Latitude Studios

bike ride anyone

2012-02-05T09:47:00.000-08:00

Hooray for early garage sales! I found this beauty yesterday :)
Can't wait to take her for a spin.

journal journey

2012-01-30T16:27:00.000-08:00

I have been absent for a while. Self imposed, if you

can't say anything nice don't say anything at all, pull yourself up by your boot

straps, screw you all, guilt, anger, lay in bed, kind of

absence that can be hard to

climb out of.

The holidays are tough for me, my kids are getting older, and i don't know about any of you...

blended families can be tricky during the season especially.

My youngest son lives with his Dad four hours away from me and-

let's just say there isn't a current workable parenting plan.

i miss my family unit, struggle with realistic expectations on the whole lousy situation,

and have trouble reconciling with

what it actually is. I do have a good life. I am thankful.

sometimes.... the things that are not in my control

are difficult to let go of and just be ok with them.

I've been journaling though

sometimes with words, a lot of times

just with color and texture.

I really do enjoy it. The freedom of just trying new mediums, techniques,

and throwing color on a discarded books gives

me freedom.

freedom to screw up

- it's just an old book that someone

was going to throw out.

no judgements, no worries

There is no guilt or jealousy. No stress or repercussions.

just art

Recently a good friend told me that I don't have to forgive.

This is something that is somewhat against

the societal ideal that inner peace comes with forgiveness. She pointed out that forgiving an act against you is pointless and self damaging if that same grieves act is repeated over and over.

It's almost if she gave me permission to be ok.

I don't have to forgive.

Permission to not feel guilty:

not being able to forgive

not even wanting to forgive

I painted again. Big, bright and bold. It made my heart feel good.

It made me feel Bold.

thank you art. thank you friend.

Teen Night at the Schack

2011-12-11T18:36:00.000-08:00

So happy to announce I will be at the SCHACK for Teen Night!

Come hang out with your teen from 6-8 in Everett

and get your art on!
I will help your kiddo make a personalized
holiday keepsake.

We'll take your kiddos photo (above is my prototypes- 2 of my 4 offspring) and

transform them into keepsakes.
Yes, I'll let your teen choose their text....
and that is the only warning I'll give.

I will ENCOURAGE positive statements that will

match their time and place in their teen life.

I'll try honest.

A few quotes I found humorous:

Never lend your car to anyone to whom you have given birth. ~Erma Bombeck

Few things are more satisfying than seeing your children have teenagers of their own. ~Doug Larson (thankfully still waiting to realize this one!)

There is nothing wrong with today's teenager that twenty years won't cure. ~Author Unknown

*******************************

Honestly, I love them. I work with them all day and then come home to them at night. They are everywhere and often feel like no one knows them. They don't realize we have all been there. In our own children, it often seems like they have morphed into a being so unrecognizable it makes sense to eat our own. Stay true fellow teenage parents.

think about your kiddos friends. Aren't they respectful, insightful, and fun to be with?

I guarantee our own wily offspring remember what we taught them when they are visiting their friends homes.

If this isn't the case for my own kids, someone better be making a phone call to me!

Anyway... hope to see you at the Schack.

Keep artin' it up.

xoxoxo Jody

Hometown fun

2011-12-04T12:27:00.000-08:00

For any of you that are near my hometown of

Snohomish....

come on by the shop for a

good old fashioned

holiday

gathering!

Tuesday night at Tom Walker's Hair Salon

my bff will be there

Shelly will be there

with her beautiful Bungalow Bling goodies

i will be there

the talented stylists

of the shop of course!

chillin' with my gnomies

2011-11-13T15:54:00.000-08:00

Here is another sample (yet to be finished) of what me and my gnomies will be working on this Friday at Pine Creek Nursery. The class I am teaching will be housed in their beautiful loft. Sign up soon, slots are filling up.

We'll have wine and goodies. Art and fun.

REALLY, NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY.

Bring a photo, image (like my gnomie man), a favorite poem, lyric, or quote. That's all.

I'll provide the rest.

Hope to see you all there.

To register, simply email me at jodycarlsoncain@gmail.com...... tell me you are for sure gonna be there.

My First Adult Art Class!

2011-11-08T20:16:00.000-08:00

MIXED MEDIA CLASS.... FUN FOR US ADULTS!

A wonderful opportunity to create a unique gift for that special someone

You guys know that usually I get to play with kids, playing with paint, upcycled materials, and whatever other art materials I can get my hands on. For the first time, I've decided to play with the big kids!

Yup.. from middle school students to the fellow middle age.. I don't know if that is a good advertisement or not? oh well.. For those that know me, this is not a surprise, and those that don't will find out how honest I am. LOL. Really any adults are invited!

We will work with soap boxes and turn them into unique works of art, individualized for you! Just bring in the supply list posted above, and be willing to improvise. You will leave with a wonderful gift, a keepsake, a work of art. REALLY! You will be amazed at what you can do.

Relax, there is no experience necessary. You will be among friends (btw, BRING THEM!) and all of us are more than capable of mistakes. The cool part of art is that this just leads to creative solutions.

We will be working in Gwen and Paul's wonderful airy loft above Pine Creek's gift shop. The space is absolutely inspiring!

No worries, just creative time to enjoy.

Please email any questions---- class minimum required... rsvp soon!

jodycarlsoncain@gmail.com

Girls Night Out

2011-10-26T20:39:00.000-07:00

Come join me at Pine Creek Nursery's Girls Night out! We will be in an AMAZING atmosphere, surrounded by incredible decor, gifts, art, deserts, and refreshments too. Make sure and check out Tippy Stockton online, but really, really you have to show up and see her fab jewels and her wonderful self in person.

grab a gal pal, head east.

add art

nature's bounty

baubles

pottery

handcrafted edibles

wine

mix in a short drive for a wonderful night

see you there!

Winter Wishes

illustration friday....{fuel}

2011-10-24T21:13:00.000-07:00

still processing!

2011-10-24T21:08:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful and exhausting weekend at the Ruffles and Rust event in Monroe this last weekend. I am still trying to recover, and still trying to process the success I was so blessed with.

a few great things:

i laughed like crazy

hugged new and old friends

re acquainted with repeat customers

got a loud "hell ya"i got a tearful "i am proud of you"

my mom came and saw my booth

my buds from school came and saw what i do and were AMAZED

got help from my boys

found my 11 yr old cowboy boots (major hugs)

garm pushed me across the parking lot on my cart (love it!)

i just bought a new bed

I have new pics, thanks to Amber. So sweet of a lady and so talented as well.

I am going to bed tonight, dreaming of the sleep country delivery truck that will be here tomorrow!

Ruffles and Rust 2011

2011-10-21T14:48:00.000-07:00

So excited about the way everything came together!

Vintage Inspired ART everywhere

I'm all for believin'...... is there anything else to say?

Come see me tomorrow from 9-4! Remember to use the discount ticket!

Mingle GiveAway!

2011-10-06T21:08:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to have been flippin the pages of the new Mingle magazine put out by Stampington!
As always, this publisher has put out brilliant photos, inspiring stories, and incredible images of the lovely creative souls that are across our wonderful nation. I am happy to be giving one of the copies away, and keepin' one for me of course!

My favorite (or of least one of many) includes a pictorial story of a group of friends, enjoying the dyi life, junkin in style, and the bounty of friendship and creativity. It inspires me to gather my gal pals, to relish the joy of the little things in life. Just to mingle with like minded individuals.

