The Whimsical life of a Creative Insomniac...

A head start on home made holidays...the art of not being a pro-craftinator!

2011-07-12T11:51:00.000-04:00

Karen from the blog spot Sew Many Ways - http://sewmanyways.blogspot.com/2011/07/join-my-make-gift-on-25th-club.html has started a pro-craft-inators club!

So many of us find ourselves in the same boat every year - you know...of struggling thru holiday projects at holiday time...sucking the joy out of the holidays due to late nights and the struggle to get the gift o' love done? I have actually found my self sewing final touches on christmas morning!!!!

The idea behind the club is for the next 5 months we work/complete a gift on the 25th of every month...and try to stay ahead of the gift making game!!! I love this idea and am going to commit to making this happen...so hopefully this year come holiday time I can enjoy a little eggnog and have a little fun!!!

Tuesday Tutorial: How to make a 4th of July Medallion Banner

2011-06-28T17:10:00.003-04:00

Making things festive for fourth of July can be easy and cost effective...and a little quirky too!

Here is a fun, easy project for the 4th of July and it's green too...a Paper Medallion Banner!

You will need:

-A computer for printing out your letters (spelling out your message)

- Cereal box

-Newspapers (like your local Gazette) a sheet for each letter

- Red and Blue rolls of crepe streamers

- stapler

- glue gun
-twine

crepe paper ribbon, newspaper, stapler (glue gun not shown)

begin folding at bottom of newspaper rectangle...back and forth

...just like a fan or an accordion...

Fold in the middle

...staple...

... staple at the top to keep "fan" in fan shape...

make two fans per medallion, make one medallion per letter....

staple both fans together to create a medallion...

center and trace a circle around letters you have printed from the computer...

trace and cut out same size circle out of your cereal box cardboard....

start folding and stapling crepe ribbon around cardboard circle....

finally cut out letters and attach with hot glue to your "medallions"..

Alternate colors for a festive touch...

hot glue letter medallion to center of your newspaper medallion..


with a hole punch, punch a hole at the top of each medallion, string with twin, hang and enjoy!

Happy 4th of July!!!

Memorial Day Weekend...what does it mean to you?

2011-05-28T12:50:00.006-04:00

Memorial Day...for many this weekend means the beginning of summer, barbecues and picnics, for some it means "sales"...for many of us still, this day means a day of remembrance, it is the day we remember the fallen soldiers who have fought for our country. The sacrifices of soldiers young and old , the reminder of their commitment to this country. We celebrate the lives of the fallen of those who served our country and gave their lives for causes, past and present.

I recently read a book that would be a perfect gift this memorial day for any veterans or their families...a great gift for Father's day.

Until Tuesday ...the story of a Wounded Warrior and the Golden Retriever who saved his life. The book is touching and inspirational, and shed light on so many issues I was so very unaware of. The story of Tuesday and Luis, is about war wounds seen and unseen, struggles and harsh realities and the connection of two souls who find each other and make their way.

I have actually had the pleasure of meeting Tuesday at a book signing last week at the local Barnes and Noble...he is even more charming in person this four legged charmer! If you'd like to learn more about Tuesday and Captain Luis Carlos Montalvan go to http://www.until-tuesday.com/

Have a safe and happy Memorial Day and remember this weekend to take a moment to reflect on why we celebrate and find a way to pay homage to these fallen heroes.

A Royal Tea...

2011-05-17T16:03:00.024-04:00

(continental breakfast setting...smack dab in front of the telly!)

The Royal Nuptials fell upon us on a Friday of all days...On this day I chose to give in to my inner romantic and indulge myself with the joys of a Royal Wedding!

I graced my tables with the most romantic notions and at 5:30am or so I began my wedding watch.

(my finest vintage linens perfect for the occasion)

6am - Continental Breakfast- Tea and Crumpets
(the melon and prosciutto never made it's way to the table...sleepy head)
this small crowd was made up of ladies who caught the wedding before work...ah the spirit! Early risers and in Tiaras!!

(Charles and Diana tea set from the 1980's)

Even the front Door received a little wedding "jooje" even if was from Charles and Di's wedding...who could forget the magic?!

12pm Noon - Wedding Luncheon/ Tea
Tea Sandwiches, Baby Quiches, Mimosas, Fresh strawberries and the daintiest delectable sweets. This enthusiastic bunch chose to enjoy it with the same celebratory passion I did!

On the Menu: Curried Chicken Salad Sandwiches on Baby Croissants, Dill Cream Cheese with smoked salmon on cocktail ryes, baby quiches, Raisin bread with carrot ginger cream and walnuts.

... and Oh the hats....Check out this lovely!

A wedding marathon...

All in all I watched the wedding 3 times that day...and loved every glorious bit of it!

