A Fanciful Twist

A Peek Inside Week: The Country House Part 1, An Indie Fixx Interview, & Shop Officially Updated

I am so excited to finally show you my office (and more).  My office has been completed for about a month+, and it has been so hard to not share photos etc, in order to save them for this week.  I was inspired to share my spaces by Jen at Indie Fixx.  My interview at her place, and "A Peek Inside"  are officially up.  Thank you Jen!

(If you missed the City house tour, you can take a peek by clicking here.)

All week I will share my city house and country house, with extended photos right here.

   

Today I will share the office, my room and the studio.  Mister and I decided that he should have a little privacy, so the main house was not  photographed, sooory ;)

That is mostly instrument land, where all the playable creatures live and I steal off to play the grand piano... 

        

But my wee spaces are free for touring ;)

Come on in won't you - I am serving tea in my office...

   

To give you an idea, there were three ample spaces used as canning facilities and storage for canning added on to the main house by the previous owners 30+ years ago.  Those spaces were converted into my room (5 years ago), studio (10 years ago) and more recently, my office.  The office and my room almost had to be totally rebuilt.

Today, as I said, you will get a peek into my room, studio and office.  The drawing below is badly proportioned, but drawn to give you a better idea of where you are peeking ;)  (pink areas)

   

There are doors in between each room, which I love.  I can open them and feel like I have one huge space, or close them for guests, privacy or whatever...
  

The main goal of the office was to have a place for me to work and play and package orders, as well as relax and veg...

        

Mister Lovee built all of the work benches you will see here and in my art studio (and the bed), as well as my wee counter in the little kitchen area that is situated in the office.

To the left of my little cozy nook is my packaging station...

        

I am so used to it now, I feel like I have always been shipping orders out of here.  The pups cozy on the stoop outside the door to the left there all day and keep me company...

   

I wanted a little nook in my office so that I could have overnight guests and also, so I could have an escape, to just dream and drift in.  So we turned a huge old closet into my idea of a sleeping nook.  I drew a bed and Mister Lovee built it.  Then I had a foam saga (based on size and such), but happily, it all worked out and there are 4 inches of bed foam to snuggle in...

        

I am loving my office space a ton.  I am lucky to share a country home with a man who doesn't mind that I want my own spaces.  I was so used to living alone when we met and having private spaces, as was he.  So after a few years when I suggested we turn the additions into spaces for me, he thought that was a great idea, and so, we get along and can hide from each other if need be ;)

        

My little desk area, which I am typing from right now, is light and bright and makes me smile.

Here is my desk closed - 

   

I love that I can close my desk if I am having guests etc.  But, mostly it stays open...

  

I created a mood board with all the things I love, and colors that I am into at the moment...

   

I can stare at it all day and not tire of it.  I love having a place to hang treasures that inspire and that are dear to my heart.  Like that wee photo on the bottom right, that hung in my Grandma's house for 50+ years that she gave me last year...

   

I have a tiny antique Victorian lamp on my desk now, that I didn't have (it was at the city house)  when I took these photos a month and a half ago.  But now that I can share photos regularly, you will see it sometime.  It is like, all the things I love, so many that were in boxes and not out, are now able to be out and enjoyed.  That has been the best part of having this extra space...

        

Down this teeny little hall is how you get to the bathroom and then on to the little kitchen area.

        

I personally think that you don't have to have a big fancy house.  All you need is a little space to fill with things that make you happy.  Plain and simple.

Here is what you see if you are at the other end of the little hallway looking into the office...

        

Oh, as a side note, I have to tell you.  You know that huge ship I have outside, that you saw in the last post?  Well, I was out antiquing a few months ago and I found another metal ship that looks like his brother only smaller, which is the one over my linen armoire above.  I was so blown away.  I always wanted a smaller size one to put in the house, go figure.  A lucky find indeed.

Not that you care to see it, but this is my cute little bathroom, built by Mister Lovee.  It has funny steps...

      

And lovely little shelves.  Mister even had vintage lucite daisies tucked away in his workshop, which worked perfectly to hold up my old mirror.   

 

        

I have my own bathroom in the main part of the love-shack, but I am leaning towards making this my permanent powdering of the nose space...

   

Are you having fun?  I think it's time to munch.  Off to what I am calling, the Tea & Sweets Kitchen, since it is tiny and sweet ;).  Speaking of fun, I had way too much fun inventing a little tea menu for my chalkboard...

   

In this kitchen is the door that leads to my studio...

        

If you are entering the kitchen from the studio, this is what you are greeted by...

        

A sweet treat munching spot...

        

Yummy yummy, a place to put my girlie sipping things in, and have you over for tea ;)

   

I have to confess, I almost feel like this is a play house.  I might never go into the real world again...

        

I love that Mister built me that counter.  It was a huge job, especially rounding that super hard wood...

   

I got my little sink from an online place that I thought was going to be shady, but turned out to be super perfect, no shipping fees which tickled me, especially since that is a cast iron sink.  I ordered it from them (can't remember the name right now) because it was larger than a standard bar sink.  We were very pleased indeed.  It arrived in perfect condition and super fast, like 3 days...

   

Now, let's go into the studio through the door in the office kitchen shall we?  This is my studio, where I spend a huge part of my life... (Mister wanted me to come back and mention that my striped rug on the studio floor is painted on and not an actual rug (which is true), funny guy likes to get his two cents in ;)

      

      

       

I love being in my studio.  Although, when it gets insane like it is now, I almost fall over the edge ;)

        

This is the door below that leads you into the office, which I adore painting on.  I once painted the door white to cover all my paint, and Mister Lovee was devastated.  I had no idea he loved it all painted up.  Luckily it got like this soon thereafter all over again...

       

        

To the left of that door is the little nook where I spend most of my creative time.  I just gravitate to that side, plus the sink is there too...

      

Below are just some random studio shots for you to peek at...

 

        

        

        

An art studio is not necessary to being creative.  I used to create in the garden at the city house, in the garage, in my bath tub even.  I don't take my creative space for granted at all though.  It is a luxury for anyone artistic to have a place to store all their stuff, but like I said, not a necessity to being creative...

        

        

Yummy treasures all stuffed in a nook.  I hope I never start a fire, eeeks!

   

        

        

Are you covered in paint too?  Maybe we should say adios to the studio for now...

        

   

Let's go to the one place I can't wait to escape to soon.  It is 3 a.m. (almost 4) right now and I am dreaming whilst awake, of my cozy bed ;)

Through the other door in the studio, and into my private boudoir we venture...

        

When you walk into my room there is a huge white barn closet to the right, which we left from the canning people ;)  - and of course, a sanctuary for the all important sole keepers ;)

        

        

Then there is the dream keeper, who wears a glow in the dark rosary that almost gave me a heart attack the first time I realized it glowed in the dark in the middle of the night.  So funny, now that I think about it...

      

        

All I can say is that, I think it is incredibly important to surround yourself with what you love.  As you can tell, I live in eclectic land, where anything goes.  But it brings me peace and happiness.  That is what is most important in decorating, surrounding yourself with what you love.

   

During spring I might throw in some brightness in my room, but mostly, I like it black and white, emphasis on white.  I don't know why.  I have to sleep in a white room.  Maybe it is just part of my psychosis...

        

But I'll tell you what - this is calling me right now...

        

Big time...

   

So with that, I say, Thank you for peeking in to Part 1 of the country house.  I think our next visit will be to the city house.  Then back to the country later in the week for some gallery and gypsy-land photo treats.  What do you say?

Oh and, here is a secret for you.  Sometime on Monday afternoon (Nov. 30th), I can't say exactly when because it is late and I must get some rest - but sometime tomorrow afternoon my shop will be filled with all sorts of things like-

Fun kitchen labels for any jars, in candy colors & black and white...

   

   

   

And with Elfin and Cakehead creatures...

        

Annnd, some pretty girls from the Fairytale Forest...

