, in saying good-bye to summer.   My neck of the woods is funny, in that the season changes from one day to the next.  3 days ago, nights became chilly.  And that was that... 

I have no lovely afterglow tan to watch fade away as the cool months approach, because I have been staying out of the sun for the last few summers.  Which will probably be a good thing in the end...  But, I remember those tan filled days of my teens...  Olive oil, baby oil, any oil!!  hahaaaa!  Anyhow, I veer...

So, as I sat there soaking in the changing of the seasons...

      

I was reminded of this dream I had many years ago, about a kind of Autumn Halloween Town, that I wish I could just turn into reality somehow.  As the describing of it, does it no justice...

So, if you can put on your dream goggles I will try to bring it to life, with some me-made, and some other artsy-friend-made treasures...  (precious house by the talented 58 cherries -I photoshopped in the two rounded windows at top just for Amityville effect, little creatures by me)

 

Now, this doesn't really look like the village in my dream, but we can pretend.  You see, in my dream, there were these trees that were full of fall leaves and blackbirds.  But as the blackbirds flew into the sky, all the leaves dropped off the trees, and exposed a hidden Autumn Village.  Where sparkles came out of chimneys, and laughter filled the air.  Where a carousel went round and round, and let you venture into times of a hundred years ago.

     

And lots of ghosts and goblins and children in Halloween costume ate great big caramel apples, and violet sparkles dripped out of the harvest orange sky, while stars twinkled and good witches flew about...  There was so much color and sparkle.  I could only bring it to life with the help of the creator of Nanny Mcphee.  (I wish I could say to them, Hey guys, I have a story for you ;)

The little Autumn town I brought to life for this story, has a different twist.  You see, there was this really nice witch (made by an outrageoulsy talented sweet friend - Laura of Rhinestone Armadillo - who is kindred to the core, and quite lovely to boot!!).

This witch lived in the lovely worded house.  She let a couple ghosts and elves live with her too (blurred on purpose, for dreamscape effect).

      

  She didn't mind, because she spent most of her time on a little hill, overlooking her house.

 

She was a lovely witch, and had a way about her that made creatures want to gather by her side.  (sorry Laura, she borrowed my mascara ;)

 

As the sun would set, you could be sure she was up to her evening spells and brews, and other things too...

 

You could even hear her haunting music, rustling through the trees, as she filled her cauldron...

 

But sometimes, she would get right down to business, and put on her hat...

      

Because, she might have a guest, who needed to have his or her fortune told...

 

And who knows, what the future might hold.  I for one, don't really want to know, but I still like hearing fortune teller stories.  And where I come from, witches are called "brujas" and they tell fortunes and make spells...  What about in your neck of the woods?

 

Needless to say, this was a good witch.  And her fortune telling was about planting.  Planting seeds of love, planting seeds of herbs, planting good thoughts in your heart and mind.  Planting your feet on the ground to dance...

How do you like them apples?

So, that is that.  The story about the witch in Autumn Town ends for now...  As she is telling me, the future holds a drawing for Halloween Postcards!!  And the lucky number is 73!!  I used the random # generator this time around...  I know lazy me...  Melissa Buford!!  Yay for you!!  Please send me your address so I can send your postcard treasure your way!!

I also have to give a super special thank you to a real peachy girl, who just joined the blogging community not too long ago.  She and I have been friendly since way back, before she started a blog, when it was a mere thought.  Her name is Jennifer, and she sent me the most amazing surprise package.  Seeing how she is the Trinket Treasure Queen and all ;)  Thank you Miss J!!

 

Now, if I could only find my favorite lil' slippers Miss Twyla made me, to show you.  She and her lovely girl are so super sweet (they sent me a fun parcel a while back)!!  Those sockies help me keep my feet warm, and are currently intertwined in the covers of my unmade bed!!  I promise to show you one day!!  Thank you girls!!

Now take a treat, and meet me here in a few days for more playing (thriftventure giveaway fun)...

     

I am about to get back to serious playing again.  I wrapped all the parcels, sent them out, and am just catching up a lil' bit...  Now I will do my best to focus on the Halloween Party!!  It is not too late to join in at all. 

Many have asked and the answer is, it is still early enough to sign up.  Now late would be, the day before the party.  And even then, I am happy to add a few last minute party people!!  As I have mentioned, I will put up the list of patiers a couple of days before the party so you can let me know if I got your name and link correct and if you want to be on or off the list.  ;)

      

Yesterday I had a lovely girl day, went to a bakery, shopped a little, and enjoyed life, oh ya, and saw my accountant (eeeks), why is that always scary?  Mr. Lovee also returned from a few days away, and that was AWFULLLLL (not that bad, but let me over exaggerate a little)!!!  Never go anywhere again Mr. Lovee pleeeease, the elves cried the whole time!!

Why do the trees seem bigger and spookier and the nights seem extra dark when the Mister is away??  I did pretty good actually.  But still, no more go aways days!! 

This week we are going to Night fall...  In Old Tucson.  Yikes!!  I'll take pictures, I promise!!  Oh and if you have not seen "The Fall"  you must, I loved it, here is a movie trailer.  I am watching it again tonight...

So, I am off!  Here is the last beauteous rose of the season...  For you...

 

Oh and Manny sends his love too... 