That night I slept like I was curled up in a warm vat of honey while visions of wedding veils, horse drawn carriages and tiara's danced in my head. Lovely!
Crumpet anyone?

Tah-tah and Pip Pip for now!

Happy Mothers Day!

2011-05-08T19:33:00.006-04:00

Most of all the other beautiful things in life come by twos and threes, by dozens and hundreds. Plenty of roses, stars, sunsets, rainbows, brothers and sisters, aunts and cousins, comrades and friends - but only one mother in the whole world. ~Kate Douglas Wiggin

(Of all of my life's most wonderful treasures here sit two most precious...My Mom and Granddaughter)

Little Cake's Book Nook: Eat, Pray , Love!

2011-03-29T23:14:00.003-04:00

As many of you know my goal for the year is to trim down the mountains of books I've accumulated....the plan was two books a month. Between crafting and blogging, it looks like my plate is only big enough for 1 book a month!

March book menu: Eat, Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

The premise- 30 year old writer and divorcee, sets on a path to "escape" her sorrow for a year.
She packs up her bags and divides her time in 3 different countries in her struggle to find balance.
I enjoyed her style of writing it was like talking to a good friend, one that puts it all on the table.

This was a book I ate slowly, I really did savor every page, every chapter...I enjoyed her journey- from her most indulgent and decadent wanderings/waivering thru Italia to hugging trees in India it all just sang to me. The book made me curious on several levels, especially her spiritual journey. I was enchanted by her quotes, her sassy sense of humor and the idea of finding words to match a city or yourself. I giggled thru so much of her book and her inner voices. I was charmed by all of the people she met along the way and really enjoyed her path to this nirvana and back to earth again. I was truly delighted through most of this journey and felt as if I too had had a little escape.
I love a book that leads me outside of my current thought process ...this book has inspired me to want to look deeper into my spiritual connections, the powers of meditation and yoga and definitely a trip to Bali in hopefully the very near future!

Happy St. Patricks day...and irish tamales?

2011-03-16T18:47:00.023-04:00

Ah St.Paddy’s day…culturally speaking, being raised in a Latino household - St. Patrick’s day does not commonly mean the wearin’ o the green!

Despite my roots, my childhood "Americanization" started early on (I was born in Washington, DC) and my mother gleefully embraced all North American “culture”, be it macaroons at Passover/Easter on sale at Safeway or the cute green clover cookies in the bakery in March. As a young mom in the 70’s she embraced recipes that were just as foreign as the land she now called home and delighted in it. My Salvadorian mother makes a mean shepherds pie!

I was blessed with the opportunity to live in Ireland in my 20’s and will always look upon that time as magical. Ireland was truly the Emerald Isle I’d imagined it to be. I’d never seen such lovely rolling green hills all dotted with little cotton balls (actually sheep)all over the country side, enjoying these sites as I rattled along in trains from one end of the country to the other sipping my Lucazaid (tastes like a sparkling , not so sweet Gatorade) and smokin’ “fags” (slang for cigarettes- rid of that habit thank goodness!).

Though many years have passed since my last visit to Eire, I hold dear in my heart all of my fond memories and the beautiful people who crossed my path.

In Homage to the Saint, his adopted country, and the true Irish spirit of the Shamrock and its meaning- my low carb St. Paddy's day dinner!

Starter: Dublin Bay Prawn Cocktail Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 10 minutes

(photo istock .com)
Ingredients: * 1cup peeled, cooked prawns or shrimp * 2 tbsp mayonnaise * 1/2 tbsp creamed horseradish sauce * 1/2 tbsp tomato ketchup * 1 cups shredded Romaine or iceberg lettuce * 1 lime, quartered * 2 large, cooked prawns, shelled with tail on (garnish) Preparation: Serves 2 * Place the prawns, mayonnaise, creamed horseradish and tomato ketchup into a mixing bowl. Stir to combine all the ingredients; make sure all the prawns or shrimp are coated in sauce . * Divide the shredded lettuce between 2 large wine glasses and top with the prawns and sauce. * Decorate with a wedge of lime and a large prawn on the edge of the glass and serve with small slices of buttered brown bread (or not)

Main Course:
Salmon- The mythical Irish Fish of Wisdom.