   

        

Who can't wait to go out and play.  Have you ever read their story?  Well if you have, you know they put on shows and create costumes and have a blast in the depths of the Fairytale Forest...

   

        

   

There might even be a Wolf masked as granny, reading fairy tales...

   

We all hope that you might consider stopping by A Fanciful Twist Shop Monday afternoon, to say hello to all of our new family members. 

   

        

This has officially been the longest post ever, and I am officially wilted.  But I will be back full of energy tomorrow, err, later today.  It is 4 a.m. eeeeeks ;)

Thanks oodles for stopping in today ;)

 

♥ ,V

 

ps:   Shop is full of treats as of 3:51 p.m. Nov. 30th

pss: My interview at Jen's is up.  She deserves oodles of muffin love, as she outdoes herself over at Indie Fixx and has had all sorts of things going as of late with her sick lovely Granddad etc.  If you get a chance, won't you pop on over to see her?  Thank you much ;) ;)

Preparing for A Peek Inside...

Hi there!  I hope everyone had a lovely Thanksgiving and a wonderful weekend.  I am busily preparing myself to open my doors tomorrow and share some other treats too.  I am currently covered in paint...

All week (Nov 30th - Dec 4th) I will be posting photos of where I live, the new office, etc.  I am working on tomorrow's Welcome In, and hope you might stop by for a peek... 

   

I had the most magical time with my family on Thanksgiving.  We went to my Grandparents house for Part 1 of the lunch munching festivities - down 50 stone steps to a cottage on a cliff.  Where yumminess is prepared on a wood burning stove (even though Granny has a full operating modern kitchen, she prefers cooking on her old gal, as I think I would too)...

        

We laughed so hard we cried.  My Aunt Denise is a wild woman (as is my Mombie).  I think we laughed for 4 hours straight.  My Aunt and uncles and everyone are such a hoot.  The teenage kid (my cousin) thinks I am annoying and can't ever imagine that I was ever a disco table dancing wild teen.  Can you believe it???  ;)

Carolina who is 10 or so, and I, get along on the same level.  She laughs at everything I do, so she gets brownie points ;)  My sister flew in (she moved to Albuquerque in the summer to finish her PHD) and she brought her Douglas puppy furry son with her.  My brother was there, silent as ever, but with great remarks inserted for effect.  My sister tells tales about me that make everyone snort with laughter, thanks Kristen ;) ;)

My Grandmother is hilarious.  My Grandfather is over the top hilarious and he has no clue he is.  My Uncle carves the turkey, telling jokes that make you scream.

   

We gross each other out, we cringe each other out and we do all this until everyone is thoroughly exhausted and ready to leave.

But not before I steal up the narrow rickety stairs with my Granny, and jump into her bed, where she shows me things she is crafting and more old pictures.

I love my family.  I got lucky.  I got blessed.  I got dropped right into a pack of angels who I adore.  I am thankful beyond words.  You never know how or why you get to be in the family you are in.  So, you just sigh and say, thank goodness over the moon.
 

As we were leaving Granny's I stole a photo of one lone flower at the bottom of the stairs.  Beautiful as could be, and I was certain, I saw some magical activity...

   

Then we went off to Part 2 of our munching fest at our house.  A full blown dinner awaited us at our family home that Mombie had prepared earlier.  Munching our way into a night filled with alka seltzer ;) (for me at least)

Mammie's table was lovely as ever.  She is amazing, the things she pulls off.  I hope I am even a smidgen like her.  She is one of those people who treats herself with love and respect and can have a party all by herself.  I admire her.

        

One of the bestest things I love, is that my siblings and parents and I sit around the table talking openly about life and all sorts of things late into the night.  
 

It was fun, and I safely returned to a town filled with car chaos and people lined up for miles to get to the mall.  The one place that freaks me out ;)

Now, the only thing I have left to do is figure out how to con my Dad into believing that this (below)  is what I really need to pull my gypsy wagon ;) - right now he is holding it in the "junk" area of thought...

        

I think he might change his mind.  I mean, he gave me a treasure that a client of his was taking to the trash dump.  So he is getting better at seeing the treasure part of one man's junk...  (I will show it to you soon)

We shall see ;)

For now, I must stop babbling your eyeballs off and go get ready to have you over tomorrow for the beginning of open house week!

♥,V

Happy Thanksgiving, Open House Week & Voyaging...

Hi all! I want to wish you a super duper, yummy morsel filled Thanksgiving!  Whether you are voyaging into the world, or staying cozy at home and taking dream-ships to other places in your imagination, I hope you soak up every ounce of lovely moments with those you love...

        

I am heading out of town for the holiday, but will be back to get ready for the super busy week to come.  Monday November 30th begins A Peek Inside my home(s) and such. An open house week of sorts, which I have been preparing to share with you since August, so I am excited.  Plus I am stocking the shop sometime between Friday and Tuesday ( I will let you know when I do) with all sorts of creature goodies.

I made sure to pop lots of cards and other tid-bits into the shop while I am gone.  Gone for a whole maybe 36 hours ;)

So, I am unhitching my wagon and heading to see my beautiful familia...

   

While Mister Lovee stays.  Yes, I am off on my own.  Mister Lovee and I have so much family and so many commitments (I don't know how our lives got so busy and packed) that this year, he must stay and party with his side of the family.  Also, I don't want to leave my furry babies alone so, one of us has to stay behind.

It's okay.  What is it that they say about distance and growing fondness?  Plus, there are so many people in my screaming world of Latinos where I am headed, I won't have time to miss Mister (will I?).

My car has been serviced, gifts for Nana, Aunt Denise and Mammie tucked away, and I am packed and ready to go (I am such a fibber, I ain't packed, and I still have 3 cakes cooling before I can frost them)...

        

It's time to get gussied up so we can join around a table...

   

To give thanks for our country, our world, our lives, our loved ones, our blessings and more...

Off I go...

   

Make sure to wave if our wagons happen to pass each other out there in the big huge world.  And, send me some good vibes while I go out and share the road with a bunch of fellow wackadoodles, won't ya?

   

I hope my driver hasn't had too much shroom nog ;)

   

Much love & thank you ever so much for meeting me at "A Fanciful Twist" every so often. 

        

I am greatly thankful for you, whether you say hello in typed word or with a silent visit, I am thankful for you.  Truly.

♥ ,V

See you sooooon ;)

ps:  The new House Beautiful issue is delightful (Dec/Jan 2010), and has a great section on 4 big design styles.  The New Victorians style lives in my home for sure, although my homes are so eclectic, I think there are tidbits of all 4 styles.  I can't wait for more sizes of the fab lamps shown to arrive at Mothology in March!!  Yummy goodies!

  

pss:  Oh and, even if you don't celebrate the American Thanksgiving Holiday, you are still included in my little Thankful post ;) 
  

Crafting with Clothespins, Peeking into my Little World & more...

Helooooo friends!  I have to ask, what on earth would I do without you?  Your kindness fills my heart to bursting and brings a smile to my face.  I only hope that I share some of the kindness back with you and induce smiles ;)

        

I have paint on my palette, trying to finish some treats to stock my shop asap, but I wanted to share an idea + fill you in on a peek inside dates.  We are shooting for November 30th.  Jen will do her feature, and then I will continue to share inside photos of my little world with you right here (plus other things), throughout the week (with extended pictures).  I hope you can come by...

      

And, for a little love muffin idea on crafting - I want to share with you what I made for a swap, and how you can make your own.  You see, I joined in my friend Sarah's ornament swap, and up until the last moment I wasn't sure what to make.  That is, until I spied a clothespin... 

        

That's all you need, an old fashioned clothespin and a little imagination, and you too can make elves and angels and fairies and santas and on and on...  I am quite certain many you you have made treats with clothespins before.  I think I made something where we glued our faces on to them and added a felt outfit in kindergarten, but it might be an invention in my mind ;)

Anywho, that clothespin led to this face below.  Which I have to tell you, that little gal won my heart, and I was very sad to send her off ;)

 

Her and her 9 siblings...

