It is cold, gray, and it is the 23rd of December. Yes, I have my shopping done. Nothing's wrapped yet, and I have company staying here...my son, who is a Special Forces soldier, and his two boys. Wonderful, funny, noisy, busy company. Am I stressing out?
Ummm. No, I've decided to take a quiet break when I need one, and be very, very , very thankful that my soldier came home. I'm so proud of him. And so very aware of families that will, for one reason or another...be celebrating Christmas without their soldier.
Today I was down in the basement studio, working on some artwork for a friend, and I happened across an old spiral-bound notebook from 2000, 2001 and 2002. At that time I belonged to a small group of women who met once a week for potluck dinner and an hour of "inner self" work. I flipped the notebook open, curious to see what my thoughts were amost 10 years ago, and came across this:
"The thing I can accept as a continuum: that I will continue to swim...sometimes dogpaddle, sometimes float peacefully, sometimes tread water, sometimes backstroke, etc. And I am afraid of drowning. I am not an expert swimmer. I have either jumped into, or have been thrown into deep water...and then was rescued, coughing and sputtering, or have pulled myself to safety, my heart pounding...
...but to quit getting into the water is to miss the sensation of being weightless, and miss the feathery caresses of the water. So I will continue to swim."
Thinking grateful thoughts,
Blessings,
Miss Elainie
necklaces
These are the style of jewelry I make: spiritual, contemplative.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Shocker Becomes Learning Experience!
While I was off work recovering from pneumonia, my friend Pat came over, bearing a recent issue (Nov. 2010) of Birds and Blooms magazine. I happen to like that magazine, and we have a little recycle thing going, with newspapers from our house going her way, and magazines from her house visiting me.
Anyway, she told me I needed to look at page 58, and I did. It was such a shock that it's a wonder I didn't have a relapse right then and there! And not only was I shocked, I was mad and discouraged, too!
For there on the page was a beautiful wind chime, made of a silver teapot and silver spoons, and the hanging parts were beaded. The same kind of thing I had been making, independently, all summer, for my fall shows. I use lots of other items besides teapots and spoons, but still! I had thought I was being so crafty and different! (See photos at right)
Included in the article were detailed instructions on how to make your own version of the pictured chime, and also, there was a website:
http://tempestinateapot.net/. A couple of weeks later, after I came out of my drama and subsequent slump, I decided to visit the website to see what else was being made by the artist, Elsa Mikus.
Interesting! Lovely! In addition to seeing her other works, I got acquainted with the way her site is effectively set up to sell her artwork. No longer feeling disgusted, turning my attitude around had made a useful learning experience.
So, you crafting and artist readers, I encourage you to get hold of the magazine, or visit the website. And as usual, blessings to all--and to you,too, Elsa!
Miss Elainie
Anyway, she told me I needed to look at page 58, and I did. It was such a shock that it's a wonder I didn't have a relapse right then and there! And not only was I shocked, I was mad and discouraged, too!
For there on the page was a beautiful wind chime, made of a silver teapot and silver spoons, and the hanging parts were beaded. The same kind of thing I had been making, independently, all summer, for my fall shows. I use lots of other items besides teapots and spoons, but still! I had thought I was being so crafty and different! (See photos at right)
Included in the article were detailed instructions on how to make your own version of the pictured chime, and also, there was a website:
http://tempestinateapot.net/. A couple of weeks later, after I came out of my drama and subsequent slump, I decided to visit the website to see what else was being made by the artist, Elsa Mikus.
Interesting! Lovely! In addition to seeing her other works, I got acquainted with the way her site is effectively set up to sell her artwork. No longer feeling disgusted, turning my attitude around had made a useful learning experience.
So, you crafting and artist readers, I encourage you to get hold of the magazine, or visit the website. And as usual, blessings to all--and to you,too, Elsa!
Miss Elainie
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Time Flies
Today's subject involves not only my literal time, and how I spend it...but thoughts on how to incorporate the concept of time into my work. Some visuals that intrigue me: compass roses, like the ones used on old maps, to show the directions, and clock faces. Wait, there's more: keys and spirals. Direction, time, and place, and unlocking something. Hmmm.