Poached "Shannon" Salmon w/ Picatta Cream Sauce (Eating Well magazine) recipe dubbed "Shannon" Salmon by little old me!
· 1/2 lb center-cut salmon fillet, skinned and cut into 2 portions
· ½ cup dry white wine, divided
· 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
· 1 small shallot, minced
· 1 tablespoons lemon juice
· 2 tsp capers, rinsed
· 1/8 cup reduced-fat sour cream (for lower carb – use full fat)
· 1/8 teaspoon salt
· 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1. Place salmon in a large skillet. Add ¼ cup wine and enough water to just cover the salmon. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce to a simmer, turn the salmon over, cover and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat.
2. Meanwhile, heat oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add shallot and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the remaining ¼ cup wine; boil until slightly reduced, about 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and capers; cook 1 minute more. Remove from the heat; stir in sour cream and salt. To serve, top the salmon with the sauce and garnish with dill.
Nutrition
Per serving: 304 calories; 16 g fat ( 4 g sat , 7 g mono ); 73 mg cholesterol; 4 g carbohydrates; 23 g protein; 0 g fiber; 307 mg sodium; 500 mg potassium.
Accompaniment :
Steamed Asparagus

Dessert:
Bailey’s Butter-Pecan Creme Brulee ( a recipe for 2- double recipe for 4)
(Low Carb –Sugar free!)

1 cup heavy cream
2 egg yolks
1/4 tspvanilla
dash of caramel extract (if you can find it for the “baileys” flavoring)
Dash of salt
1 tablespoons Splenda

Heat cream over medium heat, just until bubbles start to form.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, vanilla, salt and Splenda.
Gradually whisk in cream.
Strain mixture.
Divide into two custard cups.
Bake in a water bath for 25-30 minutes at 350 degrees.
Custards should be set, but still jiggly.
Chill for one hour.
Make butter-pecan topping and divide between between cups.
Refrigerate for four more hours or overnight.

Butter-Pecan Topping:
1 tablespoon butter
1/8 cup pecans - finely chopped
1 teaspoon Splenda

Melt butter.
Stir in pecans and Splenda.
Heat just until nuts begin to color, being careful not to burn!
3 to 4 carbs per serving

Served with :
Irish Coffee
Slainte'!
Happy St. Patricks day!
Remember to find a way to make every day a reason to celebrate.

Low carbin' Mardi Gras style!

2011-03-08T17:00:00.010-05:00

My days of Mardi Gras - party time are long time ago and nothing but fuzzy memories anymore, but I still like a themed "to do"... so for tonight in honor of Fat Tuesday, I've whipped up a little something special for Tuesday night dinner along with themed table scape and beads and masks to boot!

What is Mardi Gras?

(pronounced /ˈmɑrdiɡrɑː/ Mardigras began as a christian European tradition- it's the season of carnival that generally begins on the epiphany (January 6th) thru Ash Wednesday.

Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday in french, it refers to the last of the fat laden, sinfully delicious feasting the tuesday before the fasting of the lenten season commences for Ash Wednesday. Generally personal sacrifices are made during the lenten season, some people give up sweets, meat, booze, anything that requires a sacrifice as a show of penance.

These carnival celebrations are recognized and symbolically celebrated through out the Americas and Europe. There is Carnival in the Caribbean, Carnevale in Italy, Fastnacht in Germany, and of course in New Orleans which really made the celebration a well known in the States as it is - Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras - in Ireland and England they celebrate Fat Tuesday with pancakes, it's called Shrove Tuesday, unfortunately for me pancakes are not low carb...so I'm taking my Mardi Gras inspiration from the Big Easy- New Orleans!

Chicken Gumbo
(for two -with left overs for lunch)

Boil chicken breast in water with a tbsp salt and a small onion
boil till chicken is no longer pink. Cut in to cubes.

Saute in a bit of evoo/butter:
4 celery ribs, sliced medium
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
4 garlic cloves
2 chicken andouille sausages from Trader Joe's cut in to rounds
Add:
1 can of chicken broth
1 can of sugar free diced tomatoes
1/2 bag of sliced okra (frozen)
Chicken chunks
24 Shrimp
I added the shrimp last as I didn't want it to get rubbery.

Just cook the whole mess for about 30 minutes and you've got a roux-less gumbo, the okra is a natural thickener, voila low carb gumbo!

This partnered with a green salad topped with fried green tomatoes...in which I used pork rinds instead of cornmeal and fry in oil and then top with my take on shrimp remoulade!

Laissez les bons temps rouler! Let the good times roll!

Kiwi's Bloggers Followers

2011-02-26T10:32:00.003-05:00

Hey SB friends...I misread the rules on this little swap and did not create my formal welcome...so here it is! I Hope you enjoy my happy little blog! This little button fairy was created for an SB SWAP...she was lots of fun to make.
See you on SB!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-13T20:28:00.019-05:00

This cheerful little holiday brings back childhood memories of decorating shoe boxes covered in tinfoil with red construction paper hearts and doilies- my Valentine's day "mailbox".

When I think of all the steps in preparation for the big day, as I carefully chose from the lovely array of little cards in that little box, hand picked by me at the local GC Murphy's or Woolworth's.

