©Eclisse Creazioni Art & Photography

Kindred: Summer '09

2009-06-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

The new Kindred Summer lineup of free desktop wallpapers are finally here!!!! Holly and Ez have been working hard and are pleased to introduce them to you. This season artists are :

Please go on over to Kindred and see the lovely new free designs and get your computer desktop summer-ready!

Tip Junkie Birthday Bash

2009-06-05T19:34:00.000-07:00

Tip Junkie is turning 2 years old and will be converting from .blogspot to Dot Com debuting the new fabulous make-over on Monday, June 15th.!

To celebrate she will host 50 giveaways in 5 days with amazing prizes June 15th - June 19th.

The Going Dot Com Birthday Bash will be hosted like a giveaway carnival with 10 prizes given out each day. Here are the Mom-preneurs (me included) who are participating:

Monday, June 15th:

1. Eclisse Creazioni's
2. Baby Dipper
3. Bibs & Cribs
4. Bead Blossom Design
5. Heritage Makers
6. Charming Gifts
7. Angi Stampin' Up
8. Prarie Mama
9. La Bella Jewels
10. Mazer Designs
11. The Celebration Shoppe

Tuesday, June 16th:

1. Baby Chacha
2. Little Darlin Designs
3. Chubby Baby
4. Cherry Blossoms Baby
5. Angel Face Designs
6. The Vintage Pearl
7. Elegant Celebrations
8. Pixisette
9. Every Little Detail
10. Semiprecious

Wednesday, June 17th:

1. Chic Covers
2. L Herbert Designs
3. Chelsea Vantol
4. Tickatoo
5. Imagine Childhood
6. Me Oh My Paper Boutique
7. Staker Sensations
8. Buzz About Baby
9. Venezie Bags
10. Petit

Thursday, June 18th:

1. Nikki Michele
2. Whitney Caroline Designs
3. Sweet Baby Cake
4. Inspired by Jenna
6. Mine Own Book
7. Fifi Flowers
8. Daisy Craft
9. Doodle Design Shop
10. Sugar Sweet Baby
11. Sweet Funky Vintage

Friday, June 19th:

1. Scrappy Design
2. Polkadots&Paisleys
3. Inspire Your Walls
4. AJ's Bowtique
5. Simply Shell
6. Sweet Mady's
7. Studio JK
8. Shabby Straps
9. Dream Custom Artwork
10. The Baby's Bundle

Help us promote the Birthday Bash with 50 prizes buy adding this button to your blog and posting about the party!

We need your help to make this birthday bash a success. I hope you'll help us get the word out and then go and participate in the giveaway carnival on June 15th!

Summer Lovin'

2009-06-01T14:00:00.000-07:00

Bikinis are everywhere, you've stocked up on SPF 80 and you're feeling the urge to go strapless. Only thing missing: a summer fling.Nicole Williams has plans for your romance--at the office. Follow the career expert's sassy tips, and the love of your life could turn out to be...your job.
Surprised? Check out her new site to be wooed:

Make sparks fly like when you were first hired. Remember how it felt to jump into a task and really enjoy it? Try this.

Take it to the next level. Summer offers rare chances to get closer to that promotion or reel in that raise, if you know how to work it.

Play the field. It wouldn't be summer without some fun, so check out where to find the best job opportunities.

Look better than ever. Once you've got that healthy, happy glow of love, dress it up with a look to snag that perfect position.
Check out the site and get a free ebook here.

Simple Microwaveable Fudge Recipe

2009-05-31T13:12:00.000-07:00

OMG I cannot believe I just found the easiest Fudge recipe on earth that even a baker-disaster like me cam make (since there is not baking involved WOOT WOOT) !!!!!

Ingredients

3 cups milk chocolate chips

1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

1/4 cup butter

1 cup chopped walnuts or other favorite nuts (optional)

1/8 tsp salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Place milk chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter , salt and vanilla extract in large

microwaveable bowl. Microwave on medium until chips are melted, about 2-5 minutes, stirring once

or twice during melting. Stir in nuts, if desired.

2. Pour into 8°—8-inch pan that you have lined with foil and coated with cooking spray. Refrigerate until

set. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Try to tell me now i can't make any treat... (wink wink)

This necklace "ROCKS" !!!!

2009-05-27T17:33:00.000-07:00

I am very, super excited to be able to show you this today...

If i think of something i would like to create ( in this case a custom made necklace for my Son) i will start to hunt every single corner of the Net until i found what i need!!!!

After searching high and low and not finding quite what I wanted, I thought.. let me try the greatest place on earth, my wonderful friend Carolyn Spranger.

A quick chat on the messenger , a few ideas exchanged and this charming necklace popped up.

The sterling silver Guitar Pick made by Carolyn is perfect, and engraved beautifully. The quote is really dear to me and says "Do not fear mistakes. There are none"... LOVE IT!!!!!

I also love the size because it fits like a puzzle piece into the little hollow area of my Son's neck. Best of all, after the great turnout of the necklace, we are soon joining forces again, creating another jewelry that reassume our designs onto one piece. Stay tune, U DO NOT WANNA MISS IT!!!!!

Carolyn is having right now a Necklace Giveaway. The winner will receive a custom hand stamped 1" hollow pendant and ball chain.

Soooooo... what are you waiting for?

Jump over HERE, submit your entries (yes you read it right! This time is not my broken English, I wrote entries and I mean it... just follow Carolyn instructions and u can have up to 4 entries for more chances to win) and...

GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!

Inspiration...

2009-05-26T09:45:00.000-07:00

"Love is the river of life in the world".

(Henry Ward Beecher)

Print your own Pinhole Camera

2009-05-24T20:09:00.000-07:00

OMG this is the coolest thing i've seen in a long time!!!!!! Corbis is offering free, downloadable and printable pinhole cameras to celebrate world pinhole camera day! Just hop over HERE to see all the cameras available, download your style of choice, follow the instructions and make a "OH SO COOL" paper pinhole camera. Now remember... pinhole cameras can be used only with regular film !!!

Falcone Lives On...

2009-05-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

I'm italian, my roots are in Sicily and i believe strongly in the State and in the fight against every form of criminal organization.
17 years ago i was young but i remember a young Enrico Mentana on Canale 5 who announced the slaughter of Capaci. In the massacre died Giovanni Falcone, his wife Francesca Morvillo and three men of their armed escort. The same year, on July 19th, the other magistrate Paolo Borsellino, was killed in Palermo by Cosa Nostra in the slaughter of Via D'Amelio. It was the war. The war of Cosa Nostra against the Italian State. There were other attacks in Rome (the churchs of San Giovanni in Laterano and San Giorgio al Velabro), in Firenze (Galleria degli Uffizi) and in Milano (Padiglione d'arte contemporanea).
Giovanni Facolne together with Paolo Borsellino are hero) of the fight against criminal organization that waste Italy and his people...

Hanno ucciso l'Uomo, non l'Idea.
(They kill the Man, not the ideal)

Easy Gifts to Make from Scraps

2009-05-19T10:13:00.000-07:00

Looking for a quick gift idea that you can make with leftover crafts supplies? Here are super and simple ideas from Better Homes and Gardens that i put together just for my readers and you can make in a snap.

I cannot wait to try my hands on this Personalized Letters... Isn't it adorable???

I think will be a wonderful addition for a kid room or a family room as well, maybe with some old vintage movie pictures... uuuhhhmmmmm... I may need to make trip to Joanne's since i saw those letters in there last Saturday made out of heavy weight cardboard!
I'll keep you all update if i make any progress on this project without falling far behind with all the others i have still on old (wink wink) !!!

Sleepless Nights and Pillow Talk

2009-04-30T12:17:00.000-07:00

I've been tossing and turning sleepless in my bed for the last month and, if i want take good care and chase around 2 HURRICANES like my kids, I NEED AN ENTIRE NIGHT OF SLEEP!!!!!!!

I did some online researches and this is what i found... let's start to "lay down" the law:

› A good correction system includes a regular bedtime and wakeup pattern.

› Cut off ties with accomplices by banishing all bedroom distractions (especially electronics).

› Put in some time and money rethinking your PJs and bedding to ensure you're prioritizing sleep, not fashion.

› A cool bedroom temperature should be enforced (most experts agree it's optimal).

› Exercise your right to…well, exercise – just not within 6 hours before bed.

› Any food or drink containing caffeine is contraband before sleep.

› Remember that lying (awake) won't get you anywhere. Get up, do something relaxing and go back when sleepy.

If you still have trouble after a month, turn yourself in to a sleep specialist.

Talking about sleep... the time we spend in bed has a big effect on our faces (think: eight hours of your face scrunched into a pillow) that's why a growing number of brands are offering "beauty bedding" containing tiny particles of natural materials--like seaweed and metals--that are thought to boost complexions. For instance, copper-infused bedding from companies like Copalife and Skin Glow promises to control acne, ward off wrinkles, crow's feet and fine lines.

But do they really work magic on our skin? Some dermatologists are believers while many others remain skeptical. The brands often don't have clinical studies to back up their claims, which means there's currently no proof of the positive effects of cosmetic ingredients in bedding.

Luckily, you can still have your happy ending. Most skin experts do agree that a satin pillowcase will help fight wrinkles. Because skin glides smoothly over the fabric, you end up with less creasing while you catch Z's.

Ugh... our nights in shining armor.

New piece and more to come!!!

2009-04-29T17:04:00.000-07:00

I finally finished assembly a Cell Phone charm that have been sitting on the kitchen counter for ages haunting me to be completed. I also decided to redesign some of the packaging of the Picture Tile Magnets and i like them a million times better than they were packaged before (..and they look so much nicer now!). I just listed the Cell Phone charm on the shop so check it out!

Soon to come some more pictures of the new packaging and other new stuff on the making.

Hopefully, if the planets align and the Sun doesn't crush on our planet, tonight i will start work on a new addition to the shop, Man Cufflinks, so keep an eye out for those as well!!!!

Etsy Sellers United for Etsy Day!

2009-04-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

Etsy celebrates today Etsy Day.
Since its launch in 2005, Etsy's community has grown to over 100,000 sellers from all around the world, reconnecting makers with buyers. Come to Etsy for a truly innovative shopping experience. and join in the celebration. Help us spread the word and Pledge to buy Handmade for yourself and your loved one. Support the Goal of building a New Economy through providing a Better Choice to Buy, Sell and Live Handmade - Shop Etsy !

