aloquin

It's A New Season

2012-02-07T17:44:00.001-08:00

It's a New Season! It's a New Day! Fresh annointing is flowing my way! It's a Season of POWER and prosperity! Let the weak say I am STRONG! Hallelujah!!!

All that was stolen is returned to me a hundred fold! I walk in VICTORY!

These aren't just words from a song... I have to confess them and believe!

Tried in the fire but I'm coming out GOLD!!!

I am a child of the King! His promises are yes and amen! Amen means Truth! God NEVER fails! God NEVER fails! God NEVER fails!

I HAVE the peace that surpasses all understanding! When I am going through (in the fire), I HAVE the peace of God and the joy of the Lord!

When I have no reason in the world to smile, when everything is coming against me, I dance before the Lord and I have the true joy that is stronger than ANY happiness this sinful world could ever give!

We are in the end times. It is imperative to STAND upon the ROCK of our salvation!

Just thinking about that word... salvation... it means I am SAVED! Saved from death! Saved from sin!

Hallelujah! I serve the one God, the One who reigns forever and ever! I AM a child of the King!!!

Thank you, Jesus, my Lord and Savior, for setting me free! I am here before You, Your humble servant, asking now... what can I do for You?

What can you do today, dear reader, for Jesus? He has done so much for you!

Life is Precious

2012-01-10T19:06:00.001-08:00

He was only 25... he had a heart attack that no one expected. Several days later, he died. No one saw it coming. One day he was there, and the next, he was gone.

Life is precious. It is also short. We are not promised anything... so do not take one single second for granted.

Angels in Human Form

2012-01-03T19:46:00.000-08:00

Look at this picture:

It's my baby girl, Jubilee, on Christmas morning. She is so small compared to all the presents she is surrounded by. The kind of picture that all kids dream of for their Christmas mornings... not that it's "all about the presents", but for a kid? Gifts mean A LOT.
Why am I showing you this picture? Because none of the gifts were bought by my family. You see, this year, we really didn't have money for Christmas... let me explain.

This is my son, Kyle:

He's going to be three this April. But he doesn't say a lot yet, so this wonderful woman Jen has been coming around to help him out with that. AND she's been doing a phenomenal job!! But I digress :)

She told us a few weeks ago that every year, she and her family have this thing that they do called "adopt a family". Yep, you read right... they actually choose a family who is in need, and they help them. Well, "help" is an understatement... they actually GIVE that family a Christmas. And this year, Jen felt led to choose my family. I can't write about it and explain properly how much of a blessing this was to us.

OK, so I'm trying not to cry as I type this.

As you can guess by the pictures thus far, Jen's "adopt a family" made a WORLD of difference for us this year. She basically asked us for a list of things we want/need. Just a ballpark list, to give the participants a general idea of what to get. Well, not only did her family get involved... but, let's see, a lacrosse team, teachers, local businesses... I can't even type here and give you an accurate picture of the scope of the kindness in people's hearts. Here, let me show some more pictures:

My Mom:

Jubilee and I:

My brother, Matt:

Not only did we get things we wanted, but a lot of things we desperately needed. Every one involved were truly angels in human form. The teachers in one school even opted to not do their own gift exchange and rather use the money to help US!!! They even included my Dad and our family dog, Skye... they were so thoughtful, they remembered the dog! Can you believe it?

This Christmas was a true miracle. I can not thank every one enough. I am still somewhat in shock when I think about it. I just had to share. I believe this last picture sums it all up perfectly:

Pacifica in Pictures

2011-12-14T19:02:00.001-08:00

Following up on the post I made last evening, I present to you: the pictures I took while in Pacifica, CA. Not nearly as many as I would have liked... funny how, looking back on things, you always would have done it differently. I wish I had spent more time studying and enjoying my surroundings. These pictures are fond memories nonetheless...

And lastly... a photo of the Golden Gate Bridge, just 10 minutes away!

Pacifica

2011-12-13T19:33:00.000-08:00

No pictures this post, but I'll make it short and sweet.

For a brief time (3 months), I lived in Pacifica, CA? It's just 10 minutes outside of San Francisco. Anyway, the place has never left my heart. There is a certainn poetic grace, an artist's muse to it all, if you will. It is perpetually foggy, which adds to its unique charm. It rests directly on the beautiful coast of the powerful Pacific Ocean. It is characterized by a famous long, "L"- shaped boardwalk/pier where, on a good day, one might receive a visit from a San Fracisco seal, who swam a little to escape the tourists visiting Alcatraz and the Wharf.

My small literary soliloquoy here does not do Pacifica justice. It really is an amazing, inspiring ocean-side town well worth getting to know.

A Drawing Progression

2011-12-12T19:31:00.000-08:00

So, for those of you who don't know, I'm a Home Health Aid currently. I work every weekend for a wonderful 98 year old woman, who is in great shape, despite her age.

But this past Saturday morning when I came in, she was in bed. Upon closer inspection, I found her foot was swollen. A LOT. So her granddaughter and I brought her in to the emergency department. Thank God, she was ok. They never found out why the foot was swollen, but it wasn't sprained, broken, or a blood clot, so they released her.

We were only there for a few hours, but while the granddaughter went back with her for tests, I stayed in the main area and began working on a drawing. I am becoming increasingly more interested in sketching, so I looked at some reference material and began this. A lot of it is improvised, and it is by no means perfect, but for a first attempt? I think it came out rather well. It should also be noted that I did it all in pen, without any preliminary pencil marks to erase. So any mistakes I made I had to work with. :) What do you think?

And I finished my painting for my son! Here is the finished product:

To Paint Is...

2011-12-04T18:32:00.001-08:00

So my wonderful son David is turning 16 in a few days. I would love to be able to give him a store certificate or something, but funds are really tight. So I figured I'd work on something that I hope he'll really appreciate... a small painting from my heart to his :)

What do you think so far? I'm painting it from this photograph:

This is the slow progression:

To Paint a Painting...

2011-12-04T18:25:00.000-08:00

So, my wonderful son David is turning 16 soon, and I'd love to be able to give him a store certificate or something, but funds are really tight. So I figured I'd work on something that I hope he'll really appreciate... a small painting from my heart to his :)

What do you think so far? I'm painting it from this photograph:

Here is my work area (lol):

This is the slow progression:

I think I can do the trees fairly easily, but it's sure difficult trying to get the water to look realistic... but, the fun continues! Hopefully, it'll turn out good :)

Scars

2011-11-29T17:58:00.000-08:00

Emotional scars seem to take longer to heal than physical ones. We think about where we went wrong... what we could have done differently... that we just should've known better!

God doesn't think that way. We beat ourselves up. He forgives. He is, after all, a loving Father.

Sometimes we forget how close He is. We should try and remember more often.

Yes, we make mistakes. And yes, those emotional scars hang on, and often continue to hurt.

But God is there. He is our comforter. None of us are perfect. He already knows that. That's why He sent us Jesus, to bear our sins upon the cross.

That doesn't mean we are free to sin willy-nilly! It means that instead of the punishment we deserve, we now have a way of redemption for when we do slip up.

That way of redemption? Jesus. Do you know Him as your personal Lord and Savior? Maybe it's time you did. Those emotional scars you have? NOTHING compared to the physical ones He endured on the cross... for YOU.

Pray to Him. He's waiting for you with love. Tell Him that you've done things wrong. Tell Him that you need His forgiveness and that you believe He is who the Bible says He is... the Son of God. Invite Him into your heart... and mean all that you say. Then begin going to a good church and learning more about Him. Your life will never be the same.

Adventure Walk!!!

2011-11-28T18:51:00.000-08:00

Having two little children so close in age makes individual time difficult. Kyle is about two and half now, and Jubilee is 18 months. :)

Today Mom was home, so I left Jubilee with her a while and took Kyle out on an Adventure Walk!!! We went into the woods and tromped for an hour and a half through brambles, along paths, around trees, through marshy areas, etc. You get the idea. He had a BLAST. We have deep woods near us, and this is only the second time I've taken him back there (the first was in early Spring). We went a different way this time, and discovered some things we'de never knew were there!

We had a really great Mommy-Son time, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. They grow up too fast...