Selecting my favorite cards for my latest crush and best girl friends, signing my name so carefully to each and every valentine card ...the thought of all the pink and red chocolate cupcakes with the little plastic heart toothpicks stuck in them and mountains of potato chips,'red hots' and conversation hearts, just beyond made the day all the more exciting...all of that tinged with the slightest concern that I may not come home with a full "mailbox"...it always worked out...the cupcake usually bigger than I could handle, and the simple joy of sitting criss-cross applesauce that afternoon as I picked my favorite cards and sorted carefully through 30 + cards- for the prize card from my favorite boy.

Fast forward 30 something years...not quite the same...but certainly the simple pleasure of romanticizing the house and sending little cards to dear little munchkins and friends certainly still makes this holiday a fun to do...and the prize card from the favorite boy? Well now I'm the favorite girl, so the card is all the more special.

Happy Valentine's Day to all!

Hope your day is filled with something sweet, a little fun and a little something special in your mailbox.

Littlecake's Book Nook - Book #1 Friday Night Knitting Club

2011-01-26T18:52:00.016-05:00

As I mentioned previously my goal for 2011 is to slowly eat thru my stacks of unread books by reading 2 a month...so I thought I'd share...these are not reviews...just my little take on sharing the scoop on my latest read.

The first on January's list was The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs
The story of a single mom, her knitting shop, her 12 year old daughter, betrayals and love lost... good friends, old friends, rolled cozily into a not so tightly wound ball of yarn. This is a light read, not a classic, nothing amazing, just an easy read. Enjoyed it enough...but not a fave.

The start of a new year...

2011-01-18T15:47:00.006-05:00

Happy New Year!
The ringing in of a new year always leaves me with a nostalgic sense of wonder combined with a healthy sense of optimism as I look upon that crisp path to a fresh start- the clean slate...getting more sleep...doing more blogging...eating right...de-cluttering...doing "more" -you know this song!

This month is just flying by...wow...what a start 2011!
Ciao' 2010 - per my norm the old year brought many changes with it , this seems to be my current life trend as of the last few years...my horizons just keep getting broader- in a good way I think. It seems to me that every time I get used to the dance, someone changes the song again!

I am thrilled with all of the lovely new memories, new friends and new experiences. 2010 brought with it some much needed reconciliations, a dash of- tell it like it is, and sprinkle of - some things put to bed for good. There was a good measure of fear thrown into 2010 just to shake it up a bit, sometimes just a bit of that can help remind you, how much you appreciate things...your health...your friends...your family (just in case somewhere down the road you didn't notice you'd failed to be appreciative of these oh so special things.)

2010 left me with a nice sense of accomplishment -as I've kept several promises to myself last year(broke a few too)... I promised myself I would participate in my first craft show... and I did...TWO- as a matter of fact! I promised to live more creatively last year...and I did...it was a homemade christmas and some! I promised myself to learn to sew and I did....well sort of...a wonky seam or two, but loving it!

2011 is off to a fair start...
I am promising myself to blog at least twice a month
I am promising myself to eat 2 books a month, and banishing them from my home once read (unless it's a true keeper). I am a self confessed bookaholic. The books, all of the lovely books are invading my planet... my mantra : read it and pass it on.
I have other promises to me...but those are just for me...we'll see how they come to fruition...only I can dream my dreams...

1

Oh you beautful Frida doll...

2010-07-11T10:10:00.006-04:00

Several projects I've involved myself in have occasionally asked for a "Frida" Doll, here are other examples of how I have been yet again inspired by a favorite Muse- Frida Khalo...From paper doll, to paper clay...each one has been a pleasure to create...and each one with her own "personality". The paper doll mermaid is a favorite theme of mine. The theme is inspired by one of my favorite Frida quotes : "Feet why do I need you,when I have wings to fly?" ...Frida as a mermaid, with wings...the paperdoll is made out of vintage canasta cards,and decoupaged with a few images, the face is hand painted by me.

Viva Frida

2010-07-09T00:01:00.007-04:00

July 6, 1907 - July 13, 1954

My homage to Frida on her birthday week and in anniversary of her death...my favorite muse! Though her birthday was actually yesterday...well given that it is now past the midnight hour...day before yesterday the anniversary of her death is on July 13th...what death?! She lives on thru her art, in our hearts, our spirits, the inspiration of so many "Frida lovers"- she lives in our urge to create.

The mini shrine pictured above is a sardine can shrine made for a swap on swap-bot, silk flowers and glitter transform this tin container from an ordinary snack can into something special- a homage to Frida.

The bright colorful nature reminds me of Frida -a bright and colorful personality despite her pains- both in the physical and of the heart.

I love how she surrounded herself with art right up till the very end, her strength, her openness...all of these things are the reasons why she inspires me.

I will post a "little" something Frida every day until the 13th.
Que Viva Frida en Corazon! (May she live in our hearts!)

I too create because I need too...life is so much tastier that way!

"I paint my own reality. The only thing I know is that I paint because I need to, and I paint whatever passes through my head without any other consideration. "
Frida Kahlo

Every Step of the Journey...

