tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9704342987993070372024-03-19T20:54:22.351-07:00Eclectic DiscoveriesUnique finds from the handmade worldCircular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-31451611518305862252009-09-27T14:39:00.000-07:002009-09-27T14:50:24.757-07:00Green Shoots<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpi46Z7wRTjXnBCLskcB9Wh5sZNNPIT32A36cXRCJRdZOX84KvCg0PNu_ADS1kCwcv5gfovr_vb3NFgX4r6kvBanEpxboqjON7nUwFoZZYipV0RTdya96kq3EhS4EBkCdzJSwF7UrdgxT/s1600-h/vegetable+garden+squash.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpi46Z7wRTjXnBCLskcB9Wh5sZNNPIT32A36cXRCJRdZOX84KvCg0PNu_ADS1kCwcv5gfovr_vb3NFgX4r6kvBanEpxboqjON7nUwFoZZYipV0RTdya96kq3EhS4EBkCdzJSwF7UrdgxT/s320/vegetable+garden+squash.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386267820728417730" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">My vegetable garden is finally becoming productive. I planted a few things for fall harvest: cucumbers, tomatoes, squash, zucchini, kale and mustard greens. While some are slower growers than others, check out this cucumber I harvested today.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Egii0Zji22Q2tLfb247wii4TiBgVlowjmvwenGyjqgpZ5bKuQNds76rDAyh4JbXOo9r9ZLExGkjHZH7rpXuIPHy_9k3_50CAyL8WvSIsLpHmuBfdqyc6NyI6BcdzClUp3JiwjcfdWpMz/s320/DSC00311.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386267204985988786" />Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-81757615816949206802009-02-18T12:31:00.000-08:002009-02-18T13:07:32.225-08:00The Figs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8j_O5ayXcVuEQ02EpqnSQKI-X7XjVB90kVqZBeZGlUIeCCHpJXq2zb3cV4ziL6Vwd-ktPqPIXpV_QL7YpV4BDusQ9Z3kiVR3xU7S_pWKoJ3yg-0IIydOSUBK94ZoJUynLcACOcKQ1-TO/s1600-h/Figs_By-JP_Adams.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><br /></span><img style="text-decoration: underline;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 241px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8j_O5ayXcVuEQ02EpqnSQKI-X7XjVB90kVqZBeZGlUIeCCHpJXq2zb3cV4ziL6Vwd-ktPqPIXpV_QL7YpV4BDusQ9Z3kiVR3xU7S_pWKoJ3yg-0IIydOSUBK94ZoJUynLcACOcKQ1-TO/s320/Figs_By-JP_Adams.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304244341862875602" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I love the The Figs, no not Newtons, not fruit and not pudding - I'm talking about the band. Six lovely ladies from a unique South Louisiana city, Lafayette, have combined their talents to form this charming yet sassy musical group. They are a perfect mix of old timey bluegrass, swing and folk with their own twist of tradition, learning as they go. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:18px;"><br /></span><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhdRxEgwA1vyAJhpvPXfJpJCdaEgWPYEZcFt18PFA_Ab0pC_YY0d-cjyq3WTyFlwopeLD9vejaMaAtA_iOKj2xdytvjvN4eIKFxuuYtbIsW3oTiwm6sIEDs3FRvpmz1R55XUL_aiRnJtG/s200/coverWEB.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 191px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304244822352501554" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">They dress the part </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">they play and I love the look as much as the music. </span></span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Their merchandise is available on the </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">website; much of the art is designed by band mate (</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">ukulele player)</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">, <a href="http://www.thefigsband.com/biosjillian.html">Jillian Johnson</a>. </span></div><div><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><div>Their new album, What Keeps Me Up At Night, has been released by Valcour Records and it is a dandy. My favorite song is To Sail the Sea. <a href="http://www.myspace.com/thefigsband">Listen to it here.</a><br /></div></span><br /></div>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-52310433532540692602008-11-08T00:01:00.001-08:002009-02-22T15:21:20.588-08:00New Orleans Bread Pudding<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWNoOxyrvlptyV37UgxLPevnm7M5hvPfmK1opUlsR7JUMpEJFcSYNDqMeY07XoWimC8sN6bI69Nr-pouYSUlhwqqDEfEQwvcIC29ZbmjYZGlbJ3PQlTr0aROSmiGyEcyYEh6xlwzsBtm5/s400/bread-pudding-ck-522189-l.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWNoOxyrvlptyV37UgxLPevnm7M5hvPfmK1opUlsR7JUMpEJFcSYNDqMeY07XoWimC8sN6bI69Nr-pouYSUlhwqqDEfEQwvcIC29ZbmjYZGlbJ3PQlTr0aROSmiGyEcyYEh6xlwzsBtm5/s400/bread-pudding-ck-522189-l.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My mom made bread pudding the other night for her pokeno game. She had leftovers so I thought I'd try it out. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Eew, yuck! I can't stand the texture. I'm from Baton Rouge and New Orleans, and we are practically baptized in this sacred whiskey soaked sunday brunch dessert. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I just can't get past the mushy custard like texture; it's just wet bread! Perhaps I was adopted.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:18px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:18px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:18px;"><a href="http://www.commanderspalace.com/new_orleans/recipes_1.php">Recipe from famous Commander's Palace in New Orleans</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman';font-size:16px;"><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; "><b>BREAD PUDDING SOUFFLE WITH WHISKEY SAUCE</b><br />Yields 6 <br /></p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; "><b>BREAD PUDDING</b></p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; ">3/4 cups Sugar<br />1 tsp. Ground Cinnamon<br />Pinch of Nutmeg<br />3 Medium Eggs<br />1 cup Heavy Cream<br />1 tsp. Vanilla<br />5 cups New Orleans French Bread, 1" cubed (see note)<br />1/3 cup Raisins<br />(18: in length or approximately 1 1/3 G/ sliced thin)</p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; "><b>WHISKEY SAUCE</b></p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; ">1 cup Heavy Cream<br />1/2 Tbsp. Corn Starch<br />1 Tbsp. Water<br />3 Tbsp. Sugar<br />1/4 cup Bourbon</p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; "><b>MERINGUE</b></p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; ">9 Medium Egg Whites<br />3/4 cups Sugar<br />1/4 tsp. Cream of Tartar</p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; ">To make the bread pudding, first preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 8" square baking pan. Combine sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl. Beat in the eggs until smooth, then work in the heavy cream. Add the vanilla, then the bread cubes. Allow bread to soak up custard.</p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; ">Place the raisins in a greased pan. Top with the egg mixture, which prevents the raisins from burning. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the pudding has a golden brown color and is firm to the touch. If a toothpick inserted in the pudding comes out clean, it is done. The mixture of pudding should be nice and moist, not runny or dry. Cool to room temperature.</p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; ">To make the whiskey sauce, place the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat, and bring to a boil. Whisk corn starch and water together, and add to cream while whisking. Bring to a boil. Whisk and let simmer for a few seconds, taking care not to burn the mixture on the bottom. Remove from heat.</p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; ">Stir in the sugar and the bourbon. Taste to make sure the sauce has a thick consistency, a sufficiently sweet taste, and a good bourbon flavor. Cool to room temperature.