Take a moment, share with me who you would "mingle"with in your very own junkin, dyi'ing, creative gathering. You just might win your very own copy of Mingle.....
I promise you won't be disappointed.

Comment soon, I will be mailing one of you the magazine by Monday, October 10th!

I'm Hosting a Mingle Giveaway!

2011-09-29T16:03:00.000-07:00

so happy to announce I get to preview this new magazine!

but i will share, honest.

i will be hosting a give-a-way

for a copy of Stampington's newest!

stay tuned for all the details.

i am sure we will not be disappointed with this incredible publisher.

can't wait to be inspired

xoxo

Re Store

2011-09-25T22:02:00.000-07:00

I am definitely of the #2 variety.

had a blast today at Bellingham's

RE STore

LOTS OF TREASURES!

so looking forward to sharing them with you at

Ruffles and Rust!

please feel free to print this

coupon

for discount admission!

Customer Appreciation

2011-09-24T09:04:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to tell everyone that i will be

at Ben Franklin Crafts on

October 1st for their

fabulous

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY!

come visit me

from 11-2

while i demo, chat,

and share a sneak peak

at new work!

hope to see you there

xoxo

art + school

2011-09-23T06:32:00.000-07:00

well,

we are

back.

trying to

get into

the

swing of

things.

school schedules

homework

early mornings.

My two boys are working

like crazy

at the pumpkin

farm.

my baby is

now

middle school.

i am still

loving teaching art.

i posted this lovely bird

(all 5 ft x 5 ft)

outside of my

classroom

for

curriculum night.

art gives you wings

birdie here inspired by Cori Dantini

painted on "old school"

window blind.

photos with retro camera for android

2011-09-15T20:21:00.000-07:00

Need i say more?

I will, but not yet!

print this coupon for discount admission!

born in a barn

2011-09-13T21:24:00.000-07:00

Here is what I think.....

follow your bliss

Here is what my son thinks....

Now I can say I was born in a barn!

my hubby hung my prized barn door in the entry.

gosh I love it...

school is on a roll now, haven't had much time to post. I will be sending out news and pics of my latest work soon.

I'm all for believin'

xoxoxo J

fresh paint

2011-08-28T20:32:00.000-07:00

I had an absolutely wonderful time at Fresh Paint in Everett. My sales companion and star of the show (aka... my daughter Abby) did a wonderful job and is quite the business lady. Not only did she make sales, but asked if she sold an original, could she get 25%! Oh my, how did she get like this? ha ha

Here she is, "the star". I painted her with fluid acrylic because we missed the face painter- something that was a requirement for her. It did come off that night, but i did refuse to paint other kids at the show! I had many parents asking :)

Here is Enija, one of the highlights of the weekend. Like I shared with you before, one of my pieces from the previous Fresh Paint was published in the magazine Create With Me by Stampington. Anyway, Enija's signature can be seen in the lovely owl and she was SSSOOOOOO excited to find out she was also a published artist!

I am so excited to use the papers that kiddos and adults stamped for me in my next Fresh Paint exclusive! Who knows whos one of a kind designed stamp will steal the light... :)

The family and I just got back from a few days of relaxing, time again for laundry and cleaning (urgh) and getting ready for school. I miss sitting on the dock already!

Hope everyone enjoys the last days of summer xoxo Jody

repurpose... upcycle

2011-08-03T20:38:00.000-07:00

sometimes life is funny. my hubby and i happened to meet this guy via craiglist (hubby chasing a canopy) when we met him to look at it one thing led to another.. and no dirty thoughts out there.... our conversation veered off to my studio spreading all over the house

the title from my newest painting :)

and how I love to bring things home. I have found many things over the years

a barn door that i fell in love with. i just couldn't pass up the wonderful paint- there is no way to recreate the cracks and the character!

a office chair that had cracking upholstery. the neighbor that was moving just gave it to me.... FREE! I have since re-covered it but my family was shaking their heads as i wheeled it very very noisily down the street home :)

this is my latest find! I am in LOVE. hubby didn't even roll his eyes on this one!

i don't have a pic, but one day i took the dog for a walk and found a barbecue someone had set out on the street. I left with the dog on a leash and came home with the dog and a barbeque!

so anyway, back to our craigslist friend. he had a business that went capoot and asked us if we neeeded any doors. after paroosing his stuff (both my hubby and i wishing we had major cash) we left with 2 hollow doors.

these are not the doors, but the repurposed side effects. hubby cut them down with his table saw and filled the edges, i am now the very very happy owner of 5 new canvases! this is just from one of the doors :) they don't warp, i can add as many layers as i want, and of course, the cost can't be beat! I have already covered 2, now 3 to go! hubby needs to make some time to work on door number 2! :)

these new canvases are amazing.... they are 1 1/2 inches deep and i am lovin what it does!

the sun comes in my studio in the mornings! i feel so blessed.

happy creating everyone.

my life with teenagers and other animals

2011-07-29T13:35:00.000-07:00

someone stole my camera last week. one of the kiddos. the pics i am showing you are only a few of the MANY of neighbor cats and of our dogs...... i think that that someone was bored!

i don't know about you, but i am surrounded by animals. a house with 3 teenage boys, one teen girl and a teen wanna be. btw, did i mention 2 cats, 2 dogs, one husband, and the various other male, boxer-wearing things (rugrats, boys, papas, etc) that seem to crash here, eat the food and need their laundry washed. oh and another btw... did i say that i actually love it?

my son christian, oldest and most mature right? i reminded him we don't wear underwear in the front yard. he proceeded to skip up and down the street .. go figure, he is a dork like his mama. i laughed so hard!

son of mine Joey... here with a son-like sammy. I woke up one morning to find these two cuddlers in my back yard :) i told them they were spooning ha haha .. not really, but they were worried!

HAVE A GREAT DAY!

XOXO

I love Seuss

2011-07-29T08:25:00.000-07:00

Work in progress.

the great lines and colors of Dr Seuss are forever

my favs! No matter how old you are, they are still true..

you have brains in your head

you have feet in your shoes

you can steer yourself any direction you choose

more to follow!

amazing day

2011-07-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

Amazing Day

Thanks to a customer at Choochokam arts festival,

i was inspired by e.e. cummings.

she shared with me this most wonderful poem.

I thank you God for this most amazing day,

for the leaping greenly spirits of trees,

and for the blue dream of sky

and for everything which is natural,

which is infinite, which is yes.

s are opened) this amazing

Rainbow Grow

Grow grow grow. EVERY DAY.

Keep going, learning, and living.

perennial

2011-07-22T07:20:00.000-07:00

i have had a busy summer and have missed many IF topics,
but i just had to post today.

this weeks illustration friday topic is
perennial
which is

perfect for my trees.

grow every season

as many of you know, i am infatuated with trees.

the symbolism

longevity

strength

perseverance

i could go on and on but i wont!

Creative Fairy's DO exist

2011-07-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

thanks tammi (my brown wren) for sharing this. for those of you new to ted, this is a great place to visit. this is worth the 19 minutes, enlightening, makes me question thought processes and how i (and we) address creativity and the idea of genius.

Thanks to Shell of Bungalow Bling, affirming the creative fairy in my life!

a love story

2011-07-17T21:07:00.000-07:00

I was totally inspired by fellow blogger Alisa Burke and had to paint. the studio space is a mess. but i got messy and had a blast! i started with local topographic maps (step son says i am a map murderer hahaha) and a cool sea map of the strait of juan de fuca--- and a few sewing pattern things in too, just for good meausure. i sure am funny tonight!

anyway, here is the start..

i covered it all with a coat of titan buff/ water and then started adding color! i nabbed the costco sized egg carton and used it to add lovely turquoise texture everywhere. my roller was very busy too.