ECLISSE CREAZIONI MOTHERS DAY GIVEAWAY!!!!!

2009-04-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

Calling all my lovin' friends and followers!

Mother's Day is on Sunday, May 10th and coming up quick and I am so excited to be able to offer this giveaway to you!

I'm giving away to one of my lucky readers a $40.00 gift certificate to my shop!

HOW do I win the $40.00 gift certificate to Eclisse Creazioni?
1. Go to my shop and pick out your favorite product.

1. Hop over to Tip Junkie and simply leave a comment here with your favorite gift. .

3. One lucky winner will be drawn Friday morning, May 1st by a random number generator.

Extra entries:

1.. If you are a "follower" on Tip Junkie, feel free to leave another comment that says "I follow!" for a second chance to win. If not then hook yourself up by pressing the "follow" on the left sidebar under Fellow Junkies and then leave your second comment.
1.. If you Twitter, "follow" Tip Junkie and you can receive a third chance to win by leaving a comment with your twitter name. If not then follow Tip Junkie on Twitter and then leave your third comment.

WANT to purchase a jewelry right now? Go over the Mom-Preneur shop and look for the Eclisse Creazioni listings for a 15% discount code.

GOOD LUCK!!!!!!

History of Earth Day

2009-04-22T11:09:00.001-07:00

In the Beginning...
In 1963, former Senator Gaylord Nelson began to worry about our planet. (A senator is a person that the people of the United States have chosen to help make the laws.) Senator Nelson knew that our world was getting dirty and that many of our plants and animals were dying.

He wondered why more people weren't trying to solve these problems. He talked to other lawmakers and to the President. They decided that the President would go around the country and tell people about these concerns. He did, but still not enough people were working on the problem.

The Idea

Then, in 1969, Senator Nelson had another idea. He decided to have a special day to teach everyone about the things that needed changing in our environment. He wrote letters to all of the colleges and put a special article in Scholastic Magazine to tell them about the special day he had planned. (Most of the schools got this magazine and he knew that kids would help him.)

The Holiday
On April 22, 1970, the first Earth Day was held. People all over the country made promises to help the environment. Everyone got involved and since then, Earth Day has spread all over the planet. People all over the world know that there are problems we need to work on and this is our special day to look at the planet and see what needs changing.

Earth Day it's a great time to learn about our planet and how to take care of it! Be sure to visit Kaboose for some Earth Day crafts projects, coloring pages, and fun activities.

More great news and features!!!

2009-04-21T09:47:00.000-07:00

Today i got an email from Erica Pitera, Editor of MyShoppingConnection.com that my Keepsake tile pendant with Drawing have been selected by ShoppingByMail as one of the newest find!!!!

Also Bow Down to Laurie from Tip Junkie for including my Portrait Tile Charm in the Mothers Day Gift Guide.

Check out her blog for great tips and resources on tutorials, swaps, giveaways, and Mom-preuner products and, while u are there, please stop by to the Mom-Preneurs Shops and support buy and sell women-owned products!!!!

TODAY I MADE THE ETSY FRONT PAGE...

2009-04-20T17:47:00.001-07:00

... and i didn't even know it!!!!! WOOT WOOT WOOT!!!!! A big THANK U to my friend Marina of Bare Sock Craft Studio for including me in this wonderful Treasury that made to the Front Page!!!!

EARTH DAY - clean your home the natural way!

2009-04-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 22 is Earth Day and in an effort to keep our earth green, clean and healthy let's clean the house the Natural Way with nature's finest ingredients.

Here are a four that are not only very inexpensive but are eco-friendly to boot!

1. Lemons
2. Baking Soda
3. Distilled White Vinegar
4. Toothpaste

Here's how you can use them:

Fabric Softener
Since most fabric softeners contain toxic ingredients both for the planet and for you, try something a little different. Use 2 tbsps in your rinse cycle for great results that will never leave your clothes feeling coated and won't irritate your skin. Don't worry-your clothes won't smell like pickles, I promise! Make sure you are using Distilled white vinegar, not malt, or something sticky.

Dishwasher Rinse Aid
Vinegar has yet another wonderful use and that is getting your dishes sparkling clean! Yes, that's right, just pour vinegar into your dishwasher's rinse aid dispenser and it will keep them clean and spot-free.

Carpet Deodorizer
Use baking soda as a carpet deodorizer, especially if you have pets. Pour some on, let is sit for about 15 mins and then vacuum it up. Since baking soda absorbs odors in your fridge/freezer, it will do the same for your carpet and rugs too! (On a side note-I had a lost rotton onion that stunk up my cabinet, and poured baking soda on it for a whole day. It absorbed the moisture and most of the odor, then I kept an open box of baking soda in the cabinet for a month and smell was gone!)

Shower Mildew Preventer
They say vodka is a natural mildew preventer. I don't know about you, but I'd prefer to drink the expensive stuff vs. clean with it. There is another natural alternative though. Vinegar will do the trick. I keep a spray bottle filled 3 parts vinegar, 1 part water and spray the shower after each use, especially the chrome. It keeps it shiny and free from hard water spots.

Garbage Disposal Freshener
While little citrus discs are available from the store, wouldn't you rather use something natural to clean and deodorize your garbage disposal? Use left over citrus rinds or rinds/flesh from squeezed lemons and oranges. Put one or two in with a little water into your disposal and voila, any bad smells will be gone! The citrus is biodegradable unlike the store-bought disks and do not contain artificial fragrance, phthalates, etc.

Cutting Board Cleaner
When you have finished using your cutting board whether it be wooden, plastic or my favorite-glass, always use the flat side of a lemon-half or slice to clean the cutting board afterwards. This is my favorite thing to use after cutting garlic, it takes the smell away.

Get Chrome Super Shiny
I mentioned that vinegar is great for getting chrome to sparkle, you can use a little baking soda too if you need a little paste for extra scrubbing on a stubborn hard water scale. However, another great alternative is toothpaste! Maybe you bought a brand that you don't prefer, don't throw it away-use it with an old toothbrush to clean stubborn hard water stains and grime. You can use it in your bathroom, kitchen, for scrubbing between tiles, etc. The best part is the natural mint smell you'll enjoy while cleaning!

Drain De-Clogger
Once my drains get a little clogged I always checked for hair first, as this is generally the culprit. Once you've cleaned that out, if your drain is still not working right, use a little baking soda and vinegar. First pour some baking soda in, maybe about 3 tbsp, then add some white vinegar and try to cover the drain and let it fizz and foam away. Once it sits for about 10-15 mins, pour boiling water (from a kettle or very hot tap) down the drain. It will start dissolving the grime naturally unlike the usual drano-type products that are horrible for the environment.

Window Wash
Use vinegar in a spray bottle and recycled newspaper to clean your windows/mirrors. This is a much more eco-friendly and non-toxic way compared to ammonia-based products.

There is a plethora of great natural products available to you, if you don't feel like mixing and making your own. Try Seventh Generation, Method, or Ecover. Those are my three favorite brands. They offer everything from hand soap to dishwasher detergent to dryer sheets and diapers! They can be found online, at a Whole Foods Store or in some cases your local grocery store.

I hope you will try these natural methods so that you can reap the benefits of Spring Cleaning without the toxic cloud that will pollute your indoor air quality as well as our waterways, fish and ground.

U can also visit EarthDay.gov for more tips and ideas on how to get involved and see how u can accelerate environmental progress!

Parasol Magazine

2009-04-02T16:41:00.000-07:00

Natasha of A Print A Day just started a new project, Parasol Magazine. It's a monthly downloadable pdf magazine that features art, design, creative lifestyle and more. Best of all it's absolutely free.
You can download Parasol Magazine here over her new wonderful Blog and if u give a look to page 31 u can also find a Special discount coupon code for my Etsy store sooooo... WHAT ARE U WAITING FOR????!!!!

Still recovering...

2009-03-31T11:30:00.000-07:00

... from the Ethos Show "Culture Shock". I have to admit that i had a blast but by the end of the night (or the start of the morning maybe LOL) i was completely wiped out!!! Here is a sneak peak of the Show since i'm still waiting on the pictures from the Art Director. Enjoy...

Also here's 2 videos from the first Project Ethos i was in, Stars Aligned...

The Ultimate Blog Party 2009 is HERE AGAIN!!!!

2009-03-20T12:48:00.000-07:00

The Ultimate Blog Party 2009 has started and it is HUGE. It runs from March 20th - 27th with tons going on all week.

This year thy've added three UBP "In Real Life" parties in NY, LA and Nashville. We'll be live streaming exclusive performances by Chris Mann, Leslie Mills and Diane Birch.

It is the Mom blogging event of the year with TONS of PRIZES —http://www.5minutesformom.com/5796/ubp-week-of-fun/.
This year i hope to win the ChicBud Earphones with Swarovski Crystals... so chic, I LOVE THEM!!!!!

Project Ethos- Culture Shock

2009-03-12T11:01:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, i've been neglecting the blog quite a bit but... I'm getting ready for another Wonderful show with Project ETHOS!!!!
What's Project Ethos u r probably asking... mmmhhhh let's see:

ETHOS definition: "The distinctive spirit of a culture or an era."

Project ETHOS is a red carpet event in Los Angeles that showcases all emerging Millennial Generation forms of creativity in one house, on one night.
By merging fashion, music, and art into one
giant display of genius, Project ETHOS creates a new form of exposure for artists in general, as well as a fresh outing for event goers.

Project Ethos bridges the gap between the Indie and Mainstream worlds. With a potent ear to the street, they seek out new extraordinary talent and create a link to decision makers or industry professionals. Project ETHOS is the next generation of exposing all artistry to the media, public and industry.

This Show, Culture Shock, will be hosted at the Vanguard in Hollywood.
U can see more of my participation on the Show HERE with a little sneak peak on some of my new pieces !!!

Your Best Bath Recipe

2009-02-24T18:31:00.000-08:00

Whip this up after dinner for the perfect topping to a hectic day.

Required time: 20-30 minutes, uninterrupted.
Skill level: Finding 20 minutes is the hard part.