</p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; ">To make the meringue, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter six 6 ounce ramekins. First, be certain that the bowl and whisk are clean. The egg whites should be completely free of yolk, and they will whip better if the chill is off them. This dish needs a good, stiff meringue. In a large bowl or mixer, whip egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Add the sugar gradually, and continue whipping until shiny and thick. Test with a clean spoon. If the whites stand up stiff, like shaving cream, when you pull out the spoon, the meringue is ready. Do not overwhip, or the whites will break down and the soufflé will not work.</p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; ">In a large bowl, break half the bread pudding into pieces using your hands or a spoon. Gently fold in one-quarter of the meringue, being careful not to lose the air in the whites. Add a portion of this base to each of the ramekins.</p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; ">Place the remaining bread pudding in the bowl, break into pieces, and carefully fold in the rest of the meringue. Top off the soufflés with this lighter mixture, to about 1 1/2 inches. Smooth and shape tops with spoon into a dome over the ramekin rim. Bake immediately for approximately 20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve immediately. Using a spoon, poke a hole in the top of each soufflé, at the table, and pour the room temperature whiskey sauce inside the soufflé.</p><p class="body" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; "><b>Note:</b> New Orleans French bread is very light and tender. If substitute bread is used that is too dense, it will soak up all the custard and the recipe will not work.</p></span></span></div>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-9580867543500572852008-11-07T08:01:00.000-08:002009-02-22T15:24:47.230-08:00Hope for America<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.palinaspresident.us/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">http://www.palinaspresident.us/</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzsXsexK7QXeIk6fuKtv_7RIMr1qI-IvjwGyADD1lLjziABwxQKctYmPGMRiIpEeKsdL0hg2dWmpg0KE8baVUdgeMHyT4AuHW5-hsW6m4Ab5DJYdpK7gUZD-QYF2_vXwlqLuqyNYiN3gFK/s1600-h/3006416363_95ef8de914_o.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzsXsexK7QXeIk6fuKtv_7RIMr1qI-IvjwGyADD1lLjziABwxQKctYmPGMRiIpEeKsdL0hg2dWmpg0KE8baVUdgeMHyT4AuHW5-hsW6m4Ab5DJYdpK7gUZD-QYF2_vXwlqLuqyNYiN3gFK/s400/3006416363_95ef8de914_o.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266191496768786098" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Wow, this 2008 presidential election was pretty intense. I have never been so emotionally involved in politics as I am now. After all of the economic downturn, war and international threats, energy crisis, and failing healthcare, it is hard to believe that anyone in the world has not been affected.<br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Now we finally have decided who will lead us through these challenging times, we have elected a man who has defied all odds and made history in our country. My hope for Barack Obama, is that he can continue to inspire hope in the rest of America, and that the entire nation will support him. I really hope our country can put aside party affiliations and focus on uniting our Nation. The more we can work together and be compassionate and respectful of one another, the stronger our country will be. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here are some powerful images from </span><a href="http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2008/11/the_next_president_of_the_unit.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Big Picture</span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">and </span><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/11/04/reactions-around-the-worl_n_141187.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">reactions from around the world</span></a></div></div>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-18186412665840943262008-10-17T19:20:00.000-07:002009-02-22T15:24:10.939-08:00Spooky Cute Recycled Pouches<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Halloween is soon approaching and we have fully decorated our front entrance way. Costumes are ready and treats prepared for the little ones. We already have a pumpkin waiting to be carved. In the spirit of the season, I thought I'd find some Etsy items suited for the occasion.</span><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_1&listing_id=16232428"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></a><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcxJBd41VzxaAO6yVw-yYa60c32OgWXOB3SgWtymub349vmrfZ7DsMtFYfxAeXUhxOV6pq1vdRA_axpLxIfptOT0aPyZiOJyilhk9XQEwYCvVt9FD84dOqYtUmV99puVhDxQ_bkKTNTpTW/s320/il_430xN.41324297.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258314868371894754" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I came across these very creative recycled pouches made by </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=88929"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Eclipse</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">They feature a zipper top and are made entirely from recycled plastic bags. I think these are so creative and cute for Halloween treats. Plus they are ecofriendly.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw035DOQDwt3q7eX2PxbZoRaA-fqsJor1FH4rsgrnrwlE31EFfvFuLFO6i9t_Oh4ojdmfoWtvwMr2xew7GuCINrC4ankEqr6CZdUiE5qn-8O1cYiCnkrd5ai2jMC3vVgRxL9OFZ10-69hj/s320/il_430xN.41324785.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258313838016969458" /></div>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-46803206308526408522008-09-12T19:40:00.000-07:002009-02-22T15:25:27.942-08:00Arctic Friends<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245332736190102050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcD0IDwvtPH8xJl1EM4wpuLO-HFWNB7sHnnkJ0R08lHS39JZk8OpdsDxV1Um8xxa2NtrEfqHVBB8NhEkuoVDVL-PMeuy3WqsqnOtLd9c4mwBfOk12dcIMrj8U79ozVy6HK6wf1WvuIhhVA/s320/il_430xN_28467930.jpg" border="0" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">polar bear original aceo by </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5826029"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">RobsDoodles<br /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /></span><div><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Today I decided to feature the Polar Bear. This furry creature is not one I am familiar with down here in Louisiana, except for the one or two in our zoo, so I have searched for a few interesting facts about them.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><div><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Polar bears are a potentially endangered species of a about 20,000-25,0000 living in the circumpolar north from Russia to Alaska, from Canada to Greenland and onto Norway's Svalbard archipelago.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Scientists believe that the polar bear evolved from a group of brown bears that became isolated by glaciers in an area near Siberia. The stranded bears underwent a rapid series of evolutionary changes in order to survive on the ice. Today's polar bear is superbly adapted to life in the Arctic.