Alysa used shoe polish to add her text and that idea sounded like fun. i went to Freddy's yesterday and got some but when my canvas was ready, i tested the polish on a different canvas. :( definitely not the same kind of results, i got dull gray ucky. a tad disappointed, i looked for something else to write with big and sloppy. i grabbed the shiva oil paint sticks. yes... messy and fun.

once it dries i plan to hang it over our bed. i still have a few more details to add but am thrilled with the messiness of it all. my hubby and i both agreed on the rumi poem after much searching.

Thanks Alisa for the inspiration!

Piece of quiet

2011-07-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

Just finished a new one! woohooo

i stayed up late last night on a creative roll... more to be posted soon.

this lovely is 8x10

and ready to go

email if you are interested!

impromptu

2011-07-13T16:35:00.000-07:00

just had a wonderful lunch with my bestie wendy. went to joyworks, and saw my work in the shop! what a thrill :)

Of course wen has to say loudly "i know this artist". i laughed hmmhmm - for those who don't know me, my laugh is unique haha. kinda loud and unmistakable. thanks jana for putting up with us two! we always enjoy ourselves

xoxo jody

Art and sun, a great combo

2011-07-13T07:25:00.000-07:00

Hubby and I spent the weekend at Langley among art friends and the sunshine. The weather couldn't have been better! We had a much needed mini vacation, met many new people, and got some sunshine to boot.

Me and Garm at the "Drawing Table" getting
a little smooch in :)

This gal had way too much fun! I LOVE the hair

We had some issues with our original accommodations plan-

the scotty trailer wasn't ready
no truck to pull it
not sure where to park it when we got there
does the propane work
toilet flush?

just a few things! minor issues only :) We will soon have it going and i will post pics of the inside soon. I have definitely been art funkin it up. Thanks Krys for the idea of oilcloth, I'll be hitting joanne fabric with my coupon soon. i'll post more pics soon of my goofy project.

Tammi, of my brown wren was at choochokam too! She is such a doll and we got to visit a bit in between customers. it always amazes me the grace, creativity and compassion that i encounter. thank you tammi for your friendship.

Gotta love that grin Tammi!

I am going to take an impromptu trip to Montana next week and then it's to Snohomish for Klahaya days July 23rd and 24th. I so enjoy being in my hometown and seeing friends. If you haven't ever been to this street fair, you should. it's a great family event with everything from frog jumping contests, silly eating contests, and of course a hot rod car show!

Scotty Part 1

2011-06-28T12:45:00.000-07:00

Day one of Scotty Repair...

Hubby is not sure if I have bitten off

more than he can chew!

I am truly excited about the project although

others may not share my enthusiasm

for the project or the

vintage

That's ok.

they can feel how they want. I am pumped.

my little scotty will be somewhat operational for our

journey to Whidbey Island on the 9th for

Choochokam Arts festival.

I saw my booth assignment yesterday and you can find me on the water side of the festival, near the best pizza in town.

We'll be able to sleep and hopefully have functional running water.

pulling it may be an issue! We are going to borrow my sons

rattle can black supersized chev pu. ugh.

i guess the good thing is they will be from the same era :)

the holes have been patched and repaired (thanks my dear)

and I am working on the aesthetics part of course.

I pulled a jody, covered all the cupboard with my favorite paper.

they looked so cool!

I figured out after the fact that I had covered the

INSIDE of the damn things! uffdah

so now, i get to do the outside :)

i may have used some bad words when i figured this one out

Next step: find material to cover the cushions.. haven't upholstered

anything like this before. there may be some inflammatory words involved here, but it's all an adventure right?

anyone have any funky ideas for cushions? my goal is free, cheap, different. they will get dirty. white is NOT a good idea for me.

I plan on using the trailer to haul art stuff, sleep at shows, and i may allow kids? ha ha. dogs too.

Happy Fathers Day

2011-06-19T16:25:00.000-07:00

Here is my dad.. what a guy.

You know that song by Hewey Lewis, "I want a new drug".....One of my memories of him is when we were driving down the road in his old truck and that song was on the radio. As I was singing "I want a new TRUCK", I told him how nice it was that there were new songs NOT about drugs! He didn't even crack a smile. Wow... I don't think i could manage that one. He has been gone now for 15 years.

Miss ya and love you more than you ever knew.

This weekend has been full...

my best teacher buddy is retiring after a long and successful career. I have never seen a teacher hand out so many compliments to kids or have so many students return and visit. EVER. He will be missed, by me and many others. But by me the most :)

We have collected letters from friends, students, and co-workers and i worked on my first meaningful handmade book. talk about stressful- i wanted it to be perfect for my friend and i used lots of techniques on this project for the first time. Im feeling ok about the results. i know that if i had 3 more weeks, i still wouldn't be finished. i just want it to be meaningful for him.

Thank you Marshall!

He is a mentor, a leader

More of the busy weekend:

Other weekend project, yes of equal importance. FATHERS DAY HERE AT HOME.

Here is "Garmy's Garden". My daughter and I created a salad bowl for my health conscience hubby. Lettuce, Leeks, spinach, and broccoli! of course, in a repurposed container.

hopefully, we'll keep it alive all summer!

xoxo to my love.

Hoopla!

2011-06-09T20:57:00.000-07:00

Just found this pic! omg I am a DORK!

All this happened at our local art gallery....

see more here at Hoopla

Farm Chicks

2011-06-09T16:35:00.000-07:00

We had

lots of customers waiting

incredible displays

It was a whirlwind of a weekend!

I still have more photos to share..... and of course links too!

but please, this is the first day for me to feel human..

i have been down with "walking pneumonia" and today is the

first day I put real clothes on and stayed out of bed for more than five minutes all week. It almost feels surreal with all that

has happened in the last 2 weeks to come to such a screeching halt. My husband says it is the only way for me to slow down. Papa says

that's the all us Raines girls are... just don't sit still.

how can you when there is stuff to be done?

anyway, trying to not overdue it. RIGHT.

i am just very thankful my family is supportive of me

galavanting across the state to such a amAZInG event. they

don't truly understand how this has just solidified and glorified my

junk /garage sale/ treasure hunting fetish. hahaha.

we'll keep this to ourselves.

it's probly a good thing i missed the fancy dinner

missed the glampers on the river

i missed some fun

but.... i think i kept myself outta trouble :)

Serena (& crew) and the other vendors were phenomenal. every where you went there was laughter and you could tell you were among friends. thanks everyone.

Got Latitude..... at the Farm Chicks!

2011-06-03T20:26:00.000-07:00

Wow!

Had so much fun today..

These lovely ladies belong to my neighbors at Farm Chicks. We gave them a little coverage :)

I know, i look a little off huh? we were laughin so hard,

the pic doesn't show the third pastey!

latitude showed up all over the show!

Inslpiration!

2011-05-30T22:14:00.000-07:00

I know, I know... I have a big show, i shouldn't be worried about little things
but

I got this chair free from a guy down the street who was moving
perfect height for my studio table.
the upholstery was all cracked and every time i sat on it, flakes of the cushion would fall on the floor!

so i took my 40% off coupon to JoAnne's and got me this cool retro fabric. first upholstery job for me... not perfect but i am happy.

woohoo! i am ready (i think, maybe, not sure) for farm chicks. got things together (i think, maybe, not sure)

sure to have fun anyway. i know i will forget something. oh well.