This Crazy Weekend! :)

2011-11-26T09:43:00.000-08:00

OK, so yesterday was Black Friday and today, I believe, is "buy from a local small business day". LOL. Don't know about tomorrow, but then Monday is "Cyber Monday", where you are supposed to get deals from buying online.

Well, who am I to not jump in on all the hype? I'm offering 20% off any purchase in my shop from now until midnight Monday. Come visit and see what you like HERE.

Just use code: SMBF7212 and happy shopping!!! :)

And don't forget to enter my awesome giveaway which ends Dec 1!!! See the easy details HERE!!!

ART

2011-11-15T17:47:00.000-08:00

I have been illustrating basically all my life. From desk tops and school books in elementary school to commissioned walls for Christmas in Jr. High to wall posters and newspapers in High School. I loved it. It was who I was. But I never really knew much about the "Art World", or art history, until I got to college. That's when I became really "introduced" to art. From Warhol's soup cans

to abstract sculptures, the high standards of the Renaissance to the hard work and immaculate detail of people like Frank Lloyd Wright and Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

At first I was shocked. Certainly, there was a lot of art that was clearly "art"... good design, well-thought out pieces. But there was other art that was, well... shocking to me. Shocking that it was called "art". See, I was always told to follow my talent. If I could draw, then art was the obvious avenue for me to persue. If you sing good? You'll be a singer. Work well with tools? Then you'll make an excellent architect. You get my point.

So you can imagine my surprise when I at last began to learn about art and the vast myriad of what is considered "art". Standards change. Artistic styles fluctuate nearly as rapidly as fashion trends. A child working hard to hone their sketching skills to perfection has to struggle to find their place amongst new "ideas"... like this:

"Odalisk" by Robert Rauschenberg

So, you can see that what the majority called "art" was really not what I expected. It seemed that provacative or crazy stuff won out over true drawing skills. Put a rooster on a box? You end up in a museum. Draw a person's face in perfect detail? You end up on a street in Manhattan, trying to get people to pose so you can sell a drawing to pay your rent. Talent no longer seemed to hold the weight it did back when I drew "wonderful" pictures in school.

Alright, I've gone on enough... weigh in, please. I know I'm not the only one out there with an opinion :)

And don't forget to enter my awesome giveaway for DailyRepose for this wonderful prize!!! Just click on the pic to go to the giveaway! :)

Let's Hear it for Handmade Soaps!!!

2011-11-01T20:36:00.000-07:00

Welcome Everyone!
The other day I received in the mail several soap samples from a wonderful seller on Etsy. I had been eagerly anticipating their arrival, and when they did, I couldn't wait to try them! As I opened each one, I was rewarded with an amazing scent that directly corresponded to the name of the soap. And upon using them, I was so happy with the lather AND cleanliness that each one delivered. I was very impressed with a paper she included that told how to care for and use the soaps, and each sample had the ingredients posted clearly on a card packaged with the soaps.

Obviously, I was so impressed with her soaps that I had to ask her if she would like to have a giveaway on my blog, and she agreed! So, without further adieu... I present to you,
DailyRepose!

The Interview

(Me) "Do you want people to have to follow your blog in order to enter the giveaway?"

(Shelli) "I don’t have a blog but ‘liking’ my Facebook page would be great! Or ‘liking’ my Etsy shop."

(Me) "Do you do any other soap-making process than cold-process? If so, which is your favorite, and why?"

(Shelli) "I only do Cold-Process soap making. The whole cold-process just feels more natural to me and I love the fact that it takes less electricity use compared to other methods. It does take a lot longer for my soaps to cure. Cold Process soaps take 4-6 weeks to cure, but they are worth the wait."

(Me) "How did you first become interested in soap making?"

(Shelli) "After becoming aware of the dangers in the ingredients of commercial soaps and wanting to further my commitment to a more natural lifestyle; I looked everywhere for soaps that were Vegan, Eco-Friendly, Gmo- Free, Palm Oil- Free and made with real ingredients. I quickly realized that the only way to get soap that met those criteria was to make them myself."

(Me) "What is your favorite scent/soap to make?"

(Shelli) "My favorite soaps have always been the 100% Natural Soaps, the ones with no artificial colors or fragrance. I love the ones made with real teas and herbs. I also make 98% Natural soaps because so many people want a scented soap. They are made with the same ingredients as the All Natural bars, but have Phthalate-Free Fragrance and a small amount of colorant added."

(Me) "Do you do any other crafts?"

(Shelli) "Oh my, yes! I also love working with paper, which is why each individual soap label is handmade. I also make scrapbook pages, scrapbooks, invitations, tags, greeting cards, wrapping paper, decorative wreaths, and do some sewing. I am now learning to crochet, being taught by my mother who follows no patterns (just her needle, yarn & imagination)."

(Me) "Soap, like any other craft, is an art form. What advice would you give to others? What is the most important lesson you've learned while on your crafting journey?"

(Shelli) "Just let go and create. Don’t worry about what the outcome will be. If you start overthinking things or feeling frustrated; it’s time to step away and take a break. I’ve learned that you just can’t force creativity."

(Me) "What's next for you?"

(Shelli) "Well, honestly I don’t know. I try my best to be in the moment and since my creative process is a bit Mad Scientist meets Martha Stewart, I never know what will come next, but there will always be soap!"

Wonderfully said, Shelli! Now for the Giveaway!!!

Brown Sugar & FIG Soap Bath Hand Bar SCENTED Vegan- Handmade-Cold Process- Palm free Soy Free-Gmo Phthalate Free

ONE lucky person will win the soap above, plus Shelli will throw in a free soap holder! She will mail directly to the winner via First Class mail. The giveaway will run from Nov 1-Dec 1. On Dec 1, a winner will be chosen at random from all the posts below. Please leave your email address so I have a way to contact you. If you are not comfortable doing so, please come back here on Dec 2 to see if you are the winner. If I do not hear from the winner, a new one will be chosen at random.

Here is what you need to do:

Mandatory Entry:
Become a follower of this blog. Then visit Shelli's Etsy Shop. Come back here and leave me a post letting me know that you are a follower (or have become one) of my blog, and what is your favorite item in Shelli's Etsy shop.

Extra Entry:
Visit Shelli's Facebook and like it. Come back and leave a comment saying you've done so.

It's as easy as that!!! Trust me, you WANT to win this soap... it really IS amazing. I love it, and I know you will, too!!! Good luck, everyone!!!

I LOVE Being Creative!

2011-10-30T19:48:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

Quick post today to let you know how I've been coming along with my crafts. Everyone loves to do crafts... there's just something so fulfilling about working hard on something, and then having it turn out to be something you're proud of. :) Yay for all of us who are creative!

So, I was looking through my craft supplies (here is a pic of just SOME embellishments I have...)

and I came across a piece that I'd completed a while back that I had deactivated from Etsy. Well, I took a good look at it, and I really still love the way it came out, and chances are more than likely that if I like it so much, others will, too. So I relisted it tonight! Here it is, my

Steampunk Butterflies Repurposed Jewelry for Your Hair

I remember making that piece was a lot of fun. Steampunk to me is a very interesting and intriguing style that keeps growing. I also like SOME Victorian... lacey patterns, but not huge heads... sometimes, it goes too far. LOL.

I work with a 98 year old woman (God bless her!) who lives in a retirement community. Every one who lives there has little shelves for decorative purposes outside of their respective apartment doors, and a lot of people put out candy in little bowls for tomorrow. The lady and I went around to these apartments and took a little candy. She asked me if it was stealing. I said of course not... they put it out for us to take. It's not for "kids", as no kids are allowed to live there. She is so precious and cute, the woman... she's an angel :) Anyway, I'm not allowed to post a pic of her, obviously, but I can of the candy!

And last, but certainly not least... I'm working on more magnets! I'm really liking the way these ones are coming along... any criticisms? They're always helpful!

And please don't forget about my wonderful giveaway!!! You still have time to enter :)

Etsy Down??

2011-10-28T18:33:00.000-07:00

Is Etsy down?? *Looks around quickly* What am I going to do?

...maybe use my stamps?

Catch YOUR Eye?

2011-10-27T19:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday! I have been doing a little peeking here and there around Etsy on my off time for some interesting shops, and here is one particular that I've found that not only deserve a mention, but high praise, as well!