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_15&listing_id=12922030"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245339645889933074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2TLsg1WMlUu7eoXaS1LVY5DKLdyLQz94Y7q_jz8LJSkkor10F_ykA_lXUz0MzToaj_S8-zV_raG9564FY4nCof6RkJgK8vPtrgEf3lgPBVr7cHPu6tXqiqgWaUZtiB7KUIoT_1m5lpud9/s320/il_430xN_30524103.jpg" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Bear Ancestry ACEO Limited Edition 2 by </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5082288"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">scarlettcat<br /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Climate change is the main threat to polar bears today. A diminishing ice pack directly affects polar bears, as sea ice is the platform from which they hunt seals. Although the Arctic has experienced warm periods before, the present shrinking of the Arctic's sea ice is rapid and unprecedented.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_4&listing_id=13276670"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245338395659284642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmC21f82vfK3uxH6UK6h9LXTCfdW-zRnoO5O_KSDB3GGqqFa34365mGekXRYMbKCglRSACuPoeyS0PFMuYlBZL-Lxe5nim1yJsBTr8l171OniyXvm9QTgRobwvvtaD8Ds0ntJqxgjX4FAZ/s320/il_430xN_31666313.jpg" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Who Cares About Global Warming Button by </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_4&listing_id=13276670"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">thedogcoatlady<br /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Polar bears are the world's largest land predators They top the food chain in the Arctic, where they prey primarily on seals.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In all of Canada, only seven people have been killed by polar bears in the past 30 years.In the U. S. (Alaska) during the same time period, only one person was killed.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245337741466367682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3G4rGOAEFJ3C9l3NSruuKGFb1mluNcAe99OQ9JOxVjgMl68kQFB2CW7FgB8L9nFDTi3lYOT08sO4KvdfhMF-fYF6jGWJ_hOrWRUMrJ3Bxsy1yS_9yVxvuTN02yAfhETbiSd0hAQ_pBU8o/s320/il_430xN_30731418.jpg" border="0" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Trouble woodblock print by </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5729584"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Cakeasaurus</span></a></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Adult male polar bears weigh from 775 to more than 1,500 pounds. Females are considerably smaller, normally weighing 330 to 550 pounds.</span></span></p><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_19&listing_id=14475445"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245340832851173714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFwchnQTTuji6uLEIbTWm0Uv5G_8B5zw88gympiJiJRqmz_uVj2fxUncC7I7KoVDKQOkgxfA3jYWFU0j9nfhiuv-8djsB_aTJ2bMANwlJqb70PaNsff-1wmek6wc29oplkO5WfUz49Clyi/s320/il_430xN_35544663.jpg" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Mr. Stemke - 100 Percent Organic Cotton - Alternative Apparel - 6032 V-Neck T-Shirt by </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=29347"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">partybots</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Pregnant female polar bears den up in the fall after feeding heavily in August and September. Most choose den sites in snowdrifts along mountain slopes or hills near the sea ice. Others den in banks of snow on the frozen sea.To build her den, the female scrapes a tunnel into the snow and digs two chambers. She gives birth to her cubs in November or December.<br /><br />Polar bears are fastidious about staying clean. In the summer, the bears typically feed for twenty or thirty minutes and then head for a pool of water in which to wash off.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_19&listing_id=12218216"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245333308966447570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9gszZD0rGFIftHwNFBoMDHhxQJUQw5VDGaZIVGYkMdJa95K-R2r-pnMkYe46pws806TJ5JrHmNQhqaPUBk7vUNKvgspF_FmcGLhrvgDUX75hy94QbAFl-7dMXKizXo9XEj586nd6zaU5/s320/il_430xN_28256921.jpg" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Follow Your heart - Lets Swing 7"x7" print by </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=100095"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">krisblues</span></a>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-74446279096655500622008-09-07T17:34:00.001-07:002009-02-22T15:26:06.586-08:00Hurricane Gustav<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoqwVbQ7GJnmFNTMBgAH_-Whug07Pq-u9W_oaXXhZzg-KLppMhunl4DY7oZNLHH7IWGMTJQJeArrxkoE0GLp1XcYOV5KOkms34bEB5UnyLfc8El2VP1RVW6BvlF8ZNWplXu6Loxbp8BriU/s1600-h/pine+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243452710835382066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoqwVbQ7GJnmFNTMBgAH_-Whug07Pq-u9W_oaXXhZzg-KLppMhunl4DY7oZNLHH7IWGMTJQJeArrxkoE0GLp1XcYOV5KOkms34bEB5UnyLfc8El2VP1RVW6BvlF8ZNWplXu6Loxbp8BriU/s320/pine+3.jpg" border="0" /></a><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Wow, what a week this has been. Hurricane Gustav blew through this state and wreaked havoc on us for quite some time! What was thought to be a safe haven for some Gulf Coast residents turned out to be one of the hardest hit areas of the state here in Louisiana. This was the worst recorded storm to ever hit Baton Rouge and the most damage I have ever seen in my city.<br /><br /><br /><br />Our property didn't sustain much damage since we don't have any tall trees but my Mom didn't fair as well as us. A 100' pine tree fell into her bedroom.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243457938707791602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCiULiG6pLoKOQfaBmT5D2NSJjwGRloMHdsDNG7lB2napkj44RiO7ucRhIjUUBVHOvWQ0YSxiqGhEXC6kSQlHLEAnP_rEDE4cKZ0sLfHC6bqczDb_pU4KDqwN76VphIgKlewViGW7H_gi/s320/Mom+1.jpg" border="0" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><div><div><div><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This storm was quite different from Katrina; instead of flooding, we got lots of wind, and in a city full of beautiful old trees, wind is not your friend. After 5 days, we finally got power back, but over half the city still is in darkness and may be for a month. Schools remain closed for another week.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243452494562050466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvc1ZEE6phGSyNRp-xN8OecKyR18FrvPKQrbpPFJStFZ0JvbGhH3j2lU0EINporE1SXO5QF8XI-NPu2kfzwhQkAJzErmu1ghsbKV4vNsLiCNtUkTWh1qJp9YpMAZdRL9Jge691FN_xkOo/s320/hurricane+025.jpg" border="0" /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After tasting my first MRE, we decided to hit the grocery store today to refill the refrigerator that had to be cleaned out. I found only one that didn't have a line of people waiting to get inside. We were able to get most of the staple items, only one choice of bread but no eggs were available. It looks like the 2 hour gas lines are finally tapering off too and we are finally going to have to fill up the car soon.</span></span></div><div><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The streets are still littered with debris and uprooted trees. It will be quite some time before things get back to normal and it looks like </span></span><a href="http://www.wunderground.com/tropical/tracking/at200809_5day.html?MR=1"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">IKE</span></span></a><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> is headed for the Gulf!