Ingredients:
Candles or tea lights
1 bottle body lotion
2 cups Epsom salts
Chamomile tea, hot cocoa, red wine, or peppermint tea

Optional:
½ cup baking soda
2-3 cups milk
5-8 drops essential oil (such as lavender, rosemary, lemon, orange, cinnamon, or chamomile)

Directions:
Turn off overhead lights and light candles. Play soothing music if desired. Start to run hot bath, then fill sink with hot water and immerse closed bottle of lotion. Prepare a drink to help you sleep (chamomile), feel luxurious (cocoa or wine), or ease a headache (peppermint).

Add Epsom salts to full bath--they'll draw out toxins, relax muscles and exfoliate. Adjust according to taste:

To increase relaxation, add lavender.
To be uplifted, add orange, lemon or cinnamon.
To soothe dry skin, add baking soda and/or milk.
To clear your head, add rosemary.
To induce sleep, add chamomile and/or lavender.
Step in, lay back and soak while sipping drink. After 20-30 minutes, step out and apply warm body lotion. Pull plug on bath...and the day's stress.

Thanks Tim and Found-Handmade!!!

2009-02-22T13:04:00.000-08:00

I just got the message from Timothy Adam that i got featured on Found-Handmade and, right now, i really need this after the most awful 3 days of my life!!!! U can go see the spotlight here so, if u can, head over there, leave some love, spread the word, show some support... whatever u want but let your voice be heard!!!!

UPDATE!!!!

I GOT FEATURED TWICE!!!! WOOT WOOT r u seeing me dance??? Here is the other spotlight!!!! THANKS GUYS U ROCK MY WORLD!!!!!!

Decorating Style quiz.

2009-02-20T22:47:00.000-08:00

Today i stumble across a really neat site that with a rate rooms system on a row from "Love It" to "Hate It" help to recognize your style preferences. I turned out to be:

43% Hollywood Couture
33% Cottage Chic
23% Traditional Asian

Hollywood Couture

"Welcome to Hollywood! What's your dream?" That's right, it's time to roll out the red carpet and get ready for the sparkle of crystal and all things flashy that make up Hollywood Couture.
Glam style originated in high-end lifestyles that made up the years between the roaring 20's and the swinging 40's, where it was important to bring a feeling of glamour to the home when the world outside may have lacked it. Nowadays it's scratching a similar itch in the sense that it's bringing a sense of opulence to a world that seems to have forgotten how much fun it can be!
The great thing about the updated version of the style is how versatile it is. You can take it in any direction and add almost any style into the mix — perhaps a contemporary leather sofa paired with lacquered Louis XIV chairs that have been upholstered in lush velvet. The key is that each item feels as rich and over-the-top as possible and yet everything still seems livable. It's not a space that screams: "do not touch" - rather it almost dares you to experience its luxury.

Try it here, u r gonna love it!!!

VALENTINES DAY SALE!!!!!

2009-02-11T10:49:00.000-08:00

From now to Valentines Day we are offering the 20% off on all the items in our Etsy store. Please visit us for one of a kind Heirloom Gift and specify the code "Be Mine" in your convo!!!

I GOT FEATURED!!!

2009-02-07T12:33:00.001-08:00

YEP, i got featured on Style Collective in the Indie Designer spotlight section. U can read the article HERE and also they choose 2 of Asha's picture for an AD going all over Australia soooo.. big things are coming my way hopefully!!!! WOOT WOOT finger crossed people, please wish me luck!!!

PIF Littlest Heroes Project

2009-01-28T20:33:00.000-08:00

The Littlest Heroes Project is a non-profit based organization founded in January 2008, made up of professional photographers nationwide that provide free photo sessions to our nations Littlest Heroes. This is our way of giving back and taking a stand for these children who sometimes feel forgotten because of their illnesses. We are here to let them know that they are heroes to many, and to share their inspirational stories and photos with the world.

If you have a child, or know a child, who suffers from any type of serious illness or life altering disability we are here to help. The Littlest Heroes Project provides you with a complimentary photo shoot for your hero and family. Please read the information here on the site and be sure to contact them so they can help pair you up with a photographer from your area. The whole family ... Super Sibs and the Brave Parents are welcome to participate in the session as well!

OUR ETSY STORE...

2009-01-17T14:04:00.001-08:00

... is finally HERE, up and running!!!!!! Please come over to show us some love and CROSS THE FINGERS FOR US!!!!!! We still have TONS of stuff coming up, GIVEAWAY INCLUDED, so keep your eyes wide open!!!!

New Matting now available for sell

2008-10-07T17:03:00.000-07:00

I've been working a lot lately, especially on this new series of matting!!! I'm very proud of the results and I'm still working on some more but i like to share a sneak paek of the B&W series!!!

Birthday Pictures!

2008-09-28T14:15:00.000-07:00

Remember this? Well...these are some of the pictures from that session. Enjoy...

The 7 Habits Of Highly Spiritual People

2008-09-25T19:39:00.000-07:00

In truth, that headline is misleading. This list is merely a starter set, not the be-all and end-all assuring spiritual bliss. (And what's so mystical about the number 7 anyway, other than that it appears to boost book sales?) As the unofficial and self-declared Stephen Covey of spirituality, I add this encouraging caveat: just like bad habits you can't break, the same can be said of good habits. Try some of these, reap the rewards -- those would be love for and from others, love for
yourself, love in general -- and they will become addictive, giving rise to many other random acts of spiritual goodness that will take over your life. Happy holy days.

#1
Highly Spiritual People Give Rather Than Take.
To give is indeed divine. Some research on altruism suggests people commit selfless deeds precisely because such acts make them feel good, therefore refuting the notion of selflessness. Hogwash. Is breathing selfish? If we didn't give, and give generously, we'd die. I really believe that. Giving is human nature; it's just that we forget our own Spirit-Nature sometimes. Giving can take many forms; simply paying attention to someone is a gift.

#2
They Say Yes More Than They Say No.
Naysayers are a downer. "No" closes our hearts like cholesterol. (Naturally, this excludes saying "No" to drugs or other self-destructive, noxious or illegal behaviors.) "Yes" affirms life. People
always would rather hear yes rather no. Unless it's when you ask your doctor, "Do I have herpes?"

#3
They See Possibilities, Not Problems.
As Shunryu Suzuki writes: "In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities; in the expert's mind there are few." And this may be the only time you hear Norman Vincent Peale quoted right after Suzuki-roshi, but there is something to the power of positive thinking, if not "The Power of Positive Thinking." Spiritual people are optimists. They believe in belief. They are the lemon-to-lemonade folks, the problems-as-opportunites advocates, the positive spin
Masters.

#4
They Walk A Mile in Your Shoes.
They understand that empathy means feeling another's pain but not so much that they take on others' pain and become another's pain. With that empathy, they tend to know exactly what to say or do for you to make you feel better. In gratitude, we say to them, "You are a saint." Even when we do not mean it literally, it is true -- literally.

#5
They Count Blessings in Small Wonders.
They do not expect Spirit to appear accompanied by fire and brimstone and a big neon sign flashing in the sky. They are not waiting for the Big A-ha. Nor are they waiting for the cure to cancer, the job promotion, or the love of a lifetime. They appreciate the tiny details: the smile of a child, the sparkle in an old person's eyes, the morning's first ray of sunlight. While others have recommended not to sweat the bad small stuff, spiritual people savor the good small stuff.

#6
They Give Compliments Generously, Accept Them with Humility.
There is no limit to people's need for praise and appreciation. I suspect that even Donald Trump deep down is desperate for a compliment. Spiritual people do not see people's "need" for support as a weakness or flaw. They see it as a cry for love, and they comply without hesitation. On the other hand, those who respond to a compliment with grandiose objections and deflections, who cannot accept a compliment with grace, probably feel they are not worthy of it. But they are worthy of it. Even the Don is worthy of it.

#7
They Worship Where and When the Spirit Moves Them.
They don't need a temple or church to practice their spirituality, nor do they need a Sunday morning service at 10 a.m. They don't even need a rabbi or a priest or a lama or sensei. Their spiritual setting is a forest, a beach, a mountain top. Their setting is a movable spiritual feast, for they know the true spiritual setting is within. And it travels with, and within, them wherever they go.

#8
They Laugh a Lot
Have you noticed? Santa ho-ho-ho's his way down the chimney. The Dalai Lama giggles his way to enlightenment. Alfred E. Neuman has that eternal grin. The Laughing Buddha is, well, laughing. Spiritual people are happy. Not just the smiley-face kind of happy, but the deep-down-content kind of happy. If you have trouble getting to happy, try this trick I learned years ago from no less a sage source than the musical "Bye Bye Birdie": "Just put on a happy face." The act of smiling alone triggers a happy hormonal shift, from "gloomy mask of tragedy" to "spreading sunshine all over the place." And what could be more spiritual than that?

Last week Photoshoot

2008-09-21T15:08:00.000-07:00

I have the pleasure last week to shoot the kids of my dear friend Peterann. It was a bit of a challenge, since MY kids where around, but the pictures came out STUNNING!!!!! She also bring her wedding dress to put on her oldest and that was the sweetest thing EVER!!!I surely will add this to my bag of tricks!!!!

Yvonne's cake, soooo good!!!

2008-09-21T14:58:00.000-07:00

My friend Yvonne made this cake for me for a 2 years Birthday photo shoot yesterday... trust me when i tell u that the taste is even better then the look (in fact 3/4 of cake was gone by night time LOL). Useless to say that, from now on, I'm gonna relay on her for all the sweet treats in my life and business since I'm a complete disaster in the baking department (wink wink)!!!

It's a girl thing

2008-09-18T13:08:00.000-07:00

Lori Andrews, aka The 10 Cent Designer, has put together and published a wonderful book on Blurb. Lori's gathered images from fellow flickr members of the "It's a girl thing" group, and included them in an 108-page "It's a Girl Thing" Summer book, which the group came together to create, and celebrate summer and all good girlish pursuits.

I was really honored to have my image ( down here)included in the Summer book, along with some of these other fantastic images from some of flickr's best and most creative photographers.

Today the book was blogged on Blurberati Blog and "It's a girl thing" IS a best seller!

Custom Tile pendants and Holiday orders deadline for 2008

2008-09-17T11:02:00.000-07:00

I want to remind u all that for the Custom Tile pendants my Holiday order deadline for Christmas 12/25 is 12/01. I will ship no later than 12/17.