I have already decided that I need some junked clocks to take apart for their interesting gears, to use in a project about time... and the compass rose and the spiral both have to do with finding direction, the spiral being about growth and influence as you live...and the keys evoking the keeping safe or the freeing of something. Thoughts to ponder.
Anyone who has been following my blog knows that I am off work, struggling to recover from pneumonia. It has been a frightening and sobering experience to be this sick and have this much trouble getting well. It certainly has made me do lots of thinking about life, the people I love, and the pursuit of a satisfying creative life.
Blessings---Miss Elainie
I have already decided that I need some junked clocks to take apart for their interesting gears, to use in a project about time... and the compass rose and the spiral both have to do with finding direction, the spiral being about growth and influence as you live...and the keys evoking the keeping safe or the freeing of something. Thoughts to ponder.
Anyone who has been following my blog knows that I am off work, struggling to recover from pneumonia. It has been a frightening and sobering experience to be this sick and have this much trouble getting well. It certainly has made me do lots of thinking about life, the people I love, and the pursuit of a satisfying creative life.
Blessings---Miss Elainie
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Back in the Saddle, and Not Going Anywhere!
This time, I'm blogging about being hospitalized with pneumonia, missing more work, and coming home to rest for a week. Who knew that the noodle-y legs would lead to this?!
I'm home, with orders to sit. And rest. And hydrate. It's given me ample time to think about my blessings: caring family and friends, and students and coworkers...a caring and loving husband, a peaceful and nature-abundant place to live.
Today is my second day home from the hospital, and while I was gone, all the pretty golden leaves fell. The flower garden west of the house is still in riotous array, colorful spires and blooms falling over each other in their last hurrah of the season. Colder and perhaps freezing temperatures are forecasted, so I am paying attention to all the colorful displays while they are available.
I snipped three roses to bring into the entry hallway, arranged some other plants and flowers that came to me, and sat down with a steaming cup of Korean tea, called Ssangwha Cha. It is a delicious, spicy, nutmeg-y tasting tea that comes in little packets that include chopped fruits and nuts (I think). You can buy it at Korean grocery markets.
Later, I put on a long denim jacket with a hood and fun wooden-toggle closings, hooked up Jackson, and took him out for a doggy-potty-break. Passing the mailbox, I snagged several envelopes addressed to me, two of them being large, manila-type envelopes.
I found a sunny, quiet spot on the red brick patio, settled into a green rocking-style patio chair, and shook out the contents of the envelopes.
Two were cards from loving friends, and the big envelopes were full of get well wishes from two of my classes. I sat there in the sunshine, with the mild fall breeze ruffling my hair, and smiled over the love and hard work of my art students. Hickory nuts were scattered over the table-top in front of me, as well as acorns and fallen leaves. I reached over and lifted a resin bird statue to anchor the fluttering pages.
I am thinking here of the teachers who took the time and effort to have their students do this kindness...about what that teaches children, to think of others, to reach out, to express empathy.
Of course, I came on inside and rested after the outing, and reflected some more about life and love and gratefulness.
I think I'll refill my teacup, snuggle with the dog, and begin using one of my new idea-journals to jot down some inspirational thoughts.
Blessings!--Miss Elainie
.
I'm home, with orders to sit. And rest. And hydrate. It's given me ample time to think about my blessings: caring family and friends, and students and coworkers...a caring and loving husband, a peaceful and nature-abundant place to live.
Today is my second day home from the hospital, and while I was gone, all the pretty golden leaves fell. The flower garden west of the house is still in riotous array, colorful spires and blooms falling over each other in their last hurrah of the season. Colder and perhaps freezing temperatures are forecasted, so I am paying attention to all the colorful displays while they are available.
I snipped three roses to bring into the entry hallway, arranged some other plants and flowers that came to me, and sat down with a steaming cup of Korean tea, called Ssangwha Cha. It is a delicious, spicy, nutmeg-y tasting tea that comes in little packets that include chopped fruits and nuts (I think). You can buy it at Korean grocery markets.
