Woodwings

My Funny Valentine

2012-02-12T18:26:00.000-06:00

My funny valentine

Sweet comic valentine

You make me smile with my heart

Your looks are laughable, unphotographable

Still your my favorite work of art

Is your figure less than Greek, Is your mouth a little weak

When you open it to speak are you smart

Don't change a hair for me, not if you care for me

Stay my little valentine, stay

Each day is Valentine's Day

Love Inspires

2012-02-09T23:51:00.000-06:00

He makes you feel like this

So Dreamy

“For if a lover's face survives emblazoned on your heart, the world is still your home.”

Orhan Pamuk, My Name is Red

Strange Girl

2012-02-05T19:15:00.000-06:00

We’ve got secrets between us that Nobody else would believe if we told them So let the stars align

Broken souls will become whole tonight Would you ever wake at night and realize

The reason why you knew me then Is maybe I’m an alien too Would you ever let me be an alien with you

Sebastian Pigott lyrics- Alien

Great Design

2012-01-05T23:52:00.001-06:00

If I could afford it I would collect couches the way Katie's nephew collects matchbox cars.

Downloading Music and Contemplating Creativity

2012-01-05T00:48:00.001-06:00

I love to share music with Nina. She mostly doesn't like what I share I pretty much love hers. Well, mostly like hers. I thought my taste was diverse and maybe this is one of the things I passed on to my daughter. Her mind is wide open. I might have made a wee mistake introducing her to Tom Waits this Christmas though...I thought she was ready, ha.

This day I'm contemplating creativity. And sometimes all it take is a little bit of music and some words from interesting people to get me motivated....

“To get the truth, you want to get your own heart to pound while you write.” - Robert McKee

If at first the idea is not absurd, then there is no hope for it.
-Albert Einstein

“What you do speaks so loud that I cannot hear what you say.”

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

"A person needs a little madness or else they never cut the rope and be free."
-Nikos Sazantzakis

"Children reinvent your world for you" -Susan Sarandon

"An idea can turn to dust or magic....."

Happy 2012 Our Future Is Bright

2012-01-02T00:18:00.000-06:00

I have four little numbers here picked by my lovely assistant, aka the daughter home from college. They represent the three winners of the cute, smart and versatile little calendar. The fourth is a winner from the full month of December for the Woodwings' charm necklace.
I just popped in Woody Allen's "Midnight In Paris" so am a bit distracted by the opening screen shots and the melancholy horn. Did you know Woody plays a clarinet.
Let me tell you the winners, because I'm charmed by the movie and really have to dash :) I wish just one thing, that I could see each of you in your outfits!

The calendars go to the following.
1 Katina, who will be baptizing her brother's wife-to-be this summer in sumptuous silk shift which I picture dropping off a rack in Paris in the 20's.
2 JHBALVIN who, like me, waits until the last minute to decide on the outfit for her event of the year and still has to buy her red shoes!
3 Aik whose 18th birthday is this month and is wearing a pair of Vincci heels to celebrate, ooo!
The fourth selected is Robin whose wish is for peace and love. I hope you like the necklace Robin and I hope your wish comes true!

Okay girls. It's 2012 and no one can live it for us. So let's get out there and take a chance!

Double Giveaway Freebie

2011-12-26T23:57:00.001-06:00

Christmas spirit got the best of me, and so I missed last Friday's announcement but, I managed to get the calendar out to numero quattro, Lauren of shootingstarsmag, winner and blogger.

Yep, I'm one of the naughty. Rather forgetful and disorganized I'll admit it. So, creative friends.....I know that your much like me and this calendar could probably give you a bit of a hand.

2 calendars to the two randomly selected who respond to the question below.

Pssh what's two? I'm stepping it up and giving away 3 calendars this week and all comments from the month of December will be placed in the magic hat to select the big winner of the Woodwings necklace on January 1st 2012.

As mentioned above, I'm not so spiffy with planning and executing in a timely fashion. I'm remarkably informal. Okay okay non-conformist, just like you. You don't wear a watch right? Neither do I. And you have a stash of blank cards for all those sorry I'm late for your birthday moments, me too.

This calendar is postcard size. You know what that means don't you. You will circle the events in crayon the minute the calendar appears in your mailbox. Then when the birthday, anniversary, valentines days arrives you just stick a little stamp on the back write a sweet message and boom! You've made someone happy! On time!

Tell me now: For the event of the upcoming year are you planning on wearing your favorite jeans and boots, your most glamorous threads and Louboutins, details please. Descriptive details. And, if you're not already a friend then follow :D, tell your friends and like Woodwings on Facebook.

See you in a week!

Calendar Giveaway Week 2

2011-12-09T17:49:00.000-06:00

I have always had a lapse in my brain for time and dates, birthdays, years. I've tried through the years to devise a system that would make me "remember" to give others the illusion of my superior organization. To this date I cannot remember my age, having to do math whenever asked. I think I remembered clearly how old I was two times in my life, when I turned 16 and 21.

So here I am selling you my calendar. It's pretty laughable isn't it. I thought that having the 12 pages of the calendar on postcard weight and size paper would be terrific though because now you have many uses for this little piece of art. You and your best friends for example have become the cliche busy girls and better than scheduling the date you plan to have drinks on an iPad would be to shoot her the January page with your free Saturday circled in red crayon. Write a message on the blank side, add her addres and a stamp and what a surprise. She won't beg "busy" with an invitation like that!

I will never ever dogear my precious books, but I can never find a bookmark when I need one and will use an old receipt or rip off a piece of grocery bag...whatever paper is nearby but a used month of this calendar would be spot on! Easier to find the page I was on and much kinder to the book I'm reading.

So friends, to win a free calendar this week the question I have for you is,

"Which day of which month is so important to you that you would use up a calendar page to send a postcard reminder to yourself or a loved one this coming year or which day of which month do you want to make magical for someone special in your neck of the woods."

(For those not yet privey on the giveaway, it's the little calendar on the right of this post, you can click the button to see more images if you wish)

The best part of these giveaways is this- if you tried last week you should try again this week because I will tally up every friend that comments until the end of December and giveaway a piece of Woodwings jewelry.

If you are a newbie, please follow me and "like" Woodwings on FACEBOOK it would mean so much to me to gather up more friends. Thanks for making December so bright!

AND THE WINNER FOR WEEK ONE CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY IS...

2011-12-09T13:07:00.000-06:00

Poster number 6 which is.....Cameron of California!