It is RandomlyGenerated, where you can find a wide array of very well-done peg people. Peg people, you ask? Yes... you read me correctly. But not just any peg people... there's peg people from the most popular movies, tv shows, heck, there's even a Ziggy Stardust David Bowie one! But I can ramble on all I want, you'll never get why I'm so excited about them until you SEE them... go take a peek! They've got everything from Ghostbusters to Galaxy Quest to Star Trek!!!

On a completely different note, I have found that (especially as the Christmas season draws nearer) that I have many products that I simply don't get to use. For example, most of my ACEOs (Art Cards, Editions, and Originals) are hand-illustrated originals, so I don't really get to use my stamp collection, although I've got a nice one, and many are wooden.

Well, I can't believe I actually posted a blog without pictures, but sometimes I think if you truly want to see something, then you have to go look at it. Seriously, take a look at the above Etsy shop... you'll be glad you did :)

This Little Light of Mine

2011-10-26T19:05:00.000-07:00

Some days are difficult. That's just the way it is. Today I found myself a bit under the weather. But you want to know what perked me right up? I began singing "This Little Light of Mine" to my baby girl, Jubilee... and it really improved my mood. That's why the Bible tells us to "put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness"... a lesson maybe we need to apply to our daily lives more often?

So after that, I was more motivated to take pictures of my latest creation, and to get the computer out so I could list it. Here it is, my first "official" Christmas item!

It is a Sculpey Polymer clay magnet that I titled "Christmas Frost". You can see more of it here.

If you are wondering, the above Bible passage was taken from Isaiah 61:3... a VERY uplifting read!

Have a wonderful evening, everyone!!!

What to Write?

2011-10-25T19:42:00.000-07:00

I've been waiting all day in eager anticipation to write on my blog! Should I write about my kids? Or my latest art project? My favorite time of year (Autumn)? My favorite show, Dancing with the Stars? My mind is all a jumble with possibilities, but yet when I actually set fingers to keyboard, I draw a blank...

Nothing lasts too long anymore... on my birthday, which was Oct 10, I took my little kids (Kyle, 2 & 1/2 and Jubilee, 14 months) out for a walk. I bought them each little pumpkins (gourds?) as an Autumnal memento. Today, I found that Kyle's was mushy and white in spots :( Anyway, here is a pic of them the day they got their gourds.

They are getting so big. I am amazed at how fast time if virtually "flying" by... I know it says that in the End Times, that the days will be speeded up for the sake of the elect. Does anyone believe that we have entered the End Times? I know many probably thought they were in them when horrible things happened, like the Great Depression. But I'm really curious, does anyone believe we're there yet?

I've been trying (emphasis on "trying") to balance my time between every thing else and creating. I've been working on magnets and some really great ACEOs that I'm proud of. It's so good when you spend a lot of time on something and it comes out great. Too often I'll work hard on things that fail my expectations. But try, try again!

Here are Kyle and Jubilee the other morning, enjoying their breakfast :) I love them so much... I could write endless posts about them and only them... but I won't ;)

Well, before I forget, don't be remiss in entering my Giveaway! Go check it out :) And every one, have a great evening!!

Just a Moment...

2011-10-22T13:19:00.000-07:00

...of freedom. At work currently, but wanted to stop in for a moment and show you all what I'm working on next. Opinions, as always, are always encouraged! :) Hope every one is having a great day!!! OK, take a peek: they're Polymer Clay magnets!

ACT Team Water Birds Submissions!

2011-10-21T20:04:00.000-07:00

It has been too long, but finally, here are the submissions for the ACT Team "Water Birds" Inspiration contest... please, as always, email me your choice, 1, 2, or 3. :) I hope many of you vote! Here are the submissions... voting ends on Nov 11.

Please email me at: tracksaloquin@yahoo.com and let me know in the subject line that you are voting for the ACT Contest. Thank you to all of you who participate!

Wonderful Giveaway!!!

2011-10-21T07:43:00.000-07:00

Yay! It's time for a really great giveaway that you're going to love:

No, the giveaway is NOT for the baby, she's MINE! LOL :) It's for this wonderful Lampwork Necklace from Halcraft USA! See?

It is a necklace that you make yourself! What a perfect gift (Christmas is coming!) for that special loved one... a beautiful necklace that you made yourself! Take a look at these beautiful beads...

This do-it-yourselfer comes with easy to read (and understand!) instructions and a list of everything that comes with the necklace. The only thing that does not come with it is the center pendant (they want you to buy one seperately), but it's such a beautiful necklace, you don't even need a pendant!

So, what do you have to do in order to win? It's simple! So many giveaways have detailed and time-consuming things to do in order to enter, but not me!

Mandatory Entry:

Become a follower of my blog and leave a comment indicating that you are. You MUST also leave an email address or subsequent way to contact you, so I can let you know if you're the winner! :)

Additional Entry:

Visit my ETSY SHOP and check it out, then come back here and write a second comment letting me know what is your favorite item in my shop AND why.

See, told you it was simple! :) The giveaway ends on Friday, November 11, 2011. That still gives you plenty of time to create the necklace and get it ready to give to whomever you wish (even if it's to YOU!)

Creativity on the Wind :)

2011-10-20T12:14:00.000-07:00

It's a breezy, blustery day here on Long Island. The leaves are falling, the trees are blowing, and my son is having a blast dancing around in all of it. Even the fallen leaves are leaving imprints on some of his toys... if you look carefully, you'll see what I mean:

I have been diligently working on some new ideas for ACEOs for the holidays. Every one seemed to be interested in my graffiti series so much (you can see some of them still here) that I decided to take the advice of some friends and begin incorporating the graffiti/urbanesque style of art into some Christmas gems. Here are two that I'm currenly finishing up... what do you think?

All comments will be greatly appreciated, as I'm really trying to make ACEOs that people will want to give to their loved ones/friends for the holidays!!! Thanks so much!

-Aloquin :)

What's In A Name, Anyway?

2011-05-17T11:31:00.000-07:00

Give-Away Time!!!

Do you believe that the name, or title, of a work of art can add to it? Of course! Sometimes, a highly creative name for a piece "makes" the piece... it draws the viewer in and causes one to think deeper about the intent of the artist, and how they could have come to decide upon that particular title. Consequently, a poorly chosen name for a piece can detract from it, as well... often times, I've heard a fantastic song that I've really enjoyed. Upon discovering the title, however, I was left a little... blah.
________________________________________________

I recently took out a book from the local library. It seems hard to find book devoted to ATCs or ACEOs (Art Cards, baby!!!) But as the art forum moves forward, I want to stay up-to-date as much as I can. Anywhoooo, the book I took out was this one:

"1,000 Artist Trading Cards: Innovative and Inspired Mixed Media ATCs" by Patricia Bolton, Editor-In-Chief of

ClothPaperScissors
________________________________________________
It's a really cool book! It has a great introduction, explaining what art cards are, how the movement began, etc. It even has a fantastic gallery of cards where you can really see the detail and methods/materials used! The only thing that left me a little flat was that the cards were identified by number only... none of them showed the title of the card.
________________________________________________
With this carefully in mind, I present to you my two latest ATCs:

I really like the way they came out... a lot of feeling and emotion went into these pieces. But... I am at a loss for names for them! That's where YOU come in!

Time to employ your creative help... and think of a name for these two original cards! Easy, you think? Not so much! Give it a try! You can even think of ONE name, and I'll just name the cards "Name 1" and "Name 2", as in a series. Just post here the names you choose, give me SOME way to contact you, and the names I like the best will win this original ATC from me titled "Hearts Entangled"!

Give-Away Time!!!

ATCs

2011-05-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

OK, so I've been a seller on Etsy for a few years now. Here's my shop. I really am a huge supporter of Etsy, and I love the site, despite some recent changes. But I won't get into that here, lol.

So, I mostly sell ACEOs on Etsy. I LOVE the art form, and the versatility is amazing. I was aware for a while of ATCs (Artist TRADING Cards), but never really bothered with them. Lately, however, I've found quite a few beautiful cards on the ATC's For All website. I've even traded a bit here and there!

Come check out my gallery, join on up, and get involved. They also do more, like swaps, chunky books, etc. I haven't gotten involved in all of that, but the time I do spend there, I enjoy very much. :) Here is my gallery .

Be Polite!