      

I used regular acrylic craft paint, I didn't even seal the paint because I wanted an old fashioned toy look to mine.  I used wool roving for the hair that I glued on with hot glue, same for the hat made out of scrapbook paper...

     

That's it, fun as eating warm pie.  I am so addicted I might make some for my shop.  Mister Lovee was so incredibly smitten, he wanted to know when where how, please, when when will I make more ;)  Isn't he a funny character?  Who would have thought he would love these little guys as such?

        

So you see, add some wings and paint yours white, and make wee angels for your tree.  I think children would adore making these!

Mine (for the ornament swap) are all packaged -

   

Folks who host swaps need to be crowned for the next year.  It is such a huge undertaking, thank you Sarah!!!

   

Oh and, thank you over the moon for all your ideas and moral support for my gown.  If you knew me in person, and knew my level of psychosis, you could only imagine where I have looked.  I know where everything I have is, and I am a nut in that way.  So for something to walk away that was in the one place I keep my Victorian gowns is strange.  But sometimes, winds of change find us, and whether we like change or not, it is time for new things and letting go...

        

Sometimes, you have to realize material possessions have no meaning when it comes right down to it (hard one, but true).  Most of the time, the only option is to just go with the flow (which I do kicking and screaming, but do nonetheless).  Believe it or not, I learn bigger lessons from such happenings.  Of course, a garment is meaningless, but I am glad for tests and lessons.  It shows me that I must learn to let go on a greater level.  That change will happen (maybe on huge mind blowing levels), and it all has to be okay.  Keeping the faith is key ;)
 

So, with that, all is wonderful and rosey and happy.  And, I have been spending way too much time on this site Recollections, going bonkers.  Mammie says I was born in the wrong era ;) Now I best get working on those painted faces, if I intend to purchase a new frock ;) (I love the underpinnings section extra much).

      

Off to paint and bring you pictures very very soon!

      

Love, V

♥

 

ps:  2nd to last photo borrowed from Recollections.Biz

pss:  To hang my clothespin ornaments I put a needle with strong thread (you can use floss too) through one side of the hat, and ran it through the other and tied it on top.  I took my photos before I did this.  But here is a an example I sort of worked up...

      

It's a Holiday Buzzzzz + For Today, find me at Olive Writes

Hi there!  Betcha' thought you'd never see me again?  Thought I took off with the pirate in the teal blue boots, eh?

        

And not that you particularly care to know all the details behind the scenes of my insane virtual cottage ;)  But I have been painting painting painting (which I will share soon, which is why I am cutting it short today).  I have been creating 10 swap treats which I can't wait to show you -I shipped them off.  I am filling wholesale orders and Etsy shop orders (by the way, I love packaging orders, you know me and tape and ocd) and keeping my household (furry and human) chugging along. 

Plus, in more dramatic mysterious and horrifying news ;) - Well, it isn't smile worthy, but the description was rather melodramatic and giggle worthy, don't you think?  Anyhow, in the realms of hand over forehead drama, I have been searching for an antique Victorian gown that is beyond beautiful and missing from its regular linen closet spot.  7 days of searching leaves me dumbfounded.

        

It grew feet and ran off, maybe with Mister Teal boots?  I not only have taken both houses apart in my search for it, I have taken cars, sheds, storage, gypsy wagons and trash apart.  I have looked in every nook and cranny for it.  I have cried, kicked, screamed (not really) and given up.  I have said, oh who cares... And then searched some more.  Dun, dun dun.....  

        

Will I ever find it again?  Any tips in tricks or spells for me to find it?  Will the mystery be solved?  Who knows.  Truth is, I suppose it doesn't really matter.  Compared to anything important in life, it is totally meaningless, but the mystery of it has me entranced.

Has something ever mysteriously disappeared from your house?

   

In the midst of all my madness and nonsense, I let the elves into my abode at Hotel du France room 241...

        

The holiday buzz is buzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzing!
 

Anyhow, lest I begin to babble incessantly (which I already sort of did), I best tell you that for today, you can find me at Olive Writes.  She just posted a little tale of warm sipping delicacies and infusing your own hot chocolate with vanilla bean love, all told by yours truly.  Will you come visit me over in her neck of the virtual woods?

Back here super sooooon! 

♥,V

ps:  Don't forget your free printable Thanksgiving place cards made by me for you ;)  Find them right here at the end of this post...

Nature Collections & Sweet Confections

If I open my eyes just so, I can see colors in this dirt laden land, that I couldn't previously see.  Colors scattered here and there in nature.  Little gifts.  Free for the taking, to put in jars, or tiny drawers or even to scatter on dark wooden surfaces.  

        

I see a varied wonderland of texture and shapes.  And, I am certain if you take a moment to go out your front door, and open your eyes just so, you too will return with pockets full of inspiration.

        

From bursts of tangerine shades and hints of violet to mysterious grays and greens...

        

I sit and inspect my findings.  Each one leading me on a dream-scape journey.  Igniting ideas yet bringing me such peace.

        

In a time of pre-holiday season madness, a calm stroll in the most seemingly mundane of outdoor spaces, might lead you to find all sorts of precious pieces of nature.  The winds may have blown a few unexpected treasures your way.  It happened for me.  I saw a vast space of sandy soil and simple trees.  Until, I opened my eyes just so, and then I could see...

   

Golden flames and mint gray swirls were the key, to start my mind off, wandering...

        

You can even save your treasures and findings in wee little jars, and seal them with a tiny piece of tree branch, much like a cork would seal a bottle.  I did that in a cabinet for the Halloween Party.  So many photos unseen, so I am revisiting a few to share with you.  My decor for Halloween wasn't very Halloween at all, but more botanical and apothecarian infusions, perfect for spells and secrets untold... (Tip:  Target had sets of those tiny glass vases in the image below in October, and most likely still has them)

        

Oh, do bring your nature collections indoors, won't you?  Perhaps you already do ;)

        

As I revisit the party photos I have to go out to the gallery to truly believe all those curiosities were stuffed in there by me.  I wish you could see it in person, it is so magical (to me at least).  I might take a video.  That might be a good idea?

Curious collections and nature tid-bits make me delighted as can be.

   

After my stroll through the garden (and a visit in the gallery) gathering leaves and eucalyptus berries, I had some fresh squeezed orange juice (we do this almost everyday).  As I stared at the orange peel heap I was drawn to sweeten up the holiday spirit creeping in with nothing other than candied orange peels.

This was the recipe I used.  It worked beautifully.  I did everything it said, including the blanching three times of the orange peels.  Although my orange peels were not super thick, it all worked out just perfectly.

Sweet candied, non-bitter delicacies.  Mister was smitten, and nibbled and nibbled.

   

I will make more for Christmas and gift the orangey treats.  They sparkle so beautifully in person and will be charming for gifting in the many jars we save.

        

I was so glad to give candied orange peels a go, and I hope you might consider it as well.  I found the whole thing thoroughly relaxing and fulfilling.  I baked beets and cooked up some maple bacon and muffins while I waited.  A delightful morning with a kitchen smelling so wonderful with all the orange confections and such.

        

We love to have berries after our meals.  I always mix a dollop of raspberry jam (my fave is Bon Maman) into my berries.  It removes the tartness and adds a whole other dimension of yumminess to the berries.

Surrounded by our nature collections picked in the morning, we delighted in berries and candied orange peels.

        

With that, I thoroughly let the holiday season find its way into our home.  A little early, but beloved all the same...

I am inspired to bake and candy fruit and create.  There is much more on the horizon.  If you have a super wonderful recipe or treat you like to make, feel free to share.  I would love to try a few new things.  I have some recipes some of you shared with me last year, that I have lined up to make.  I will link to you if I make your recipe.

I must run for now, as I am trying to finish some happy faces to share very soon.