Wonderful, wonderful posts from all. Beginning at this very moment is Calendar Giveaway #2 remember each post will give you an additional antry to the Grand Prize Giveaway of a piece of Woodwings jeselry on December 31st!

xoxox

Give Away Freebie

2011-12-02T13:29:00.003-06:00

Did you know that this is National Calendar Awareness Month? Yes I know, neither did I.
It seems that I should be the perfect Calendar Advocate then and here we are. You say you need a giant calendar for the refrigerator to keep up with all your kids activities, you need a calendar for your desk to remind you of all or your meetings, you have one on your iPhone so you're always armed with your super social schedule.

Perhaps....but do you have one on your dressing table to inspire your make-up and outfit?! Do you have one on the coffee table in your media room to remind you that there is more to life than watching how other people live their lives. Do you have one on your bedside table to make you smile about tomorrow's possibilities. Then, the Woodwings Calendar is just what you need!

For the Month of December I will be offering a free calendar each week to a randomly selected dear one that leaves a comment here on the Woodwings Blog.

The theme of this weeks comment is,

"If you could inspire your family to do one out of character thing

this holiday season what would it be?"

I wanted to mention that I am welcoming "Where Women Create" who has inspired the giving spirit among all the artisans out there via the Where Women Create Website.

So... see the cute little button to the right of this post that links to 2012 Calendar. This 12 card item will be shipped each week until the end of the month to one lucky person. Please leave a comment here and become a friend and follower or if you prefer you can like me on Facebook. You know that you can never have too many friends and I am so behind in the social media circle I could use all the support that you are willing to give.

Each week I'll start a new search for the comments winner, BUT at the end of the year I will combine all of the comments posted from December 2 until December 31 and select a winner of a one of a kind Jewelry item! So keep coming back for updates and write each week. I know you have wonderful stories to tell! xoxo Elizabeth

I Wish

2011-11-23T23:24:00.000-06:00

I wish that you could pick the day,

the best moment that would remain forever

and never change

When she was young, each year she would make her wish out loud as she blew out her candles,

"I wish that my mommy will live forever." And today she is home from college for four short days and I can't find a stinking candle in my junk drawer so that I can make a wish, "never leave, never grow old..."

Variations on A Theme

2011-11-21T21:09:00.000-06:00

Baubles and beads and crystals that sparkle.

Colors poured from the sun and whimsy to spark your joy and imagination.

Woodland Deer as a joyful earthy necklace:

A romantic necklace

A print of the original painting mounted on wood

As a mirror to take anywhere

It just might make the perfect gift

Prepare Yourself For A Creative Year!

2011-11-20T20:36:00.000-06:00

I just hope that this little work of heart charms and delights you. Each month is on a separate glossy postcard. A little work of art to color your world. Inspire you. Imagine how happy you can make your friends with this little gift.

You know what, because you've stuck with me through thick and thin. Through all those blogging dry spells. I wanted to entice you with a little gift. If you wish to purchase the calendar below just type in the code FLYFREE and no matter how many calendars you purchase the shipping is free. From today to the end of December.

Woodwings Calendar

2011-11-10T20:21:00.000-06:00

Coming soon on Etsy. A 12 month calendar for 2012. 12 months of lovelies, 12 months of art.

Witchy Woman

2011-10-12T23:54:00.000-05:00

What are these
So wither'd and so wild in their attire,
That look not like the inhabitants o' the earth,
And yet are on 't?

Shakespeare, "Macbeth"

“Going so soon? I wouldn't hear of it. Why my little party's just beginning."
WICKED WITCH OF THE WEST, "Wizard of Oz"

Witches are moon-birds,
Witches are the women of the false, beautiful moon.

AMY LOWELL, "Witch-Woman"

All of my black dresses look like they should be accessorized with a broom!

Hidden Fears

2011-10-06T23:05:00.000-05:00

The super Spunky Zoe

I covered my eyes at the scary stuff. Protecting myself from images on a screen. Celluloid nightmares that kept me from sleeping at night because I peeked and saw the monster. Those images would haunt me for weeks, and as irrational as it was I was sure "it" was waiting for me in the garage. I was functioning perfectly all night until it was time to go up to bed and now I run ahead to turn on the light in the next room before I go back to turn off the light in the room I just left. The basement. In my teens this was the scariest place of all. If I needed to find something in the basement when I was home alone the lights when on first. There was a wall of closets that lined the back wall. If one of the doors was open at all, even the slightest bit I wouldn't go down at all. If I felt I could get what I needed and beat the creature before it grabbed hold of the back of my shirt I would make a mad dash down the stairs holding my breath until I made it back up to the kitchen, closing and locking the door in the hall behind me, trembling but triumphant. Terrifying those days of wild imaginations.

I'm not afraid these days. Because I keep my eyes closed at the scary stuff.

On The Dark Path to Halloween

2011-10-05T23:41:00.000-05:00

Tim Burton on Christopher Walken

"You look at him and you know there's a lot going on-- yet you have no idea what."

The unknown. It's what scares us most right? The dark basement past the creaky stairs. The sound behind the closet door when you are trying to get to sleep in a strange bed. The vacant look in your boyfriend's eyes after you told him you love him.

You answer the phone and hear only breathing at the other end. You come home after dark and the light won't turn on. The doorbell rings, it's late and when you ask who is there you get no response. I'm creeping myself out and will not get much sleep this month because I love the chill, the thrill of the unknown. And I love the look on that face pictured above. I love the villain and the actor having a great time playing the villain.

The Beach Rocks

2011-08-16T00:58:00.001-05:00

Well I'm cruising low and I'm cruising mean,
Well I'm cruising slow in my dream machine
-Stray Cats

But the winds could not erase
the memory of your face
Beauty Queen, Roxy Music

Launch yourself on every wave

Reverie - the gift of an hour

je ne sais quoi - an indescribable or indefinable 'something' that distinguishes the object in question from others that are superficially similar.

She's got a smile that it seems to me
Reminds me of childhood memories
Where everything was as fresh as the bright blue sky

Sweet child o' mine

"Their whole life was the sea, the sea, and their boats. So in celebrating their deaths- yes, you can say celebrating, they used both. The family's of the great Viking would put the body of their loved one on a ship cover it with straw and then as the sun was setting cast it away into the water. They would light huge bonfires on the beach, and then the Vikings would light the tips of their arrows in the bonfire and shoot them at the ship. Ah it must have been so beautiful, fire on the water. Legend has it that if the color of the setting sun, and the color of the burning ship were the same then that Viking had lead a good life, and in the afterlife he would go to Viking heaven. All night long the Viking men, women, and children watched the ship with the body burned in the water. By dawn all that was left was ashes, complete obliteration, carried by the currents to the four corners of the earth, fresh, and beautiful, and vanished completely, like a dream." -Rocket Gibralter

Sand and Slate

2011-08-07T21:28:00.003-05:00

Nature has always been an inspiring muse. I was remembering days at the beach in Union Pier MI, and collecting images that inspired that color story. Take a look at the amazing treasures that sand and slate combined create. Jewels.