</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243452573859745186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5JueIm2GqNxXG5fQQ8YF8BmZoPn82k2S3_f6IQoekmMeV_oQD3bVBYJDTrbesPc7TxbXxPtiwzme3mYmfvHy-TQq0OwOJCehZxifVzjccqOdpHD8Cklm1Ee6mxmvw22xl16WRSbYuIh2v/s320/claycut.jpg" border="0" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><div><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The only thing we were able to do while the power was out was take a hot shower since we have a gas water heater. I was thinking it would be great to have a gas stove, natural gas grill and what about a CNG car that you could fill up at your house. Especially in times like these when petroleum transport and refinement is difficult and there is no electricity. I would love to just have natural gas for everything during times like this!</span></span></div></div></div>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-18957064965495155122008-08-20T11:59:00.000-07:002009-02-22T15:23:37.807-08:00Plastic Snap Shot<div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236833348242971458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstzp5RFB2srL2hYPl671yhzpHkTQAK1VMCNsqfiMZ9TqCojcf9ECDmS4r2xWmtgrotwimeQy2OfH9n-mqoRs0ZB99hqymteXjuLzMlg0MEzacNvOOLWn1DAeRQbyOhaO-3kLEiM41ex-9/s320/home.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I've recently become enamored with old timey faded edge photographs. I didn't want to digitally create this effect, but wanted to create an actual large format photo with my camera. I'm not sure that is possible with my deluxe digital camera so I </span><a href="http://www.lomography.com/holga/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">searched a bit online</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> and found out more about the Holga camera that has gained some recent popularity. This light plastic pinhole camera claims to capture images in a more artistic manner, through soft tones, streaming lights and blurred edges. </span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236832561421248690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAghAyp3D6Afbwvcc1zDzHsT0QUzUsXApz4_ig0g0cQ6CvPYjz2FtMRbLb4hjj89LkYtURj1wyzJfUwig7sflAGjPhloUTEcnTePASwKkA3Ln2B2PYln8po_PMup1NJ7Vv8nic04QHErP0/s320/about.jpg" border="0" /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So I ordered one as well as a bevy of film rolls in large format size color and black and white, 100-800 speeds. I have no idea what to expect from my camera, with the different film brands or speeds, but I am going to have fun trying. I took out the inner frame and filed down the rough ridges so the film wont scratch winding across it. This should allow me to blow out the photo edges. I finished taking the first roll of film today and will be picking up my prints tomorrow. I forgot how hard it is to wait for pictures having had a digital camera for the past 8 years!</span></div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236837050026790754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLnO24d6B3Xdpi9cqHiPzmwwMuGe3QrNIUo7qiBaA0on55dTfJxjMTfJz1MoSOPhLCPKthi5z6rDHuBi_s3ztxSJtJSVAApTykIBcGrp7GiNW53LmZTi0elS11lX0QWYZWEom-R5u0brn/s320/back+of+holga.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-6771341829900320672008-08-18T14:42:00.000-07:002008-08-18T15:03:43.982-07:00Back to School<div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">So around these parts, most kiddos are back in school. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12774795"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235977062906971490" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLX8YGGMfKuBLkEN4QGLud03LuUpr03vSWfuSNZp3bc5rqcb-yHxVz0xCX6ODi7ckEmAeVx7o5K7bmXpHFHwVkLIbaB3HX2AXZo8vD3_V0gKWfNd2_dDC3oGyjj4nDClnQ_WolCUOjDVAz/s200/boobs.jpg" border="0" /></a>My son has a couple more years before he gets into real school, but I've been looking at the back to school sales and featured items. I found a few things that I can remember having fun with in my school days.</span><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">This shirt by </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5293852"><span style="font-size:130%;">Jeremy Boston Designs</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> is hilarious. Who didn't goof off in math class making funny words on their calculators?</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13902871"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235978477641428690" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtD_OCQkUrIRmptxLy5swQDzCguTQGGNqF0CrCRf6pJjfwOBoyPUWWv9HD4MehbwY-SaasBzz0S0UhDKJT0EvCUiKw9AmWBG0WyX6GoyjYJcCEMJCWi0TExwn_MAQXAJvLkQNikAcMY7S/s200/il_430xN_33695215.jpg" border="0" /></a>I love this citrus sky raglan dress. If only my mom would have made me cool clothes like this for kindergarten! I am hoping <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=8151">CourtneyCourtney</a> will make some little boy items soon.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">And finally, I will do a little self promotion here. I bought some cute messenger bags in a dark green and grey slate color.<a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14310165"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235980516510388690" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIeANcp2U84Ub8oBLiJ1N8fIgUD2-ebE1jmjg5gEQk5JEkodFs2rWXYxKFctPPhyy_1AG_bOGFLPJbBsa450xJATDsn7o-sbUgKk5rp_L76tZiRde500ll1T1ocoKAnzSeoZegp2qUG8_O/s200/green+bee+bag.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=68044&section_id=5229673">I screenprinted some of my existing designs as well as a few new ones onto the front flap.</a> These are great to carry a few small books, use as a purse or even as a craft/hobby bag to collect items in the field or carry your journal around. Here's my favorite so far. My honey bee and honey comb in moss green.</span></div></div></div>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-78436889403649070832008-08-16T13:35:00.000-07:002008-08-17T13:34:18.125-07:00Owls<span style="font-size:130%;">Owls<br /><br />Did you know that owls can rotate their heads more than 180 degrees? They also have special feather adaptations for silent flight. For centuries owls have been a part of folklore and legend and they still remain popular today. I found </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title_all&search_query=owls"><span style="font-size:130%;">pages of listings on Etsy</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> and selected a few that stood out.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14329316"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235217402712193570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nN8IS5-tS-MZJ5QT5J6ZusLgorqfBw_7JWK92Q8kXtu01q-A9DAJXFQAsNmy67Ievvp5aidMEj0qDvYMEMrx7qmJsccE1iQ9ab5FGMn7QC9lcTvvgig4R7GBbTanD9xHc3IiomJJVthM/s320/il_430xN_35070620.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">This vintage owl sculpture is a great find by </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6095908"><span style="font-size:130%;">beyondthevalley</span></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13673025"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235218386584117682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfzeTScfREEGxzUF0MjzN1w9o7XSFTehyeITmAOgwgdPp39Z2gBpJYzibIyJ8oYouY581zQWHkyOUuFO2OUB0_S7fsSLesnoIAeXj35gqajGYFxB1XtCgLBUpaWld0PTBaNRw6llIvRqB/s320/il_430xN_32951284.