2010-02-03T23:09:00.008-05:00

Hello again and Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a lovely holiday and that the ringing in of the New Year was full of hope and happy thoughts!

I found myself in many ways relieved to be done with the last year. A year filled with so many surprises-good...bad...fun...not so fun. Though last year was laced with a little bitter and a little dark, it was also overflowing with so many bright, wonderful things,experiences and people.

We rang in the New Year, with thanks in our hearts, for our togetherness, our health,our happiness. Truth be told though my holidays were a whirlwind;I can honestly say, judging by the pictures and having slowed down enough to finally take it all in, the memories created and time shared with family and friends were precious and worth every effort and energy drink consumed in an effort to keep up!

Life's "stuff" and Work have kept me quite busy these days and again at a distance from what I love most...crafting,baking,socializing and blogging.

Haiti's tragedy weighs heavily on my heart, and reminds me of how blessed I am, and how needed my prayers are. I reassess my existence and of those around me and try to put my arms around this suffering.

As 2010 continues to progress my cautious steps become stronger, I am insisting on Life's balance. I find myself recommitting to my personal self and joyful journey that is creating and entertaining through the palate, eye, heart,hands and every means that makes each step matter.

Every step of the journey...is the journey.

The picture is of a fairy in a jar created as a gift the quote on jar is just that...Every step of the journey...is the journey

The Holidays are here!!!!!

2009-12-10T03:44:00.009-05:00

Well, there ya go...my current reaction to the the onslaught and speed of this cozy #@!&* holiday! How the heck did this wondrous time of home-baked goodness, holly jolly cheerful crap and evergreen scents come upon us so quickly? I was still relishing the last of the stuffing that came so late this year, and the next thing I know...I am freaking out! It's early yet I told myself, you have plenty of time, by all realistic Santa gauges- "I'm doing great, ahead of the game" I say...not black Friday ahead of the game, but ahead...ha ha...I thought... until today... when the only Camden corduroy shirt I could buy for my husband in his size was Khaki (nothing against, but being a red head he looks much better in blue or green...so I think),not to mention there are no more personalized kid car carriers or cool train thingies with a carrying case you could get personalized for the one and only nephew who thinks you're a super duper Auntie star (cuz he's 2)! We could go into what the heck to buy people who want not, need not and really (I don't believe) care for anymore pics of my dogs in halloween garb or christmas garb or any garb really. I had visions I tell you...of rum balls, and home baked cookies, home made lemon curd,hand made ornaments and mountains of stuff in my etsy store...not complaining...just overwhelmed all of a sudden...my mantra says "keep it simple, keep it light", my insomnia says, "there will be no sleep tonight!"(as I obsess on what to get my mother in law)...with that said...happy shopping to all and to all a good night (well maybe for some of you)!
Happy Onslaught of Holiday Madness, may it be stress free and full of eggnog and really fun gifts...okay screw the fun gifts...full of eggnog (and fruitcake...I actually really like fruitcake...Dear Santa...I'll take a fruit cake.) I am NOT the fruitcake...I would like a fruitcake!

Another Year...I count my blessings!

2009-08-14T17:44:00.005-04:00

(One of my creations...an extra large cupcake bouquet...always makes me think birthday!)

Another year...today I am, yet again another year older. As I write this... in these very moments as we approach 6pm, 42 years ago I was making my way into this world. The last couple of weeks have been with out a doubt a stressful two weeks, yesterday, those stresses at last came to an end. I feel a renewed sense of freedom, joy, and relief. I celebrated an early birthday with girl friends yesterday, we sat on the patio of one of my favorite local dives, while one of my favorite local blues musicians played the guitar and serenaded me, a beautiful breeze was blowing peaceful easy feelings, while we waited for my favorite indulgence (only from time to time) fried chicken, collard greens and mac and cheese, and a generous slice of blueberry pie for dessert!
The cards, gifts and phone calls have been a steady stream this week and I feel sublimely blessed and fortunate for all of the love and support that surround me. Today I woke up again optimistic and full of light for the day ahead. I believe this to be one of the best birthday's I have had in a very long time! I feel wonderful!!! Hugs to all!!

Say what you feel today...

2009-07-20T23:11:00.005-04:00

It took me a little longer to get back here than I thought it would. Todays blog is not where I imagined it would go this time around, but life dictates it's subject and we follow through at times a bit baffled,a bit thrown off, and at times heavy hearted.
Through my most recent connections with facebook I have been blessed and delighted by life's re-connections via this wonderful tool...our beloved internet...blasts from the past...from elementary school, to summer camp, teen-ie hey day,college and some.
It was through facebook I recently connected with an old friend... the older boy hottie patottie (from my teenage years) who grew into a beautiful,responsible, loving, upbeat, animal lover... truly a caring sensitive grown man, loved by all, who sadly passed away this week at 45.
His loss came as a huge shock to so many who loved him. This week I've played my share of Zeppelin and old tunes shed some tears and have been sorely reminded that no one is guaranteed tommorrow.
If you have something to say... I Love You, I'm proud of you, I am grateful for your friendship,I miss you...say it...if you need to get together, pick up a phone, shoot an e-mail, a card , share an old pic, bring a smile...do it!. I am grateful for my time with Bruce, youth and adulthood. The world has lost one lovely animal lover, people lover...and all round lover of life! Dear friend you will be missed!