"The Greek word for "return" is nostos. Algos means "suffering."

So nostalgia is the suffering caused by an unappeased yearning to return."

-Milan Kundera

"The moment you give close attention to any thing, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself."

-Henry Miller

Looking back you realize that a very special person

passed briefly through your life, and it was you.

-Robert Brault

" I don't care what I see outside. My vision is within!

Here is where the birds sing! Here is where the sky is blue!"

-A Room With A View

"Never withdraw from life"

-Diego Rivera

Velvet Morning

Youth is a wonderful thing. What a crime to waste it on children.

-George Bernard Shaw

Nothing is more necessary than the unnecessary. -Life Is Beautiful

Summer's Orange Glow

2011-08-01T23:13:00.003-05:00

She comes in colors everywhere; She combs her hair - She's like a rainbow
-Rolling Stones

I have the world's largest collection of seashells. I keep it on all the beaches of the world... perhaps you've seen it. -Steven Wright

for whatever we lose (like a you or a me),
it's always our self we find in the sea
~e.e. cummings

She
May be the song that summer sings
May be the chill that autumn brings
May be a hundred different things -Elvis Costello

A color is as strong as the impression it creates. -Ivan Albright

"Do I love you? My God, if your love were a grain of sand, mine would be a universe of beaches." -The Princess Bride

Through Rose Tinted Glasses

2011-07-30T01:05:00.001-05:00

"A profusion of pink roses being ragged in the rain

speaks to me of all gentleness and its enduring."

William Carlos Williams

"I adore that pink is the navy blue of India"

Diana Vreeland

"The pink sheep of the family"

Alexander McQueen

"I would rather lie on a sofa than sweep beneath it."

Shirley Conran

"The best color in the whole world is the one that looks good on you."

Coco Chanel

"Wish on everything, Pink cars are good, especially the old ones.

And stars are good. Shooting stars and first stars,

and airplanes are good if they look like stars."

Francesca Lea Block

Would You Expatriate

2011-06-24T21:50:00.001-05:00

I read a quote by Gertrude Stein that said something to the effect that an artist has two countries. One which is his home and the second where he feels most himself. I think about this often, especially this time of year when I remember the traveling I did in my twenties. The memories haunt me now. My heart always expands most when I think of Florence Italy. My first trip was with my best friend when we turned 20 (when we were fearless and cute) We scoured the entire romantic city on foot. Rode on the backs of Vespa's to the Boboli Gardens at night for the best gelato I've ever encountered. Partied in a villa just across the Arno with a view overlooking the infamous red tiled roofs of the city. We were so young and unappreciative of the opportunities our boldness and innocence afforded us. The hottie that owned the villa where we were dinner guests had money (I didn't recognize it then). His family owned a perfumerie and I remember him opening these vintage apothecary drawers to let me sample scented oils from around the world. Before we left his home he gave me the name and number to a Roman design firm who was close friends of the family. He set up an interview for me. What did I do.....chickened out. And here I am today to reminisce and write about it.

For 9 years I revisited Florence in summer and winter when I was a children's clothing designer to attend the Pitti Bimbo. Dang if I didn't feel like I was returning home each time. Do you know what was waiting for us when we just walked down the street from our hotel to get a cab? A life size pastel painting of Botticelli's masterpiece "Birth of Venus" on the street! and, the artist was in the process of another richly colored painting (yet I don't recall what is was)

So, yes, Florence just welcomes the painter, romantic and foodie in me. I've loved and daydreamed about living in so many places as I travelled with my ex and daughter. I've even looked for jobs and real estate for the fun of it. But, in reference to Ms. Stein's commentary above, Florence is the place for me.

Where would you feel most like you?

Rain

2011-05-26T13:15:00.000-05:00

Some people feel the rain, others just get wet. Bob Dylan

How Quickly We Dance

2011-05-17T22:45:00.004-05:00

I know that it has only been a day or two since I wrapped Christmas presents, tucked my daughter into bed at night, or made mashed bananas and pureed carrots for her meals. And yet, I woke up today and it's May 2011 and she has finished her last day of high school and *gulp* she's leaving me for college.

The months since I blogged last have been full. During my free time I have been pushing down the monster that wants to live in my head and remind me of how quiet my evenings will be without her. My aunt told me how unfair it is that you finally get your kids to be just the way you like them and then they leave you.

Pictured below are some of the things that have kept me busy the last few months

My dearest parents celebrated 50 years of marital bliss. Aren't they lucky. Romance lives

This was a family portrait for Audre of Illinois, whose generous heart and beautiful spirit created this extended family

Celebrating Nina's 18th birthday on Easter Sunday

Senior Prom. There was a day when she screamed at the sight of puffed sleeves. Riding pants were her "party clothes" Baseball caps were part of her daily uniform and her closet was full of punk and metal t-shirts.

This was created for Heidi from San Francisco. An energetic mom who loves and wholeheartedly supports her daughter's business venture. You should visit Chelsea's online shop, Ambry Lane, Especially if you have teen girls that want to express their style.

This for Jess's mom, a Mother's Day gift.

And in just 4 days and counting....graduation day....**waaahhh**

Delicious Spring

2011-05-03T23:08:00.001-05:00

All things seem possible in May ~ edwin may teale

Holiday Winner

2010-12-04T23:35:00.000-06:00

Oh these comments were so much fun to read. The request to win the giveaway was to leave a comment about love. A quote, an unbearable experience, your heart pounding expression of joy ;) or some simple little ditty.

And, you deliciously diverse stars of the universe wrote quotes from 19th century Romanian poetry to personal stories that made me laugh outloud.

Well, I haven't yet learned how to use a random number generator to select a winner so I am still using the primitive method of names on slips of paper shaken about in a shoebox. And this is what I've randomly selected:

Jen, fellow gemini, adorable cosmetician, new blog friend and giveaway winner! Here was her comment on love

Jen said...

Cute contest, heres mine!