Later, I put on a long denim jacket with a hood and fun wooden-toggle closings, hooked up Jackson, and took him out for a doggy-potty-break. Passing the mailbox, I snagged several envelopes addressed to me, two of them being large, manila-type envelopes.
I found a sunny, quiet spot on the red brick patio, settled into a green rocking-style patio chair, and shook out the contents of the envelopes.
Two were cards from loving friends, and the big envelopes were full of get well wishes from two of my classes. I sat there in the sunshine, with the mild fall breeze ruffling my hair, and smiled over the love and hard work of my art students. Hickory nuts were scattered over the table-top in front of me, as well as acorns and fallen leaves. I reached over and lifted a resin bird statue to anchor the fluttering pages.
I am thinking here of the teachers who took the time and effort to have their students do this kindness...about what that teaches children, to think of others, to reach out, to express empathy.
Of course, I came on inside and rested after the outing, and reflected some more about life and love and gratefulness.
I think I'll refill my teacup, snuggle with the dog, and begin using one of my new idea-journals to jot down some inspirational thoughts.
Blessings!--Miss Elainie
.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
The Energy Fairies Attack
Friends, I knew last week there was going to be trouble. There was a show coming up, and things needed to be done. And, true to form, I suddenly decided that I should buy another folding table to take to the show. (I demonstrate my craft during the show, which entertains my customers and keeps me busy). Anyhow, I was part-way through my search when the energy fairies attacked. They dashed cold water over my plans, and skittered away laughing, leaving tiny sparkles behind. I knew it instantly, although I only saw them out of the corner of my eye. My legs went noodle-y and all ambition went flying away. I plunked down in the driver's seat and sat there for a minute, pondering whether I had enough energy to drive home. (I did. Barely.)
By the end of the show Saturday night, it was obvious that I was going to be um, flat on my back. This is not surprising, since I always do this when I get over-tired, and over-stressed. It has a lot to do with working full-time, and trying to be my creative-genius self at the same time. :)
I ended up missing two days of work, and am still not back to my usual self. I've decided not to do any more shows through the end of the year. I'll just concentrate on making more products, making a better blog, improving my advertising and networking.
And, come on back, energy fairies! I promise not to over-do it!
Blessings! Miss Elainie
By the end of the show Saturday night, it was obvious that I was going to be um, flat on my back. This is not surprising, since I always do this when I get over-tired, and over-stressed. It has a lot to do with working full-time, and trying to be my creative-genius self at the same time. :)
I ended up missing two days of work, and am still not back to my usual self. I've decided not to do any more shows through the end of the year. I'll just concentrate on making more products, making a better blog, improving my advertising and networking.
And, come on back, energy fairies! I promise not to over-do it!
Blessings! Miss Elainie
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Smithville's Octoberfest Show
This show was the first for MissElainie'sEmporium to display windchimes and art magnets under the auspices of the new name.
When asked where I came up with the name, I told people that the name is a play on words---the word "miscellany" means an assortment of various objects, and an "emporium" is a store that carries lots of various items. Plus, my neice's middle name is Elaine, so the spelling changed miscellany to MissElainie. Cute, huh? I love it.
Anyhow, the business cards with my blogspot address and my phone number went home with customers and potential customers, and I had interested persons sign up for a newsletter (to be created soon).
We were fortunate to have a wonderful turnout of people, enjoying all the music shows, booths and activities available, plus the local food favorites. And I was blessed to have my friends from The Vintage Flamingo right next to me. Their store is an amazing collection of vintage and eclectic finds, in downtown Smithville (M0), and the three women who run it are a hoot. I can't stay away from the shop, whose merchandise changes almost daily, and the gals are new friends that I just adore.
Speaking of blessings and friends, my friend Pat (who is retired from Hallmark) showed up at lunchtime, with not only MY lunch, but lunch for the three Flamingos...and since she lives next door, she dropped off lunch for my husband, too! And what a lunch! She served chicken salad in guacamole tortilla wraps, with tomato basil chips, fruit wedges, and baked a cake to share for dessert! The plates were beautiful large paper plates with a fall theme...and people walking by stared and demanded to know what food booth was selling THOSE!