♥,V

Long Tails + Long Tales

Another week flew by as life whirls and twirls and spins into the future.  Is life on fast forward, or is it just me?  Luckily, there are some things reminding me that time is ticking along just as it should be. 

        

As two sunflowers opened up and began the adventures of nature, beckoning bees in to feast.

        

While day after day, another sunflower decidedly took its time in showing its face to strangers...

      

Mister Lovee went out of town, on a trip I was going to join in, but with puppy and a busy schedule I opted to stay behind...

   

We missed our Mister, and couldn't wait for him to come back home, so he could silence us out with his headphones ;)  and run around the yard playing (this man listens to NPR 24/7, even while he sleeps).  But that's okay, because his pups have no clue, and are happy just to be by his side, no matter what...

        

In the meantime, we had a lovely week.  Packaging orders and running around happily, but best of all, Mammie came to visit.  It was so delightful and wonderful having her here.  So much so in fact, that not one photo was taken while she was here, I totally forgot.  Imagine that?  I know, bizarre ;)

And when she left, my pre-school self wanted to chase after her car screaming, "Mommmmmie, pleeeeease don't leave me heeeeeeere!!!"  I love that lady. She is super duper wonderful, like a fairy godmother and a hip chick all wrapped into one Mombie package, with extra ribbons... Sigh.  How I wish that when I was a kid I had appreciated those heart and star sandwiches she used to pack in my lunch more.

Sometimes, you just don't realize how wonderful your Mom is until you're all growed up...

Anyhow, while Mammie was not here, this is what went down -

It snowed -

   

No, not real snow.  Arizona snow.  Shrub fluff, of sorts ;)

   

Oops, my outdoor sofa thingie lost a cushion.

I lined up stepping stones and then moved them again so I could dig up the ground a few inches and started putting the stones down.  I also took out 12 giant aloe that you can kind of see on the right.  This is what you see when you stand at my office door and look out.  The little metal building on the right is the gallery.  So I think a little path between the office and the gallery would be cute with all the stones I hauled here from the city house, don't you think?

        

Of course, that is not the order I am putting them down in.  They will look a bit better when completed.

While that was going on, there were daily checks to see if the giant sunflower had shown its face...

        

And, I hung out with my little piggies...

   

Who both love water and -

   

MUD.  Maybe a bit too much?

   

When I was a little girl, my Mom used to do my hair do's real tight and put me in clothes that I wasn't supposed to get dirty.  She used to scold me about not getting food on my white turtleneck and such, but I did anyway (and I always ripped my jeans and tights at the knee).  So once, after getting spaghetti on a white blouse (2nd grade) she made me wear the same clothes the next day to school, after threatening this for ages.  I was mortified.  The kids made fun of me.  I am not sure that changed things, I can't remember - Anyhow...

In retaliation (tee hee), I told her that when I grew up, if I had kids I was going to let them be dirty and grubby and that they were going to run around barefoot, and I would let them.

Well, my babies, being of the furry variety fulfilled my words perfectly, didn't they?  I know, I should be so proud ;)

Mwuah mwuah mwuah...

   

"Give me a wet sloppy kiss Baby, pleeeeeeeeazzzz."

Matty is quite the character.  He will love you over the moon some days, and others, doesn't want you to even consider petting him.

   

Oh and, hold my hand.  He is out growing my lap.  Sniffle sniffle...

        

So, I am soaking the puppy on my lap love up...

        

I didn't really grow up with pets, I am mostly allergic to everything (I had 4 allergy shots twice a week my whole life until I was 19).  But not my pups.  I never thought I would be a furry creature Mammie, but I can't imagine a day without these characters.  Funny how that happens.

        

So, I was happy to have them with me while Mister was gone.  Baby is an amazing guard dog, and Mister agreed to my desire for a second dog so she could groom him to be like her, and he actually is doing pretty good.  He even found his bark.

Okay okay, I promise not to bore you with pup talk anymore, for today that is.

Now, what were we saying about cactus?

   

I just wanted a reason to put this silly shot up ;)  Don't try this at home or in the desert if you ever find yourself in one. 

To continue last week's tale -

On Thursday I decided to go on a major grocery shopping excursion and make a beautiful meal for Mister's return the next evening.  Then I decided I would attempt to look less like a garden patch girl as well, even if only for a day. 

   

I ironed and re-found a beloved jewel piece.  Don't worry, I don't have a pointy thumb, I was moving my hand to straighten up my necklace when I took this, eeeks!

        

I was so excited to be playing dress-up and making an elaborate dinner (I was almost tempted to make a turkey, but decided to wait for Thanksgiving). 

   

I decided I would start making dinner on Friday evening when Mister Lovee called to say he he was boarding the airplane.  Just then, guess what happened?

The phone rang, only it wasn't to say he was on his way...

        

Yes, it was like being stood up for a date ;)  His plane was delayed and he wouldn't be home until midnight, annnnd he had eaten.  "Bbbbbut, ummmm, okay, hope you get here safe and sound..."

Not to veer but this is funny - whenever I am perplexed annoyed, or just busy, I raise one eyebrow.  Now, the funny part is, for many years, like when I was in junior high, I could feel my forehead doing something strange when I was perplexed, annoyed etc - but I didn't know what it was.  One day, I did it and ran to the mirror, to see what exactly I was doing with my face.  That is how I found out about the scary raising eyebrow thing I do. 

So, that was my brow as I hung up the phone.  Phooey... 

I know, it is a bit witchy like, but I promise I am not a meanie ;) 

        

With that I decided on plan B (for me).  So, I put on sweats and went to the store to buy the magical ingredients -

        

That made the house smell like absolute heaven!  A moist unreal Pumpkin Cake Recipe with butter cream-cheese honey frosting, that a lovely gal shared with me last week.

Pumpkin and cinnamon and ground cloves, oh my!

   

OH YAH!!!!  It is beyond delicious and the scent, oh the scent I longed for!! 

Hello Baking Season...

   

Perfect Timing for a fall/winter weather pattern that came to visit.  A 6 a.m. take the puppy outside trip turned into a dance with sheer dreamscape magic.

Can you spot the sliver of the moon?

        

Unreal.  Moist air.  Dances with clouds...

   

   

Oh moon...

   

Getting up to go outside in the cold when you have only slept a few hours never looked or felt so wonderful...

Well worth it, I say.

And so, I made the dinner I planned for last night today, for a late lunch.  Salmon, which I season, then sear for 3 minutes face down in an oven safe pan with 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil that has been heated.  Then flip it over on to the bottom side of the fish - bottom being the side that once had or still has the skin attached.  Drain the olive oil that you seared the fish in, into a bowl, and re-pour it over the tops of the fish pieces that are seared, and pop the whole pan (uncovered) in a preheated at 400'F oven, for 8 minutes or until flaky.  Mine takes 8 minutes exactly, and then I pull the pan out and cover the fish with the pan lid while I finish up loose ends...  I am telling you - 

Yumm! (if you like salmon and don't already cook it that way, give it a whirl, won't you?)

        

I served it with homemade creamed spinach with almond slivers, avec delicious mashed potatoes, and well - indulge I say...

        

You can drizzle lemon on your fish, but what I do is that I bring balsamic vinegar to a boil and then I simmer it for about 5 minutes.  Much of the acidity cooks out and you are left with a perfect sweet and sour syrup to drizzle over your fish and around your plate...  Voila. 

Oh and, someone finally peeked out - 

        

To bring you a huge smile, just as bright and as cheerful as can be.

 

So there you have it.  That is where I went off to for a couple of days.  And now, I have all my paint lined up and I am going to create all night, as Mister is out playing a folksy gig.  Perfect timing for me to visit you and babble your eyeballs off. 

I will be back very soon.  Sooner than soon in fact.

♥,V

ps:  I have seen so many movies since I last shared a list - but as of late I have seen a few that I really loved.  They are mostly documentary, and I watch them (when available) instantly on Netflix while I work... 