Don't fall in love with me yet

We only recently met

True I'm in love with you but

you might decide I'm a nut

Give me a week or two to

go absolutely cuckoo

then, when you see your error,

then, you can flee in terror

like everybody else does

I only tell you this cause

I'm easy to get rid of

but not if you fall in love

Know now that I'm on the make

and if you make a mistake

my heart will certainly break

I'll have to jump in a lake

and all my friends will blame you

There's no telling what they'll do

It's only fair to tell you

I'm absolutely cuckoo

-the magnetic fields

December 02, 2010 5:56 PM

Jen...email me with your home address and your choice of 2 pocket mirrors from Woodwings on Etsy, woodwings.etsy.com

Thank you all for joining in the fun and come back often for giveaways in the future. Or just to leave a note because I feel like we've crossed the threshold in our relationship :)

Holiday Workshop Giveaway

2010-11-29T14:55:00.002-06:00

The time in the studio is a bit rushed this time of year. Yet, I like the excitement of a little bit of pressure. Although I can't say that I thrive on it. I feel a bit disorganized when there is a number of things on my plate. And of course there is the real job that keeps me away from the studio 11 hours a day.

Last night Nina and I were searching for the nostalgic Christmas music that helps sooth the spirit while working. With a mug of hot tea by my side I managed to frame a few items and am just waiting for a bright clear day (not happening today) to take photos that I can add to the Etsy shop.

I ordered a few cute little hand mirrors to add to the shop for some inexpensive stocking stuffers. So in the spirit of the season I'd love to offer a giveaway!

Leave a comment about love. A quote, an unbearable experience, your heart pounding expression of joy ;) or some simple little ditty.

I will pick a random guest to win one of the new little hand mirrors for yourself and another for someone you adore.

Starting Now!

I will announce a winner Saturday afternoon.

Etsy Promotion

2010-11-24T16:29:00.005-06:00

I don't know about you, but I prefer to do my hunting online for that

perfect little something for family and friends this season.

If you find yourself relaxing with your laptop this weekend I am having a promotion on etsy.

For a 25% discount add this coupon code at the checkout
SQUAREHEAD1

Happy Thanksgiving my buddies!

Above all else, I am so grateful to have met you all and I want you to know how much your posts and comments amuse me and keep me happy and motivated!!! Happy thanksgiving to you and your loved ones. Keep safe and warm and share the love!

Marly Got a Girlfriend

2010-11-22T22:43:00.003-06:00

My friend Hagen wanted to surprise

his friends with a little house warming

present. Yes, he is, très agréable.

Hagen, I hope it's what you wanted.

If you have suggestions or changes

shoot me an email!

A Dream in the Woods II

2010-11-15T23:01:00.001-06:00

This child makes dreams come true. She has the ability to make spring appear in the forest after a December snow shower. Now this child has skills!

Gabriella's Magic Ride

2010-11-14T21:11:00.000-06:00

This curious, enthusiastic child, filled with mirth and joy. The world holds it's magic out for her to discover. Oh, she takes her play time very seriously. Who would lead the winged horse out of the woods to her sheltered meadow. Gabriella, of course!

We Have a Winner

2010-11-13T20:37:00.000-06:00

All the names were printed from the give away post, cut from paper, carefully folded and placed into a shoe box.

Shakey, shakey

One winner, plucked from a box of carefully folded pieces of paper on which were typed the inspiration and dreams of 50 individuals.

And that winner is faerwillow.

I'm so happy to be sending these gifts to you!

I wish that I had 50 books to give away. The dreams everyone shared are so excellent and inspired! So, what are you waiting for, it's time to fly!

Front Page News!

2010-11-12T22:18:00.000-06:00

Etsy Treasuries are cool - really cool. Being selected by a seller to be grouped with talented craftsman and artisans is a distinction and it feels great. I've been in a number of treasuries, (some of which can be seen on my Flicker.)

Today was a huge deal for me.
I was featured on this treasury that made it to Etsy's front page. Yay!

Hopping Holiday Gifts

Give Away Palooza

2010-11-07T22:30:00.000-06:00

She's gorgeous, kind, talented, a star. She's family, she sings like a tender cello and writes music prolifically. And today is her birthday!

In honor of Mary Beth's Birthday I'm giving away an autographed copy of her book, "Kick-Ass Creativity"

Kick-Ass Creativity: An Energy Makeover for Artists, Explorers, and Creative Professionals

For the bit of sparkle that may be missing from your usual magic touch, MB's book has the enthusiasm, motivation and spirit that you are looking for.

As a super bonus you will receive a copy of "DIY, Design It Yourself" by Ellen Lupton.

So leave a comment, and share what you would like to be if there was nothing standing in your way. On Saturday the 13th, I will choose one entry at random to receive these 2 inspiring books AND a Woodwings bookmark. Good Luck! Oh, and send out a beautiful magical birthday wish for Mary Beth!

A Dream in the Woods

2010-11-07T13:05:00.000-06:00

A little girl shares her gift of joy and love with the family who adores her beyond words. This painting is for her from her mother. Who dreamed of a star, a twinkle in her eye, and now a jewel for all who know her.

Features

2010-11-03T21:19:00.002-05:00

I'm posting today to share the links to few lovely ladies that featured Woodwings on their blogs. It's an honor to the max to be pictured in these blogs. I wanted very much to give them your attention too. For example, at Au pays de Marvielles... you will see the painting of "Your Heart".

Your Heart

This blog is in French, and worth studying the lovely language for. Yet, if you go to look at the pretty pictures alone you will be satisfied again and again by the dreamy photography, the beautiful vignettes and the well planned themes.

Here at The House in the Roses, a beautiful woman shares her beautiful surroundings. On this day she tempts us to enjoy a cup of tea from a true china cup (forget the disposable paper) and the print of "Flower Girls" is elegantly displayed in her photos.

Flower Girls

Lifeologia has become one of my stomping grounds. I love her style. Her blog is full of fresh decorating ideas, a loving family life and scrumptious healthy lifestyle recipes. Thank you Ella, for including me in your Halloween feature!

And finally, darling Mirlette at Mexican Colors interviews bloggers every Friday on her kaleidoscopic blog and on this day there are a few words about Woodwings. She is so charming. Her stories about Mexico inspire me to paint vibrantly!

For Diana and her Sunshine

2010-10-24T22:29:00.000-05:00

For a very special little girl.

For Ella and Gabriella

2010-10-24T21:26:00.000-05:00

A special request for a sweet lovely that dreams of riding near the stars.

Midnight Ride

2010-10-16T11:15:00.054-05:00

She was shy, gentile, almost dove-like. She favored four-legged creatures to the garrulous and judgmental kind beyond the wood. You could say that she hid behind the green curtain.

Day after day she roamed the forest not intimidated by it’s silence or darkness. This place was a comfort to her, like a home.