2011-04-23T11:46:00.000-07:00

When considering a trade (of ATCs) and the person who has asked you to trade really doesn't have anything that you like, don't say "no" to the trade. Rather, say something like "Thanks so much for wanting to trade with me! I'll keep an eye on your gallery." That way, you're not being mean. You never know, they may just make something you WILL want in the future :)

Have a creative day!!!
-Aloquin

2nd Inpiration Contest!

2011-03-03T17:38:00.000-08:00

Here we go, ACT Team... our second inspiration contest! The theme? Simply making an ACEO (Art Cards, Editions, and Originals) out of a medium you haven't used before... here we are!

1.)

2.)

3.)

4.)

5.)

Really GREAT entries!!! I love them all :)
OK every one, please vote! Email me the ONE choice you make, with the corresponding number, to: tracksaloquin@yahoo.com

Thanks so much, and best of luck to every one! :)

-Aloquin

1st EVER ACT Team Inspiration Contest!!!

2011-01-21T11:58:00.000-08:00

Here are the entries for the 1st EVER ACT Team Inspiration Contest! Please, if you are a member of our team, vote for only ONE of the entries. They are numbered, so all you need to do is email the number of your choice to: tracksaloquin@yahoo.com

Whoever gets the most votes, wins!!! So, which do YOU like best?? :)

Number 1:

Number 2:

Number 3:

Number 4:

Number 5:

Number 6:

Number 7:

Every one did such great work!!! I can't wait to see who wins. Remember, vote soon! Voting closes Monday (Jan 24). Good luck, every one!!!

ACT Team Logo Vote!!!

2010-11-30T19:17:00.000-08:00

Hi Every one!!!

Here are the submissions for the ACT Team Logo! Please only pick ONE, and convo me your choice on Etsy. Thanks!!! When you choose, pick the number associated with the Logo, and just convo me the number of your choice. :)

NUMBER ONE

NUMBER TWO

NUMBER THREE

NUMBER FOUR

NUMBER FIVE

NUMBER SIX

2010-09-17T18:14:00.000-07:00

He spoke in minor chords- his voice a combination of melancholy songs and deep, meaningful inflections. One always got the impression that when he partook in a conversation, that part of him was somewhat removed, as if remembering a lost love, or recalling a special poem. His eyes would sort of glaze over, and you'd know he was somewhere else. Regardless of the importance of the discussion at hand, I inherently found this habit of his more endearing than annoying. How could I not? I was in love with him.
His hair was a deep, resonant blonde that bore it's history, in steaks of yellow, stretching back to the windmills and tulips of a Holland long past. Wild Pacific-Ocean was the shade of his blue eyes, and within them they held the depths of the swells of so-many waves.
He was mine, but for a moment in time, in the startingly fresh way a person can belong to another, more a connection than an ownership. Our eyes, our hands, our bodies interlocked, and we felt that compelling need for one another, that engulfing fire that burns out before it has the proper chance to grow into all it's possibilities.
Yes, he was mine, and I know that he tried to stay, tried to relinquish his traveler's heart for the committment of togetherness, but the uncontrollable nature of solidarity continually fueled his desires, and I simply could not compare.
On drizzle-tinged New York evenings, as I drink coffee with whomever I'm currently seated across from, my mind is inexplicably drawn back to him, and I remember his music-voic, haunting me with his words, like song lyrics I can not forget. The most beautiful phrase he ever chocked out, amidst tears of apologies, was "good bye".

Oh, Pacifica

2010-09-14T13:54:00.000-07:00

There is a morning that is unlike any other morning on the planet, and that is the one where you wake up in Pacifica, CA, where you can FEEL the density of the fog creeping in. I've heard others tell similar stories about special, interesting mornings elsewhere... in Woodward, Pennsylvania, where you can view the majestic mountains in the distance... or on the coast of Alabama, where long stretches of sand and Southern traditions meld into a comfortable, homey atmosphere.

Oh, but for Pacifica... what with it's practically incandescent fog, it's slightly chilled air; there is no other place quite like it. The fog rolls in, covers you as if it were a blanket, and you are aware that not far away is the famed city of San Francisco, where people wore flowers in their hair some 40 years hence, but now they just kind of sit back, smoke grass, and blend into the background.

San Francisco basks in the sun, only a short distance away from Pacifica, yet the sharpest contrast. There is Fisherman's Wharf, the Golden Gate bridge, Alcatraz, the Rainbow District, you name it... there are little cities within the main one. Something for every one. It is truly the tourist's delight.

But Pacifica is something else entirely. The sites to see here are the ones you have to know of ahead of time, to go looking for... the old Sutro Baths, the Taco Bell perched on the beach where you're allowed to go in barefoot. The ocean swells here, dark and foreboding, and you can't help but miss the calmer feel of the Atlantic, back home on Long Island. The Pacific Ocean is somehow wilder, filled with a sort of reckless abandonment that both terrifies you and draws you in.

I do not know if I shall ever return to Pacifica, but to have another morning there would be more than worth a million spent elsewhere.

2010-09-12T18:53:00.000-07:00

There is a man. He exists under palm trees of light, along the shores of the Pacific Ocean, as if in a dream. He lives thousands, perhaps trillions, of miles away from me.

Hawaii. It may as well be Alaska, or Guatemala, for that matter.

"I'll see you later". Those were the last words he said to me in person. I stood on the stoop of the homeless shelter, our baby son in my arms, watching as he got into the taxi and left. I kept waiting for it to stop, to turn around, for him to rush back out, in a fit of tears, or some kind of emotion... to say he was wrong, that he loved me, that he wasn't leaving.

"I'll see you later".

Now, it is five months later. Much later. And I've still not seen him. I don't know if I ever will. As the days grow further, and time spreads us thin, I slowly collect the pieces of my shattered self, and I move on. I have to be a good mother to my son, and my newly born daughter. I have to focus on them.

Too Hot

2010-05-01T09:25:00.000-07:00

LOL, it's only about 75-80 on Long Island, and it's already too hot. I always said I didn't want to go through a summer pregnant... well, I guess the best laid plans... la la la. :_)

Two new additios, please check them out!!! :)

Repent!

and

Forget the Flowers... Run!

Thank you so much for looking, and enjoy your day!

Abuse is NEVER OK

2010-04-29T09:58:00.000-07:00

Whether it is physical, emotional, or psychological, you do not have to be on the floor bleeding to be abused. Too many people make excuses... they say "well, it's not like I'm on a Lifetime movie. He doesn't beat me THAT badly..." or, worse yet, they feel it is their fault.

My new ACEO born out of healing is entitled "I Do Not Cherish the Pain", and it can be found newly listed here.

2010-04-19T18:14:00.000-07:00

We spent our last days perusing the library stacks-
filling the void with inconsequential books,
an escape of the mind, a way to hide the heart.

If I had known as a little girl
(all skinned knees and climbing trees)
that love only lasts for two years,

I likely wouldn't have bothered. But,
you came rolling by me on your Heeley's;
offering security, devotion, and forever

in your eyes, and I, awakening from solidarity,
fell head first into your open arms, needing your love
more than I ever thought I could.

And now here we stand, on the cusp of good-bye...
devoid of the joy of growing old together.
There is no more "together".

It was a dream that I once had, a fantasy
of trust, of eternity... waking up is the
most palpable of pains to digest.

Busy busy busy!!!

2010-03-24T09:30:00.000-07:00

Hello every one! Happy Wednesday! :)

I am busy today and tomorrow working away on a knitted newborn hat for my hubby's expectant co-worker. I'm doing a cute purl/knit combo for the first couple of rows, then straight knit stitch the rest of the way. I'm knitting the hat on 2 size 8 needles, then I'll stitch it together when I'm through, adding a cute pom pom on top. I'm knitting it out of this:

I'm also working on picture tutorials for my craft blog Alocraft! It's a blog where we'll be doing weekly crafts of choice, posting pics and interacting with one another as we progress in making the crafts. It's going to be a lot of fun, and if you'd like to join in, simply click on the link in blue above and come on over to learn more!

I'm also eagerly awaiting for these mirrors to arrive in the mail! I can't wait to start custom embellishing the back of themm... they're going to come out awesome!

Well, I hope every one has a blessed and creative day!!! :)

Steampunk!