LOOK FOR ME IN BAY 4, BOOTH 56!

IF {Asleep}

2011-05-27T07:57:00.000-07:00

Today's prompt is fitting... so many things are changing. Life, work, art...Kids grow so fast. I still remember holding my babes as they slept.
They change and evolve- i can't help and be thankful for my blessings and supporters. I am still in awe. and yes, i will frame the new Stampington magazine when i get my hands on it!
Create With Me

Huge news!

2011-05-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

biggie for me..

so excited

this July

premier issue

got

published!

omg..

so pumped

STAMPINGTON!

many questions

just proud of myself

it feels good

scary

check out

http://www.stampington.com/createwithme/

I am on their page!

OMG

Wonderful Saturday

2011-05-21T19:57:00.000-07:00

Just spent a wonderful Saturday at Snohomish Faire! Gotta love being in your own hometown :)
the weather could've been warmer and sunnier BUT I can't complain. I stayed dry and wore my vintage yellow coat and stayed warm. i got to talk to lots of people, meet new friends and old... how about a wonderful friend from 15 years ago, pals from Joyworks- Shelly and Jana are always fab, new friend Kim of Nest and Garden (sorry, no link available) but see her booth below. Way cool! I bought a piece from her and it is already in my living room! Got to talk to John of JohnBOB and chat a bit on the upcoming Farm Chicks.

Can you believe this is a turquoise bath tub repurposed to a shelving unit? Neato.. the ultumate. wondering where I would put it

A vase of chocolate, tulip and stems ALL of chocolate! Wow... what talent.

NeXT up: Farm Chicks, Spokane June 4 and 5

CAn't WAiT :)

I've missed you!

2011-05-18T18:52:00.000-07:00

Well.... my friends I have been absent for a while. I feel like I have been a tee bit distanced from my art. I needed some time for the family and big changes on the home front.

We moved from Snohomish to Lake Stevens, not far in distance. But I had no idea

how much my studio supplies had grown in the past year. My hubby and kids were a bit in awe when they saw the volume of boxes.

As I have said before, my art nerdism

started in full swing when my Grandma got sick and past away. It helped me deal, I correct HELPS. I didn't realize that my therapy filled an entire trailer and then some!

Anyway,

this is the first time in my life that I have had a studio, a place that is just mine and I dont have to clean up afterwards. what bliss! I am beginning to find my niche in the new house.. It is beautiful and I will post pics as soon as i find the camera (:

Here is a camera phone pic... you cant tell but I have a wonderful view of the lake from my work table.

Funny family, they want to know where the towels are rather than the paint brushes! lol.

things are going gang busters.... so much so that my head is twirling. I have had a smile on my face all day.. I am afraid to say yet.

I will make my first appearance at Farm Chicks in 2 weeks. There is so much to get ready, things to organize and my ideas are going crazy in my brain box. Art is not usually the thing at this gig, so I am working on a cool idea to help draw people in. why do ideas formulate when time is counting down?

2nd Saturdayz

2011-04-18T22:10:00.000-07:00

So pleased to announce that I will be in Snohomish (yeah, home town!) on the second Saturday of May... May 14th. It will be housed in the old car lot, old safeway ( I believe), old furniture store..... now totally re-done.
ya can't miss it, just drive off hwy 9 or hwy 2 onto 2nd street and keep going!

SO EXCITED that deb called me.

I will be among fellow artists and vintage lovers.

come see my new Spring Designs,

browse the junk and

have fun with the crew!

Mother's Day is around the corner, make sure and check out the

possibilities for a unique gift...

Inspiring Pals

2011-04-16T22:06:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful for the talented and creative friends in my life. They are incredible, they are supportive, they are a life line. Sometimes the other artists in our lives understand the best.

Thank you to all.

btw... i am only mentioning a two tonight. please no one be offended :)

My bud Amy, at Four Corners Design, is amaZINg at coming up with uses for everyday stuff! Check out this garden shelf made from an old metal tray.

Dana, of Urban Utopia Photography, not only has an amazing sense of humor, but also a romantic side... check out her blog. :)

cool imagery

Art runaway

2011-04-16T21:21:00.000-07:00

For this week's illustration friday topic: journey

Art- the ultimate!

If .... {Bottled}

2011-04-11T18:44:00.000-07:00

For this weeks Illustration Friday topic; BOTTLED

ever feel captured or bottled...remember, we are made to fly!

xoxoxoxo
BTW.. one of my buds told me how much a pain in the butt it was to have to do this and then do that to comment on something. SOOOO, just for you Amy, the comments are now back!

so pleaseeeee .. let me know what ya think!

busy week!

2011-04-11T16:19:00.000-07:00

Pike Place market with the kiddos!

The boys weren't that impressed with the gum wall......

but the girls thought it was cool!

We are getting ready to move..

kids are helping

Abby helping her bros!

a box igloo, as tall as the ceiling and big enough to fit two teenage boys

Wow... great helper :)

2011-04-10T20:41:00.000-07:00

My hubby really has a great sense of humor. Thank god for that.. he has done a wonderful job of supporting my arts. and carrying boxes... and ferrying stuff.....and kids too.... funny faces and all :)

new spring paintings....

2011-04-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

two of my favorite flowers.

there is something

about these

that give me

a reminder

of the good that

will come

LET'S SPREAD SOME SUNSHINE :)

give a compliment

a handshake

a smile for no reason

hug

send a note

you just may be giving the best gift that person has gotten all day, week, or month. we all get so wrapped up in our own little worlds, we often forget others have bad days too.

ON A BUSINESS NOTE....I WILL HAVE PRINTS OF BOTH OF THESE NEW PAINTINGS AND CARDS AS WELL. DON'T FORGET, MENTION MY BLOG AND YOU CAN HAVE 15% OFF ONE ITEM SATURDAY ONLY AT THE MARYSVILLE CRAFT SHOW!

Welcome Spring!

2011-04-06T13:24:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for this one day show!

Come say hi,

Mention this post for 15% off one item

am i doing anything right?

2011-03-25T20:16:00.000-07:00

I suddenly realized today that it has been 20 days since my last post. That seems like a lot and i had to think why it has been so long. i forgot my aunts birthday this week. i have been feelin kinda "off". i tried to think why and did the normal mental inventory.... kids, work, relationships, health issues, etc. yup, still all stressful to some degree. the teenagers pulling stunts, the 11 year old not cleaning her room and dressing in her own delightful way, due dates at work, another doctors visit, financial worries, the basic AM I DOING ANYTHING RIGHT?

what is my problem? then it hits me like a smack upside the head. it has been a year since i dove into this artistic journey of mine without coming up for air. art has been my savior, my light, my "me" thing that i haven't had the courage to claim my whole adult life- until now. silly me, the tears are rolling as i type. why am i going on like this in my blog? i lost my grandma this time last year. i lost a lot of things, but i did gain too. and she would be proud.

im worried about being selfish, about saying too much, about not speaking out enough about what my art has saved me from. i dont think i need to be specific to connect to others. we all have our own battles and struggles we endure: those battles that grandma was in my corner, cheering "kick his ass!" i just want to share that after 2 years of feeling like nothing worse could possibly happen, my floor dropped out. from the outside everything seemed fine. but it wasn't. i hung on by a thread and have been able to slowly climb up and out. the only reason was art.

its been hard to be in my studio. too many feelings. i made excuses, but if feels good to just finally be in here. even if all i am doing is typing. not even making sense. (and omg no caps at the start of all sentences!) oh well.

life goes on. we learn, hopefully. we share. make someone smile. give a hug. get one or more :)

its all good when my teenage son says "love ya momma" and seals it with a hug as he towers over me.

what goes around comes around. good karma. doing the right thing.

planting the seed though the harvest you may never see~

xo J

Upcoming Show!

