Would You Expatriate

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

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

How Quickly We Dance

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

All things seem possible in May  ~ edwin may teale

Holiday Winner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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!