2010-03-14T11:05:00.000-07:00

So, I know I've said it before, but I really, really dig the Steampunk style... more in actual jewelry than clothing, but nonetheless... it's addicting!

So, to celebrate that, I've created a new Jewelry for Your Hair piece... Steampunk Butterflies!

Using pieces from a vintage watch, I combined the dial, several links, vintage butterfles, metal balls, and several buttons to complete an aesthetically-pleasing, overall-unique design. I really dig the way this beauty turned out!

You can see this new creation at my Etsy shop! Come take a look! :)

Also! Audrey's Giveaway Blog has a SUPER giveaway going on right now!!! You could win this delectable candle from Sugarville Candles! Go enter now!!!

Giveaways

2010-03-12T20:14:00.000-08:00

OK, so I enter some giveaways... and most of them have a couple of ways to enter. To be honest, I usually just do the first choice, whatever it may be... I simply don't have a lot of time to go around doing every thing that a giveaway requires... until NOW!

There is finally a giveaway that I'm not only willing, but excited to do every thing it requires to get multiple entries! Please, take a moment and check out her giveaway, it truly is fantastic!

Here is the Giveaway!

Vintage Watches?

2010-03-12T12:26:00.001-08:00

OK, so recently I've gotten into Steampunk... a style I dig very much. So, I recalled that Mom had some watches left over from Grandma, or perhaps earlier... and I checked them out. Here they are:

Now, I don't know anything about watches, but I think they *might* be worth something, and I'd like to find out before I go and break them up to use on crafts, LOL. :)

So, here they are, closer up.

1. This one is an Electric, by Timex.

2. This second one is a Bulova.

3. And this last pretty one is also a Timex, with no other indicating title.

If anyone knows anything about watches, I would love any feedback regarding these. Thank you so much!

Aloquin :)

From Start To Finish...

2010-03-10T12:28:00.000-08:00

I recently created the first in a series of ACEOs titled the Fruit of the Spirit! I love the way it came out, and I wanted to share the creation of it with you! :)

First, I took an already pre-cut ACEO (that stands for Art Cards, Editions, and Originals, and the only rule is that they be 3.5 by 2.5!) I then sketched out the idea with a pencil first, before I inked over the marks with my black BIC pen.

After the pen dried, I erased the pencil marks and began color in my card, with paint pens and markers. I enjoyed the way the colors blended, especially on the inside of the orange!

I contined coloring the rest in, testing one color against another, and this is the final product! Not bad, if I do say so myself... can't wait to make the others in the series!

A True Story

2010-03-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

This was posted earlier on DAWG Group web site, and I'm reposting it here, hoping it can help someone. Please read it, it's not long, and it WILL move you.

What God Can Do with $.57

A little girl stood near a small church from which she had been turned away because it was 'too crowded.' 'I can't go to Sunday School,' she sobbed to the pastor as he walked by. Seeing her shabby, unkempt appearance, the pastor guessed the reason and, taking her by the hand, took her inside and found a place for her in the Sunday school class. The child was so happy that they found room for her, and she went to bed that night thinking of the children who have no place to worship Jesus.

Some two years later, this child lay dead in one of the poor tenement buildings. Her parents called for the kindhearted pastor who had befriended their daughter to handle the final arrangements. As her poor little body was being moved, a worn and crumpled red purse was found which seemed to have been rummaged from some trash dump.

Inside was found 57 cents and a note, scribbled in childish handwriting, which read: 'This is to help build the little church bigger so more children can go to Sunday School.' For two years she had saved for this offering of love.

When the pastor tearfully read that note, he knew instantly what he would
do. Carrying this note and the cracked, red pocketbook to the pulpit, he told the story of her unselfish love and devotion. He challenged his deacons to get busy and raise enough money for the larger building.

But the story does not end there....

A newspaper learned of the story and published it. It was read by a wealthy realtor who offered them a parcel of land worth many thousands. When told that the church could not pay so much, he offered to sell it to the little church for 57 cents. Church members made large donations. Checks came from far and wide. Within five years the little girl's gift had increased to $250,000.00--a huge sum for that time (near the turn of the century). Her unselfish love had paid large dividends.

When you are in the city of Philadelphia , look up Temple Baptist Church, with a seating capacity of 3,300. And be sure to visit Temple University , where thousands of students are educated. Have a look, too, at the Good Samaritan Hospital and at a Sunday School building which houses hundreds of beautiful children, built so that no child in the area will ever need to be left outside during Sunday school time.

In one of the rooms of this building may be seen the picture of the sweet face of the little girl whose 57 cents, so sacrificially saved, made such remarkable history. Alongside of it is a portrait of her kind pastor, Dr.Russell H. Conwell, author of the book, 'Acres of Diamonds'.

This is a true story, which goes to show WHAT GOD CAN DO WITH 57 CENTS.

Ideas and Buttons!

2010-02-28T08:31:00.001-08:00

It is a beautiful, warmer day today, accented by the lovely sound of the snow melting away into nothingness... Spring is on its way! :) Thank God!

I created some new rings yesterday, and wanted to share them with you... what do you think?

I had a lot of fun making these, and they'll be up on my Etsy shop soon!

I've also been toying with an idea lately... would anyone be interested in a blog where there is a craft each week, complete with instructions and area where you can post/discuss your craft when done?

Let me know, I'm trying to find out if there is an interest for such a blog!

Thanks!!! :)

The Birth of Ideas

2010-02-26T09:11:00.000-08:00

So, yesterday, we had to go to the shelter next door because they were painting ours. We were over there from 8:30am until about 5:30pm... but, it was good down time for me to work on a couple of sketches of ACEO ideas! I only had a blue ball point pen with me, but I had a good time, regardless. There is something... calming about simply sitting and sketching once again... reminds me of simpler times.

There were two twin boys running around the shelter, and they both had coats with a rocket ship design on them, so that inspired me to make this sketch...

Then, keeping with the steampunk affinity I've had as of late, I decided to make this sketch... can't wait to turn it into a quality ACEO!

Then, I had an idea for a nice, calm kitchen-table/coffee sort of thing... so I sketched this out. My husband suggested I lower the table, enlargen the window, and pehraps draw an ocean scene outside... or maybe even a moonlit night. We'll see what I can come up with!

Finally, you'll see how the view of the side/back yard looked a little bit ago... and yes, the snow is still falling... I'm so glad my husband finally grabbed me batteries for my camera!

TGIF every one!!!

Sorry- no photos!

2010-02-23T13:35:00.000-08:00

Regretably, my digital camera's batteries have officially run out. Hopefully, hopefully my husband will remember to bring some batteries home from work tonight, so this won't cripple me.

Alas, today we have a blog entry with no photos... boring? Somewhat, perhaps. But! I baked brownies today in cupcake tins... that was fun. They came out so round and cute... I'd take a picture, obviously, but you know...

Also a little upset. An order I placed from an Etsy seller was supposed to arrive already, and still hasn't. I have been trying to communicate with the seller to no avail. I really hope they contact me soon... I'd hate to miss the item I paid for and have to leave negative feedback...

Oh well, I suppose that's it for now. Off to try and remain chipper even in the dull rain. Good day every one!

Creative Inspiration

2010-02-22T17:54:00.000-08:00

Hello, and Happy Monday!

So, I know that every one who creates garners their inspiration from somewhere... wether it be music, the sky, family, or street signs...

I was just going through my pictures folder and I found one titled "Inspiration". I have a lot of photos pulled from around the world wide web, and I've no idea anylonger from whence they came, but they are a constant source of inspiration for me.

If any of these happen to be YOUR work, fret not... I am merely showcasing your talent here on my blog, because I appreciate it so much that I've added it to my personal folder.

What inspires you? My friend makes origami earrings from mangas! Another person I know makes soda can tab bracelets.

Inspiration is every where... all you need to do is look. And never stop creating!!!

OH!!! AND a BIG congrats to Jammatun! for winning mine and Luv Ewe Knits blog giveaway!!! She won those wonderful, quality, versatile face cloths! Way to go!!!

More giveaways to come soon, so keep checking!

When You Can't Name Your Art...

2010-02-21T18:37:00.000-08:00

Ever make something that you're VERY happy with, but you just can't seem to figure out a good name for it?