2011-03-05T08:36:00.000-08:00

So excited to do a local one day show!

I have heard nothing but great things about this local

event. the organizer, Maryke, is doing a great

job promoting and paying attention to

details.

i have some spring surprises to offer!

you'll have to show up April 9th

to find out :)

Swarm... illustration friday prompt

2011-02-27T20:46:00.000-08:00

i have made yoga a priority this week.

boy have i missed it!

really thinking about the need for

self kindness,

joy,

to pay attention to me.

actually, with all my health issues of late..

my body is saying

HELLO-

remember me!

heres to being centered in the middle of a

swarm!

moving

2011-02-26T22:40:00.000-08:00

the blog won't be moving.... but the studio,

artists and kids of latitude will be.

yes, i have been called jody clampit before,

and i am sure it won't be the last time... :)

anyway...

in getting ready..

latitude will have a inventory reduction sale, with 15% off all prints at my etsy store .

make sure and enter the coupon code

Movin11 to receive your discount!

hope everyone is doing well.

will send more updates soon!

xox

OMG

2011-02-23T22:01:00.000-08:00

WOW! you rock.... check out this video!

{i do know that 4 posts in one day is a tad obnoxious} too bad.

just found this. have to share!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rtl1EW3urU&feature=player_embedded

LOVE you ladies. you made my evening....

cye photography :)

sew crazy on my snow day!

2011-02-23T20:11:00.000-08:00

I have been surfin today and my mind is full {overfull} of ideas and ..... stuff. I spent i don't know how much time following links from Crescendoh. i just l.o.v.e. jenny doh's site!

i created new stuff from here

brown grocery bag + bits of paper + sewing machine = fun

and basically avoided cleaning! heeee heeeee.

Not avoidance day. create day! :)

Also worked on this new one.... Follow your bliss

might have to go to work tomorrow. wouldn't mind another day of avoidance, errrrr creating!

art rules

2011-02-23T14:49:00.000-08:00

gotta share this.....thanks to this lovely blog
http://www.kerismith.com/blog/inspirations/

side tracked

2011-02-23T08:16:00.000-08:00

ok, so i still haven't posted pics of ruffles and rust.

i am so an amateur photographer!

{note to self: sign up for that digital photography class}

looking at all the fab pics posted by the pros, mine are a tad un______.... you fill in.

i get an idea. and then

anyway..

as i sat at the dr's office AGAIN, i was reading Where Women Create and drooling over the creative spaces that these ladies have carved out for themselves. thinking, yeah right! how is this mom of many, teacher of more, side tracked, scatter brained, artnerd ever going to be able to afford something like that? even better question: how the H E double hockey sticks would i even keep it so organized? so pretty.

{note to you all: when i get an idea, it's like a tazmanian devil- picture road runner cartoons of old- goes off and stuff lands everywhere.

my hubby is amazed how i seem to cover every horizontal surface}

anyhoo...

in the mag, i read an article that said be careful what you wish for. i guess there are artists out there that have dream studios and are afraid to step foot in them for what they may mess up!

i don't have that problem

just wear shoes to protect your feet :)

Illustration friday .... {layers}

2011-02-20T11:22:00.000-08:00

"Man - despite his artistic pretensions, his sophistication, and his many accomplishments - owes his existence to a six inch layer of topsoil and the fact that it rains." ~Author Unknown

My 2 images.... I sketched the first in one of my journal books,

then painted the second, with art erupting through my life. GO FIGURE!

an actual connection between my science geekiness

{hence science degree}

and art funkiness

{hence artist}

Ruffles & Rust

2011-02-19T20:56:00.000-08:00

..... I had an absolutely wonderful time this weekend! Met some wonderful people, got some great girly things for myself (links to quilter girl and trendi wendi), had great fun, got some hugs and smiles from friends, fab cupcakes.... the list will go on. Pics will follow

first...
I have to unload.

find the camera.

tomorrow.

tonight is for a glass of wine in my favorite chair.

home made soup.

dog at my feet.

quiet.

another glass of wine......LOL. of course!

have a great night everyone.

illustration friday- Reverse

2011-02-10T19:30:00.000-08:00

For those of you not familiar with illustration friday, it's this really cool site that helps keep your creative juices flowing. every week, you are given a topic to illustrate, any way you want! right up my ally for sure.

I have enjoyed it and it has become one of my goals.

this week- it meant a good deal to me. the word was reverse, but the quote was:

"Boredom is just the reverse side of fascination: both depend on being outside rather than inside a situation, and one leads to the other." ~ Arthur Schopenhauer

wow this hit home........

when i was a kid (and an adult too ) my grams would tell us that "bored people are boring".... she'd hand the bored offender a paper bag and send them off to pick up garbage outside.

this lovely reverse gal was tons of fun to create and made me think of my grandma the whole time. glam, glitter, and a regular old brown paper bag!

Just you wait!

2011-02-08T21:51:00.000-08:00

one of my true loves is upcycling..... for many reasons. economically, i have never been able to afford lots of brand new stuff to art with.... i have always loved the thrill of the hunt for "stuff" and the omg, look what i found! i think it takes a little insight to take something that would be tossed and create something useful, purposeful, and worthwhile. plus, of course, the whole recycle thing!

upcycled treasures have stories to share.

I have been working like crazy.... (i know i am driving my kids crazy- mission accomplished, lol). i have been full of ideas for the quickly approaching ruffles and rust show in monroe! So many that my home has been overrun. my bff has tried an intervention, my kids are at their wits end. there is art stuff everywhere! haha hahaaaaaa....... i kinda feel like a mad scientist :)

here is pearl. she was a gift from a wonderful seamstress friend (wait and see the cool thing Saturday). she is not quite finished. isn't she bedazzling already?

her print holder around her neck is made from a garage sale garden fence, curtain rings, and ribbon i've had for 10 years. the tripod (under her skirt :) ) is from the goodwill!

I have new products, not just prints.. you will have to wait and see.

the before mentioned bff (wendy) and i will be sporting our hats on friday night. if you are interested, the party Friday was a blast last time and i am more than excited for this part- plus you get first chance at all the cool stuff!

if you want to come on over to Monroe on Saturday, make sure and print this coupon for a discount! Print as many as you want and share with your pals too.

surrender to thyself.....

2011-01-30T23:33:00.000-08:00

I have, I hope, finally given in to me... I am what I am. love me, hate me, dislike me.... I am what I am.

hookers

2011-01-23T20:07:00.000-08:00

I have some outspoken women in my family. i also have some very creative women in my family.

my aunt denise fits in both categories and currently she is enjoying her notoriety as a hooker! I started this bag for her and "misplaced" it twice in our families two moves since. she was heading out to a hooking camp this next week and just had to finish it. (don't think i can get away with it being a christmas gift AGAIN next year too!)

i had a great time making these bags. i used up every old thomas guide i could get my hands on, some weird material someone gave me and this strapping that grandma was

going to throw out.

this is not aunt denise's rug, but it is an example of a hooked rug.

you didn't think i was talking of anything else right?