For an item to be considered in before the deadline it must be paid for AND images submitted. There is no guarantee an item will ship on time if images are submitted AFTER the deadline even if payment was made prior to.
Here is a few pictures of the new products (click on the pictures for a bigger view).
In the tile charm the picture can be only on a single side or on both side with your choise of 2 pictures.

Ribbon necklaces and Swarosky Crystals are now available in the color of your choice

The wall tile is still one of the Hot items we have in the store

and the silhouette portrait is now only available on tile pendant and not anymore on silver!!!

TURNAROUND TIME:
Typical turnaround is 10-14 business days.
Turnaround time might be extended a smidge around holidays or after a big sale, but I’m always upfront about it. So you
have no worries. Holiday orders are guaranteed as long as orders are submitted on time. RUSH Holiday orders are only
guaranteed if the EXPRESS MAIL shipping option is chosen.

Playing with Textures

2008-09-03T09:59:00.001-07:00

The other day i was a little bored and i start to play with some old pictures. I really like the results and I'm thinking about including this technique more often in my sessions.

On another note today is my Lil girl first day of Pre K... i think I'm having a bit of separation anxiety but i will survive!!!! OK, off to work now, have y'all a great day!!!

New Cards are in!!!!

2008-08-29T19:24:00.000-07:00

New Cards collection are in!!! Storyboards, Collages, Birth Announcements, Seniors, Mommy's cards. Halloween, Christmas ... OMG everything u can think about IT'S FINALLY HERE!!! I'll post a sneak peek now but but keep an eye open because there's more to come!!! For more info send me an e-mail and i will give u more details and pricing.

Berry Picking

2008-08-27T19:19:00.001-07:00

Saturday we went Berry picking with my girlfriends and the kiddos and WE HAD A BLAST!!!! I was thinking about try Heather's famous Strawberry Pretzel Dessert but the berries where all gone by night with a can of whipping cream (wink wink). Here some pictures from that beautiful outing, i hope u enjoy!!!

Halloween Templates

2008-08-22T13:59:00.000-07:00

My friend Dani send me today 2 templates and i have to tell u that they are really easy to use!!! The originals have a line with HAPPY HALLOWEEN and TRICK OR TREAT on it but since they are fully customizable i change it a little bit! I love how they fit the pictures of my 2 sleeping beauties don't you?

Garden Fun...

2008-08-14T14:27:00.001-07:00

Today the weather was perfect so we got the chance to do some yard work... look at my "Baby", she have the green thumb doesn't she?

... and while we where working somebody else was... uuuhhhmmmm... chilling and enjoying a drink!!!!

This is the HOPE REVOLUTION

2008-08-13T15:07:00.000-07:00

I joined a new group today HOPE REVOLUTION and was very eager to start. I'm already thinking about where leave them throughout the community spreading the message of HOPE. Maybe tucked away between baby food jars at the grocery store, or in a favorite book at the library waiting to be checked out.

U can join too, spread the Hope!! Create a stackful of notes with messages of hope and leave them in public places. Blog about it, tell your friends, post photos or be anonymous... follow your own heart!!!! U can learn more about the Project and how to participate on here. Spread the Love, share the Hope, won't you?

"Don't you know
They're talkin' about a revolution
It sounds like whisper
Don't you know
They're talkin' about a revolution
It sounds like whisper"

-Tracy Chapman

In a world full of negativity stay positive, keep in your mind all that is real and true, what is really important, and you will attract positive energy back. Call it Karma, call it the law of attraction, call it whatever holds that meaning for you, but most importantly live your life that way.

Bubble Magnets

2008-08-11T13:16:00.000-07:00

I was in need of some new magnets for my fridge the other day and i found this great tutorial from Megan (Brassy Apple) about Bubble Magnets and pincushion . I give it a try and now i'm soooo hooked LOL!!!! How u think they turn out? I think they are great...

A full cup of Sugar and Spice...

2008-08-11T12:04:00.000-07:00

Last Friday i have a Photoshoot with the sweetest lil guy ever!!!! He was a little bit of a wiggle worm but so cute!!! Here is a peek from that session, ENJOY!!!

Artificial Colors Increase Hyperactivity in Children

2008-08-07T09:24:00.000-07:00

The Lancet released a study that found that artificial colors and sodium benzoate increase hyperactivity in three-year-olds and in eight- to nine-year-olds.

The study included 153 three-year-olds and 144 eight- and nine-year-olds. The challenge drinks contained one of two artificial food color additives (Mix A, Mix B) and sodium benzoate. Mix A and B were compared with the placebo mix. The outcomes were measured by a global hyperactivity aggregate (GHA), scores based on parent and teacher observations, and for eight- and nine-year-olds, a computerized attention test.

Mix A significantly increased hyperactivity among the three-year-olds when compared with placebo, although this was not so with Mix B. Eight- and nine-year-old children experienced a significant increase in hyperactive behavior when given Mix A or Mix B. You can read more here.

My kids law of property!!!!!

2008-08-04T14:22:00.000-07:00

1. If I like it, it's mine.
2. If it's in my hand, it's mine.
3. It I had it a little while ago, it's mine.
4. If it looks just like mine, it's mine.
5. If I think it's mine, it's mine.
6. If it's mine it's mine, if it's your it's mine.

Gandhi’s Top 10 Fundamentals for Changing the World

2008-08-01T19:08:00.000-07:00

Published by Henrik Edberg

“You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty.”

“The difference between what we do and what we are capable of doing would suffice to solve most of the world’s problem.”

“If I had no sense of humor, I would long ago have committed suicide.”

Mahatma Gandhi needs no long introduction. Everyone knows about the man who lead the Indian people to independence from British rule in 1947. So let’s just move on to some of my favourite tips from Mahatma Gandhi.

1. CHANGE YOURSELF.

“You must be the change you want to see in the world.”

“As human beings, our greatness lies not so much in being able to remake the world - that is the myth of the atomic age - as in being able to remake ourselves.”

If you change yourself you will change your world. If you change how you think then you will change how you feel and what actions you take. And so the world around you will change. Not only because you are now viewing your environment through new lenses of thoughts and emotions but also because the change within can allow you to take action in ways you wouldn’t have – or maybe even have thought about – while stuck in your old thought patterns. And the problem with changing your outer world without changing yourself is that you will still be you when you reach that change you have strived for. You will still have your flaws, anger, negativity, self-sabotaging tendencies etc. intact. And so in this new situation you will still not find what you hoped for since your mind is still seeping with that negative stuff. And if you get more without having some insight into and distance from your ego it may grow more powerful. Since your ego loves to divide things, to find enemies and to create separation it may start to try to create even more problems and conflicts in your life and world.

2. YOU ARE IN CONTROL.

“Nobody can hurt me without my permission.”

What you feel and how you react to something is always up to you. There may be a “normal” or a common way to react to different things. But that’s mostly just all it is. You can choose your own thoughts, reactions and emotions to pretty much everything. You don’t have to freak out, overreact of even react in a negative way. Perhaps not every time or instantly. Sometimes a knee-jerk reaction just goes off. Or an old thought habit kicks in. And as you realize that no-one outside of yourself can actually control how you feel you can start to incorporate this thinking into your daily life and develop it as a thought habit. A habit that you can grow stronger and stronger over time. Doing this makes life a whole lot easier and more pleasurable.

3. FORGIVE AND LET IT GO.

“The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.”

“An eye for eye only ends up making the whole world blind.”

Fighting evil with evil won’t help anyone. And as said in the previous tip, you always choose how to react to something. When you can incorporate such a thought habit more and more into your life then you can react in a way that is more useful to you and others. You realize that forgiving and letting go of the past will do you and the people in your world a great service. And spending your time in some negative memory won’t help you after you have learned the lessons you can learn from that experience. You’ll probably just cause yourself more suffering and paralyze yourself from taking action in this present moment. If you don’t forgive then you let the past and another person to control how you feel. By forgiving you release yourself from those bonds. And then you can focus totally on, for instance, the next point.

4. WITHOUT ACTION YOU AREN'T GOING ANYWHERE.

“An ounce of practice is worth more than tons of preaching.”

Without taking action very little will be done. However, taking action can be hard and difficult. There can be much inner resistance. And so you may resort to preaching, as Gandhi says. Or reading and studying endlessly. And feeling like you are moving forward. But getting little or no practical results in real life.

So, to really get where you want to go and to really understand yourself and your world you need to practice. Books can mostly just bring you knowledge. You have to take action and translate that knowledge into results and understanding.

5. TAKE CARE OF THIS MOMENT.

“I do not want to foresee the future. I am concerned with taking care of the present. God has given me no control over the moment following.”

The best way that I have found to overcome the inner resistance that often stops us from taking action is to stay in the present as much as possible and to be accepting. Why? Well, when you are in the present moment you don’t worry about the next moment that you can’t control anyway. And the resistance to action that comes from you imagining negative future consequences - or reflecting on past failures - of your actions loses its power.

And so it becomes easier to both take action and to keep your focus on this moment and perform better.

6. EVERYONE IS HUMAN.

“I claim to be a simple individual liable to err like any other fellow mortal. I own, however, that I have humility enough to confess my errors and to retrace my steps.”

“It is unwise to be too sure of one’s own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err.”

When you start to make myths out of people – even though they may have produced extraordinary results – you run the risk of becoming disconnected from them. You can start to feel like you could never achieve similar things that they did because they are so very different. So it’s important to keep in mind that everyone is just a human being no matter who they are. And I think it’s important to remember that we are all human and prone to make mistakes. Holding people to unreasonable standards will only create more unnecessary conflicts in your world and negativity within you. It’s also important to remember this to avoid falling into the pretty useless habit of beating yourself up over mistakes that you have made. And instead be able to see with clarity where you went wrong and what you can learn from your mistake. And then try again.

7. PERSIST.

“First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.”

Be persistent. In time the opposition around you will fade and fall away. And your inner resistance and self-sabotaging tendencies that want to hold you back and keep you like you have always been will grow weaker. Find what you really like to do.

Then you’ll find the inner motivation to keep going, going and going. One reason Gandhi was so successful with his method of non-violence was because he and his followers were so persistent. They just didn’t give up.