Well, that has happened to me... tonight, I finished my first two steampunk-inspired ACEOs... and, I think they turned out fantastic. I really dig them, a lot.

I'm ready to put them up on Etsy and share them with the world, but I can't think of a good name for either one! I mean, there's always song lyrics... "Time is On My Side" or "Time Keeps on Slipping Into the Future"... but those are... expected? I don't know... I want something a little more unique, to show the one-of-a-kindness of the cards themselves.

So, here are my two latest creations... can anyone out there help me with a name for either, or both of these cards? If so, you will get the appropriate mention for naming the card(s) in the respective Etsy listing. No good answer will be ignored, and all will be considered.

Please, if you have any ideas, post away!!! :) And thanks.

1.)

2.)

Oh, and don't forget to enter my giveaway, which ends tomorrow night! Enter HERE!

Steampunk?

2010-02-13T10:35:00.000-08:00

So, I was reading blogs yesterday, and I came across this! Well, after thoroughly reading the blog, and researching the shop, a definite love for what is known as "Steampunk" began!

Take a moment and look up Steampunk on Wikipedia... or, better yet, get straight to the point and read about the art/design part of it here!

When I was in college, I used to make sculptures with melted straws, adding elements of mechanical/metal whatever-I-could-find that I thought was asthetically pleasing. To find that there are many others who do similar stuff, and there's even a NAME for it... I was very happy, to say the least.

Since then, I've been looking at stuff all over Etsy, Ebay, and the web. I really do love the style, and I invite you all to research it on your own, if you haven't a clue what it's about.

However, if you DO have a clue what it's about... take a look at this here, a barrette I made last night inspired by Steampunk. Now, it isn't necessarily clocks and gears, but it does have broken pieces of a cell phone... so, does it constitute Steampunk to you?

Also, don't forget to enter the Giveaway for a $40.00 value wonderful prize!!! Enter HERE!!!

WONDERFUL Giveaway!!!

2010-02-08T07:52:00.000-08:00

Hello, friends! Today I am hosting a really great giveaway, sponsored by Lynette from LuvEweKnits!

I recently received an amazing hat from her, which I have completely fallen in love with, and it has become my favorite hat. Not only is it super warm, but it's very versatile... it's cute, fun, and I can wear it basically with anything, and not feel bored. I truly love this hat, and am very grateful that I found her Etsy shop. Here, take a look at my hat! I even let my baby model it :)

After I fell in love with my hat, I knew I just had to feature her on my blog. AND to make it better, she agreed to have a giveaway, so one of you lucky winners will also fall in love with her wonderful work! :)

Here is the feature:

Which do you like to do more, knit or crochet? Why?

It's funny; I learned both as a child, but really hated knitting. I didn't use either one very often until young adulthood, and then picked up crochet, which I adored, and got to be really fast at, and fairly skilled.

Then a couple years ago, I joined a Stitch-n-Bitch group and became jealous of the beautiful knitted items my new friends were making. I decided I would learn again to knit no matter what, and I did. I re-taught myself, and I continue to add new techniques and tricks. I've become a pretty fast knitter now, too, and I can honestly say, I love knitting now, probably more than crochet. I just love the softness and the variety of things I can do with it, and the rhythm is meditative for me.

I also enjoy knitting on the knitting machine, though not nearly as much as by hand.

How did you first learn to knit?

The first time I learned I was about six years old. My great Grandmother had incredible patience and taught me. It didn't really stick, and she and my mother both re-taught me a few times through childhood. I just wanted to be stitching like they were when we would visit Gramma and sit on her 'davenport' together. I eventually just picked up crochet projects and other needlework to work on while they stitched. Through the years they taught me needlepoint, embroidery, sewing and quilting, too.

What is your current inspiration?

I find inspiration everywhere I look and everywhere I go. Yarns and fibers inspire me, knitting books and patterns, you tube videos, I just want to learn more techniques, fondle more yarns, and make beautiful things. Sometimes I am inspired by my environment, nature, color, or people I meet or know, or love.

Do you do any other crafts? Which ones?

Yes, many! I don't have time to do them all anymore, but I also sew, quilt, rubber stamp, scrapbook, one stroke paint, embroider, paper craft and bead!

I love to learn new things, and having several skills in my back pocket helps me to be more creative, and combine media. For example, I'm working on several knitted felted bags right now that include sewn reinforced linings, zippers, and embellishments with beading, embroidery and needlefelting.

How did you begin on Etsy? Has it been profitable for you so far?

I started my Etsy shop in November 2009. It's been a slow start so far, but I have learned loads of great information about how to present my shop and how to promote it by attending the Virtual Labs. I've been working on my photography, improving my titles and tags, and adding more items to the shop as often as I can. I'm also doing a lot of promoting now, using Facebook and Twitter, and my new blog. I feel it's normal to take some time to build up a foundation and make my business name known before sales start to become regular.

What's the favorite item in your shop right now?

My favorite item in the shop right now would have to be the charcoal felted children's boot slippers. I love all the felted slippers, they're so much fun to make. You knit up what looks like really huge slippers, and they felt down so neatly to the perfect size and they're so cute! The felted slippers are my kid's favorite, some like the boot style, some the clog style, and some of them have had multiple pairs.

Where did you come up with your shop name?

It was difficult! I wanted something sweet, but not too cute, something memorable, and preferably something unique. Also, I needed it not to match anything in my state, since I am registered as a business. It took a bit of trial and error, but I've grown to like my business name quite a lot.

Have you found Twitter to be helpful?

Yes, definitely! Twitter has been really helpful to increase views in my Etsy shop, on treasuries I make, on my Facebook Fan page, and on my blog. Every new set of eyes opens a whole new network of people, so I count on Twitter to get my name and my work out there.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start selling their homemade wares on line?

Learn how to take good photos, don't under price your goods, and definitely use social networking to promote your work. Be real and let people see your personality, not just your promotions. Most of all, LOVE what you do, be passionate about it. It's infectious! Also, it takes awhile to get going, don't be disappointed if sales don't start off with a bang. Make sure you set a budget for yourself on what to spend for listing and advertising, and stick to it.

Tell us about the item up for grabs for the give away.

The item up for grabs for the giveaway is a set of ten Organic Cotton Crocheted Facecloths in Marshmallow. It was the first project I did for my new blog, 99 Balls of Yarn. The cloths are round, about 5 inches across, and can be used for face cloths, removing makeup, baby washcloths, or even as coasters. The marshmallow color is neutral to match any décor, and they are unisex! The cloths are all hand crocheted by me. The organic yarn means no chemicals against your face or baby's skin. This set of ten is a double set, and has a retail value of $40.

Lynette Connors
Luv Ewe Knits

So there you have it, folks! Now I bet you're wondering how you can enter this fantastic giveaway?

All you have to do is visit Lynette's Etsy shop HERE and report back here, telling us in a comment which is YOUR favorite item! It's that easy!

For extra entries, visit Lynette's blog 99 Balls of Yarn and become a follower, then come back here, post on this entry, and tell us that you've become a follower!

This giveaway will last from today (Feb 8) until Monday, Feb 22. That's two whole weeks! Plenty of time to get your comments in, and win those wonderful face cloths!

Enjoy, and Happy Monday, every one!!!

2010-02-05T12:07:00.000-08:00

Hello, and T.G.I.F.!!!

Today has been a pretty creative day thus far... even though, for some reason, my wonderful son Kyle has decided it is National Get-On-Mommy's-Nerves in Any Way Possible Day, but heck... he's adorable, and days like this are par for the course. At least I've gotten a bit done. Here he is, being his cute self.

I've been working on a pretty drop-stitch scarf recently, and managed to get a bit more of that done... I enjoy the drop-stitch pattern because it works up quickly, and turns out very pretty. :)

I also managed to fix up the pink barrette I've been working on, and I like it better than I did. I'm going to list it on my Etsy today, at long last. I tend to be a perfectionist about things I make... I'm way too critical sometimes, but I think this turned out nice.

I've also been featured in 2 treasuries today by the wonderful women of the DAWG Group! Go check them out, comment, and click away!

Pink Tea and Sunshine Treasury!

Who Let The DAWGS Out Treasury!

Remember, this is the day that the Lord has made, so rejoice and be glad in it! :) Happy Friday every one!!!

And stay posted, a VERY COOL give away is coming this weekend!