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">I love the owls in this fine art print by </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5280739"><span style="font-size:130%;">primorignals</span></a></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_21&listing_id=13645803"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235219704113742706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYnvVuSj2QaxVkJ_h6l1X8d-LZX9pEwj_qFgguN0yCp8X6O2saVZGqoapzR1dr9Dx5vVQvR6gebTkiJEZ07w0C73ouYAD81MkreavP2MzSCWsPS2Xycr71nm-gw_gEbNbvWeuwFsV_6a3/s320/il_430xN_32863003.jpg" border="0" /></a></div></div><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">This Lil Hoot stuffie is a perfect gift for a tot. You can find one at </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5313213"><span style="font-size:130%;">ManicMuffinTotes</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">.</span>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-31927940898178157592008-08-16T11:48:00.001-07:002008-08-18T07:41:06.246-07:00Fly Away<span style="font-size:130%;">Birds are such a popular graphic right now so I thought I'd share a few of my favorites from Etsy right now:</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235189549862353698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK1sefj5G9U-AMlzboDbcltJQNNlcV00Sibydi1P04Ny-xBkf3VnELd6ToyT1BvgNVrnhleA3mI_tztZReeKNf5R3wJeZONeiEgrtBjA5jZoB2w1vZMmGeksCSW7pxLvqsOIXe9WTSLQif/s320/il_430xN_28600976.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">I love this Alice in Wonderland digitally altered photograph by<br /></span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5653857"><span style="font-size:130%;">Champignons</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> from the UK.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">I am also fond of this screenprint: The archeology of flight </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14098979"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235190304205686514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglKZ7sH-FIBdBzYmSIrDBPx9E0396yjGGjvybhVTNP0Q9XTaPHEbcCbM957kmBsQxKSF4Pk3xAbohzavioGoJlVY72ADc8IWY85v5yvPx0tSD4w71ib5KvwRx3ywIDsbnuKQG2JtHgJtjk/s320/il_430xN_24128955.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><p><span style="font-size:130%;">I love </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=97033"><span style="font-size:130%;">Geninne</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> from Mexico. She has a 20 bird water color series that I adore. Here is number 7/20</span> </p><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235191241851484114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL309Zhnf9JBZnLQdPazMjTLlcASf1BCAoQAF1ejv9WsylYZoIWWNFFNHfsFU5LRrIOU5CjDDtt_rZ1JUc8QbTDgtDNMJ1AXnThmkXyz-qfb-B4kt6Ep7M6rzLxc38pqFXf6EgCTF7FZd8/s320/il_430xN_34328097.jpg" border="0" /></p>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-68732809661907599572008-08-16T11:07:00.000-07:002008-08-17T13:37:38.091-07:00Letter Press<div><span style="font-size:130%;">I found a few cards on Etsy today that I thought were very creative.</span></div><div></div><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7304439"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235179186990184722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrKa1nQh4xSnxreqRofUJ9NIOUZwXCF_GsI2hE3yaPEbVo9nqKQGz8zehUPqKnDOJncoo7edYSG1VDQw508uE9YrfKsAyRTsQKFAKMB9Ln19ju3IYPItPjdIcH3r3ajbOGDAKMYj9lun99/s320/il_430xN_12203400.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">This one from </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=99842"><span style="font-size:130%;">roundrobinpress</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> is plantable handmade paper that is embeded with basil and chive seeds. It is like two gifts in one!</span></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14120481"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235179661854670466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9CsdusAB8TSuMrWwLG576Fa86TuHD-NK5avO8glyKkI0ASS7IHa6JP27m6PtUvWvZ740ANmjZBfzgecVwIWov31VKTUMwH1OrRsiIKvizOB_FGsEQgBoCtDOmjtNTdQKGeA_chwOtGi_/s320/yee+haw+letters.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">This set of 4 miniprints and envelopes from </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5142811"><span style="font-size:130%;">YeeHaw</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> is so retro and funky.</span></div>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-69144608628661520422008-08-09T18:16:00.000-07:002008-08-09T20:26:52.885-07:00Hot Air Ballon Chase<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9mACW1-CdnQHAsgTVk8UnQc-8A4ngrxLbIo9P5jarAFuojTP7YnOS9wllguGB8nl6VLWB1oc2X6BCCqUqLfm_TUua3f3N-fYM6-n9RVG6gPjmpmlSxMr71b_xREFofmJmnsY2rqv219yh/s1600-h/hot+air+ballon+in+flight+3.jpg"><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232695986837706802" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9mACW1-CdnQHAsgTVk8UnQc-8A4ngrxLbIo9P5jarAFuojTP7YnOS9wllguGB8nl6VLWB1oc2X6BCCqUqLfm_TUua3f3N-fYM6-n9RVG6gPjmpmlSxMr71b_xREFofmJmnsY2rqv219yh/s320/hot+air+ballon+in+flight+3.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> I spent this hot August afternoon in the open fields here in Baton Rouge for the <a href="http://www.laballooning.com/">2008 Pennington Hot Air Balloon Championship</a>. We spent a few hours before the race running from the sun and chasing the shadows of the trees. We lolled through the kids' play field sipping melted snowcones and eating nachos. </span><div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">There was a petting zoo, gigantic blow up slides, a water ballon fighting ring, basketball hoops, tattoos and face painting, and so much more. Sponge Bob was even amusing himself there. Well, not in a bad way of course! </span></div><div><br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232695881083889842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbRSPrRU7-NyZD1DX0pd3uq1VCBSc-sAhAsMB3QPtEaMinFWSs8HzqRdwOgYigB1TtAtFJq_rJDI7B0UKc6DbA1S-Sd_3eRDcIxFsAdB8kG5EvMgyILN6_nyf8P-aC5W1paFAWd3efXyq_/s320/hot+air+ballon+petting+zoo.jpg" border="0" /> <span style="font-size:130%;">In the evening, we made our way back to the balloon target field where numerous pilots were lining up for the race. Even a few parachuters droped in to see the action. What a spectacular sight to see the colorful balloons filling up all at once. I must have taken a hundred pictures, but here are just a couple I'll share.</span> <div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232695106530821154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwd9ZVOr7Ov243kubZaWFzHcAR-PtmwQuZiSA3tIjkmCGZAKNuEN9JJkhaTiRKa0CjH4VZB9zgBEku3xBKgqyIl-dhJrTHthc8mRl1xnstXtW2d7kg6hbALWHnw-W-y7BIi9Q6OpT1bjdt/s400/hot+air+ballon+heating+up.jpg" border="0" /></div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232695361595634354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3_2pvSJ7hMf0XBlHxWJ3glyz2gJlsTRT-_PPh-XFZF18c6gp17CX3MI_GjRLrz42wd2XbU1szKkCuwlfz5koXGGTwKpJN6eeDdExILSfMd20zdho-RYUm__Dx8xFXvQb78XXDezL9w1XO/s400/hot+air+ballon+square.jpg" border="0" />Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-43759335553281039692008-08-03T22:33:00.000-07:002008-08-13T17:40:34.037-07:00Alternative Fuel<span style="font-size:130%;">I thought this was such an interesting video from the vaults.<br /></span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJVzySk0Pks"><span style="font-size:130%;">Jack Nicholson educating us on a hydrogen powered car</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">.<br />Oh yeah, back in 1978 almost before I was born! </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br />Where have the years gone? And what is our alternative energy plan for the future? For the now?<br /><br />Did you read about the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/25/us/25spill.html">oil spill in New Orleans on the Mississippi</a>?