One Busy Bee!!

2009-07-09T18:04:00.004-04:00

Hello fellow bloggers,

Just wanted to check in! It's been so long...I have most definately missed my blogging time!

I recently started a new job...between crafting, baking, working and life in general, there has not been a whole lot of room for this happy past time!

I will be posting some of my newest creations very soon...I had the coolest pic for Frida's Birthday on July 6th ( a little swap-bot ornie I created for a fun frida swap), and again life and work would not allow me blog time!

Please keep checking in...I love sharing and all the feedback from my blogging pals...we've got some serious catching up to do!

Hope to have some new posts up this weekend, so check in next week and see what's been going on! Hugs and Happiness to all of you!

Rainy days and Mermaids...

2009-05-12T01:11:00.016-04:00

Frida Kahlo mermaid art paper doll. I created her using a paper doll template from The Enchanted Gallery, her mermaid body was created with card stock and collaged with bright colored papers, her torso is a canasta card, in her hands she holds a sugar skull and a painter's palette,glitter,gems...Frida Sirena...my swap buddy for this swap is an art teacher and a Frida fan.

Frida's face was rendered in pen.

Insomnia strikes again...and in it's usual course I am up...and thankfully this time I find myself once again on my happy little blogging path.

Somehow in the midst of the glitter and glue,tucked daintily behind a festive mound of ribbon or the sweet sticky mountain of butter cream,my blog re-emerges! At times it's easier to catch up on my favorite blogs than upload pics and share. In between the multitude of projects in paper,clay or sugar...insomnia strikes and so does my need to blog!

It's been a rainy month of May so far, rainy and wet indeed! I'm surprised we didn't grow fins and tails for all of the splashing about!

We were grateful for a small well deserved sunny break on Mother's Day - a shiny, sparkly day danced with playful breezes,pink Tulips,bright Azaleas,budding Clematis,family time and just the right taste of spring that makes you want more...just to find Monday overcast and wet again!

Everything looks super lush and velvet green , and rainy days make indoor "to do's" much less painful.

In a few months we'll be wondering where the rain went and complain of the heat and humidity... so in honor of growing fins and tails I've posted my latest mermaids created for swaps on swap-bot!

I hope all of you Mom's enjoyed your day!

April Showers bring...Baby Showers!

2009-04-22T22:24:00.008-04:00

Those ar strawberry maltballs in the martini glass YUM!

Fluffy Booty bouquet!!!

Only a sampling of what made the baby booty bouquet!

Here is the latest on my sugar arts and creative entertaining...little did I know or remember how squealy and giggley my family really is...kudos to my husband who perhaps didn't giggle or squeal...but a good helper none the less(in the back ground kind of helper way)! I hosted ...and must say...funnest shower I've been to in a long time(If I do say so myself)! 3 games...good eats...and good friends and family! The little bouquet is actually baby booties,baby mitts,hats,burpie cloths and baby needs! She (Mommy to be had no idea it was a baby goody!). daddy to be received a monster coffee mug (to keep awake for late night feedings)filled with aspirin (for crying baby headaches),batteries (to keep on goin'),tooth picks (to keep eyes open),chocolate (as a reminder that this is sweet)...and of course the perpetual endless stream of baby goodies! Ah...baby sweet!!

Happy Earth Day Everyone!

2009-04-22T13:28:00.017-04:00

In honor of Earth Day I have posted my Spring button fairy created for the Spring Button Fairy swap on swap-bot.

The cherry blossoms in my area inspired this little spring button fairy; her name is Sakura (Japanese word for Cherry Blossom).

I live 30 minutes outside of Washington DC, and during this period of spring it is our cherry blossom season. We celebrate these beautiful trees with the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

People come from all over to enjoy this beautiful sight every spring! If you’ve never been to DC for the Cherry Blossom Festival it is definitely something to see…just like a live postcard!

The National Cherry Blossom Festival annually commemorates the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo to the city of Washington!

Though Washington DC attracts the tourists and locals alike for this pink frilly fantastical event, you will find Cherry blossoms through out the surrounding suburbs as well.

Whole neighborhoods graced with pink magical ceilings of beautiful blossoms, on windy days it can look like it’s snowing …and it is…just not snow…it snows Cherry Blossom petals!