One day as she walked with Deery, the air became stifling and motionless. She smelled something burning but couldn’t recognize the smell. Her friend was frightened, looked at the girl meekly and ambled off in the opposite direction.

Snowy joined her for a portion of the way to bring her strength. The girl carried Snowy over fallen moss covered trees and they travelled in supportive silence toward the fire but as the air grew more chill Snowy barnstormed over the treetops toward the full moon...in fear.

The dampness chills the girl from her shoulders to her toes. She just knew the mystery in the wood was uninvited, it was dangerous but it drew her to it. It bewitched the girl.

The distant chanting pounded inside her as if it were her heart and although her face burned from a heat she couldn’t explain her body shook from a chill that gripped her bones.

She came to a clearing lit by the feverish moon but foggy from the damp ground. The chanting echoed in her head, but there was no sign of where the sound came from.

All of a sudden she felt a swift breeze and the ground tremble as she saw a girl coifed in tangled ropes of black hair shoot towards the moon on a switch stick broom. Yet she wasn’t afraid. The sight was familiar. She knew the girl.

At the moment of her realization the heat that burned her cheeks rose to her head and her hair transformed to a mass of silky crimson waves. She felt a part of something. She is a witch. I am witch. There is a little bit of witch in every woman.....wink.

The loveliest of all bloggers are all listed here at Fanciful Twist Truly one of the most inspiring places of all. Visit them all!

Halloween Special

2010-10-11T00:15:00.001-05:00

I have listed a special treat for

Woodwings Followers

only on the etsy site.

The Halloween Postcards

When you click the link above it will take you to the listing I created for you. The page will be blank where the photo of the art should be so non-followers don't select it. What you will receive is the 4 postcard set you see here.

For my followers the special price is just $10.00 instead of the listed $15.00. If you would like a better view of the individual postcards I have them listed individually on etsy You can click for a better look.

Thank you for being here and inspiring me.

Practical Magic seeps under the door jam....

2010-09-25T12:10:00.006-05:00

"The reason you're here and you don't know why is because I sent for you."
                                                                                ~Sally Owens

I hope I never fall in love, I hope I never fall in love, I hope I never fall in love.

"I can’t wait to fall in love."

~Gillian Owens

"Sometimes I feel like there's a hole inside of me, an emptiness that at times seems to burn. I think if you lifted my heart to your ear, you could probably hear the ocean. I have this dream of being whole. Of not going to sleep each night, wanting. But still sometimes, when the wind is warm or the crickets sing... I dream of a love that even time will lie down and be still for. I just want someone to love me. I don't want to believe it but, there is no man, Gilly. Only that moon." ~Sally Owens

A Fanciful Twist Invites You

2010-09-21T21:19:00.000-05:00

and she and he and me.

There's a tiny little witch that decorates and delights the desert, that instigates and inspires her sisters, that charms magic from the earth and from a ball of clay.

This charming little creature sends an invitation to coax the magic makers and artisans in her coven and expands the invitation to all of us with a faintest glint of desire to create a chapter of magic in our own little neck of the woods.

Follow this link and join the fun! I will.......

link

Flea Market Finds

2010-09-07T21:26:00.003-05:00

round sparkley buttons and pins

flesh pink pin looks like bakelite my guess, fakelite - enameled flower pin

deerie for my woodland frame - resin leaves that look like carved bone

rhinestone pins

Glam Pup

2010-09-06T23:37:00.000-05:00

We went to the flea market Sunday and I'll share those finds tomorrow, but check out Emily! She is so Hollywood!

Buy One Get One Free Print Sale

2010-09-03T16:52:00.002-05:00

Labor Day sale for those with enough time on their hands this weekend to support the Etsy-ers

(namely mwah)

So, visit Woodwings

Buy one print and then leave me a "convo" (message to seller) stating which print you wish to receive for free. The sale runs Saturday 9/4 through Monday 9/6. Thank you in advance :)

For those of you with every minute packed with cook-outs and beach outings, family gatherings, concerts, fireworks and festivals...Have the time of your life!

The Best Things In Life Are Free

2010-08-27T12:59:00.003-05:00

A little shameless promo...because it's Friday, and because it's an amazingly beautiful Friday, all shipping on all items purchased through the Woodwings shop on Etsy is FREE.

What a perfect time to stock up for birthdays, valentines day, to start a little collection, to get those bulky items. Any old reason at all. This is the day to do it. Until midnite tonight.

I'm Not Ready To Say Goodbye

2010-08-26T00:27:00.000-05:00

The crickets, cicadas, frogs that sing me to sleep at night. I'm going to miss you. Stay for as long as you can okay....I'll keep the window open at night.

anthropologie

Finding a field of fireflies that balanced on the tips of grass blades and hovered there like magic, I won't forget that moment.

fireflies

Peace, quiet, and the gentle air that teases the candles flame. Dang, I'm not ready to say goodbye.

garden magic

Oh To Be 4 Again

2010-08-24T23:19:00.002-05:00

These inspired lovelies are all created by Teeny Tini. Crocheted by hand and in yarns that are gentle beside babies peachy softy skin.

Now... why can't the tou-tou come in my size.

Shoes As Art

2010-08-11T00:48:00.003-05:00

Magic Shoes

French Panache

It's always the badly dressed people who are the most interesting.

~Jean Paul Gaultier

Guo Pei

One should either be a work of art, or wear a work of art.

~Oscar Wilde

Daniel Sheehan

“A guy walks up to me and asks 'What's Punk?'. So I kick over a garbage can and say 'That's punk!'. So he kicks over the garbage can and says 'That's Punk?', and I say 'No, that's trend!'” ~Billie Joe Armstrong

platforms

What came first, the music or the misery? People worry about kids playing with guns, or watching violent videos, that some sort of culture of violence will take them over. Nobody worries about kids listening to thousands, literally thousands of songs about heartbreak, rejection, pain, misery and loss. Did I listen to pop music because I was miserable? Or was I miserable because I listened to pop music? ~High Fidelity

Japanese Culture

a woman is a whole mystery.....

Junko Shimada

I don't know who invented the high heel, but all men owe him a lot.
~Marilyn Monroe

spa

Soft green meadows covered in clover. Cool, pillowy pure sand at the temperate beach. Lake Michigan is like bath water after a long, hot summer. I'm ready for a soak in peppermint scented water, how about you

Balkan Beat Box

2010-08-05T09:51:00.004-05:00

I just heard the most remarkable music. It's a melange of cultures. As aromatic as it is energetic. I wanted to share it here knowing that most of you prefer a gentler sound, but, I feel transported listening to them. After hearing a short interview on the radio with one of it's founders I see that they also have a spirit and sense of humor I am drawn to.

click me Balkan Beat Box click me

A Very Nice Gift

2010-07-29T23:28:00.018-05:00

A super nice surprise came my way today and I'd like to pass it on. Faerwillow left this gift...Pretty thoughtful don't you think.