</span><br /></span>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-8056272375472919862008-04-06T09:55:00.000-07:002008-11-13T17:32:37.443-08:00Baton Rouge Kite Festival<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6I-KKijL8qw0gqw9PVQ2mbMzeDxp2874mXnC88btkQsqbylaixs9Xq3yHdDf47ARCqh0vb_YN1fkMYQ_ZB4IxGbHxWjpNpiww0gtdhyphenhyphen23Jvioc5kM3HMCOrg0x50KANtj0OhYPGuUBxNB/s1600-h/the+ktie+show.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5186180294860786418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6I-KKijL8qw0gqw9PVQ2mbMzeDxp2874mXnC88btkQsqbylaixs9Xq3yHdDf47ARCqh0vb_YN1fkMYQ_ZB4IxGbHxWjpNpiww0gtdhyphenhyphen23Jvioc5kM3HMCOrg0x50KANtj0OhYPGuUBxNB/s400/the+ktie+show.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Yesterday we spent the afternoon across the river at the Kite Festival. Although the weather never cleared up and was a bit overcast, it was actually great for flying kites, and many other people agreed that the winds were cooperating. There were tons of colorful kites dotting the grey skies all day. A huge red octopus greeted us along with a cajun band, complete with someone playing a washboard, when we walked into the festival. Smells of fried shrimp, sausage and cotton candy wafted through the air tempting my taste buds. </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLvv6GMTKVrP1opWnHNIAb3_CtKE3zpPOVhGX7GtCQn4IzgHM37mXlpBsmdmFTCnP08SARibZgUKzqOlZXmaFDzWBLT0GkYuNtiLCk_yu0iWEsCn_KoEaKwJbPAVKaSU2fc46oDUkByIDH/s1600-h/flying.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5186179929788566242" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLvv6GMTKVrP1opWnHNIAb3_CtKE3zpPOVhGX7GtCQn4IzgHM37mXlpBsmdmFTCnP08SARibZgUKzqOlZXmaFDzWBLT0GkYuNtiLCk_yu0iWEsCn_KoEaKwJbPAVKaSU2fc46oDUkByIDH/s200/flying.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">We cafefully waddled through tangled webs of kite string across the large open field to the kite making tent so Lucas could make his own kite. After trying to fly his little paper kite for a while, we decided to make a little investment and I picked out 2 traditional style triangle kites, a blue and a purple. We flew those kites the rest of the afternoon and had a great time.</span></div></div></div>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-40273821098510240042008-04-03T20:48:00.000-07:002009-01-14T19:06:45.802-08:00Etsy Labs Surprise<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijWB17IS8f639A_9QAavhEpX0Kj794meQ2sm8WaC_WlGfL3Qr_ndnJ-QeW2z30LUXYI_-BYizk0jT9KQe4vrfLIW3mNlTPqffz7e3KTMZmys4oti1PFuN9WK__LhOl7hFbX0AuM58_rFQG/s1600-h/me+with+etsy+bag+small.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 324px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijWB17IS8f639A_9QAavhEpX0Kj794meQ2sm8WaC_WlGfL3Qr_ndnJ-QeW2z30LUXYI_-BYizk0jT9KQe4vrfLIW3mNlTPqffz7e3KTMZmys4oti1PFuN9WK__LhOl7hFbX0AuM58_rFQG/s400/me+with+etsy+bag+small.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291351582976380610" /></a><div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Whee! I got an unexpected surprise in the mail from Etsy labs. A whole care package filled with goodies arrived for me, ununexpectedly the other weekend. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">DanielleXOXO and the gang filled up a box with a screenprinted tote bag, that will be perfect for taking to the post office and spreading the word around town. A cute cactus wrapping paper set, I can think of an Etsy seller that needs a little gift from me. A quilted square, some bumper stickers, a moustache, a magnet and more! A really nice letter press thank you card was written to me and the entire package just made my day. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Here are all the goodies!</span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5185233851572472498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHLt4pIJKV2zD7qsg6VZ_uZABWRTDii2CmYGZzl3749lq785R2a-vKdccrRw3Gyfa2_Ig-Nyr8be5Ov8anUEmlRLJVFO9APeCVLF-V54aQynX2TZLMAyQL90U91U3xio-qiYLBb_dVqDFN/s400/etsy+care+package.jpg" border="0" /></div></div>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-47154417280882990262008-03-02T10:47:00.000-08:002008-11-13T17:32:38.518-08:00Studio Space<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJMuZWTwWmRQ67JHxbk7S6ooTHqxXArvBIR3phLY2r4ImQJ_3K3maI7y4JeKhcL5c99Hn75EPtNXT2UKByAXqr_PEbykSSWmxQEza9kxHkcRclUXYhM5wLVp5ZqS-lkwO5aMbCbb3bRdX/s1600-h/front+of+building.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173219769790342514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJMuZWTwWmRQ67JHxbk7S6ooTHqxXArvBIR3phLY2r4ImQJ_3K3maI7y4JeKhcL5c99Hn75EPtNXT2UKByAXqr_PEbykSSWmxQEza9kxHkcRclUXYhM5wLVp5ZqS-lkwO5aMbCbb3bRdX/s400/front+of+building.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">I am anxiously awaiting my lease on my brand new studio space. I am a bit nervous about the extra cost each month for the rent but I think it will be well worth it. I am so excited to finally get everything out of our overcrowded house and have space to work. </span><span style="font-size:130%;">My poor son doesn't even have a room to call his own right now since it is filled to the ceiling with storage bins of inventory. We will be able to eat on the dining room table again. We will also finally be able to finish the front </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEienMzwhNz8-6AyRtFkTS2XcI8Q_63vFN_4rHklWeooIX95Bw3W0_Pnr4Vw-pp9r9QmTm4Prto0qf-LzGRMo7Hf1tD1VC7isR5HgQE5GzDiXg6N1kXQTEJCcGQNMrB5H9tI6vLKpRTtcmVj/s1600-h/bathroom.jpg"><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173219327408711010" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEienMzwhNz8-6AyRtFkTS2XcI8Q_63vFN_4rHklWeooIX95Bw3W0_Pnr4Vw-pp9r9QmTm4Prto0qf-LzGRMo7Hf1tD1VC7isR5HgQE5GzDiXg6N1kXQTEJCcGQNMrB5H9tI6vLKpRTtcmVj/s320/bathroom.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">bathroom that I have been using for storage and as my darkroom for coating my screens. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">I am dreading the move a little bit. I have about 100 plus screens that must be carefully transported so that they don't tear, numerous containers of ink and squeegees that must be cleaned, and lots and lots of clothes. Then the big things like the dryers, shelving units and the press will take some muscle. Everything has to be done quickly too so I can be all set up and ready to print right away, but I know I will be even more creative in this new space.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGw1WsufAzm-a7U7Kse0qrvGKL6tHGeg4XYf6G_KmdUb_HgbJhfGr0XqjmAZdQg-nDr2EmgD4cI7GGR0igYbDqax7zlsfPblyl3oUghvwFsSIGB912ZCEV4T2srDy7mPofLsKqVQJ54Lzv/s1600-h/kitchen.jpg"><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173219031055967570" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 3px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 3px" height="71" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGw1WsufAzm-a7U7Kse0qrvGKL6tHGeg4XYf6G_KmdUb_HgbJhfGr0XqjmAZdQg-nDr2EmgD4cI7GGR0igYbDqax7zlsfPblyl3oUghvwFsSIGB912ZCEV4T2srDy7mPofLsKqVQJ54Lzv/s320/kitchen.jpg" width="38" border="0" /></span></a></span></div></div></div>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-76227549334980901602008-02-24T13:44:00.000-08:002008-11-13T17:32:38.959-08:00Wooden You Wanna Play With Me?I was playing with Pounce, the new Etsy browsing feature, and came across a new Etsy shop today with beautifully crafted wooden toys.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5567288">Countree toy shoppe</a> is owned by Brian of Higgins Lake Michigan. He has been working with wood for 30 years and started making toys for his own children out of scraps from his building job. About 6 years ago, he began touring the North Eastern U.S. attending craft shows.