Success or victory will seldom come as quickly as you would have liked it to. I think one of the reasons people don’t get what they want is simply because they give up too soon. The time they think an achievement will require isn’t the same amount of time it usually takes to achieve that goal. This faulty belief partly comes from the world we live in. A world full of magic pill solutions where advertising continually promises us that we can lose a lot of weight or earn a ton of money in just 30 days.

8. SEE THE GOOD IN PEOPLE AND HELP THEM.

“I look only to the good qualities of men. Not being faultless myself, I won’t presume to probe into the faults of others.”

“Man becomes great exactly in the degree in which he works for the welfare of his fellow-men.”

“I suppose leadership at one time meant muscles; but today it means getting along with people.”

There is pretty much always something good in people. And things that may not be so good. But you can choose what things to focus on. And if you want improvement then focusing on the good in people is a useful choice. It also makes life easier for you as your world and relationships become more pleasant and positive. And when you see the good in people it becomes easier to motivate yourself to be of service to them.

By being of service to other people, by giving them value you not only make their lives better. Over time you tend to get what you give. And the people you help may feel more inclined to help other people. And so you, together, create an upward spiral of positive change that grows and becomes stronger. By strengthening your social skills you can become a more influential person and make this upward spiral even stronger.

Always aim at purifying your thoughts and everything will be well. People seem to really like authentic communication. And there is much inner enjoyment to be found when your thoughts, words and actions are aligned. You feel powerful and good about yourself. When words and thoughts are aligned then that shows through in your communication. Because now you have your voice tonality and body language – some say they are over 90 percent of communication – in alignment with your words. With these channels in alignment people tend to really listen to what you’re saying. You are communicating without incongruency, mixed messages or perhaps a sort of phoniness. Also, if your actions aren’t in alignment with what you’re communicating then you start to hurt your own belief in what you can do. And other people’s belief in you too.

10. CONTINUE TO GROW AND EVOLVE.

”Constant development is the law of life, and a man who always tries to maintain his dogmas in order to appear consistent drives himself into a false position.”

You can pretty much always improve your skills, habits or re-evaluate your evaluations. You can gain deeper understanding of yourself and the world. Sure, you may look inconsistent or like you don’t know what you are doing from time to time. You may have trouble to act congruently or to communicate authentically. But if you don’t then you will, as Gandhi says, drive yourself into a false position. A place where you try to uphold or cling to your old views to appear consistent while you realise within that something is wrong. It’s not a fun place to be. To choose to grow and evolve is a happier and more useful path to take.

This is certainly the greatest duet in history!!!

2008-07-28T17:01:00.001-07:00

Sneak peak on my new Art collection!!!

2008-07-27T13:22:00.000-07:00

I know, i've been a bad bad blogger but... i've been working on a new series of watercolors. I will like to know what u all think about it, here is a sneak peak...

Of course there is more to come the next week with a link to my new online Gallery where this and the other pieces are going to be all for sell for a special price!!!

Caffé Freddo (Chilled Espresso)

2008-07-07T12:12:00.000-07:00

What's better in this Summer heat of a Chilled Espresso?
Begin with a double shot of espresso. Pour your drink into a cocktail mixer with three ice cubes. Shake well. Strain it into an empty glass. If you do it just so, you should be able to obtain a long-lasting, foamy creme on top of the drink. After that you can add milk, cream, or even ice cream if u like (i personally love the italian way with Granita coffee in it)!!!

Also... you want to know how much coffee you can get away with before it's fatal? Well... click here and check it out yourself!!!!

Just a smile...

2008-07-06T09:26:00.000-07:00

Thank u to my friend Allison i discovered this awesome Video that i like to share with all of u... i hope u all enjoy as much as i do!!!!!

Where the Hell is Matt? (2008) from Matthew Harding on Vimeo.

Sweet Trick

2008-06-20T14:50:00.001-07:00

I found this cool tip on COOKIE magazine and i think is an awesome idea!!!! An edible necklace in your carry-on can be a sanity-saver that gets you throught a rought patch with your screamer in seat 4D. It works as a both a time-killing activity (string fruity Cheerios or Froot Loops on dental floss) and a self-serve snark. What u think? I'm giving a try!!!!!

New Apron :)

2008-06-19T17:10:00.000-07:00

This is Asha's new apron... and new boots LOL!!!!! I'm not telling stories if i say that if i give her a chance she may go sleep just like that!!!! UGGGGHHHHHH GIRLS!!!!

Last week Session...

2008-06-18T15:51:00.000-07:00

I like to share a couple pictures from a session i did last week...

I hope u enjoy!!!!

The Word Of Mouth Manual - Volume II Is Here...

2008-06-16T12:40:00.001-07:00

This is an excellent book that gives a lot of insight into what word of mouth marketing really is and backs up the concept with great insight from Dave's experiences in this marketplace. I know my experience as a BzzAgent have been all positive, and this book has motivated me to participate a little more and really observe how much of my conversations actually revolve around products and services, even when I don't realize it. The Word Of Mouth Manual, Volume II, which costs $45 at Amazon, can be downloaded for free in PDF format. Each copy of The Word of Mouth Manual: Volume II ordered via Amazon comes with an original piece of artwork from BzzAgent Artist-in-Residence, Seth B. Minkin.

Etsy Friday ~ROBYN TAYLOR~

2008-05-02T12:25:00.000-07:00

It's time for another awesome etsy seller, Robyn Taylor, owner of

1. Do you create ? Please tell us about your background and how long you have been an artist/crafter/seller.
I started making melt and pour soaps with my son over 5 years ago and it grew from there i researched a ton and started offering luxury bath & body products for a more affordable price. I also sew and scrapbook to. After the birth of my daughter i started focusing on boutique items for mommy and her little princess which is how Baskets of Beauty my old company name turned into Abigail's Boutique Designs. I now sell clothing accessories & gifts. I have been selling my B&B for over 5 years and have dabbled with etsy for almost 2 years.

2. Where do you find your inspiration? How do you come up with an idea for a piece ?
For my boutique items i get most of my inspiration from my daughter. My son who is now 7 gives me lots of suggestions as well on color combos and scents for new bath products. Over all i just do what i like and hope there are others who appreciate it.

3. Do you have any books, website beside Etsy, media or music that inspires you ?
I learned a lot from the soap dish forum and just doing goggle searches. Its hard to get a lot done these days with a 6 month old but i try. I am working on a new website but for now i still have up my old site for bath & body products at: www.freewebs.com/basketsofbeauty or i can be contacted through etsy.

4. Do you have any creating ritual?
nope no rituals for me.

5.What would be your top 5 items of essential equipment?
my sewing machine, needle, microwave, Pyrex measuring cup & scale.6.Can you recommend a technique or 'tips' book ideal for a beginner?
well for all things soapy i would say check out http://www.soapdishforum.com/ and for boutique items and bows try craftster.com & http://bowdesigns.50webs.com/

7.Can you recommend any brands to look out for, when buying equipment or kit?
not really i use my trusty brother sewing machine and i never used a kit for soaps and stuff.

8.What's the price range in your store?
I offer a wide range of items priced from $1.00 up to $50 but most items are around $3-$10.

9.Do you have a studio or creative place-room-corner ? How does it impact your art ?
I have a studio in my basement but a lot of the time i just craft where ever my daughter decides to play. I get more work done when i can escape to my studio sanctuary.10. What are you into at the moment ?
I have a notebook full of "to-do's" I see something and think oh i can make that but then i get in way over my head. Currently i have a stack of fabric waiting to be made in to stuff so i would say sewing right now is a big thing for me but i also am very excited to get some new soaps poured and on my curing rack.

11. Any dreams or project for the future ?
I really want to get a new website made. I hope that it brings in more Internet sales but my life long dream is to open a spa/store. i want to offer all the spa options using my products of course and offer other things for the body mind and soul like yoga, acupuncture, etc. and have a store where people can come in and get their favorite products.

U can visit Robyn and check some of her awesome products at
http://basketsofbeauty.etsy.com/
http://abigailsboutiquedesigns.blogspot.com/
www.freewebs.com/basketsofbeauty

Etsy Friday ~CHERRIES ROCK MY SOCKS~

2008-04-25T13:59:00.000-07:00

Is time for another Etsy seller!! I really heart this week Featured Artist, Kelly Jarrel, owner of Cherries Rock My Socks. I purchase a custom made hand cast resin necklace for my girl from her and i can't wait to get it here! I hope u enjoy this artist as much as i do...

What do you create? Please tell us about your background and how long you have been an artist/crafter/seller.
♥I make hand cast resin . I also love to sew. I am just starting to list my sewn items on etsy. I have just listed my newest design...A fabulous, Luscious Lemon Wrap Skirt.

Where do you find your inspiration?
♥I am very inspired by the past, especially the 50s. I love the retro pin up girl look. I like to put a little of that feel into my pieces. Also, as you can tell from the name...I am in love with cherries. That whole rockabilly look really interests me!

Do you have any websites beside Etsy ?
♥Yes! I also have a blog at http://www.cherriesrockmysocks.blogspot.com/ I have just started it, so it is in it’s beginning stages. But I am very excited about it!

Do you have any creating ritual ?
♥I have to have my radio on! Something about country music really gets me in the mood when I am making my jewelry! I like to sing along to the cheesy songs. It’s embarrassing, so I am usually alone with I make new things! When I sew I have to watch Sex and the City. I have the box set. Couldn’t sew without it. I have seen each episode at least 30 times apiece! That whole New York Look inspires me when I sew.

What would be your top 5 items of essential equipment?
♥I could not live without my two dremmels! I love them! I also could not make jewelry without my great molds, my sewing machine, my NEW Serger (greatest anniversary present ever, Love you baby!), and of course my Sex and the City DVDs. Couldn't work without these things!

What's the price range in your store?
♥My Jewelry ranges from $10 to $18. I keep the prices low so you can own more than one! Every outfit needs a funky resin pendant!

Do you have a studio or creative place-room-corner?
♥I do! For my jewelry, I work in the garage. Actually the whole garage is my resin studio. Making the jewelry is very messy. It is also very smelly. I have to do it away from everything else. For my sewing I have a sewing studio. I love having my own space away from all the hustle and bustle of the rest of the house.

Any dreams or project for the future ?
♥I am currently in school to get my degree in Family and Consumer Science Education. That is a really fancy way of saying I will be teaching home economics classes in high school. I would love to make jewelry and sew full time while I am in college. I will always make things, even after I graduate. It is an outlet for my stress.