Illustration Friday- topic Dusty

2011-01-23T19:47:00.000-08:00

For fellow friends of "dusty", you may recognize Rene's new image. A little birdie told me she will soon be gracing the side of a certain camper come GLAMPING season! I have no idea what I am in for and i am sooooo excited!

here is my dusty!

cori dantini makes...: painting #18

2011-01-19T22:08:00.000-08:00

I sure do love her work! check out the simple lines,

the character in each face.......

of course I love the book pages,

not to mention the OWLS!

cori dantini makes...: painting #18

Chicken

2011-01-17T09:46:00.001-08:00

"Regard it as just as desirable to build a chicken house as to build a cathedral." ~ Frank Lloyd Wright

The background is courtesy of caleb and the many other kids who wanted to be "part of the art" at Fresh Paint last August in Everett! I will be sad when i run out of these papers!

i am always amazed how

kiddos will take pride in their art

if all you do

is tell them

it is worth it!

one last one

2011-01-15T20:34:00.001-08:00

One more for the day

I know

3 is a bit much.

although

just have to share

-having

too

much fun

picnik

new banner?....

2011-01-15T15:36:00.000-08:00

just playing around with picnik, free program recommended to me by Amy of 4 corners design! Thanks so much, I have been having fun and most surely not finished yet. i haven't tried half the stuff yet!

looking to spring

2011-01-15T11:15:00.001-08:00

one of my favorite and most relaxing things to do is to watch the birds from my back deck. you have to be quiet and listen. you have to sit and observe.

My newest feathered friend, this chickadee is in my dining room. right next to this cool tree display a friend gave me!

This colorful one displayed at Ruffles and Rust last October.

Ideas at this point... stuff from my sketch book. i am so looking forward to the awakening of spring!

growly

2011-01-07T17:57:00.000-08:00

Today - Mend a quarrel. Search out a forgotten friend. Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust. Share some treasure. Give a soft answer. Encourage youth. Keep a promise. Find the time. Forego a grudge. Forgive an enemy. Listen. Apologize if you were wrong. Try to understand. Examine your demands on others. Think first of someone else. Appreciate, be kind, be gentle. Laugh a little more.

I read this today on Lemoncholys flight of fancy. It touched me. I've had a week of sick kids, high demands at work, lab tests at the docs, and just feeling plain growly. It was perfect to read this and remember the world doesn't just revolve around me! GO Figure. LOL.

Hope it helps someone else too. Thanks kecia of Lemoncholoy for sharing!

Back to school

2011-01-04T21:02:00.000-08:00

we have been back to school now for 2 days. since that time my house has gone through strep throat, one diagnosed at least. one kiddo came home and slept till dinner and another slept through school till 1:00 today. I slept till 7 am this morning (alarm started going off at 5:45) OOPS

the dog went through my purse sometime between 1am and 7. emptied it all and ate dental floss and that cute little toothpaste you get from the dentist- sorry Richard.
chewed new shoe lace I replaced last weekend.

Got home from work, entered mom mode, made dinner (used leftovers from last night), morphed into science tutor then fractioneer and then back to molecular madwoman again. I have a science degree- that equation should be simple....... urgh.

no one seems to be able to get back on the normal schedule. hopefully tomorrow!

someone texted my son- it's snowing. Had to check to see if school was closed........

NO LUCK

jheez....... studio is where?

Sometimes when all else is frustrating..... JUST GO TO BED. :)

Resolutions

2011-01-02T10:37:00.001-08:00

Here is my resolution:

Stay calm, I can do what I can. Know my limits and be ok with myself if I can't quite reach my goals. Life happens. It's ok.
multi tasking is for the birds, feeling good about a job well done is worth not having so many irons in the fire.
be a good mom. pay attention. listen to the birds.

just be me, not anyone else.

New Year's Blessings Everyone

2010-12-31T18:26:00.001-08:00

Here is to a great new year! I wish you all well and hope your dreams, goals, and aspirations will be realized!

Winter is here!

2010-12-29T16:47:00.000-08:00

Studio is quite right now. I'm battling a sinus infection and my lovely 10 year old is watching a movie on the couch!

I am snuggled up in my favorite chair- the one my friend Abby gave me years ago. It's old, soft, cushy and has a matching foot stool. My daughters quilt is covering me and my dog is asleep by my feet. The weather has been odd today- not really for the pacific northwest- but anyway, snowy, sunny, and rain included!

I had a wonderful surprise this morning, Serena of the Farm Chicks , welcomed me as a vendor for her grand show in June in Spokane! I have spent the day perusing sites and blogs, checking out creative displays. I am, as always, in awe of the amazing people out there. I found so many sites I'd like to share- but here are a few....

vintageindie I got lost here. Just love it, full of eye candy and great reads.

Jennifer Rizzo :) about 10 times over!

Heart rocks Home...... this one even has a post about what to wear at Farm Chicks! gotta love it.

My mind is whirling, so much to think about. My art is different than the vintage dealers. I could get easily sucked in and enjoy every minute of it.... BUT I have to remember my friends advice- focus on your art! So, I still don't know how I will create my booth, but have vintage in mind. Probly something my family will just shake their heads at!

Elephant in the Room

2010-12-23T15:58:00.000-08:00

Is there an elephant in your room?

Sometimes just acknowledging it helps.
This one hangs on my lanyard for school, and it reminds me of one of my great challenges in life!

No matter the number of lists and reminders, I seem to always forget something.

I used to get so upset at myself about this- elephants don't forget right? Well I do!

I am not an elephant.

Once I changed my mind set and decided to just be happy when i figure out what I did forget, life
got a little easier to take.

Why am I sharing this now? We are all beating ourselves up about what we didn't get finished and stressin. Myself included. This isn't thereally important part of the season anyway!

Shake your finger at that elephant in your room,
and like Timi says, "it is what it is!".

Have a Happy Holiday everyone. Sit down and Relax.
It will all work out.

xoxo
J

New Beginnings

2010-12-22T12:25:00.000-08:00

I had an idea the other night for two of my paintings that....

just didn't feel right.
I wasn't liking the colors,
composition,
something just didn't jive.
So, anyway, I got one of those
paint pens that you have to push in to make the
paint come out- talk about a mess.
It lasted for about half hour.
My poor hubby tried just about anything to make it work.

cleaning the tip, mineral spirits... urgh
I just wanted to work!

I have been looking and looking.
I hit Michaels last night and grabbed some
new Sharpie paint pens. So far so good.
This is saying a lot, btw, these 2 paintings have
many layers of all kinds of stuff before I even started with
pen. There is even a layer of clear acrylic from
when I thought i was finished.

I AM STILL WORKING......

If anyone knows of an even better solution for nice
white lines on mixed media- I'd love to hear from ya!
EMAIL ME :)

Rush of Holidays

2010-12-21T13:12:00.001-08:00

Feeling like my list is long, too long, and time is short.
Walking around not sure where to start.

and then.....

got the news

2 more originals sold!

I feel so blessed.

Kids are recovering
My art is appreciated
I get to see my son tomorrow

I am not going to rush.
(cross your fingers for me)

NEW Quote I adore

2010-12-18T11:58:00.001-08:00

We teach people how to treat us~ Dr. Phil

My new dear friend just shared this quote with me.
Thank you Rene!

New Day

2010-12-18T09:01:00.000-08:00

I am struggling, hoping for a new day.