Beyond the Gates of Splendor

A Touch of Greatness

10 Questions for the Dalai Lama

Tony Bennett - The Music Never Ends (I enjoyed it much more than I expected to)

Glass: Portrait of Philip in Twelve parts

New York Doll

The Men who Killed Kennedy (there are many discs to this one, all at Netflix)

I Capture the Castle

The Brother's Bloom

Away We Go

In a Dream (the artwork/mosaic-work this man did/does was mind-blowing.  There is a bit of adult subject matter)

Chuck Close: A Portrait in Progress

Julia Child - America's Favorite Chef

And, I watch the Two Fat Ladies entire series over and over.  Even though the show is no more and Jennifer has passed away, I love them...

New Holiday and Greeting Cards (plus a secret revealed)

I am so excited to finally get to share this season's holiday cards, plus a couple new additions to my card line.  I can't express how lovely the quality of the cards is in person.  They are smooth and silky and crisp and clear.  I hope you like them too, as I am delighted with the final product...

So, let's just jump in, shall we?  I shall reveal a secret at the end of this post.  Oh and, none of the watermarks on the cards appear on the actual cards.

Elfin Cottage Christmas (front) -

        

Back side- (verbage next to the little blue elfin house on the back says "And, a Happy New Year")

   

The next one is called Into the Sugar Plum Fairy Forest (front side)-

   

Back -

  

Next we have Holiday Tea Party (front) 

        

Back - 

   

And last but not least on the holiday Front is-

A Curious Bell Jar Holiday  (front)

        

Back - 

   

The next one I feel can be used for any occasion.  And, you could very well send it out for the holidays or as a new year greeting as well.  

Madonna (front)

   

Back-

   

I really can't convey how lovely the cards look in person, so I took a photo, but I am not sure it actually conveys...

   

And last on the New Card Front, but exciting because I didn't know if the colors would turn out, and they did (better than I thought in fact)...

Frida Kahlo and the Butterfly (front)

       

The colors turned out very peaceful in a way, and I am pleased with that, as this piece is very special to me... 

        

Back-

   

I also made a 16 card assortment pack (2 of each) of Holiday cards that are in my shop. I included Tree Party and Elfin Party in this set because, they are not exactly made for Holiday, but they do have a festive vibe that fits.  Also can be found in my shop.

        

So there you have it.  Let the Holiday fun begin!  I am in full blown Holiday buzz mode.  Halloween got away from me way too fast, so I am going overboard with my Holiday celebrations as to not miss a morsel of the magic.

Sooooo, in secret news.

You know how I have been crazy busy since August, going back and forth from the city house to the country house, and trying to finish my office??

And, you know how I told you there was motivation behind that?

Well, the reason is because I am inviting you all over to my house for Open House Tea, virtually of course. 

        

To explain you see, Jen of Indie Fixx invited me to participate in sharing my living spaces in her"A Peek Inside: Indie Home Tours" section (teaser revealed here).  I told her I would work to finish my office, so it could be included (3 months later she received my photos, eeps!).

        

But, it gets wackier, if you like peeking in people's homes that is.  I will be having an Open House Week right here at my blog that will coincide with Jen's Peek Inside Tour, showing most of my living spaces (both city and country house and more) and details and peeks in deeper than I have ever let anyone in ;)  This will happen in a couple of weeks.  I will let you know exactly when, very soon.

        

We are putting on our ruffles and favorite bangles, and opening the virtual doors to you...

        

   

I will even let you peek into my cupboards (just kidding).  Truly though, it has taken me a long time to share the inside of where I live work and play to the extent that I will during A Peek Inside at IndieFixx and my Open House week. 

I hope it is something you would like to peek in at ;) as I have worked very hard (finishing my office and such) to be able to have you visit as virtual guests ♥

I have little humble spaces, filled with all sorts of stuff - but you might have fun, so I hope you do come over for Open House Week (dates coming soon).

So there you have it.  Next on the list, elves and cake heads and gardening in the country.  It is still summer here it seems...

Yesterday I brought over 1,000 lbs. of stepping stones (57 stepping stones in the end) and cement pots and sculptures and plants (by myself because I think I am Popeye sometimes) from the city house to the country house. 

I originally went over to pick up a pair of shoes and do a few important odds and ends.  Before I knew it I was pulling up stepping stones with a crowbar, washing them, and carrying them one by one to my car...

   

   

They were in my back courtyard and never saw the light of day, and were hidden from sight.  So I decided I wanted them with me in the country.  Inspiration for my little vegetable garden and such...

So I guess it is safe to say, there is oodles of fun stuff on the horizon. 

        

Oh and, I am super delighted that you loved that fused plastic bag tutorial.  It is truly a great project and wonderful use for plastic bags.  It is so sturdy, Mister and I sit around talking about all the things you could make with fused plastic, and how the world could be changed with it ;)

Per the random number generator and proverbial hat, the winner of my little Gift bag with treats inside is #45...... Lorraine from LP Vintage, Yippee Yay!  Please e-mail me your address Miss Lorraine ;)

Sooooooo, that is that for today.  Anyone need a Shirley Temple with triple cherries?  I am buying ;)

See you soon!

♥,V

ps:  To get to my shop, all you have to do is follow this link.

Green Holiday Crafting {Fused Plastic Bags} & You

I have an obsession that I just have to share.  Have you heard of fusing plastic using grocery bags?  Have you tried it?  I am addicted to it and have made oodles of little make-up bags and things with it.  I just can't get enough of it.  It's like creating your own plastic fabric.

        

I have lots of little holiday ideas to share with you this season.  Starting with gift bags that have endless uses (plus will hold stocking stuffer treats).  All you need are a bunch of plastic grocery bags, parchment or wax paper, scissors and an iron (and ironing board).

This little bag here is sort of the alternative to a traditional holiday stocking, so the recipient can continue to use it all year, in all of its green crafted glory ;)

        

I began my project by fusing plastic together.  There is a great video tutorial for fusing plastic bags that you should watch, right here.  I am not responsible if you burn something or hurt yourself, so pretty please, be careful ;) - and make sure you do this in a well ventilated area.

What you need are eight layers of plastic grocery bags, that you sandwich between parchment paper (or wax paper), and then iron with a hot iron on each side.  Make sure you sandwich the plastic between parchment or wax paper, or you will have a mess of melted plastic on your iron and board.

What I do is cut off the bottoms and handles of 4 grocery bags, which makes them able to open up to a bigger size...

        

To get this grayish/beige color I used brown and white plastic bags.  Make sure to turn your bags with print inside out, after you have cut the handles and end strip off.

Then put your eight layers of plastic in between your paper.

   

Start to iron your plastic over the paper, evenly.  And here is where my tips get important.  The first time I tried this I found out that, it took longer than expected to fuse the plastic together even though my iron was on the hottest setting.  But, test this, as your iron might be calibrated differently than mine. 

Also, the plastic will shrink more than expected, so don't be surprised at that because I was ;)

You may have to iron both sides more than once.  That is a-okay.  I just keep flipping it over and ironing until it is fused.  And trust me, you will know when it is fused.  It will be one solid piece of plastic fabric that will make you so happy you will have to do an Irish jig right there and then.

You should have no bubbles between your layers (you WILL have wrinkles here and there though, that is normal).

 

You can check it over and over as you iron, just be careful because the plastic is hot.

When you are done, you are left with this -

   

Bendable, sewable, cuts like butter - plastic fabric...

I folded my fused piece in half, sewed three sides together with the zigzag setting on my sewing machine, then trimmed the edges with scalloped scissors.  I also added a little hanging loop on the side, made from the scraps I trimmed off after sewing.

Once my bag was sewn and ready to be decorated, I made 3 paper flowers to embellish my bag with.  I used some other fused plastic I had made, a brown paper bag scrap and a used coffee stained coffee filter (which I rinse, save and dry after we make coffee) to make the flowers.