There are 3 simple steps for the recipient to honor

1 Thank the one who sent it your way
2 Sum up your blogging motivation, philosophy, and experience using 5 words
3 Pass it on to 5 others whose blogs you feel have real substance

Dear Faerwillow whose astute insights, and the stunning photo journals of her enchanting family trips keep me sighing and dreaming about Cali. Thank you so much for including me with the two talented artists...honored.

Five words to sum up my motivation?! I'm not a wordy blogger, but selecting only 5 words is a challenge? Aesthetic Rebirth Felicity Maintain Relevance Inspire

And finally, let me make it clear that narrowing the selection down to 5 was a pretty difficult task. Here are todays choices:
1 This super talent is sort of dark, sort of sweet, immensely addictive. I imagine that her studio smells like fresh cut grass, lemons and sweet clean babies: artandghosts

2 Lynette unfolds the stories of her life like the petals of an intricate bud. She's lived a juicy life and is constantly surprising me. She is a generous soul.

3 This blog provides a bit of mystery and a whole lot of talent and I am drawn to it like a bee to clover: harem6

4 Anita is energy incarnate and I visit her because I wish I spoke French. And while visiting I feel romantic and indulgent, and she fills my eyes with the most amazing images and I would love it if she were my neighbor.

5 The dolls created here at Evelyn's Wonderland could have strolled the Carnivale of Venice, lost their minds after a cruel affair with a 19th century artist, cast spells on primitive politicians or danced at the Moulin Rouge.

I hope they bring you inspiration and joy and fill your homes with art!

2010-07-27T00:15:00.001-05:00

You know how you feel when you're completely relaxed. There is just a touch of a breeze, the temperature is just warm enough that you're not distracted with the thought of getting a sweatshirt. The air smells fresh, no heavy perfumes, just clean. At that moment you drift off to your daydreams.

Christine Rodin

Wherever those dreams take me, the images here remind me of that place. The soft edges, the cloudy colors.

Francine Fleischer

I am so easily transported to this place. I can hear the soft lapping of the water against the shore.

Tony Karp

I love combing the sand for these shiney broken seashells. I have jars of these lovely imperfect treasures. They are like stray kittens. Or the underdog team. I'm so drawn to them.

I Need You

2010-07-19T22:51:00.001-05:00

Enough said. This piece leaves me breathless....ah

made in Beirut by designers, Maria Hibri and Hoda Baroudi

A Title and a Story

2010-07-18T23:14:00.000-05:00

She's framed and jeweled and ready to list. I found a pretty cool coral shaped pendant to use with this one. But the inspiration dies there. I can't find a name for or invent a story for her. The photos I took are not the best quality either and I really wanted to list her today...

Practical Magic Invitation

2010-07-15T22:39:00.000-05:00

Girls, sorceresses, enchantresses!! We have been invited to collaborate with a bounty of beautiful ladies in what is to be the first annual Practical Magic Blog Party. The link to the post and the formal invitation are to the left of this post.

Justina of La Boheme Magique and Anna of Frosted Petunias are our hosts. Get inspired by the book or the movie, but oh, it's so inspiring!

See you there!

"And I don't want them dancing naked under the full moon!"

"No, of course. The nudity is entirely optional, as you well remember!"

The Beckoning of Lovely

2010-07-13T12:51:00.001-05:00

I just found this little movie on the blog of A Little Deer. You can find the original on You Tube. Amy made something lovely. People listened and got involved and trusted and played. I wanted to make certain you all had the opportunity to see this too. Send "Something Lovely" to Amy Krause Rosenthal at whoisamy.wordpress.com :)

Frida Kahlo

2010-07-06T13:06:00.005-05:00

A friend of mine mentioned that it is Frida Kahlo's birthday. I would like to post a quick homage in her honor. So much that Frida brought to the art world inspires so many of us. Her elaborate costumes and pride of heritage. Her wicked realism/surrealism (depending who you talked to. Some say she painted the most honest and basic form of realism), non-egotistical portayal of herself. I understand she had a dark sense of humor and this I like most, she treated children as her equals. What a cool woman.

California Poppy

The Garden, The Paintings, The Dog

2010-07-05T22:39:00.002-05:00

We don't like when weekends start out rough. It began like this... somehow our little IG wiped out on the back stairs when she was playing with my daughter and her friends. No one actually witnessed it, they only heard her shrieking and crying. (Emily has a tendency toward the dramatic.) Her rear paw was in pain because she wasn't using it at all.

We spent a majority of the evening at the emergency animal care center and Emily milked every pitiful moment like a wee damsel in distress.

After x-rays and thorough examinations the doctor finds nothing... The trouble is, it is three days after her accident and the poor pup is still not using her paw. We're going to wait a few days, but if x-rays showed nothing, what could the trouble be?

poor, poor pitiful me

The weekend was gorgeous. We enjoyed the garden, and family, good food and spectacular fireworks.

And we come to Monday. It's my daughter's first official day at work. (I don't know how I feel about that. Last year driver's ed, this year a part-time job, next year graduation. Another year closer to independence.)

I have the afternoon to myself so I work on some new ideas.

I love these summer afternoons so much. Never ending summer afternoons.

Announcing the Winners

2010-07-03T17:51:00.000-05:00

I have two winners to announce this afternoon. This lovely breezy summer afternoon. So let's begin today's post with the announcement.

The first winner is romantic Cielo from the House in the Roses.

Winner number two the super cute Alicia from The Doll and the Pea.

Shoot me an email with your addresses and your choice of Woodwings. I will send them as soon as I get your responses!

Freebie Give away

2010-06-30T18:05:00.003-05:00

What a party!

Leeroy Out Loud! by Rae Huestits

I've never really been a part of something like this virtual party hosted by Vanessa of A Fanciful Twist. I'm still pretty green behind the ears when it comes to posting and engaging audiences, linking, loading and chatting up. But I have to say I love it! What an experience this weekend was. I still find myself going back to some of the tea parties I may have missed. Fun Fun Fun!!!

I wanted to remind any new visitors that all of the items listed in the post below are up for grabs.

I will give away

2 that's right , 2 prints

1 each to 2 lucky winners in honor of Vanessa's Mad Wonderful Tea Party and Baby.

Leave a comment here or below, AND add your name to the followers list to be included in the give-away which will be anounced on Saturday.