<br /><br />I picked a few toys from his shop to feature here.<br /><br />This <span style="font-size:130%;">Logging Truck and Loading Dozer set</span> are made from ash and come with little stackable logs. The dozer has a removeable operator too. What little boy wooden love to have this toy?<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5170668431724195202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLG3imbTFyFbHREblJ14IJ-DZSXhgM8VEmppa7eOSj06NcAYeN761EHaDve-vYbANFBC24O-803rvVPZiufrmfEHUfWSBNIxuo2I7sCedm8Guzbb4_yVKX9scAqPNYJjS15UVOnWmmmckV/s320/il_430xN_20316693.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><p>This adorable <span style="font-size:130%;">Dragonfly pull toy</span> is made from Cherry, Maple, and Black Walnut wood. The wings are even hand silkscreened! Imagine my delight! The wings flop up and down as your little one pulls it along. This is too precious.</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5170668547688312210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlhnNoouC8Xz7OfCRaDktE78vY4y_hvbB5RM6Wl3M1JUHSmqiqtNzocXO9MT9nbMBQlckrGv4kEyhY9MGF1g6ITJ9CSLJq4mg65hxHe1wSbBisRrxUYUfBnqRTNE3MUo0OnYAVEPGNBmj/s320/il_430xN_20290428.jpg" border="0" /></p>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-48750088368272774242008-02-17T08:03:00.001-08:002008-11-13T17:32:39.324-08:00Missing Person in Seattle AreaRecently I became aware of another Etsy seller, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5588252">http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5588252</a>, whose husband Nicholas Francisco has been missing since Feb 13, 2008. She last spoke to him at work in the lower Queen Anne area of Seattle; he said he would be home after running a quick errand to Costco. He has not been seen or heard from since. He was driving a red 1992 Toyota Paseo hatchback with license plate number 601RHX and headed south toward the Seatac area. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168106410717687154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNf9pAw2HC_PaghT-LJrTKikfdfcKFFqBG1lK0bEzTVcXMnjXwFxXuT7tdBuLIWhhYq-6_JgcNUrpx5StoRBJj4zrrGA8c1ST17ohGZIAl1aLB8x1zQlMeYAQjd0Y6IiYwB5D5YI-k-0yZ/s400/2272938606_9bac638d78.jpg" border="0" /><br />Here are a few news articles with more information to pass on.<br /><a href="http://www.komotv.com/news/15682797.html">http://www.komotv.com/news/15682797.html</a><br /><a href="http://www.king5.com/topstories/stories/NW_021608WAB_missing_seatac_man_KS.cbc94803.html">http://www.king5.com/topstories/stories/NW_021608WAB_missing_seatac_man_KS.cbc94803.html</a><br /><a href="http://mailpen.net/">http://mailpen.net/</a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5472516">http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5472516</a><br /><br />Please keep your eyes and ears open and pass the word on.<br />I am keeping the family in my thoughts during this difficult time.Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-65020672397271330472007-08-12T19:03:00.000-07:002008-11-13T17:32:39.597-08:00Olive the Etsy Front Page<div>I am so excited to have my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=484416">Flying Solo Scoop neck</a> top featured on the front page of Etsy this evening. This red and olive list is currated by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5116856">misskenzie</a></div><br /><br /><div>Here is a screen shot of the beautiful list. She also entered it into the <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/generated/838351743/">Etsy Poster Challenge</a>.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098000837613720658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCIKEAasAnTIktpqMptoIAAb2AQuhL9vvb_96zP6tQNc_B8MogrzMh-TkZqg6MbOq1ehrg6ylRuGFG1mbodN0-3rKwbY_U3bHy3f8w-iR9KzmvVyFdFqb4h5E2A3ZnGWerNFVBcv4-7DK/s400/front+page+081207.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><p>I also submitted a treasury for the poster challenge. </p><br /><p>Here is my sampler.</p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098002611435213922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcIubXwhmrLY5jrWF3LEFszUreC6UNAnAKiTb7SaG86yaybs9zx00ezojmxzRhRIHP15y4Vt9DnlrHB_eMa_h7PqzT9sg4cTfV_xd5axiM1YsT0S4bYBIXxeN6V7sf4yvP4xY4wxrzPKhp/s400/etsy+poster+submission.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/388218@N25/">More entries</a> can be seen on flickr.</p><br /><p></p>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-87048013364843924252007-07-03T14:37:00.000-07:002008-11-13T17:32:40.149-08:00PuppetsI have a two and a half year old little boy and recetly we have been playing with socks. He loves to pretend they are puppets. After watching the puppet show on Etsy a few months back, which was hilarious, I started browsing puppets for sale. I will share with you some of my favorites.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5469297"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5083089718368956770" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47jwt_4l287gbPCYfW5K_CyEsHVH0qrDT-_XQAXcpKUmkibqHm9OW2yprRmwyYS5Oq3Ke9_JykPnsPxhetrPPWB-mD8ii-M_JjHXOR3a3imgbem-CSaargNE5YXuVxBjKdS9K6LY2ogDw/s320/staceyrebecca+Susie.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I'll start with Stacey Rebecca who put on the Etsy puppet show. She has been a puppet designer, builder, and performer with Elastic Theater for 5 years.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5469297">Susie</a> is one of my favorites from her Etsy shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=20794">staceyrebecca</a>.<br />Susie's favorite color is green like her shirt and she has big wide open ping pong eyes!<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6158228"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5083090667556729202" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDmGQNRdF9y2LLME9odLODX8-Lae1GwTWrnIAGqZvEE7jMNQvdW4FcWPpPfZd1V31vdn9vPILzmvGsVPsAgIDOkYjIr7sGPtdvvVT0p4WRQfKXTA1HuxYt3-OpdyRSA7d19167nsJFjRVT/s320/outftheboxpuppets+furry+ohmy.jpg" border="0" /></a>Next up is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6158228">Ohmy</a> made by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5105832">Out of The Box Puppets</a>.<br /><br />Ohmy loves big hugs and dancing. He even comes with adoption papers. How cute is that!<br />Out of the Box Puppets specializes in custom puppets, blacklight puppets, (5'7") Life-size Blacklight Puppets, rod arm puppets, specialty puppets (Gooneys and Stringbeans), patterns, kits and more. You can find more puppets on <a href="http://www.kidology.org/store/catalog.asp?item=986&category=11">Kidology</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5503562"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5083092669011489170" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhupuvxD6cviY_h_q3tg7beShksk4ggYKBVvY4PH1gzHPB1yj48FYwcX0KYBt8KtQv0MprVH6NEhIEDhS7VbKkw8nQ8iA1prBOo687_u284BMZhiJ8MSUo1Kc07x6rHDBRGZUpMjeZaLoFu/s320/otis.jpg" border="0" /></a>Finally we have <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5503562">Otis</a>, a full body ventriloquist puppet. He is more for the adult kids.<br /><br />Otis has wildly free hair and few teeth; he is quite the character. Otis is handmade by the talented <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5086931">Sonny Vegas</a>.<br /><br />Sonny Vegas is a Magician, Comedian and Puppet Creator who has been making puppets for five years.<br /><br />You can see more of Sonny's puppets on <a href="http://www.sonnyvegas.com/Puppets_or_Puppets.html">his website</a>.<br /><br />For more information about the puppet community check out <a href="http://www.puppetsandstuff.com/">Puppets and Stuff</a>.