Thursday Creative Traffic

2010-02-04T11:25:00.000-08:00

Welcome back every one for today's installment of Thursday's Creative Traffic!

Today we're going to look at a site that I just found out about. I am sure it's already received a lot of traffic, so you should definitely check it out... it's a great site!

What am I talking about? Why, it's animoto.com!

This animoto site allows you to upload your very own pictures, put them to music (yours or theirs), and then it makes a video of them, for free! You get to make as many as you want, 30 seconds long. If you want a longer video, you can pay... but for advertising your Etsy wares, a 30 second video is perfect. It's comprehensive, not over-done, and no two videos are ever the same...

Seriously, take a look... you'll be glad you did!

Oh, and you can see the video I made last night right here!

Happy Thursday every one!!!

I wish to thank ZionShore for posting about this site!

Whatever Wednesday!

2010-02-03T09:27:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I'm allowing myself some freedom here... I've now decided that Wednesdays from hence forth will be "Whatever Wednesdays"... which means, basically, that I can post about anything I want, NOT just crafts. I generally love to keep my blog about crafts and Etsy, but once in a while there ARE other things to post about, and from now on, I'll leave them to Wednesdays! :)

I posted on a thread on Etsy today, titled "What Makes You Keep Going?"
You can view that here.

I was kind of bummed recently that the things I was making for Etsy (which I love, by the way) seemed to be falling by the wayside. I'd make something, fall in love with how it turned out, then post it on Etsy and... nothing. No hearts, no sales. And that was rather discouraging, especially when you want to be recognized for a good job (we all do!).

Well, it turns out that I've come to the conclusion, after reading every one's comments on the thread, that the sheer fact that Etsy exists, allowing us to post our items that ordinarily would not be seen by anyone, is in itself a wonderful thing. Wether we sell or not, we are learning, gaining exposure, finding friends, and sharing our work with the world.

And that is priceless. :)

Happy Wednesday, every one!!!

New Creations!

2010-01-30T20:42:00.001-08:00

Ah, another EARLY Sunday morning (it just turned midnight), and what to do? All the chores are done, every thing is put away where it belongs, I've already eaten dinner (we took advantage of the Papa Johns $10 dollar pizza deal!) The baby is asleep-

and my loving husband is watching some zombie flick on his laptop...

... so I take the opportunity, and take photos of my latest creations!

Here we have a collection of barrettes that I've been working on, and I'm happy to say that I really like the way they are turning out.

This pink one below is for Valentine's Day... but I'm not done yet. In fact, after I took this picture, I affixed a glittering gem that used to be an earring stud to the center button, creating a more classy look. I still have to let it set, then coat it with a protectant, but it should be good to go up on my Etsy by tomorrow.

This one is made with bits of blown glass- dark purple pieces. I like it because it has a more sophisticated look to it.

Here is another shot of it, from another angle.

OK- last but not least, my favorite! one so far... I'm not sure what I'm going to call this one, but I'm thinking something "Stone"... it gives off the feeling of stones to me. I really, really love this one... I hope every one else will, too. :)

And as a side note, my hubby bought me a cup of coffee the other day from a train stop while we were at the Dr. office, and look! What a wonderful lighthouse there is on it. I kept it simply for the lighthouse... maybe I'll make something out of it!

Thursday Creative Traffic!

2010-01-28T13:01:00.000-08:00

Well... we all "surf" the web, do we not? And people refer to lots of visitors to a site as "traffic"... so here we go for Thursday, Thursday Traffic!

I recently was surfing on Etsy, checking out the forums, and I found two absolutely wonderful sellers that I've made personal friends with. Their items are not only unique, but absolutely worth sharing!

First we have Extravagantlove! Her cards are really, really well put-together. You can visibly see the time and effort she puts into each. And her prices are VERY reasonable... I think she charges too little! I got this card for my husband for V Day... shhhhh! :)

You should definitely take some time and go look at her shop. She is definitely worth getting to know. I love this card so very much, and I know my husband will too.

The second seller I found that I fell in love with (I mean whose WORK I fell in love with! ha ha ha) is Joel Quiggle! He is a member of the CAST- Christian Artists Street Team and his work is positively amazing. There is so much meaning, depth, and detail that goes into his work. Just look at this one... it made me cry when I first saw it.

I sincerely hope you get the opportunity to check both of these wonderful artists out. I am very, very glad that I did!!!

Day-Themed Blogs?

2010-01-27T12:42:00.000-08:00

So, I've seen a couple of blogs lately that have "Day Themes"... for example, today being Wednesday, there is a "Wednesday Wants", where the author posts about something the particularly want, bringing attention to both the item and the seller.

That being said, I think it is a cool idea to have theme days, as long as it doesn't become so regimented that you can't think of what to write anymore. Another one I know does a day with a doodle, I believe it is a Friday. Every Friday, she just posts a new doodle.

The only problem is, there is so much out there to write about, even within the confines of the crafting/art world, that I wouldn't know where to begin with coming up with themes for different days. Anyone have any ideas? Help me out. :) If I like yours, I'll use it, and of course, give you the proper credit!

Keepin' it Green... :)

2010-01-22T20:00:00.001-08:00

OK, so even if you're not a full-blown conservationist, every one recycles, at least somewhat, these days. And that's a good thing... even a little bit helps!

That being said, I decided to share one way crafters can recycle, no matter what it is you make/send to customers. Of course, this works better if you HAVE customers, but most people who sell on Etsy have some kind of customer base, so this applies. :)

When you buy something on Etsy, most people will send some kind of a card with it, whether it simply be a Thank You card, or just a little nice note to say thanks, tell you about the item, or to offer their web url for futre transactions.
(A card I received with a bought item recently)

I generally keep these cards, and when it is time for me to send something to someone else, I simply recycle the card for my own purpose. I will cut and paste a paper block on the inside of the card and write my own message on it,

add a little design,

and maybe even a sticker to make it more "mine".

And there you have it... a card all your own, but recycled! There are tons of little ways to "Keep it Green"... all it takes is a little thinking, a little creativity, and some time, and you've done your part! :)

2010-01-18T11:43:00.000-08:00

I read the blogs. I update my Facebook Fan Page (when I feel there is something noteworthy). I even... dare I say it? I even Twitter... once in a while. I post in the Etsy forums. I update my blog (although, I try to keep it craft-related).

With all that, I often feel somewhat lost... or left out, as it were. Because I haven't created anything new. I mean, I'll make an ACEO, and I'll love it. I'll put it up on Etsy, blog about it, fan and tweet about it. And then what? I guess it's hard to have something to talk about when it's already done. So I have to open my eyes and mind to new adventures, therefor, I will have more crafts to make.

Coming Soon! I will be having a give away, most likely in Febuary, by the fantastic Luvewwknits! Stay tuned for that!

Trial and Error- It Happens To Us All!

2010-01-17T07:19:00.000-08:00

So, I've seen lots of awesome blogs out there, with people posting their wonderful creations, sales, process, etc. They all have a great designed background (template), and are dotted with lovely pictures. They are all fantastic!

But... people *do* make mistakes sometimes... we're all human, after all. And I know I make a lot! So here, for your viewing pleasure, is something I tried, and found that it didn't work. Oh well, it was a cute idea, anyway.

I took a bland barrette and began decorating the entire thing with silver-edged heart stickers. By the time I covered it, it looked really cool. I figured I'd add some Mod Podge sealer, then some gems or something to finish it up. Alas, when I applied the Mod Podge (Puzzle Saver, in this case), all it did was make the stickers peel up off the barrette! What a dissapointment.

Well, like I said, it was a cute idea. Back to the proverbial drawing board! :)

Make YOUR Photos More Interesting!

2010-01-14T18:35:00.000-08:00

Hello every one, and happy Friday! I'm sitting here on the top bunk (there are bunk beds in our room here at the shelter) because I've managed to get the best internet connection up here. So here I am, eating Gummi Bears, while my beautiful baby sleeps and my husband watches anime on his own pc on the bunk below. I don't sleep up here, just come up here to use the computer.

So I've been thinking lately about how to make my Etsy listings more interesting, and the photos have a lot to do with that! So I thought of a few ways to make whatever it is your selling stand out just a little more.