Mad Tea Party Adventureland!

2010-06-26T17:44:00.004-05:00

Three young party goers arrive in the garden, expectant and dreamy-eyed. They received an invitation to a tea party and arrive just in time, which concerns the young ones because every party goer knows that the fashionable never arrive to a party on time or, don't even think it...early!

"Are you sure this is the day."

"Yes, one hundred percent."

"Did you see any one else or are we the first to arrive?"

"Oh, I hope we're not the first..."

"I'm pretty sure I saw the peculiar cat up in the trees over there."

The cat that was at one moment sitting on a branch across the wood appeared at the tree immediately across from our party goers, at once startling and embarrassing the girls.

Excusez-moi. I can hear you I am standing right here.

Sincere apologies. Have you you seen our host yet? Has he made his appearance? Do you know when he is scheduled to arrive? Have we come too early? Have we arrived too late?

The cat dissolved until the chattering stopped and the party goers thought they were alone again. So they moved closer to the glow of the lighted trees, trying to make themselves appear at ease among the pansies and poppies, peonies and primrose.

"Lovely, not a soul in sight..."
Murmured one party goer as she pouted so lovely the White Hare could not hide in the brush any longer and cheerily pounced into the poppy field to the part goers delight!

You Are Late!

The hare declared in her accusatory and nervous tone. Not at all as gracious as the young party goers have come to expect of their hosts and hostesses.

How is it possible that we are late if there is no one here?

No one here?
(appeared the cat from no where)

Oh dear we must prepare for Alice is near. Places everyone. Places!

The White Hare danced around creating more confusion than order.

A rumbling sound was heard from under foot. An earth shrinking movement from the same surface of the moss covered ground.
Excitement filled the atmosphere as the air filled with the scent of joyful youth and anticipation.

Hopeful guests pictured Alice drinking and growing and eating and un-growing and tumbling and arriving at the table to feast!
A thunderous sound of disappointment filled the field as in unison the group voiced their disappointment as the queen arrived with a royal display.

Characters on horseback carried in her unnecessary accessories to the afternoon soire. The Queen of Hearts carried with her the strong scent of roses and although her demeanor is not as awful as once we read of, the air did carry a bit of a chill.

Tea was poured and crumpets and cake passed from hand to hand and an afternoon of delightful conversation was spent among the lighted trees and scented woods.

When smash, dab, out of nowhere plunked the darling of the day.

Oh dear, I fear I may have landed on a hookah!

She was the life the the party the dear girl!

Anyone in the mood for a game of volleyball? Croquet is so last year.

And so the party commenced and continued until the fireflies joined in and the hoot owls reminded the guests of the lateness of the evening.

And the party goers agreed that this was worth the wait and no one could tell them that they went to the best party of all because the party goers knew that this mad and wonderful tea party was the event that could not be captured in print or in pictures. Memory alone could contain the splendor of this day.

For your own snapshots to commemorate this lovely day, visit

woodwings.etsy.com

Free print will go to a randomly selected guest. The only thing I ask in return is that you become a friend of this blog and leave a comment listing your favorite character in this days story.

Simple as that. Become a follower and leave a comment listing our favorite character from the story above. In one short week, that is next Saturday, I will announce the winner.

Love to all.

Cake

2010-06-15T13:12:00.007-05:00

Listen to the sound of that word. Cake. I was listening to public radio on the way home from work, as I always do when alone in the car and the commentary was about cake. And I thought what a wonderful sounding word cake is. I don't mean just the images it conjures up or the cravings that may gnaw at you after hearing a commentary about cake. I just love the masculine, direct sound of the word. Nothing flouncy. Cake.

I realize that I prefer my cake that way too. Simple, understated, undecorated. Don't get me wrong...I have loved strawberry shortcake with freshly whipped cream, and the most lovely of all cakes, a raspberry charlotte from Ambrosia, a small French bakery in Barrington IL which we order for the most special of birthdays in our family circle. Ambrosia sends home each work of art decorated with orchids. A fanciful and delicious treat. Or the pear torte that refreshes us after a day at the beach, with a fresh fruit whipped frosting so fragrant you would swear you were swimming in nectar. I've loved them all.

But a nice simple cake is like an honest, strong man. I just can't turn away from him....

uh, it. I can't turn away from it.

http://technicolorkitcheninenglish.blogspot.com/2008_11_01_archive.html

Book Fair-eys!

2010-06-05T15:10:00.000-05:00

Today was our annual trek to the Little City Book Fair at the Old Orchard shopping mall in Skokie, IL. Nina and I could barely contain our excitement, dorks that we are. But in our defense, we met up with some of our friends, very cool people, that filled their shopping carts just as high as ours.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48587812/books-print

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48720440/book-love-print

On the table

2010-05-31T21:04:00.001-05:00

It's been a stormy day. My girl Emily sat by my side as I worked on a new idea. There is still a bit to do before it's finished, but a blog is the place to send out sketches and see what the universe sends back

Bridesmaids, flower girls, wood nymphs? I'm undecided

A Spanish Señorita with her Italian Gentleman

Alice In Wonderland bookmark winner

2010-05-27T10:42:00.000-05:00

Thank you one and all for your varied and interesting book suggestions.
I was so happy to hear from everyone.
The randomly selected winner of the bookmark give away was Miss Liza, who also suggested the book "The Meaning of Night". Thank you Liza. I hope you enjoy your bookmark.

Besotted

2010-05-23T22:36:00.001-05:00

Besotted

Oh for crying outloud. I was preparing to go to bed and now I'll have to run downstairs for my credit card. Blasted beautiful shoes on wonderful newly found blog....

June Moon Bloom Swoon

2010-05-23T22:11:00.004-05:00

Wedding season is upon us. True love is everywhere. The scent of strawberries and cream colored peonies. The rustle of imported silks and the sparkle of a hand crafted tiara.

"you know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams"

~ dr. seuss

The bride is simply stunning, no worries no details to worry her pretty little head. The man of her dreams feels an army of marching ants in the pit of his stomach as he and his best man stop at a drive through for a large shake on their way to church. The bride's mother wipes the tears from her cheeks as she applies the third fresh coat of mascara. Father sits on the edge of his bed. Wondering how he is going to make it through this day.

il_fullxfull.118094694.jpg

Words

2010-05-17T22:36:00.000-05:00

I've been thinking about words today. Creating with words. The kinds of words that when they are thrown together in a supremely passionate way the reader or listener (when heard in a song) can't tear themselves away. They relate to them, connect to them, rock out to them, weep to them.