      

Arrivederci for now!! ♥ V 

Finding Autumn {or - Finding your Inner Witch}

Don't you just hate it when you can't make that one important decision in the morning right after you wake up?  The decision should be simple, Queen or Witch?  Which one do you want to be for the day?

 

I lift my head off the pillow, feet dangling off the side of the bed.  And I wonder, "Off with their heads" or "Fetch the book" what kind of day will it be?  And then of course, I start to think well, but, I haven't scrunched myself into my sugar plum fairy costume for a while.  Maybe I need to do some good deeds?  Decision Dilemmas.  True life dilemmas.  They shouldn't get any more complicated than that...

So, I do as all of you do.  I stare at my drawer and wonder.  Black tights?  Teal Tights?  Fuchsia tights?  Black and white striped tights?  What do I want to wear today?  I make a decision, and again, do what we all do, put on 3 layers of ruffles and ask the hobgoblins for my morning cake...  ;)

I decide to face the day, and see what is has for me...

I step outside, et voila!  Fall is at the tip of my toes, and it tells me it is the perfect day to find my inner witch. 

   

I can't seem to get my broom started.  So I jump on my bike, and head out to collect. 

      

But first I make sure I have all my supplies...

      

So, I am zooming along, thinking, hmmm, what do good witches do?  Make Spells?  Do good deeds?  Turn mean husbands into toads?  Turn mice into kind loving nanny housekeeper wonderwomen, for grown up girls? 

      

I have the most giant huge outrageous super old book.  I can't give it all away now, but it has some really gooooood stuff.  Especially in the witchy realm.  So, I visit it for some ideas, and then know just what I need...

First ingredient stop...

      

Filling up my basket with all kinds of goodies...

 

Autumn was truly all around me.  It was a bit windy and there was no longer that painful heat enveloping me.  Summer was inching away for certain...

      

I collected some precious treasures, and grinned.  Wanting to embrace every bit of fall.  Soaking it in, to fulfill myself, for it goes by way to quickly...

 

Once I had gathered all of the things I needed for my good spell (not really, but play along with me here), I headed back to get to work...

 

And in no time at all...

      

My precious dog was turned into a Gnome, with rabbit ears!! ;)  I was actually trying to turn my hedge into Javier Bardem, but I kind of messed up I think...

I suppose I will have to get down to some serious spellbook studies before the party...

      

Now, in real life news.  It was an mad week!!  In town, drama, shopping & shop update!!  I really enjoyed working on this shop update...  Mr.  Lovee took some sneaky shots while I worked last week...

      

      

He is notorious for sneaking up on me.  And I always scream like a banshee!!

      

Might I just say, many of you showed up at the shop update, and I can't ever thank you enough!!  A girl works her little heart out creating the things she loves, and to have support for all her endeavors is more than dreamy!!  Merci beaucoup!!

I had a lovely time in town this week.  The serious business stuff, turned out to be really painless in the end (organization is key).  Then I met Mammie for some serious shopping.

It started with a Gypsy caravan, or at least that is what I dreamed it to be.   It was awesome nontheless...  You could see swords and props through the windows...

      

I am on my way to meet Mammie, when, the Gypsy Caravan bus, happens to be parked just where I am headed to!!

        

Then, me and my giant bag...

      

Meet Mammie at Borders...

      

Where I get to see my lil' cover love of Art Doll Quarterly and Artful Blogging, in the store, for the first time since they came out...  You know, to prove to me that I wasn't just dreaming...

There is Mombie, looking and sipping...

      

We then shop, until I can no longer feel my feet.  Plus, picking up some of my treasures that I needed for the party at the in town house...  Then, I must admit, I hobbled through the last phase of Michael's.  We went to the most magical places...  And that was that, a wonderful special day with the most loveliest person on earth (to me)!!

Well, I guess I have talked your head off, and now I must go on more adventures so I can add to my stories...

      

Oh!  Almost forgot, I popped a variety Halloween postcard pack into the shop.  And I will be giving one away, since I missed this week's thriftventure.  Well, I didn't really miss it, but I am saving the wonderful thing I found, a little while longer... 

So, if you leave a comment, I will draw a name, and send that person this postcard pack below (with envelopes)...  I wish I could convey via internet, how lovely the postcards are in person.

      

There are a handful of Elfin in the shop, and a bevy of new Halloween treats...  Including this postcard which finally arrived, sheesh that took them forever. Actually, there was more drama involved than that, but I will spare you...

Front

      

Back

      

I looove designing cards and things like that.  I could do it all day... 

testing this horrible new thing - WHat a nightmare.  the day i have to post for the party.  I can't believe it.  I am going to crack!!

I am off to carefully package, and add a few more names to the Halloween Party list.  Like I said, it is not too late to sign up.  I am trying to let everyone know as I add them, but I think I am slacking a bit.  I have to say, I am getting to see oodles of wonderful fun charming delicious blogs as I click on them to copy the links.  This is going to be more than fun!!!!

I am off tout de suite, and back soon with some fun!!  Promise! ♥

ps:  I am watching The Impressionists BBC mini series right now (rented it via Netflix), and I have to say, I am more than pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable it is.  Monet is charming!  And to get to see painters like Bazille and Manet, Monet and Cezanne, Renoir and Degas come to life, is so much fun...  I have not finished it, but it is good.  (probably not for little ones)