   

To make similar paper flowers (or snowflakes), feel free to use the paper flower tutorial I shared with you earlier in the year, right here.

        

This is how the back of my wee creation looks.  I love the print there.  It makes it look like a burlap sack in a way...

        

My goal was to make a green craft out of trash really.  Practically free, with a fabulous outcome.  Of course, you can use anything you want to embellish your gift baggie.  

You can even make an actual christmas stocking using fused plastic bags if you want.  I chose this bag, which you can add a flap or zipper to, so that my recipients can use them throughout the year.

You will love working with the fused plastic, I tell you, it is so easy and plyable to work with, I just love it.  (I have been experimenting with melting other items into the plastic as well as working on bigger projects.  You can make endless items, just as you could with regular fabric, only this is waterproof!  See example here...)

So, getting to the embellishing part.  I hot glued the 3 paper flowers to the front of this gift bag, layer by layer.

   

Then I raided my rusty things jar in order to find a centerpiece.

        

        

I chose a flattened red bottle cap, and then placed a green felt ball in the center.  I hot glued them together as well.  Pressing down on my center-piece inside and out to make sure it all stuck together well, and it did.

        

It was so easy and so much fun-

        

That I can't wait to make more!

       

After you make your gift bag feel free to print out my free handmade labels to attach to your baggies.  Don't forget, all my freebies to date, are kept in the  freebie section of my blog, that is located in the right hand side bar. 

CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE PDF of sheet below (give file a few seconds to open)

        

Also, if you say howdy in the comments section of this post, I will add your name to a hat-

        

Because I will be sending this little gift bag full of wacky little things to one of you ;) - I will draw a name in a couple of days.

So, there you have it, our first fun craft for the holiday season.  And green to boot!

With that I will skedaddle, but will see you ever so soon.

♥ ,V

In the Forest...

On a cloudy afternoon, a girl set out for an escape.  An adventure.  A short voyage out of this world and into the tales found in the little yellow fairy book...

        

She carried with her a few fading petals and two bits of taffy.  There was a great old apricot tree that billowed out, its branches gracing the ground.  She crawled into a nook, under the tree branches...

        

What a delightful spot of earth, thought she...

   

She opened the book randomly, as the pages chose the tale of The Golden Crab for her...

   

She was positively enamored with this hidden little place, and moments to escape...

   

She unwrapped her taffy, humming into the breeze.  Which piece would she nibble?  Two might cause a grand sugar headache...

   

While lost in the tale she was reading, she heard a faint noise in the distance...

   

It sounded like a gallop of hooves?  Oh no, could it be the wild beasts of the forest?  Oh yes it could be indeed!

   

A beast came charging towards her, and jumped right on top of her - 

   

Eek ouch, hey, get off me...

       

But wait, there is a second one!

   

"Yippeeee woooo, attackkkkkk" exclaimed the littler of the beasts...

   

The beasts were so odd, they actually sniffed, yes sniffed, her book ;)

   

"What's that, what's that, let's play, let's play let's play" they said, as though they had each had two pots of coffee...

  

   

They even tried to steal her shoes, but dropped them on the way out...

        

Luckily, they didn't find the sweets, or she would have had to have chased them down.  She collected her items, deciding to take her little party inside the cottage.  Alas, she could still see the beasts through the trees...

   

She ran past them as fast as she could and into the cottage, phew safe...

She decided to have her own little calm crochet tea party for one on a Friday night.  Ginger and honey and lemon, Yumm...  

       

She could hear the beasts outside tackling each other, and barking viciously at an old man on a walk who actually enjoyed taunting the pups (often).  Oops, I mean beasts...

        

The girl was now happy and peaceful inside, reading her fairy tales.  In the middle of Miss Muffet, she heard the furry creatures crying outside.  Both of them crying and whining, which was more than quite unusual.  

The older of the two would never whine and cry, and the littlest rarely did himself.

After this went on for a bit, the girl decided to go check things out, even though she might be trampled again...

What could it be asks you and me?

Seems, the furry beasts are actually HUGE babies.  They bark at coyotes and chase off roadrunners and bob cats - But goodness forbid, the tale (rhyme) of little Miss Muffet might come to life.

They stood huddled on the office porch, whining at a creature far from them, in the dirt...

        

She thought the furry beastlings were supposed to be protecting her, ha!

So she picked up the spider, that scared Miss Muffet and Baby and that little whippersnapper Matisse-

   

And, with a simple relocation, off went the spider to sit down beside someone else, and bring fairy tales to life ~ with a twist ;)

   

Poor spiders, they have been given such a bad reputation, even in the dog world it seems.  Didn't everyone love Charlotte though, I ask?  Sniffle sniffle...

 

I don't know how a forest retreat and tea turned into spider tales ;)  But it did.  With that I must be off to feed those lovely little beastlings of mine...

See you soon ;) 

♥,V

 

ps:  Mister Lovee and I have an ongoing joke, that Matty is actually a miniature German Shepherd (which would actually be adorable).  He was the runt of the litter, and I will be curious to see how big he gets.  He seems to have grown a tiny bit and stopped.  Of course, he will keep growing for two years.  But still, we are enjoying our little joke, especially since Mister wanted a big tough dog to protect me ;)  I keep joking and saying, no wonder he was only twenty bucks ;)  Of course, I adore him, and don't care if he stays just the size he is or gets huge.  Either way, he is loved beyond words and brings us all great joy.  Oh and did I mention, he has an attitude?  He doesn't like to be bothered by boring humans, especially ones who want to kiss on him like crazy ;)

Seeing a Little Town Quite Differently - Part 1

I grew up living on the outskirts (20+ minutes into the hills) of a small town in Southern Arizona, that borders Mexico (you may already know this).  Throughout my childhood, the family would live half of the year in Arizona and the other half in San Diego.  We also traveled a lot.  But our home base was always in Arizona. (Photo below- Arizona on the left, Mexico on the right.  Please click on the photos for lusher detail)

   

I always have had a love/hate relationship with the tiny Arizona border town that I lived in until I was 18 years old.  As you might know, small towns often breed all sorts of drama (which I for one, can't stand).  Many people stay in this town because of the lucrative produce industry (produce coming to America from Mexico).  Where probably some, if not a lot of the produce you eat passes through (if you are in the US).  My Father owned a produce brokerage in the town for 30+ years.

However, as time has past my feelings towards to town have changed.  I look at it with love more for the buildings and history. 

   

You see, when I met Mister Lovee, he took me on trips exploring other parts of Arizona.  Something I had never extensively done, explore my own state.  I was fascinated.  So many beautiful old structures. 

From Prescott to Snowflake to Globe to Pinetop to Jerome, and even to the spookiness in Clifton, I was enamored with the villages and mystery Arizona held.  My parents had taken us to the Grand Canyon and such, but not to the sleepy little towns Mister took me to.

That is when my eyes changed.  My perception changed.  I saw my town with the curiosity that I saw other places with.  Of course, there were always things I loved about the town, but now, I see it very differently.  Without the fogginess of being an inhabitant of the town I guess you can say...

The country house is about 2 hours from the town.  And my parents still live in the hills on the outskirts of the town.  In July I decided to be a passenger in my Mom's car and go around taking photos of the town.  This is just the first installment of a huge amount of photos I will share over time.

My Mom started out our little car ride on a street where a little store existed many many years ago, and the sign still hangs...

   

We climbed up this street which turns into little hills and such.  Shapes of buildings caught my eye.  How had I never noticed any of this as a kid?

        

Through the houses, I could see an old brick red school house that sits on the Mexican side of the border.  When I was growing up, the U.S. side and the Mexican side were quite one in the same to us.  You went back and forth a couple times a day even.  Most of my friends lived in Mexico and I spent much time at their houses.  As we got older, dancing at the discotheques and dining all took place in Mexico.

   

I wanted to pluck this charming scalloped house right out of the scenery and bring it home with me ;)

   

My Mammie always takes us past one of her favorite houses.  There are several cute old houses like this in the heart of the town.  I would quite like to own one, one day...