Happy Earth Day Everyone!

Good stuff!

2009-04-20T14:50:00.004-04:00

What a terrific weekend for good stuff! I sold my first item on etsy!!! An Obama bookmark!

I managed to schedule an interview with a local bakery looking for a cake decorator...keeping my fingers crossed, but know there is a fair bit of competition out there so I'm not holding my breath.

A Lovely little Baby Shower hosted by me was a terrific success!

I have been working hard on creating more handcrafted items for my etsy shop...things take time...I will post those when they're ready...in the meant time...where's my glue gun!

April Showers bring...cute things!

2009-04-12T22:33:00.005-04:00

What a lovely weekend! Puppies decked out in their Easter Best, Family,good times, new memories! Hope your weekend was as magical ours was!

Participants for Pay it Forward!

2009-04-09T14:09:00.012-04:00

I officially have my 5 participants for Pay it Forward!
These lovely bloggers will be receiving something special from me...check out their blogs!

Thank you for participating!!!

Ang- Summer Day Boredom's Blog
Peachy Cheek - Peachy Cheek
Grace - Saving Grace
Teresa Matz -Grace Abounding
Shantessa Knutson - Sew Fierce

Grace Abounding: 1st day of the contest!!!!!

2009-04-04T15:43:00.001-04:00

Check this out more goodies!! Grace abounding is having a give away contest!
Just click on this link...
Grace Abounding: 1st day of the contest!!!!!

The Twelve days of Easter???

2009-04-04T02:40:00.009-04:00

Easter approaches and with the holiday so does my constant sense of fun for yet another excuse to celebrate! Spring so filled with unpredictable joys...Easter candy,daffodils,warmer weather,green smells,things waking up after long winter slumbers,treats,theme colors and a wonderful reasons to entertain,worship,gather with family and create lovely memories!

Swap-bot...a constant source of creative inspiration actually inspired this little send away. Not long ago I came across this fun little swap - to decorate an egg carton,fill it with crafty artsy pretties and send off to a partner to start on April 1st...the count down to Easter on April 12th! What a terrific idea I thought...but how much sweeter to send a thoughtful,love filled package to my sweet little God daughter in Florida? Exactly...super sweet!

She opens a little gift every day from April 1st thru 12th, each day and egg contains a note and a little gift...candy...hair pretties...rings...grow in water chickie chicks, socks... and the grand finale...a little hand made lamb necklace from her "Nina"!

Happy Count Down to Easter Lily!!

Pay it Forward!!!

2009-04-02T14:21:00.001-04:00

How is this for fun??

The first FIVE people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you. This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:

1- I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!
2- What I create will be just for you.
3- It will be done this year. (that's right, before December 31, 2009!)
4- You have no clue what it's going to be.That's what makes it so exciting right?
5- I reserve the right to do something extremely strange. But I would never send something that I didn't like myself!

The catch? Oh, the catch is that you must re-post this on your blog and make the same offer to the first 5 people who respond on your blog entry, thereby continuing the fun! (Though you can keep it local if you want, I don't fear international postage!)

So please come and join in the worldwide fun of pay-it-forward.Anyone anywhere is welcome to leave a comment on this post but only the first 5 to do so will get something handmade by me.Let's have some fun!

Viva La Frida!!!

2009-03-23T03:01:00.000-04:00

This is the card I sent my partner...maybe more glitter was in order...

This lovely card was sent to me all the way from Olvera Street in California!

A Frida Notecard swap brings more fun in the mail all the way from Olvera Street in Los Angeles!

My partner created this beautiful card for me with Frida fabric, some glitter and embellishments, just lovely! So lovely I'm framing it!

For those of you who aren't familiar with Olvera street, it is one of the oldest parts of Los Angeles, the area is known for it's Mexican Culture, they host festivals on several Latin holidays ...check it out www.olvera-street.com
definitely on my list of must do/places to visit!

The card I sent to my partner is the first one of the two pictures presented above...I kept it simple...not sure what inspired me to do so...but I did....and actually like it...though I would like to retry a go in the opposite direction with a little more "Jooj"

If I do...I'll definitely post it.
Alas the witching hour...this insomniac must go to bed!!!
Make today wonderful.

St Paddy's Day Button Fairy

2009-03-17T23:01:00.000-04:00

A friend of mine has been a little down in the dumps due to some major losses and life changes. A consumate gift giver as a rule and inspired even more by weekly swap surprises in the mail I decided one Sunday to spread a little cheer. I delivered this little button fairy along with half a dozen cupcakes and a green carnation pen, though my little gifts weren't earth shaking, they certainly did what they were intended to...turning frowns upside down! I think this little fairy was one of my favorites,,,as was the catch up time prompted by this special delivery!

Artist Trading Cards...more swapping fun!