I made all of the costumes for myself! (Rainbow Brite, Naughty Nurse, and Gangster)

My etsy is http://www.cherriesrockmysocks.etsy.com/
My blog is http://www.cherriesrockmysocks.blogspot.com/
My flickr is http://www.flickr.com/photos/cherriesrockmysocks/
My myspace is www.myspace.com/tequilakelly/

Etsy Friday ~BABY KAY'S BOUTIQUE~

2008-04-18T13:12:00.000-07:00

It's time for another AWESOME Etsy seller (and a great friend of mine) Teresa Busby mind, body and soul of Baby Kay's Boutique. So now sit down, feet up, sip your coffee and enjoy this interview...

1. Do you create ? Please tell us about your background and how long you have been an artist/crafter/seller.
- I sewing when my first little girl was born, 5 years ago. I wanted so badly to buy her those expensive but darling little boutique dresses, but there was no way I could pay $75 for just a top, so I said...if someone else can sew it...maybe I can too. The first thing I learned to make were hair bows, and when I was ready to sew I made my first pillowcase dress. It was such a rewarding feeling to make something myself. Ive never been one to use patterns, I just cant figure them out. But if I see something I like I just sit down, measure, cut and sew until I get it right.

2. Where do you find your inspiration? How do you come up with an idea for a piece ?
- Oh my 2 girls are definitely my biggest inspiration. Most everything I make is for them or they at least have to model it for my website so I want to be sure that they like it. I love taking them to fabric stores and letting them pick out their favorite colors and designs and I always get their input on an outfit. Of course they are mommy's biggest fans and haven't been disappointed with anything I've made them yet!

3. Do you have any books, website beside Etsy (please include links), media or music that inspires you ?
- Well I have sold previously on eBay, but not that often..mostly around holidays. Of course I sell on Etsy...its the best place for handmade items! my store site is http://www.babykaysboutique.etsy.com/. It may be a bit empty right now but I will soon have some great new items. I am also in the process of making my own pattern for children's rompers. Its so exciting and I will have that available on my site very soon.

4. Do you have any creating ritual (ie : setting up candles, special music, etc..)
- Well I usually have to be sure the girls are settled, maybe watching a movie, so I wont have any interruptions. Then I always have to have some type of music playing in the background, either on my radio or from my play list on my computer.

5.What would be your top 5 items of essential equipment?
- A sewing machine is definitely on the top of my essentials list. Then some really awesome fabric would be next in line. Number 3 would be great accessories like rick rack or ribbon. My fourth item has to be embroidery...its always nice to add a personalized touch with embroidered initials or even just simple butterfly embroidered on a pocket can add such an amazing touch. And my last but absolutely not least item would be my little models. I have to show off my work and whats a better way of doing that then letting my little girls wear my items.

6.Can you recommend a technique or 'tips' book ideal for a beginner?
- I actually have the book "sewing for dummies"! Even in my advanced experience at sewing I still find great tips in there.

7.Can you recommend any brands to look out for, when buying equipment or kit?
-I am a big fan of Brother sewing equipment. I know Singer is also great.

8.What's the price range in your store?
- I have made little pillowcase tops for $10 and detailed party dresses, or holiday wear for up to $100. It just depends on the fabric, size, and detail of an item that determines price.

9.Do you have a studio or creative place-room-corner ? How does it impact your art ?
- I do have my own sewing room and I love it! Its my own private sanctuary I can escape to and just let the creative juices flow. I would say it definitely impacts my work...it allows me to have some privacy and think calmly...its not often I get to do that with a 3 and 5 year old running around.

10. What are you into at the moment ?
- Ive been working on summer wear, bathing suits, and fun dresses. I am really into making e-books and hopefully sharing all of my tips and tricks with anyone who would like to learn.

11. Any dreams or project for the future (business, art-wise, etc)
- I guess my dream would be to have my own real shop somewhere...I would only sell handmade items from myself and other sewing ladies, nothing would be manufactured like in other shops. Of course that's probably just a dream...and anyhow I'm happy if all I ever have is my own little sewing room in my home.

I hope u all enjoy this awesome seller as much as i do! SEE U NEXT TIME!!!!

Chalk day at the park and some other things!!!

2008-04-16T10:46:00.000-07:00

We went to the park last week-end for a chalk day and the kids have a blast!!!! Here u can see some pictures from that fun day...

Also a few days ago i got featured in a Blog in London, UK, Craft of Texture u can read the interview on here so if u get a chance give a look and leave some love for me!!!
On another note a couple weeks ago my friend Donna Pool realize 2 pocket mirrors and a Denim Bear from scratch for me and let me tell u... I'M IN LOVE WITH IT!!!! U can see what she did for me on here and in the next couple weeks u r going to learn some more about this awesome lady in my Etsy Friday!!!

Etsy Friday ~CELYN COLLINS~

2008-04-11T05:30:00.000-07:00

Here we are again, another Friday and another awesome Etsy seller: Celyn Collins!!!!!

What do you create ?
"Ha! What do I not create?!
Hi. My name is Celyn. I am a wife, mother of 4, glass, artist, soaper and crafter extraordinaire.
I currently have three Etsy shops.
Cosmic Clean Body (http://www.cosmiccleanbody.etsy.com/ ) is where my husband John and I create handmade cold processed soaps, lip balms, sugar scrubs, salt scrubs, crocheted cloths/bath puffs and soap sacks, incense and we have many more things in the works.
Gazed-Upon Glass (http://www.gazeduponglass.etsy.com/ ) is where I create my glass creations. I make stained glass using copper foil or lead, fused glass (kiln formed glass) and I also do some torch work.
Java J's (http://www.javajs.etsy.com/ ) is my everything else shop. I don't like to sit and watch television unless I'm doing something at the same time. The shop is currently empty right now but it's because I haven't had time to take pictures of my completed projects.
I've always liked drawing. My mother saved my first drawing of a sheep. I think I was two. It's a pretty darn good picture of a sheep if you ask me. ;)
I grew up with two very talented grandmothers who were very artistic. My Mugga (my mom's mom) painted, created beautiful jewelry from feathers and crocheted. My Granny paints and uses oil pastels. They both were/are amazing cooks and gardeners. Back when I was young there were no video games and the television was a treat. They both loved to show me how to draw and encouraged me to color with crayons, pencils, water colors and pastels.
I did very well in school art classes and often had my work displayed. I even won awards! It wasn't until after I was married and had two sons did I decide I needed to find something I liked to do for myself. I decided to take a local college class for stained glass. I started to draw again. I'd always been self conscience of my drawings and painting but glass gave me a way to bring my drawings to life. I've been going strong ever since.
My husband is a talented cook who analyzes and formulates recipes to be manufactured in large quantities. He also draw the best stick figure people ever! With us both being science geeks it was only natural for us to try our hand at soap. The whole family is involved. The toddlers are our official sniffers. Our teenagers help out with the toddlers, perform product testing and make runs to the post office to ship the products to our wonderful customers. We are all having fun.
I like to keep busy. If I'm idle it's because I'm sick or just plain tuckered out!"

How do you come up with an idea for a piece ?
"Since our soap line is space themed we get ideas online and from the starry night sky. Friends suggest and request scents. Food is also a huge inspiration. Nature and holiday's play a big part too.
For glass I usually have a list of projects I need to make and things I want to try. I do a lot of custom pieces, things that other people envision and want me to bring to life for them. I have sketch books full of ideas a drawings. I just need the time to implement them.
My other crafts I get ideas from the internet, television or I see something in a store and say to myself "I'd like something like that, but differ rent." And I set about making it. "

Do you have any books, website beside Etsy, media or music that inspires you?
"I read anything there is to read pertaining to soap or glass.
A good soap book is:
Smart Soapmaking: The Simple Guide to Making Traditional Handmade Soap Quickly, Safely, and Reliably, or How to Make Luxurious Handcrafted Soaps for Family, Friends, and Yourself (Paperback)by Anne L. Watson (Author)
I don't currently have any soap websites that I frequent, but Anne Watson has a website. http://www.annelwatson.com/soapmaking/index.html Most of my knowledge about soap has come through books.
There is always new glass techniques and discussions going on at http://www.warmglass.com/ . Brad Walker (the board owner) also has written a very good book on glass fusing.
I like to watch the Martha Stewart, the Carol Duval show, Crafters Coast to Coast and That's Clever. You can never go wrong with the HGTV, Cooking or Science channel. :) "

Do you have any creating ritual?
"Music is essential in whatever I'm making. I listen to whatever suits my mood at the time. I like everything from opera to heavy metal. Most of the the time I turn on the 80's channel and groove to that. My two toddlers enjoy that era and entertain me by dancing as I work. "

What would be your top 5 items of essential equipment?
"Well that would depend on what I'm actually making.
For soap it would be:
1) A mold.
2) A stick blender.
3) A spatula.
4) A thermometer.
5) Gloves and goggles.

For glass:
1) A good glass cutter.
2) Breaking pliers.
3) A soldering iron.
4) Glass grinder.
5) A kiln.

For everything else:
1) An awesome pair of scissors.
2) A ruler.
3) Small tool kit.
4) Colored pencils.
5) Sketch book. "

Can you recommend any brands to look out for, when buying equipment or kit?
"For soap you don't want to use cheap materials. It goes back to the adage "You get what you pay for." If I won't rub it on my body I don't expect anyone else to either.
Bramble Berry (http://www.brambleberry.com/) has a very nice selection of quality essential oils and fragrances for anyone that wants to make soap.
Glass is a personal preference. Some people like 90. Some like 96.
I prefer Bullseye. http://bullseyeglass.com/ "

What's the price range in your store?
"Cosmic Clean Body $1.00 - $30.00
Gazed-Upon Glass $6.00 - $40.00 for the things that are currently there.
Java J's - to be determined. "

Do you have a studio or creative place-room-corner ? How does it impact your art ?
"I create all over my house. Soap I make in the my kitchen. Glass is done in my office and in my downstairs workshop. I crochet in my living room and bedroom. I come up with new ideas and projects in the shower. No room in my house is safe from my creativity. :) "

What are you into at the moment ?
"Right now I am working on a glass exchange. Participants from all over the world exchange glass pieces they create to learn new technique and get new ideas. This year 120 people are participating. Next year I am coordinating the exchange. It's very exciting!
We are always working on expanding our soap line.
And now is the time I start to book our shows and craft fairs."