It was a good show, sales-wise, and an auspicious beginning. I am thankful (and tired!) and encouraged. Many thanks to my customers!
Blessings---Miss Elainie :)
When asked where I came up with the name, I told people that the name is a play on words---the word "miscellany" means an assortment of various objects, and an "emporium" is a store that carries lots of various items. Plus, my neice's middle name is Elaine, so the spelling changed miscellany to MissElainie. Cute, huh? I love it.
Anyhow, the business cards with my blogspot address and my phone number went home with customers and potential customers, and I had interested persons sign up for a newsletter (to be created soon).
We were fortunate to have a wonderful turnout of people, enjoying all the music shows, booths and activities available, plus the local food favorites. And I was blessed to have my friends from The Vintage Flamingo right next to me. Their store is an amazing collection of vintage and eclectic finds, in downtown Smithville (M0), and the three women who run it are a hoot. I can't stay away from the shop, whose merchandise changes almost daily, and the gals are new friends that I just adore.
Speaking of blessings and friends, my friend Pat (who is retired from Hallmark) showed up at lunchtime, with not only MY lunch, but lunch for the three Flamingos...and since she lives next door, she dropped off lunch for my husband, too! And what a lunch! She served chicken salad in guacamole tortilla wraps, with tomato basil chips, fruit wedges, and baked a cake to share for dessert! The plates were beautiful large paper plates with a fall theme...and people walking by stared and demanded to know what food booth was selling THOSE!
It was a good show, sales-wise, and an auspicious beginning. I am thankful (and tired!) and encouraged. Many thanks to my customers!
Blessings---Miss Elainie :)
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Partners in Crime
I have at least four artist friends who accompany me on "artist dates" once in a while. I borrowed the term from author Julia Cameron, who recommends individual, alone-time artist dates, to promote creativity. I do those, of course, wandering and pondering...but my greatest fun comes from getting together with a friend and casing the latest inspirational source. We've been known to yell, "artist date!" when there's something interesting we want to come back to investigate. We've also been known to slyly refer to ourselves as "partners in crime," because we tend to spend all day and spend out our maximum allowance of reseources.
But it's only in jest, the crime part. We are really enjoying ourselves and purposefully filling up with fresh ideas and materials. Local thrift stores are a treasure-trove of possibilities, but we also love: Ten Thousand Villages http://www.tenthousandvillages.com/, Pier One, http://www.pierone.com/, and Urban Arts and Crafts http://www.urbanartsandcrafts.com/. We snark that they are really Suburban Arts and Crafts, since they moved from their first, downtown location, to a suburban hilltop retail village overlooking downtown. Note: somebody on these trips needs to drive a vehicle with carrying capacity!
The only problem we've run into, besides running out of time and money, was the fact that we all tend to admire/covet the same things at the same time! Nothing makes you conflicted like the stricken look on your friend's face when YOU snag the item first! On the flip side, having a like-minded friend along can validate your choices, provide feedback on an item, or snag an item for you, that they know you will love! Gift-giving to your like-minded artist friends is a breeze.
Spread Kindness!---MissElainie
But it's only in jest, the crime part. We are really enjoying ourselves and purposefully filling up with fresh ideas and materials. Local thrift stores are a treasure-trove of possibilities, but we also love: Ten Thousand Villages http://www.tenthousandvillages.com/, Pier One, http://www.pierone.com/, and Urban Arts and Crafts http://www.urbanartsandcrafts.com/. We snark that they are really Suburban Arts and Crafts, since they moved from their first, downtown location, to a suburban hilltop retail village overlooking downtown. Note: somebody on these trips needs to drive a vehicle with carrying capacity!
The only problem we've run into, besides running out of time and money, was the fact that we all tend to admire/covet the same things at the same time! Nothing makes you conflicted like the stricken look on your friend's face when YOU snag the item first! On the flip side, having a like-minded friend along can validate your choices, provide feedback on an item, or snag an item for you, that they know you will love! Gift-giving to your like-minded artist friends is a breeze.
Spread Kindness!---MissElainie
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