        

I think this house is borderline spooky, which I loooove!

        

As we drive along down a street, I spot a house with a glass case, almost like a giant shower in the front yard.  We drive up and I snap a shot, noticing that that is their own giant shrine of sorts, filled with religious statues...

        

As we drive on down the same street, we come upon the house of a little old lady.  She has filled her garden with treasures. 

  

I guess she really is on to surrounding yourself with that which inspires you, don't you think?  I love it!

   

We drive down towards the square where all the shops are.  It is basically the town's "downtown" area.  Where I am always intrigued by the house that sits atop these stairs, which are sandwiched between two retail shops...

        

I wanted to drive past the tiny candy store that sat close to the Elementary school I attended.  It has long been shut down, but I remember buying, with a little coin purse filled with nickels and dimes, all sorts of delicious sweet & spicy candy (which we still enjoy).  Two super duper rather scary old ladies ran the counter.  I thought they were witches.  They were well into their nineties...

   

The signs just sit, with passing time beating upon them.  I find such beauty in their fading...

        

As we end our drive for that day, we wind up back where we started, at the third photo from the top.  At what was once a store...

I find myself going mad over this building.  The colors, the old paint...

   

The paint around the windows tickles me so.  Pink surrounds one and teal green the other...

   

The front of that brick structure makes my heart skip a beat.  The color, the memory it seems to hold.  Imagine, a gallery and studio in that building?

        

As we get perfectly in front of it, I spy the dreamiest of all sights. 

A precious old man, on the dilapidated old front balcony and-

   

At that very moment, my emotions were elevated to indescribable levels.  Who knows how many years this man has followed his ritual.  On to the balcony to smoke his Marlboro reds.  As time ticks around him, and the building changes, and his face and body change, he continues on with his daily ritual...

And with that, I was glad that my eyes could see the town from a whole different perspective.  I too have grown, with changing time.  I am not the same girl who left that town all those years ago.  I see things I never would have seen back then.  I am open of heart and mind, and ferociously protective of soul.  With that realization, I felt ever, just ever so thankful...

♥, V

See you sooooon ;)

Officially Truthfully True? (updated photos below)

Yes, it's true, it's true.  I am officially installed in my renovated home office (once a canning facility created by the previous owners 30+ years ago).  And, boy am I delighted. 

        

I have been up ladders, down ladders, used tools over and over again, unpacked boxes and packed boxes, painted walls and floors and then, poofed all my beloved treasures around me for inspiration - all to a bliss sigh of office installation finales...

        

For three months I have worked from the minute my eyes opened until at least 1 a.m. - moving constantly.  Not only have I finished my office, but I have spent much time (including almost all of the week before last) tidying up my city house and putting it in order.

I took everything out of the storage sheds that are on our property in the country and rearranged things.  And then in the midst of that, turned the gallery into the Witches Cottage for the Halloween party, as you know... 

It is safe to say, the last three months have been one huge blur.

   

I feel fantastic about getting my living spaces in order.  I don't know how I have been operating my whole little business (the operations part, e-mails, writing this blog, packaging, housing cards etc.) out of the pseudo dining room at the country shack for 3+ years.  I guess it goes back to making the best of what you have to work with.  Yes, yes, I am certain that is it.  Also, I had the studio to escape to, so that has been good...

But now, I am typing from my office and I feel a huge weight lifted that I didn't even know I was carrying around.  I am super organized and everything is in its place, down to the linens.  I love this feeling...

        

I will confess, I had extra motivation to get my jobs done, which I will share soon.  It's like they say, plan an event or a party so that you can push yourself to get your home in order and get loose ends finished.  Wait, did somebody say that?  Well, it works either way.

I have placed little things I love all around me in my office.  It truly is inspiring to surround yourself with things you love, even if it is a magazine page or an old photo taped to the wall.

For me it's things like, peeling paint -

        

Old light fixtures - 

        

Fresh (and dried, which I love) flowers...

   

Little creations and creatures hanging on the wall...

   

Bits -

        

And bobs, of things that make me smile...

   

And, a perpetually messy but happy desk, from where I can bore you with my nonsense...

   

In this little office, I have carved out a space for relaxing in a bit of a sitting room area.  As well as a tiny kitchen...

   

And the white bright bathroom in here might become my main one, instead of my current girlie bathroom in the main love shack...

        

This area that is now my office used to be a rotten horrible place.  My friend couldn't believe that my office was the same spot.  Proof that you can turn any yucky old place into a decent little spot of your own.  I wish wish wish I had taken before photos.  Imagine exploded canning jars, giant freezers, canning counters, bad ceilings and unnecessary walls.  Which thankfully, are all gone...

I have a ton more full shots to come.  You might get sick of me and run away screaming though ;)

But for now, I am happy to be right here - 

        

Surrounded by things that no one else might understand, but that inspire me...

        

Although, I will confess, inspirational items surrounding me or not.  It was not easy designing new 2009 Holiday cards (which I can't wait to arrive, I think UPS will be here today, I hope!) when it is 93' F out.  Luckily, one night at 2 a.m. I had a huge wave of the spirit of the magical Christmas season visit me, and that was the night the cards came to life...

I can not fathom the fact that Halloween has passed.  Last week it was so cold our birdbath froze.  And today, we are having a record high of 94'F.  And since the last three months were a blur, my body clock still thinks it is July or August.

Thankfully two men have helped me through Holiday inspirations and late night office completions.  You see, that is a perfect example of my dual personality.  You haven't met the other horned side of me have you?  The bad side is more obvious in person I think ;) or maybe not...

With that, I will stop babbling, and I will say - 

Thank you.  Thank you for hearing (err, reading) me go on and on about how busy I have been.  About the constant going and going and going.  I am more than delighted to be on the downslope.  I bet you can tell though, that I love staying busy.  It keeps my brain healthy.  

Anywho - thanks again, your moral support is invaluable!  And, never taken for granted.  Please know that.  You meeting me here is the only reason for sharing as such...

Mwwwwuah!

        

Much Love, V

♥

 

(update)

The sunset was sooooo amazing tonight.  I had to come show you.  I could see it out the window in the studio, and I had to run out there and take a photo.  Nature is so breathtaking...

   

I also decided to take a snippet of one of the corners of my studio, to show you where my office space is in relation to the studio.  (even though indoor night photos aren't the bestest)

I have been creating in my studio here for 10 years.  It is where I go to let my mind wander, to create and to be totally comforted.  It is my safe zone...

You see that door straight ahead, which I love painting on?

   

The new renovated space houses my office - on the other side of that door. 

        

I am going to take you inside very very soon.  I just need to go through my photos, which I am doing right now in fact ;)

My studio and the new office were both canning facilities.  I turned the studio space into what it is when I first set foot in the country house 10 years ago, and comically, it took 10 years to find the courage, energy and determination to take on the office part, which is why it is so exciting for me to be in here ~ finally.  But I fear, my chatting on and on about it is borderline annoying ;)

   

So, in a totally unrelated topic ~ I want to bake something super lovely.  Have you all started baking?  Any ideas?  I am in a baking mood, but don't know what to choose to bake.  I can't wait for the scents of the holiday season.  Cinnamon and spice, Mmmmmm...

More sooooon ♥

A Little Radish Tale

It was one of those enchanted mornings...

        

Where you are almost certain you can see fairies through the leaves.  Water from a burst irrigation hose shoots into the air melodically, under a giant apricot tree.  It has all sorts of creatures gathering...

   

There is such beauty, where water meets light at just the perfect moment...

        

Yes yes, I am certain I see fairies, don't you?  Dancing in the mist...

        

The smell of water soaking plants and dirt in Arizona, where it is always so dry, is mouth watering.  It is this fresh earthy smell.  It draws you in, it does...  

Rabbit and pup noses come alive.