Any dreams or project for the future ?
"Yes. We plan on reclaiming our home. We are hoping to turn our garage into a studio with heat and running water so all of our equipment, tools, supplies and products reside in one place. My husband makes beautiful pottery but right now there is nowhere to do it. The pottery kiln sits very lonely in the garage.
New crafts I'd like to try this year include: resin and metalsmithing. That is if I get all my current projects and obligations finished. ;) "

I have to say that i fell immediately in love with this awesome artist, her product are really unique and high quality (i already see in my future A LOT of shopping so Celyn be ready for me and.. wink wink... goodie bags are always welcome... hey i was just kidding hahaha ) !!!!

U can also visit this awesome Lady at her Blog at
http://gazeduponglass.blogspot.com/
and on Myspace at
http://www.myspace.com/gazeduponglass .

Thanks everybody and see u next time!!!!!!!

Words of Wisdom from His Holiness the Dalai Lama

2008-04-10T18:33:00.000-07:00

"Love, compassion, and tolerance are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive. If you have a particular faith or religion, that is good. But you can survive without it if you have love, compassion, and tolerance. The clear proof of a person’s love of God is if that person genuinely shows love to fellow human beings."

"The purpose of our lives is to be happy.”

"Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.”

"In the practice of tolerance, one's enemy is the best teacher."

"My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness.”

"Where ignorance is our master, there is no possibility of real peace."

"There is no need for temples, no need for complicated philosophies. My brain and my heart are my temples; my philosophy is kindness.”

"In the present circumstances, no one can afford to assume that someone else will solve their problems. Every individual has a responsibility to help guide our global family in the right direction. Good wishes are not sufficient; we must become actively engaged.”

"If you have fear of some pain or suffering, you should examine whether there is anything you can do about it. If you can, there is no need to worry about it; if you cannot do anything, then there is also no need to worry.”

"For those who may not find happiness to exercise religious faith, it's okay to remain a radical atheist, it's absolutely an individual right, but the important thing is with a compassionate heart - then no problem."

"Try to develop a deep conviction that the present human body has great potential and that you shall never waste even a single minute of its use.Not taking any essence of this precious human existence, but just wasting it, is almost like taking poison while being fully aware of the consequences of doing so."

"It is very wrong for people to feel deeply sad when they lose some money, yet when they waste the precious moments of their lives they do not have the slightest feeling of repentance."

http://www.dalailama.com/

Etsy Friday ~ROCKER CHIC~

2008-04-04T19:18:00.000-07:00

It's finally arrived, it's time for our first Etzy Friday featured store, ROCKER CHIC!!!! Woohoo!!! Enjoy this awesome interview ladies and WELCOME TO THE ETSY WORLD !!!!

"I have been sewing since I was a kid. I started off hand sewing mostly clothing for my baby dolls, then I learned how to use a sewing machine, and started making things for myself. All together I've probably been sewing around 20 years!
My inspiration comes from all over the place. For the most part, I take my inspiration from the music I listen to. And the fact that I'm a mother (of a fantastic 2yr old) is why my store is chock full of punky goodness for the kiddos! I am trying to move things over to women's clothing but will still do all the cool punky things for girls too!

Me and my kid, Summer 2007, in dresses I made!

I really don't take inspiration from other people's work. Only music. My favorite bands are System of a Down, Disturbed, Incubus, and lots of other crazy rock bands!

My creating rituals include: Turning to the XM station "Squizz", for all my rock music! And lighting a candle, I also try to clear the room of toys, and two year old but that rarely ever happens!
My top five items of essential equipment would be:
#1, My big beautiful beast of a machine, the Brother 270D
#2, A SEAM RIPPER!!! I mean, even I make mistakes!!
#3 My 15 yr old Serger by Overlock. It's old, old, old but it still finishes my seams beautifully!
#4, A good camera! You've got to make your pics as good as your product!
#5, A fantastic, uncooperative 2 yr old model to steal the hearts of all your viewers!!!

Emma Jo modeling the Beautiful Butterfly Sundress 2007

I can't really recall a book for beginners that I've ever used! I've honestly learned all the things I know from my Granny Boo! She was the driving force behind Rockerchic before there ever was a rockerchic! She is such a talented woman and I honestly will remember the things she's taught me for the rest of my life! I can never thank her enough for all the inspiration and help she has give me over the years!!!

Granny Boo (82) and Emma Jo (8 mos) 2006

As far as buying items for my sewing. I honestly never really pay attention to brand names. I had a singer, and loved it. I have a Brother now, and I love it too! As far as I'm concerned, if you have a real passion for the craft, and you want to succeed, you will make any brand or condition of supply work for you!

The price range of the items at rockerchic.etsy range from $3 for hair bows to $55 for more detailed dresses.

I WISH I had a studio. So far, due to the economy my family is in a small, little house and my "Studio" is the other half of my kitchen! I cook on one side, sew on the other! My kitchen table is my sewing table and my kitchen cabinets hold fabric! One day when I become rich from sewing (in my dreams) we will be able to buy a larger home, and I can actually have a sewing room ... all to myself!

I'm really digging' the punk thing right now!! The Cherry, skulls, and even the black and white check fabrics that you see in my store, are actually what I dress my kid in everyday! I even match her some days!

Available for special order, size 12 mo thru 5t Old School Punk Dress

Currently I have an order for 3 dresses I must complete by the weekend. THEN, it's back to making women's things and stocking them in my shop! I'm VERY excited to be adding adult clothing and really can't wait to get started on it!

Thanks for taking the time to read about me! "

You can always find Rocker Chic at:
And you can find all Rocker Chic friends in Her Cafemom Etsy Moms Street Team Here:

Alright ladies, i hope u all have enjoyed this interview!!! See u next Friday for another Awesome Etsy Seller... BYE BYE EVERYONE!!!

Killer Cosmetics and Ingredients You Should Know About

2008-04-03T10:26:00.000-07:00

I receve today this e-mail from Rudy Silva that i will like to share with all of you!!!!

The cosmetic industry has been pulling the wool over your eyes as their cosmetics continue to have ingredients that are harmful and even deadly to human health. But they have no shame since they continue to add these ingredients to their cosmetics because they make the product smell better, flow nicer, cost less, dilute easy, easy to obtain, and fool you that they work.These ingredients contaminate all forms of personal care products, such as soaps, facial creams,lotions, shampoos, conditioners, hair gels, and toothpaste.If you can not eat these products, than you should not be using them. Every time you put cosmetics and their ingredients onto your skin, they are suck into your blood and immediately go to your liver just as if you had chewed them and swallowed.

Does the cosmetic industry care about how harmful these ingredients are? Not really. They have been using these ingredients since these ingredients were discovered and found useful for their products. Of course, they do testing to make sure there are no major side effects on the skin or scalp, but a lot of the side effects don’t show up quickly, since side effects would be related to diseases, which takes awhile to develop. And when these diseases develop, they are no longer related to the skin products used. Here are some of the most frequently used cosmetic ingredients, which are toxic to your body and can create disease.

~Acrylamide, Acrylate, Butylaminoethyl, Methylacrylate polymer ~
These are synthetic polymers that are used in some body creams, shampoos, nail lacquers, fabrics. Animal laboratory testing has been linked to tumors. They are also known to cause various skin issues and allergic reactions.

~Parabens,Are para-hydroxybenzoic acid esters (methyl, propyl, butyl) ~ Are used as a preservative in cosmetics. It is estimated that 13,200 cosmetic and skin care products contain parabens. These chemicals are toxic and cause allergies. Some studies connect these chemicals with cancer. They have also shown to have hormone-disrupting qualities by mimicking estrogen and causing problems in the endocrine system.

~Propylene glycol ~
This chemical derived from petroleum and is a synthetic product. Because it attracts water it is used in cosmetics as a surfactant, solvent and humectant. It is used as a moisturizer in cosmetics and as a carrier in fragrance oils. It is also used in antifreeze and hydraulic brake fluid. It is toxic and causes allergic reactions. It affects the health of the liver and kidney. It also irriates the skin and prevent normal skin health growth.

~Sodium laurel, lauryl sulfate (SLS), sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) ~
Is a white powder used in thousands of cosmetic products and non-cosmetic products. SLS is a strong degreaser that dries the skin and hair. It can also cause hair loss. Used in many products that are called natural as a result these products are not natural. This product is found in shampoos, toothpastes, lotions, and creams. It is also found in many car washes, engine degreasers, and garage floor cleaners. When combined Triethanolamine (TEA) it can become a nitrosamine, which is a potent class of carcinogen.

~Mineral Oil, Paraffin, and Petrolatum ~
Are hydrocarbons which come from petroleum products. On the skin, it is heavy and greasy and clogs pores. It is toxic and leads to skin issues. It disrupts natural skin grown causing skin aging. It is also suspected cause of cancer and disrupts hormonal activity. If take internally, it prevents the absorption of nutrient into the blood in the small intestines.

~Phenol carbolic acid, Phenolic compounds~
Are used as a preservative and found in many lotions and skin creams. They are toxic and can cause paralysis, convulsions, coma and even death from respiratory failure.

~Benzoic Acid, sodium benzoate ~
is used as a preservative in cosmetics and foods. Often combined with sodium bisulfites, which are banned in some countries. This is a dangerous additive, since in low amounts it has been associated with brain damage, neurological disorders, and cancer.

~Dioxane PEG, Polysorbates, Laureth, ethoxylated alcohols ~
Found in many cosmetics and other personal care products. It is easily absorbed through the skin and has been found to be carcinogenic.

~BHA and BHT ~
Butylated hydroxyanisole and butylated hydroxytoluene. These chemicals are synthetic antioxidants used in foods and cosmetics. Please avoid them, since they are toxic and may contain toluene which quite toxic.

There are hundreds of other chemicals you should know about so that you can avoid them in the products you use. All of them create problems on your skin, cause internal organ damage, or create diseases – acetone, aluminum chemicals, amyl dimethyl para, chloroxylenol, butylenes glycol, diammonium citrate, formalin or formaldehyde, and list goes on.