Yesterday was
exhausting, irritating.
I was at my limit
teary, exacerbated.
My friends
hugged me with their words
tried to make me laugh
Students were
filled with awkward silence.
All of us were
thinking of nothing more than
sleeping in.
We needed a break,
a new day.

There doesn't seem to ever be enough of me. Enough for my kids, my art, work, or friends. My house is in total disorder and my worries about my kids seem to cloud every thought through out my day. I want a yoga day, actually just an hour, but can't see where I can find that much time for me.

I read Kelly Rae, with her new bundle of love, True, and it takes me back when there were 4 little ones all around me. I felt similar to the way i do now, but different. I would have my hair in a pony tail for days, my shirt would be covered in spit up and toddler tantrums at the grocery store were unfortunate, irritating, and embarrassing. What about teenage tantrums? How do others live through this strain? At this point I would rather be covered in baby vomit!

I try and remember that they are searching for who they are, testing the boundaries, looking for their niche. this doesn't seem to help as they are now old enough to be in this world somewhat independently. they can walk to the store, have all kinds of distractions and opportunities along the way to do STUPID things. of course, none of the bad stuff will happen to them because they are invincible. their actions don't really affect anyone at home. They don't think further than the moment.

my time and energy are depleted. I feel like when i did when all the kids were little, bone weary. they need me now more than they did then. the opportunities for owies is all around. I keep wishing a simple baby gate would protect them.

Today is my first day on winter break from school. i have a phone call at 11 to look forward to from Rene. her support has been enormous and i can just read an email from her to lift my spirits.
I plan on working in my studio (fingers crossed), and staying home with my husband and kids.

This is a new day! I will be grateful. (wish me luck!)

Opening

2010-12-13T22:39:00.000-08:00

Had a wonderful time on lower Queen Anne yesterday. Thanks to Will, Nucleus, and the others that braved the torrential downpours.... mimosas and lively convos were all around, made some wonderful new friends and got to chat with others that made me laugh (wtf, omg.... you know who you are).

If you couldn't make it down, don't fret too much. My originals will be gracing the walls for at least a month! Please don't wait too long, I already sold 4 originals! woo hooooooooo........

I spaced pictures, too excited with the whole ordeal. The images above are of two new originals that are on the walls of Nucleus though. My obsession with trees and there connection to our lives continues.

xoxoxox to you all, and to all a good night!

Angels among us

2010-12-07T20:03:00.001-08:00

This gal was inspired by a post by Jana of Joyworks, she graciously showed me her trees first hand after I saw them on her blog and drove down to get a better look. Thanks Jana! check out her wonderful book trees and go see the shop firsthand, it's decked out in true style. I have to say I rarely leave there with out a purchase or at least a giant wish list!

I am always fond of using inexpensive materials, but using a discarded book to create art just makes me feel all silly inside. Nobody else wanted this book, it would have been tossed (I got it on a free shelf!) and then with a little love and time, the devotion is shared. Wow, I love making art. Not to mention the look on people's face as i casually fold a book while waiting at the Doctor's office. .lol....

My book angels were a grand success this past weekend and am working (or thinking....) on how to use them for spring time. Yup, thinking bout Ruffles and Rust. In the mean time, I will make a few more and see what happens. the next one will live forever at my house, we need to update our Christmas decor!

Opening Reception

2010-12-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

Can't believe that it is time for this already! Will (Nucleus), Garm (Hubby), and I hung all the work Sunday night and I'll head down later this week to make sure all is still good. We will be having light refreshments and enjoying the Queen Anne vibe. What a pairing! Come Sunday from 12-3, hope to see you all there!

soul food

2010-12-05T21:01:00.000-08:00

Had an absolutely incredible weekend in Ballard! The show, Soulumination, was incredible. Not just sales, but the people, the kids, the families.

The portraits hung all around the studio were incredible. I saw Lynette, the founder, interacting with so many of the families she had touched with her foundation- the work of soulumination. I overheard children saying that they remembered when that picture was taken, I met administrators that brightened when they re-united with the families.

I feel blessed to have been part of this event and hope that I can participate again next year!

BTW, the foundation had a GREAT Saturday. Evidently it was better than any 2 days combined so far! I hope we touched many more families this weekend! Thank you customers. Thank you Lynette for the work you do and inspire in others.

Jody

2010-11-28T12:07:00.000-08:00

Feelin' smiley! I missed seeing my hubby for 2 days and he had forgotten his phone charger. we spent time at the grocery store together and later just watched a movie in bed. i like doing nothing with that guy!

Joy!

2010-11-28T11:43:00.000-08:00

Playing around with some ideas and the joy of upcycling! i knew there was a reason i saved all this stuff! I will be selling these pins at my sale in Ballard next week. Check out soulumination 5th annual Holiday sale.

I used paint stir sticks, red burlap (from gram's years ago), this metal stuff, staples and pieces that i was going to create jewelry out of!

Off to the craft store, an ornament idea has formed. Watch out!

Snow days part 2

2010-11-26T13:46:00.001-08:00

With all the snow falling, i can't help getting the holiday vibe. it's mixed for me, as usual, since one of my sons isn't living with me right now. There is a void where he belongs and also for the others that aren't here with me anymore. my grams, my dad.... makes me relive past christmas'. i'm trying not to dwell on it and look toward the future with a smile and hopeful heart.

2010-11-23T17:15:00.000-08:00

Snow days

2010-11-23T15:22:00.000-08:00

Gotta love snow days! Papa took the kids to my cousins where there is a huge hill.. I don't drive in this stuff. After all i can say i have concerned- avoiding anxiety attacks driving in the snow is not one of them! Maybe someday....

I have enjoyed a day of painting and what have you. No kids and having to use what i have on hand.... I can't find the camera ( I think it is in my daughter's room- SCARY) so I took the following pics with my cell phone. I have spent the day repurposing just about everything. my aunt gave me these real cool little glass bottles and my mind has been going round with them.... so cool, but useful? I have more ideas, but for now, they are drying and I can spruce them up later. My hubby has upcycled some cool old tables into a secret i will share later... after what i am sure will be an argument about painting. :)

Getting ready for my opening reception feels daunting. the walls are so big and so is the potential for exposure. DEEP BREATHE.

Found!

2010-11-19T10:34:00.000-08:00

Last night the kids went on a cleaning rampage. No complaints here. We vacuumed, dusted, swept and mopped and i was forced to pick up my piles of stuff that seems to accumulate in places it shouldn't. i blame it on the momma factor: work, errands, breakfast, lunch, dinner, momma i want, momma i need, momma, momma. you get the picture. my daily bits of paper and things just kinda add up and before i know it ---- urgh.... how did this happen again!

anyway, my son found this piece that had been put "in a safe place" quiet a while ago. I made it during my masters program when i was feeling not present with my kids.. again the momma factor. guilt plays a big part. i had rummaged through my box of pictures- still no scrapbook here- and found this pic of her and i when she was about 2.

So live it well, make it count, fill it up with you. The day is all yours- it's waiting now... See what you can do.
~author unknown... if you know who it is, please let me know!

xox Jody

Special Project

2010-11-16T22:16:00.000-08:00

Working on a special project right now. Can't say more, I will post when final is ready..... I am excited that my friend is touched. I can't wait to see how everything comes together. Whenever I start a new canvas, my original idea usually changes in some way, color, textures, backgrounds, words...... something. Hopefully in a couple of days

Opening Celebration

2010-11-11T20:13:00.000-08:00

This is huge for me and I am so excited. My first opening, all of my work will be hanging by itself. No other artists! Viewers won't have anything else to look at if they aren't interested in my work. There won't be anyone to compete for customers attention. This is scary and exciting at the same time.