Check this out:

Well I never kept a dollar past sunset

It always burned a hole in my pants

Keith Richards & Mick Jagger, Happy

For there is nothing heavier than compassion. Not even one's own pain weighs as heavy as the pain one feels with someone, for someone, a pain intensified by the imagination and prolonged by a hundred echoes.
Milan Kundera, The Unbearable Lightness of Being

Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair. Kahlil Gibran

The only way to deal with an unfree world is to become so absolutely free that your very existence is an act of rebellion.

Albert Camus

Southern trees bear strange fruit
Blood on the leaves
Blood at the root
Black bodies swinging in the southern breeze

Strange fruit hanging from the poplar trees

Billie Holiday

Every time we say goodbye, I die a little.
Every time we say goodbye, I wonder why a little.
Why the gods above me, who must be in the know,
think so little of me they allow you to go.
When you're near there's such an air of spring about it.
I can hear a lark somewhere begin to sing about it.
There's no love song finer but how strange the change from major to minor,
Every time we say goodbye, every single time we say goodbye.

Cole Porter

...**Sigh**... Don't you just love words. Genius I say.

Giveaway: Alice Bookmark

2010-05-15T14:51:00.007-05:00

Hey Mr. Sunshine, we miss you so much. We know you can burn through all those rain clouds. Come on now, don't give up. The sweet song of the birds are welcoming and quite a bit joyful. They won't let these grey skies keep them in hiding, well then why should I.

First things first. Congratulations to Jessica for being the first winner of the first Woodwings give-away. Be on the look-out for your package Jess and thank you for the really thoughtful words.

It's a good time of year to hide from the rain under the shelter of your front porch and snuggle into your coverlet or near the light of a window overlooking your pond with your puppy on your lap and a good book to stir your imagination.

I often choose my books based
on the covers. This one was
recommended by my friend Emily.
She too is a huge Alice fan.

And so, regarding this week's giveaway....What's the last book you read? Post your recommendation for us. It's as simple as that, and you may be randomly selected to win the Alice bookmark.

It makes no difference what the book is. Children's book, romance novel, dictionary, tv guide ;) Share and win this bookmark. The deadline for your comments is May 26th.

Thanks for stopping by.

Freebie for your comments

2010-04-29T12:39:00.011-05:00

Hey all you talented, thriving part-time artists/full-time mothers/full-time other job persons. Tell me what makes you tick. What makes you passionate about getting home, feeding the family, organizing your life and then creating till bedtime. Show me the way. Share with me your secrets to success.

I'm beat. Weekends seem to be the only time I have the creative energy to paint. Then I beat myself up all week for not working harder. blah blah blah. How do you super human women do it?

Leave your comment in response and on May 15th I will randomly select one of you to win a free print of my newest painting seen right here. (Don't forget to leave your email address so that I can contact you.)

2010-01-24T16:20:00.006-06:00

With romance in the air (yes, Valentines Day still means something to some people) It seems most appropriate to use poetry as inspiration for the stories of my new Etsy listings.

I really connected with "Failing and Flying" by Jack Gilbert

Everyone forgets that Icarus also flew.
It's the same thing when love comes to an end,
or the marriage fails and people say
they knew it was a mistake, that everybody
said it would never work. That she was
old enough to know better. But anything
worth doing is worth doing badly.
Like being there by that summer ocean
on the other side of the island while
love was fading out of her, the stars
burning to extravagantly those nights that
anyone could tell you they would never last.
Every morning she was asleep in my bed
like a visitation, the gentleness in her
like antelope standing in the dawn mist.
Each afternoon I watched her coming back
through the hot stony field after swimming,
the sea light behind her and the huge sky
on the other side of that. Listened to her
while we ate lunch. How can they say
the marriage failed? Like the people who
came back from Provence (when it was Provence)
and said it was pretty but the food was greasy.
I believe Icarus was not failing as he fell,
but just coming to the end of his triumph.

There is no failure in love lost when memories are good.

New Squareheads

2010-01-16T19:54:00.005-06:00

I have three new additions which are not yet ready to be added to Etsy. This is the first. I am pretty comfortable naming her Esther, but her story hasn't come to me yet. I've sent out some feelers to Jess, who is my story muse. Her sense of humor sometimes brings tears to my eyes. I'll wait patiently and see what comes forth. I'm thinking that Esther's outline needs to be bolder as thick as the line around her skirt. A few more days just looking at her before I call her finished.

This one is pretty much finished, except for the locket swinging from her elegant neck. A title and a story, a frame and some jewels and she is ready for Etsy.

Love Is A Myth

The story for her was easy. Although I like this very raw look of the wood peaking through I can't quite call her finished yet. She needs a tattoo like a brand to bring her ancient aesthetic to the 21st century and a few highlights on her Andalusian tail. Soon, very soon.

2009-11-16T12:33:00.006-06:00

When you want to express your love for someone as an artist every detail of the item or event you're planning has to involve your entire self. The baby shower we planned for Katie and Jason is finally past us. But what a tiring and fulfilling month it's been.

I wanted to share some of the pictures for anyone running low on ideas for their next baby shower. Katie and Jason already know they're having a boy, so the theme was simple. Several weeks ahead of time I found a freebie template online through this link http://hemidemisemiquaver.wordpress.com/2008/04/30/flowers-in-a-popcorn-box/ It's simple and looks so polished and pro. See my version below.

Instead of adding flowers to the inside as Becky did we placed a demitasse with coffee, tea, honey sticks and scrumptious chocolates. Topping it off with perfect paper flowers that my Nina made for me. The guest were so happy and appreciative when presented with these as take-home gifts.

I even found delicious wine, by Barefoot Cellars, that seems as though it was made for baby

showers. Check out the adorable blue foot print on the label.

I really want to share a photo of the pastry table thanks to the genius bakers in our family. My mother's Polish kolaczki have a French twist that friends from PA said were worth traveling 600 miles for. Bo's melt in your mouth carrot cake wishing the mommy a "speedy delivery". Aunt Krystyna's Chocolate Raspberry Tart with blackberries...where did she find blackberries?! My Aunt Danuta's marzipan bars with Lilliputian baby booties and my daughter's favorite chocolate dipped strawberries. Finally, Susan's picture perfect cupcakes with strawberry puree frosting, oh yes!

And the grandmother-to-be, Bo, provided spectacular fresh flower bouquets (she has the best taste).

I hope these few ideas inspire you! Use them and have a wonderful party!

My goal is to have a few ideas of the next paintings that I'll be adding to esty added to the post very soon. In the meantime visit me at www.woodwings.etsy.com

Now that the shower is over I have no excuses to get back to work!