If you want good cosmetics and ingredients, check the cosmetics you plan to buy and look for more natural ingredients. Here is a list of good natural cosmetic ingredients – herbs, aloe vera, jojoba oil, coconut oil, natural palm oil, shea butter, olive oil, castile soap, yucca root, lactalbumin, balsam tolu, coconut fatty acids, benzoin gum, witch hazel, myrrh. This list is just a start for you to start looking for more good ingredients in cosmetics and other personal care products you use.

Rudy Silva, Natural Nutritionist

I also want to add that a lot of times, even in mineral makeup, you'll find parabens so LADIES, PLEASE, READ THOSE LABELS CAREFULLY!!! Stay clear of talc and cornstarch...they'll block those pores and are sometimes used as fillers, they are not a NECESSITY in mineral makeup...

Sunday Quote

2008-03-30T16:31:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter everyone

2008-03-24T16:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a wonderful day! Instead of doing the classic Egg Hunt (since i'm Italian this is not a tradition of mine) we went with the kids to the beach and we had a BLAST!!! We probably going back again this week-end, but in the meanwhile i wish u all a HAPPY EASTER from my family to yours!!!!

"Glow in the dark" a campaign to give up bad tanning habits and a fun giveaway!

2008-03-21T09:23:00.000-07:00

Jergens® Skincare along with The Skin Cancer Foundation invite you to join dozens of other women, including many celebrities, who have pledged to give up bad tanning habits in favor of alternatives like Jergens® natural glow Daily Moisturizers and Jergens® natural glow express Body Moisturizer. Make a pledge at Jergens.com and learn more about how to get a natural-looking summer glow the healthy way, just by moisturizing. By signing your name to the “Glow in the Dark” pledge wall, you will be eligible to win one of 500 samples of our new Jergens® natural glow express Body Moisturizer and limited edition “I Glow in the Dark” t-shirts. For every pledge made, Jergens® Skincare will donate $1 to The Skin Cancer Foundation.* Sign up for “Glow in the Dark” today and say goodbye to bad tanning habits forever. * Jergens® Skincare will donate up to $20,000. I already join, will u? I also just came across a fun giveaway over to Megan's Blog.
Sanctuary Arts at Home need a little advice if sell on Etsy or not and in exchange she has a fun Scrap package to giveaway. So Ladies go over there and share your opinion, i already did!

Why Italian Women Need Therapy !!!

2008-03-18T11:38:00.000-07:00

OMG i'm still laughting at this!!!! I got this from the Italian group i'm in and i swear i can see my Grandma in this conversation!!!!!

"PHONE CALL"

Italian Mother: "Hello?"
Daughter: "Hi Mom. Can I leave the kids with you tonight?"
Italian Mother: "You're going out?"
Daughter: "Yes."
Italian Mother: "With whom?"
Daughter: "With a friend."
Italian Mother: "I don't know why you left your husband. He is such a good man."
Daughter: "MOM, I didn't leave him. He left me!"
Italian Mother: "You let him leave you, and now you go out with anybodies and nobodies."
Daughter: "MA, I do not go out with anybody. Can I bring over the kids?"
Italian Mother: "I never left you to go out with anybody except your father."
Daughter: "There are lots of things that you did and I don't."
Italian Mother: "What are you hinting at?"
Daughter: "Nothing, I just want to know if I can bring the kids over tonight.."
Italian Mother: "You're going to stay the night with him? What will your husband say if he finds out?"
Daughter: "MA its My EX husband. I don't think he would be bothered. From the day he left me, he probably never slept alone!"
Italian Mother: "So you're going to sleep over at this loser's place?"
Daughter: "MOM, He's not a loser."
Italian Mother: "A man who goes out with a divorced woman with children is a loser and a parasite."
Daughter: "MA, I don't want to argue; should I bring over the kids or not?"
Italian Mother: "Poor children with such a mother."
Daughter: "Such a what?"
Italian Mother: "With no stability. No wonder your husband left you."
Daughter: "ENOUGH MA!!!"
Italian Mother: "Don't scream at me. You probably scream at the loser too!"
Daughter: "Great MA, Now you're worried about the loser?"
Italian Mother: "Ah, so you see he is a loser and I spotted him immediately."
Daughter: "Goodbye, mother."
Italian Mother: "Wait! Wait! Don't hang up! When are you bringing them over? "
Daughter: "I'm not bringing them over! I'm not going out!"
Italian Mother: "If you never go out, how do you expect to meet anyone? "

WOW

2008-03-17T18:36:00.001-07:00

Can u believe how big is this Strawberry??? I'm shocked... and is also delicious!!!!! I don't know if make a Strawberry Tiramisu` or my Grandma Strawberry salad... mmhhhhh... the Strawberry salad is really easy to make, just chop the Strawberries and add some squeezed lemon (or orange juice) and a sprinkle of sugar, but the Tiramisu`... well that is a little bit more complicated! Here is the recipes if u want to give a try!

STRAWBERRY TIRAMISU`

Ingredients:
1 cup heavy cream, divided
2 8-ounce containers mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup confectioners sugar
1 bag of strawberries
1/2 cup water
1 package lady fingers
Cocoa powder, to garnish

Preparation:
In a medium mixing bowl, whip 1/2 cup of the heavy cream to soft peaks with a hand mixer. In a large bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of heavy cream, mascarpone cheese and confectioners sugar. The cream will loosen up the mascarpone making it easier to mix with other ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
In a blender, combine strawberries and 1/2 cup water. Blend until you have a smoothie-like texture. Set aside until ready to assemble.
Layer the bottom of a square baking dish with lady fingers (you may need to break some in half to make it fit in the dish). Ladle half of strawberry puree over the cookies. Top with half of the cheese mixture. Add another layer of lady fingers and ladle the remaining strawberry puree over them. Add the rest of the cheese mixture and dust with cocoa powder and...

BUON APPETITO!!!

Am i addicted like Hubby say?

2008-03-16T12:22:00.000-07:00

Like some of u knows 2 weeks ago i was really sick till i finally decide to go at the ER after 4 days of dizziness and pain non stop. So i call hubby to ask him to take me in so when he came (remind u i was unable to stay on my own legs) this was our conversation...

Hubby: what r u looking at, the kids are in the car
Me: Should i bring the camera with me?
Hubby: Uh?
Me: The camera geezzzzz are your hears plugged?
Hubby: I wish they would... what u wanna bring the camera for?
Me: (really pissed off) What u mean what for? What u do with a camera?
Hubby: U r kidding me right?
Me: No I'm not! I can get some very nice pictures while on there
Hubby: Listen I'm not going to babysit your camera at the hospital now get in the car and lets go

At the ER they decide to give me a scalp scan so after i get out of there all mad i look at Hubby and i shout " For your fault i miss the shot of my life!!!"
Hubby: What?
Me: yeah!!! On the top of the bubble machine was this plush cat that was adorable looking at me and will make an awesome picture! Now when the heck i got the chance to shoot again something like that?

I swear gals, that night i miss the 2 shots of my life ... the cat on the top of the bubble machine while i was laying there and my husband face... PRICELESS!!!!!!!

March of the tools

2008-03-12T11:09:00.000-07:00

I officially join March of the Tools start from Heather Bailey. My first tool it's something that i heart very much in my kitchen since i use a lot with my two little Rugrats and i also LOVE Milkshakes... did u guess what it is?

It's parrrrrty time!!!!!

2008-03-09T16:38:00.001-07:00

This post will be sticky for all week

It's finally party time! 5 Minutes for Mom organize every year the Ultimate Blog Party,come on over to join the fun !!!

Who am i?

2008-03-09T15:42:00.000-07:00

So here we r, my first post in my Blog... I'M SOOOO EXITED!!!!My name is Aurora, 33 years old soul and mind of Eclisse Creazioni Art & Photography. I'm an Artist/ Photographer/ Designer/ Historian and many more things that u will know about me time by time in this Blog. Art has played a role in my life for as long as I can remember. At the age of nine, I began at the LICEO ARTISTICO in Italy and became devoted to the world of Art. After that, I enrolled at the Accademia di Belle Arti where I continued gathering the tools necessary to express the passion you see now throughout my original artwork. I quickly gained popularity in Italy and am now determined to conquer the US. My artwork was displayed in exhibits across Italy. I was very proud to have my pieces shown in private homes, galleries, nightclubs, bars, and offices. Designers and decorators use my artwork for their showrooms, model apartments and homes. With over 16 years of experience, the images you see on your monitor are just a taste of the art that i have created. My specialties extend far beyond painting. Photography, sculpting, and scenography, are just a few of the other forms of art I have embraced. .I also enjoy creating customized orders, including rare and one of a kind pieces. As an artist who loves to capture the uniqueness of the world in photographs, I created Eclisse Creazioni Art & Photography. Throughout life I have been keenly sensitive to the visual world. For me, it comes naturally to "see" the world on a level foreign to most. Colors dancing together on pallet knives, fingers molding clay, a shade of lipstick on a mouth, light catching beads of water on skin, fresh vegetables scattered on a counter--such seemingly ordinary things often strike me as remarkable. After discovering the ability to preserve these gorgeous arrays of "everydayness" indefinitely, my passion for art came to embrace photography. I am extraordinarily passionate as a person and I find constant inspiration simply by celebrating life and remaining aware with "eyes open." The extensive, formal background I have of fine arts is incorporated into this perspective. However, it has enhanced rather than formed my artistic viewpoint. Along with capturing the fine art of every day scenery and culture in my work, I am especially drawn to people. The life and energy of a person's expression or the look and mood found in an individual is the magic of humanity suspended in time. Thus, I find the most joy in photographing a glimpse of a wondrous child, a provocative woman, or a pensive man, in a timeless array of portraiture. When I manage to preserve the vastly beautiful and complex images of faces and emotions, I feel for a moment that a breath of eternity has gone through my camera and will remain on film. I'd like to meet anyone who enjoys my work. Professionals and others who are involved with event management, photography, editing, food, music, magazine publishing, newspapers, entertainment, non-profit organizations, film, publishing and advertising industries that request art and photography projects. And friends that share my same passion interests!!! I’m a very sociable and creative person. I've been drawing, sketching, painting since before I could talk or walk. Comments concerning my "Artwork" or “Your Talent” are always welcome! I'm influenced by everything I see and everyone I meet. If I've met you, then you probably influenced me in some way! Thanks for stopping by.