It's kind of like that moment when you sink or swim, _____ or get off the pot right? It's not like I haven't been in a situation like this before. I know when I went to WWU as a single mom of 4 at the age of 34 I felt similar. Is everyone staring at me? What are you looking at. I'm not good enough to be here. Damn, I belong here. I can think of so many times in my life where the contrary feelings and thoughts try to overwhelm me. What I do know is that no matter what, it'll all be ok. Someone will like my work, and someone else won't get it. That's alright. It's not why I paint anyway.

I had no intention for this post to get philosophical, just like my idea of my life at almost 40 didn't look like this! There are so many twists and turns and huge hills to climb for everyone. I pictured my self as a professional career woman, maybe in medicine or advertising, working in some big town firm. Nope, not what happened...... and that's ok.
I wouldn't trade my middle school teaching, mother of 4, momma taxi, volleyball coaching, crazy, wild, dorky life for anything. I get to laugh (and cry) with my kids, be with my family, and get my art nerd on. Who could ask for anything more?

Sometimes, when I do ask for more...like cooperation from a tyrant, a winning lottery ticket, more time in the day, or a nap. Papa listens to my sad story and says- don't worry, you always make it work somehow. You'll be fine, your kids will be fine.

Our original intents may be vastly different from the final outcome, but I do believe there is a purpose. I am going to put my work out there in the best way that I can for where I am now. I'm sure I'll forget something, be a dork, drip down my shirt, put my foot in my mouth, you name it. I'm also sure that I will learn something new with each experience!

So Liam, watch out. The whole family is coming down Dec 12th to Nucleus. The fliers are ready. I'm sharing the event with all my friends. HERE WE COME!

Nucleus Salon
621 Queen Anne Ave. N
Seattle, WA

Inspiring Day!

2010-11-10T22:31:00.001-08:00

I just got to hang out with some cool people at Audrey's house in Bothell tonight! I met some great customers and they let me chat their ear off- even tried to trade a really cool gal some things for a scarf! I had a chance to talk to some fellow peeps I totally enjoy and laugh and laugh! Timmy (Laura too) of come junk with us, Trendi Wendi (my fellow owl lover), and Tippi with hubby in tow to name a few. I ended up with a grand pair of earrings in "tippy" blue that i will wear tomorrow for sure! Pics to follow, but for now, I am headed to bed!
xoxox J

Great Saturday Morning

2010-11-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

Had a wonderful chat with my cousin Will this morning, not to mention a great hair cut. My kids and I headed out at 8 this morning for our trip to Queen Anne. It's always an adventure heading down town. Living here in rural Snohomish, we don't always get the chance to see urban life. Our cross section of people we encounter is drastically different to say the least! Anyway, it's good for the kids to see all the different ways we live and start to consider the possibilities outside of our little bubble here..... plus, it's not every day of the week that you get a Dick's burger for breakfast!

Will has an eye for sure. At his place, all of the stations are old dressing tables- covered in images. Some of these are vintage (of our family), some from his portfolio- gotta check that out, and some are just dang cool. I'll be having an opening at Nucleus next month, of course there will be more information later! for now, save the date December 12th!

Illustration Friday- topic SPENT

2010-11-03T20:31:00.000-07:00

Let the creativity continue....... I am not spent when I can still draw strength from my roots.

For those of you not familiar with Illustration Friday, it's a great site- full of artists of all types sharing their own versions of prompts every week. Just peruse and enjoy!

WOW

2010-11-03T20:13:00.000-07:00

I am so proud to participate in this event. I can't even imagine the power of these photos, of the time creating them, of the memories they must represent for these families. I have had two kids spend considerable time at Children's Hospital of Seattle and every time we are there, I feel blessed for the attention to details that only families can appreciate. Soulumination extends that far beyond. Please check out their site and learn a little about what they do and the time (attention, care) they volunteer.
Please join me December 4th - 5th at their Ballard Studio for their Artist Holiday Sale. 25% of all proceeds are directed towards the works of Soulumination in benefit of children and their families.

happy Halloween everyone!

2010-10-31T21:26:00.001-07:00

My youngest, being 10, is still excited about dressing up. For the last month and a half we have been considering different costumes- and of course accessories! we (or she) had been pretty set on a pipi longstocking type hippie (of Abby's own creation of course) until about 3 days ago! This doesn't leave a whole lot of time for a mom who has been working non stop to help create a costume that rocks......

My zombie princess was quite proud of herself that we didn't have to buy anything to complete her costume. we used a dress she already had, borrowed face paint, ratted her hair like mad, and put on Gram's bling. The only thing you don't see in the pic above is that she also had a sash that read "zombie princess of snohomish" and had leaves stuck on her coat and all over in her hair. what fun! she and her two friends ran from house to house laughing the whole way. to quote abby "the best halloween ever"

New Find!

2010-10-29T06:21:00.000-07:00

I love the idea here at Laurel Martin's blog, POD Cranberry Cloud. She and a friend start with one image as a point of departure (POD) and see where it goes. I love the mix of vintage images, words of course, and everyday images. She shares her altered art books too, I just love it!

A handwritten note is always incredible

2010-10-28T21:54:00.000-07:00

What a pleasure to meet Deb. I can't thank her enough for her support..... be sure to check out her services, I know she would probly cringe if she saw my studio/house right now!

Blogging for Dummies

2010-10-28T21:44:00.000-07:00

Christy, the Ballyhoo Girl, was awesome and shared with me a resource about blogging for dummies. I am a newborn blogger- for those other nw vampire fans, and can use all the help I can get! Thanks so much for your honesty and suggestions!

And.... what a personalized business card, how do you find the time?

Great wonderful people!

2010-10-28T21:33:00.000-07:00

I met some great people this last weekend. You have got to check out this photographer! She is not only hilarious, but she does incredible work. I want to be a superhero now! Dana was incredible at Ruffles and Rust, she made me feel dang fine and I can't wait to see more of her work. Definitely a kindred spirit.....

Awesome Kid

2010-10-25T21:02:00.001-07:00

My kiddo designed this using gimp, a free photoshop type program. He is just awesome. WAY TO GO JOE!

The image is my great grandma Vola, all dressed up and ready to go. It's amazing because most of my other photos of her depict kinda a wild horse woman on the Oregon prairie.... :)

Very busy weekend :)

2010-10-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I did two shows! Wow, I can't thank my family and friends enough for all the help. My ister in-laws each worked a shift, my student teacher, my neighbor gal and even my talkative daughter! It was exhausting and invigorating at the same time.

I have to send out good vibes to a new friend, and a not so new friend too... Wendy Lee Lynds and Amy Duncan are such gracious, generous artists. It is always a pleasure to meet new friends, like-minded individuals. Right off the bat, Wendy and I found we had quite a bit in common and Amy's brainstorm for my charms sent me off to get to work. Check out Amys blog at Four Corners Design to see Collage Duos booth- absolutely way cool display! I am proud to say I learned this weekend from these ladies.

Ruffles & Rust

2010-10-24T21:59:00.000-07:00

These folks know how to set up a display, I've never seen anything like it. WOW! I was so impressed. I oggled so much, I didn't take enough pics. My jaw was on my chest. I will be looking at come junk with us for their latest pics. I hope you do too!