   

There are some ground vines that grow on their own, that when sprinkled with water, smell the way honey and lavender taste when swirled together...

I have been cutting sunflowers to add to my fresh flower vase for two weeks.  I love to have fresh flowers in my home and luckily, Mister Lovee brings some home once or twice a week.  Although, I also delight in visiting the florist and having flowers wrapped up in old fashioned paper bundles.

   

There are about 15 more sunflowers waiting to show their faces.  I can't believe how big those little dinky sproutlings have gotten...

   

I know people grow things every day, in massive amounts even.  But in dry Arizona, for me to grow green lushness in my garden tickles me so, I can't even tell you.

I stroll around, excited for fresh lemons.  I will make lemon curd like last year.  It was a hit with Mister.  I think it is so great that he adores custards and puddings.  It pushes me to experiment and create creamy treats...

        

There is one lemon that is so amusing.  It never grew more than the size of a walnut.  And, it is ripe and ready to be picked...

   

I have been asking Mister for 10 years if I could grow a vegetable garden, and have it be protected.  Year after year, I plant a few things and lose them to the rabbits.  Mister seemed to hear me, but just shrugged his shoulders in a way.  Seemingly not too interested in the endeavor of a protected vegetable garden.

This August, as I have said many time before (not to bore you or anything), I planted some random seeds.  Cantaloupe, sunflower, pumpkin, radish and others (even though it was the wrong time of the year for planting).

They all sprouted very quickly, and I had about ten patches of earth that looked like this...

   

As you know, one funny little rabbit gobbled it all up, which was fine.  However, there was one lone radish plant that survived.

It lives under the lemon tree.

Safe and sound it grew and grew...

        

So, I wondered, when will I know it is ready?  I got on my knees, and moved some of the dirt and mesquite leaves, only to find...

        

One perfect radish.

Ready to be picked. 

Can you imagine my reaction to such a find?

Grown from one little radish seed.

   

Just like that, I made a decision, while Mister looked on from his cozy little spot on the porch sofa (yes he has a little sofa on the porch, tee hee).

Out of the ground he came...

   

Perfection.

        

I skipped about singing, "I grew a radish, I grew a radish."

In that moment, I found myself in the realization of how curious my life has been.  It's not that I am naive or childish in an immature way.  I was a serious business woman, with many many stressful responsibilities in my life.  I worked incredibly hard to be able to leave my job at 30 and find my way to this humble art place.

A simple place, where one radish can breathe the epitome of life, and gratefulness...

        

Growing things.

Amazing.

And what greatness I find in a lone radish.  I can't believe I take bunches of radishes for granted, passing by them in the store, as if bunches of radishes are meaningless...

   

I shall never again, look at a radish in the same way...

        

Just like, Little Radish Head gets a bath and is then sliced.  Mister and I share...

   

A tinge of kosher sea salt to taste.  We both make faces at each other as we chew.  Then we both say the same thing - "That is the most tender, mild and delightful radish I have ever tasted."

   

There is something indescribable about having only one of something.  Or, about having to make the best of what you have to work with.  That is what drew me to this place in the country.  Setting the table in the garden 10 years ago with found fabric and vintage jars used to hold weedling flowers as a center piece.  Mango salsa and salmon on the grill, while Mister played his guitar...

That is how a love I never knew existed found me.  Not just a love with another person, but love itself.  

A reminder of those days-

        

And that, I am still in the thick of those days.  

I am so grateful.

It has been a glorious journey.  Ups and downs and all arounds...  

With the downs you enjoy the ups all the more.

I type and listen to a very beautiful and subdued version of one of my favorite songs.  I open the door to my office to let in a little warmth.  We are back into the 80's F during the day.

As I open the door I am greeted.  I sigh a bliss sigh.  Is it that life really is this good, or more than that - is it the gift of recognition & appreciation of the little things? 

        

Which truly matter more than anything.

   

I go outside to pet my pups and stretch.  I find Mister Lovee in the garden, drawing one of his plans on white paper.  I have to show you his drawings he makes before building or creating.  They are marvelous (to me at least)...

He sees me and says, "Hey Dove, let me show you something here..."

He shows me a little enclosed vegetable garden plan he was drawing up.

It was the Little Radish Head that convinced him.  Tender and sweet.

Funny little world.

   

And just like that, we step into a new week.  Thank you for sharing it with me, and being a major part of this little world here.

♥,V

ps:  I am waiting for new Holiday cards for the shop, to arrive this week ;)

El Dia de los Muertos

When you grow up in a tiny Mexican border town, there are many things that are the norm in your world.  Most everyone goes to the same Catholic church and celebrates the same holidays.  The culture is shared amongst the town.  There is a norm that, as a child you don't realize is only the norm to your town (and other areas that share such traditions and beliefs), and not the whole world.  A perfect example of this is Day of the Dead, known as El Dia de los Muertos (All Souls' Day)

   

On November 2nd people flock to the old cemetery in the town I grew up in, where their loved ones who have passed on, are buried.  Marigolds and flowers of all kinds fill the area, and people tidy up grave sites.  (November 1st is All Saints Day and November 2nd, All Soul's Day ~ Dia de los Muertos).

      

Many people have altars in their homes as well, to house statues and photos honoring their religious beliefs and/or memories of loved ones that have passed.  In Southern Arizona, you will see shrines and altars built on to the front of people's homes, in parks, on the side of the road and many other places. 

        

I have great love for these shrines and altars and have shared many throughout the years here on my blog.  Here, here, here and here are a few- and others I can't find right now ;)

I personally have little shrines at both of my houses, reminding me of my beliefs, my heritage and those I love who have passed away as well as those who are still with us.  I am reminded every day, and I love that feeling.

With that, I will take you through my jasmine arbor and into my little courtyard garden at the city house for this year's Dia de los Muertos...

        

I light my candles and sit in silence, embracing the beauty...

        

I fill my giant candelabra with fresh flowers, one by one, as thoughts fill my mind. 

        

I think of my Aunt Pat (My Mother's sister) who we lost a few years ago.  I think about how Thanksgiving is coming, and how she loved to pick at the turkey while either my Uncle Pelon (brother) or my Aunt Denise (sister) were trying to carve the turkey.  We used to think that was so terribly annoying of her, picking at the turkey.  Now, I would love to have her here, picking at the turkey all she wants.  I learn about the trivial things we choose to make issues out of, and I let them go...

        

I light a candle for her...

        

I think about my maternal Great-Grandfather who came here from France.  How I would love to sit and ask him a million questions.  I think about his sister who I am told I look like.  I wonder if there is a whole flock of people in France that I might look like, that are long lost relatives... 

        

I think about my Grandpa Valencia who has been gone since I was a teen.  I can still smell and feel his garage/shop.  Car paint, paint thinner and cigarettes.  I see his kind gentle smile quite vividly.  I might be wrong, but I feel like he was trapped in his little world, and would go into his workshop to escape.  I wonder if he had the mad passion for freedom of mind, like I do.  I feel lucky for the chance to pursue my dreams, and I get a lump in my throat, wishing he could have tasted a bit of the freedom I feel...

        

I think about my 3 grandparents who are alive and kicking and give vast thanks.  I light candles for my parents and my siblings.  For the man I love, and for our furry babies.  And while I remember those that have passed away, I am thankful that so many of my loved ones are still with us...

        

I dedicate this post to memory of all of my loved ones who have passed away, as well as yours.  May the memories we hold of them be vivid and beautiful...

 

Lovely Stephanie of Rodrigvitz Style is hosting her annual Dia de Bloglandia event today. 

Details about joining and beautiful photos and shrines are over at her wonderful virtual Mango Studio.

Building a shrine in the memory of someone you have lost can be incredibly healing and therapeutic.  You don't have to be a part of any religion to build a memorial as such.  So perhaps, building a shrine might help your heart heal, if you are feeling the pain of loss, or if you simply want to have a special physical place to hold the memories of loved ones...

See you very soon!

 

♥, V