<br /><br />Next time, talk to the hand!!!!Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-28620688417187927482007-07-02T10:06:00.000-07:002008-11-13T17:32:40.493-08:00Digital ArtI love layered art. I am currently working on a new design for t-shirts that has multiple layers to it. I have found myself drawn to many digital artists.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6181982"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TlysbLz6hFZaxx7DY8OzaagOCCh1VBaINoYMLrRAdILst1T8_v5MLACXDgdY33tnYiXVSWIRe6Q13eZ3Xsh0Fk2FdD-58cSTl2we1MRAnd2iHYX3qYPUD-T0nloZO_5mvNaeN37MhlL5/s320/galeriedeilluminata+summer+tree.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5082650768416338242" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6181982"> Summer Tree Landscape</a><br /><br />One in particular, absolutely amazes me. Mikel Robinson is an artist from North Carolina (one of my favorite states). He uses digital art and light layered in his mixed media art to explore the range of human emotions, to feel the moment and connect with his audience. We share the same belief that we are all somehow connected to one another from the past to the present and that there is a purpose to everything, though we may not understand or realize it.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6104045">Icarus's Daughter</a> is an example of his layering technique and digital work.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6104045"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVpwTMz8qS9GiDGZCkzyZaetaev-e8z6iFVsk1YkEeZpjvCKW6CgjkKqriEQ2T__wD3dW5JRqBnLUo-ZerdPwHM3flOgPThJbdgpp66K2mu5Qw4JVBpgk0gjdXGvzKsI_Ffdr-m6H45mO/s320/Icarus's+daughter.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5082651666064503122" border="0" /></a> This piece touches on the dark side of human emotion for me and my yearning to break free from my responsibilities. The texture and colors of his work draw me in and actually spark old memories, perhaps of our collective unconscious.<br /><br /><br />His work can be found for sale in his etsy store <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=45551">galeriedeilluminata</a> and more art can be seen on his own web site <a href="http://www.mikelrobinson.com/">The Art of Mikel Robinson</a>.<br /><br /><br />You can read more about him and his work on his <a href="http://candlesandghosts.wordpress.com/">blog</a>.Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-53667201590597494202007-06-30T15:48:00.002-07:002007-07-01T19:59:43.430-07:00Natural InspirationI love nature and am always inspired by it. I am naturally drawn to art with nature themes.<br />I found a wonderfully talented designer recently whose products caught my eye. Tobi Wood of <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.tobiwooddesigns.com/index.html">Tobi Wood Designs</a> has a bright and bold artistic style.<br />She carries paper goods, magnets and prints that feature her art. She has 8 series of designs including bloom, bulb, flower, grass, leaf, stem, tree and vase.<br />Her designs are bright with colors that really pop!Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-43035900413680525222007-06-28T17:16:00.000-07:002008-11-13T17:32:41.119-08:00Mod Pod Tote<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7mUaEfQuPIcS0f_XXZaHGAcO_vI3eGVxgWrshP4TAMKpGPSlCCeKCPOOzWnQ7tzNSovzNIXD9npRnCZ8HA5c-fj1WT_1IfanKnXwUNswBfczJZjVTW3fYfNWbcdWgPcuAY6pU5vLfyw-L/s1600-h/pod+bag+red+and+blue+inside+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7mUaEfQuPIcS0f_XXZaHGAcO_vI3eGVxgWrshP4TAMKpGPSlCCeKCPOOzWnQ7tzNSovzNIXD9npRnCZ8HA5c-fj1WT_1IfanKnXwUNswBfczJZjVTW3fYfNWbcdWgPcuAY6pU5vLfyw-L/s400/pod+bag+red+and+blue+inside+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5081274931477639346" border="0" /></a><br />Today I screen printed my first tote bag. This was so much fun. They are perfect for keeping in the car for grocery trips. I hate collecting all of those plastic bags that I can't manage to throw out. Now I can use my tote to carry my items in.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzBjzW95pmu_x8yHZQTBvP0p-qOp5FAQzGnkuq0YYaTICXZ89qqBMKcLghX3Gs-BtfKRXZgS9Fx69q7QynKXnYfzE50rsI0Wi1oUedObpLiLgKQcXYBbWjIo0lect6FoiVQw-NjrZLV1a/s1600-h/pod+bag+half.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzBjzW95pmu_x8yHZQTBvP0p-qOp5FAQzGnkuq0YYaTICXZ89qqBMKcLghX3Gs-BtfKRXZgS9Fx69q7QynKXnYfzE50rsI0Wi1oUedObpLiLgKQcXYBbWjIo0lect6FoiVQw-NjrZLV1a/s320/pod+bag+half.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5081275180585742530" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />I love patterns, especially those found in nature. I created this funky pattern from pod flowers that I drew. I used bright summer colors for the print and then printed my logo on the inside.<br /><br />They come in bright green and blue as well as bold red and blue.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC7vklcC86ql7JZB9U-q99GOUzKFly5imVCAmfCxJ3gMBiN97IhhxvJiw6vrzSJUHN0xJwUOTUQMFsHuwY-vt1X02ctOgPmcxNcZu2UkKHrXsZq9MwuMMYJqZPs6bHBVtjKaNk6L_GRgEF/s1600-h/pod+bags+rolled+up+front.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC7vklcC86ql7JZB9U-q99GOUzKFly5imVCAmfCxJ3gMBiN97IhhxvJiw6vrzSJUHN0xJwUOTUQMFsHuwY-vt1X02ctOgPmcxNcZu2UkKHrXsZq9MwuMMYJqZPs6bHBVtjKaNk6L_GRgEF/s320/pod+bags+rolled+up+front.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5081352545831645426" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I rolled them up in little bundles with some matching raffia ribbon. I made some pod flower buttons to match for each set. I listed them for sale in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=68044">my Etsy store</a> and will be coming up with some new designs soon!Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-970434298799307037.post-12165640631431458622007-06-25T08:34:00.000-07:002008-11-13T17:32:41.575-08:00Softies<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5080027641490594578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTg9LBtWCuKWFCEBf-_fAp9v8eRdlnWbDx7YTdFN0680u4afrnZg9SDsYGrr-NrS2ThYhWWZG5__PKTNz1fNqXGvZFTFxhslE4IYayzIS5eXZ1fed5QUEj34reAD-0wiarQYCvV1FHxSa/s320/pocket+squirrel+line+drops.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=40469"><span style="font-size:130%;">Cynic the Lamb</span></a> is an artist from New York, now living in Cambridge who creates adorable softies. These cushion like dolls come in all sorts of animal shapes. She sells a popular pocket squirrel that comes in all sorts of modern patterns. </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6065748"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5080027555591248642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg587nVoR5rHrPtxE9nbvfVgt0drfOa7QZjKjleyn2awIjEldFhh3X9QDicJiLb4LqXNHyjUce2XRk-puzPf_GEkKSWHPbRFxOYw614J-KIkxjJhlez0tStFonZ3vAATaWlqaJ7gcEvMgYS/s320/pocket+squirrel+bug+circles.jpg" border="0" /></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5080027473986870002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_kMV-31p3lk9aCuEmHofZ_IMF_UPqSpg_6ViEecRoKjhAvDIXnal6Bf04HpjXrngcwsYoNQ3P5h_fvIQA3lpuEuxbCiBO1TiqY_8nVCqgC10HAWVt_ga9cBWPVZ22oY_4w5Y4fsA3Aa29/s320/pocket+squirrel+forest.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><br /><br />These are a few of my favorite patterns she has used. They make a great gift and are very affordable. You can get to know the artist better by reading her <a href="http://sotosofties.blogspot.com/"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">blog here</span></strong></a><span style="font-size:130%;">.</span>Circular Accessorieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00167685979791342944noreply@blogger.com1