2009-03-14T23:16:00.000-04:00

The world of swapping has opened up so many little doors and entry ways into learning and playing creatively! A recent swap introduced me to the world of ATC's (Artist Trading Cards). For those of you not familiar...ATCs are little cards
(2.5 x 3.5 in.) decorated by artists and then traded with each other, some artists use them as calling cards, I believe the movement started in Switzerland. Exploring such a small "canvas" has been a fun challenge...since this
swap I have created ATC' dolls, which I will post at a later date so a not to ruin the surprise for my swap buddies and I look forward to creating more little images.

Check out my first ATC created for two swap partners, titled "I fall to pieces", inspired by a trip to Winchester WV the home of the late Patsy Cline!

My Homage to St. Paddy's Day

2009-03-11T03:26:00.000-04:00

My tiny homage to St. Patricks Day! I created a tiny homage to St. Paddy's day...my favorite pint! Though not much of a beer drinker anymore...no denying my love of a creamy pint of Guinness....Ireland's favorite pint. This little item is posted on etsy...though I have not sold anything on etsy yet in my one week...I have sold 4 little pints...3 pins and one necklace outside of etsy...something! A little anti=etsy. (not really...just local sales... a new awareness created)..but selling my mini art none the less. If you are interested....by all means check out my etsy site...seller name: sugarmoontreasures

Recipe postcard swap surprise!

2009-03-07T15:09:00.000-05:00

Front Cover of postcard

Inside of 5 page postcard

Actual Mailing info.

I recently participated in a recipe postcard recipe swap...it never occurred how incredibly creative you could get with a simple postcard...until I received this! It's mini recipe book the size of a postcard!! She sent this in a clear envelope! I think hands down the best post card I have ever received!!

Swap surprises in the mail!

2009-03-06T13:41:00.001-05:00

More fun in the mailbox! New goodies from my swap partners! It never ceases to amaze me the endless pool of creativity in the world! One of my swap partners sent me this super creative Crow ATC Doll! Unfold the little corset and voila! Crow doll ATC by Tengu2!

For this swap we were required to design two ATC dolls for two swap partners. I am still in the process of creating mine, I will not post pictures until after the swap so I don't spoil the surprise for my partners...each doll has been created according to each swap partners profile...I am looking forward to sending them off...enjoyed this swap so much...I made one for myself! Will post pics next week!

A midnight doll party...

2009-02-26T15:03:00.000-05:00

As some of you can tell by the title of this blog...I am indeed an insomniac.
The witching hour is my crafting hour. Last night as I stayed up working on a new series of little dolls, I stepped outside for a moment for a puppy potty break (my little dog Luke is a night owl too)...I came back in to find my little dolls and puppy toys were having a party...my husband ...funny guy had rearranged my work stuff into a little toy party, and even in the midnight hour, and even though he was tucked back in cozily in bed...he made me smile...pure silliness!

Friday Fun... Swaps in the mailbox!

2009-02-21T00:09:00.000-05:00

I have recently discovered and became instantly fascinated with a swap site I came across on the internet(www.swap-bot.com) . A wonderful little club where Crafters, Moms, Knitters, Scrapbookers all share their creativity and gifts of little surprises via snail mail ( though some swaps are e-mail driven)..You can swap almost anything! Bookmarks, Postcards, Journals, ATC's, Color themed goodies, you name it...if it's fun and in the humor of making someone smile...it's on there!
I can't tell you what fun it's been to recieve handmade items from swap buddies across America and beyond. The silly joy in peaking inside the mailbox to find within - a letter or a package in a strange handwriting mixed in with the usual bunch of bills and offers, a bit of magic in an envelope from somewhere far far away, with contents that spill out in a varied array of pretty stationery, ribbons, gel pens, hand made arts and crafts!
Today I received my first ATC (artist trading card) packaged just so with a little bow and some vintage bits to add to my collection of bits and bobs and two recipes beginning with the letter "P" written on postcards courtesy of two swap pals from my Recipe Swap.
My first Swap was a Valentine Button Fairy, this little fairy was sent all the way to the Netherlands!

2009-02-19T03:18:00.000-05:00

My very first blog!
After years of admiring and watching the lovely lives and blogs of warm fuzzy crafters, artists, creators, gardeners, bakers and true live-rs of shabby chic, beatnik boh, and romantic collectors and their sweet existence... full on with fluffy cats (which sadly,I'm allergic to) and fluffy lives, every embellishment and bit of ephemera tucked in just so, in a sweet artist's path...I finally found my way!
Alas...the world of blogging! A live diary in where I too can track my creative existence and confirm my commitment to following my inner me and facing every little artistic challenge that comes my way, be it by way of cupcake, sculpey, puppy or paper...lets Blog!!

I am a baker, a puppy mom, a happy wife, a proud Latina and now a blogger.