One thing I've found that I like to do with my ACEOs (Art Cards, Editions, and Originals) when I photograph them is place them on corresponding colored paper with fancy designs. It adds a bit of class to the background, rather than simply placing the item on a flat, non-colorful surface.

Another cool way to do it is to have two papers underneath, like one a designed one, and the other, a pure white. Experiment and try out different papers, textures, and designs to see what compliments what YOU'RE selling!

When you put some time and thought into how you want to present your item(s) to your audience, then it always comes out better! There is nothing that says you have to be traditional and just take a picture. Check out these other ideas...

Stand your item up next to a fancy cup, saucer, or some ribbon. See what you have lying around that could accentuate what you're selling!

You can even be fun and daring! Look at these two shots... they are definitely not "typical", yet I bet they'd get the viewer to look more closely!

The main idea is to have fun with what you do. Sure, it's nice to get a sale, but it's also nice to have a product (and photo!) that you are pleased with. Nothing can ever beat that! Happy picture taking!!!

Love Blooms (even in the cold)

2010-01-10T12:02:00.000-08:00

I love my husband. He is a wonderful man. I try and involve him in my ACEO making as much as possible. Hence, he had an idea for a set of 3 Valentine ACEO cards.

He said I should make two lighthouses whose beams of light met in the middle, forming a heart, where two people would be on an island, together. So sweet!

Well, from theory to concept to execution, the idea evolved a little bit. The people on the island became two fish floating in the heart (it was easier)- but the idea of true love is still the same.

Please let me know what you think of the finished product. LOL- my dashboard says that I have 39 followers... surely some of you have opinions! :) Thanks!!!

Trade!

2009-12-08T12:08:00.001-08:00

I am looking to trade, and hope it's cool that I posted here, as I AM looking to promote. OK, so here goes, this is what I have to offer:

Any custom-made ACEO to your specifications.

1 Yard (brand new, in unopened package) purple Felt Fusion Self-adhesive Embellishment (floral design).

Delta Creative unopened package of 30 stencils: ABCs,
Flowers, and Bugs, like bumblebees, lady bugs, and dragon flys.

3 Life of the Party Soap Fragrances, unopened! Scents include: Sandalwood, apple, and peach. Each is .25 Fl. Oz. containers.

I am willing to trade all of this, or whatever you specify, for "any" kind (does not have to be fancy, Wal*Mart kind is just fine) skein of yarn in either red or light blue, or both! And/or a few inches of light blue or green fabric, and/or stuffing, as I need to make my little nephew a stuffed dinosaur for Christmas.

I realize times are tough for every one right now, but I might just have what you need, and vice versa! Let me know, and keep crafting!!!

Christmas is coming!

2009-10-23T15:38:00.001-07:00

Have YOUR name (or that of a friend or loved one) custom designed in graffitti you can hang on your wall!

YOU pick the color, YOU pick the style! Do you prefer Urban Ghetto? Or is your style more Techno Flair? Whatever your preference, it is made to your specifications.

Ink, marker, and colored pencil on quality 8.5 by 11 oak tag... perfect for framing!

Christmas is coming... get them a gift that they'll not only remember, but one they'll enjoy!

Visit my etsy shop to order YOURS today!

My First Post!

2009-10-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

Hi every one!!! MY name is Kyle, and this is my first ever blog post! I'm getting an early start on things, being that I'm only 6 months old... but it's never too early to blog, right? OK, so here we go!!!

My post today will be a review of Baby Einstein's DVD "Baby's First Sounds, Discoveries for Little Ears".

Now, my Mom has been wanting to check out Baby Einstein DVDs for a while now, because she has heard such wonderful things about them. So, with a little help from Dad, they chose this particular DVD to try out with me!

Well, to be completely honest, the DVD is a bit of a let-down. First of all, it has more than one language throughout. There isn't enough English. And, if this is designed to teach us babies our first sounds/words, then it should focus on ONE language, as to not confuse us. We are only little babies, after all! My first words are not going to be in a different language!

We are not going to give up on Baby Einstein, but this DVD definitely had a lot lacking. But it's fun to play with, at least! I'm going to go take a nap now. Thanks for reading my first post!!!

Unfair Treatment of Homeless People

2009-10-09T12:17:00.001-07:00

There is a two-level homeless shelter that is run by C.H.I. (Community Housing Initiative). Recently they have seen bed bugs in the facility upstairs. This is not an infestation, but they are hoping to nip it in the bud before it becomes a problem. To this end, they hired (expensively) a fumigator to come in today and fumigate. The clients who live there had to move all their belongings out of their respective rooms. If the clients had no other place to put the belongings, they could bag them up and place them in the basement until later this evening when every one is allowed to return. This is a good plan, and I commend C.H.I. for providing space for the client's belongings. After all, it is a homeless shelter... if people had a place to store their stuff, likely they wouldn't have to be in a shelter to being with.

What I do find unfair is the fact that all the clients had to take their clothes (clean AND dirty) and wash them, at their own expense. Whether the client has a job or not, or a family or friend's place to wash the clothes, they have to wash the clothes. All of them. Many of the clients do not have the financial means to do this. C.H.I.'s response to this? "What would you do if you were on your own? If you do not comply, you are free to return to the Department of Social Services and be rehoused". Many clients have children in school, and there is no gaurantee that DSS could rehouse them in a shelter any where near the schools. Sometimes DSS will put you in a motel, and the motels are horribly run- dirty and bug-ridden.

I find this extremely unfair to people who are in difficult situations who are trying to get their lives on track once again. All of the clothes we have currently (my husband, me, and the baby) cost us $72.00 to have washed. Why did we have them washed instead of washing them ourselves? Because we "need a receipt" as proof that they were truly washed, or they wouldn't be allowed back into the shelter. One poor girl simply didn't have the funds to wash the clothes, so she had to take herself and little baby and return to DSS. Who knows where they put her.

Welcome to October (my FAVORITE month!)

2009-10-08T11:51:00.000-07:00

I had a thought a while back. I have this same thought every year. The thought is this: that I WILL document and experience SOME sort of October every day of the month, wether it is baking apple pie or collecting leaves, or something! Well, needless to say, life gets in the way, and I may not have stuck to the "every day" rule, but I've been trying to do something every day so far. I think I'm doing ok...

I began knitting my baby boy a blue scarf. I like how it's coming out so far... I'm knitting in straight standard regular knit stitch, except for the edges which I'm doing knit knit, purl purl, to create a kind of border. I will post a picture as it comes along.

I took my Kyle out for a nice Autumnal walk the other day, and this is how he looked!

We saw these interestingly-sculpted bushes. It reminded me of Edward Scissorhands!

We also got to see this interesting fungus growing on a nearby tree!

We also finally found this pear tree that I'd been looking for! I had heard a friend mention it's existance, but she told me the wrong location. So I was very pleased when I did indeed find it!

We also saw this lovely fall tree... it truly is my favorite time of year!

AND just for fun... here is a picture of my baby boy, sportin' a cool hat! Every one get outside and ENJOY this month... it only comes once a year!!!

Etsy is... down for maintanence?!?

2009-09-30T10:51:00.000-07:00

Nooooooooo!!! I came all the way to the college to use the internet, and etsy is down? The inhumanity!!!

OK well, then... I will do my etsy search THIS way... by utilizing you, my beloved followers!

This is what I am in current search of. If you make the items yourself, or can recommend someone to me that does make them, that would be really really great!

OK I am looking for: Either (or both!) a soap and/or lipgloss with the taste/scent of Mr. Goodbar. It is my all time favorite candy, and I would love products that are fun and that remind me of my candy!

Also, soap and/or lipgloss with either a green tea scent/flavor or with a coffee scent/flavor!

Finally, I'm looking for any surf-style jewelry, similar to this: Anything with Hawaiian flowers would do, too.

OK so that's it! Promote your shops! Or those of your friends! Let me see those items!!! :)

Favorite things?

2009-09-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

I was asked in a survey lately what was my favorite item that I'd created. What??? I've been creating since I can't remember (used to decorate my crib with diaper, yeah, thanks for the info, mom!)

But it got me thinking... what really are my favorite items? So often, it seems, we as artists and craftsmen create something that we LOVE, and then sometimes we make things that are OK, and we put them up anyway. And you know what? Someone will generally buy the OK thing! That just goes to show that there are very varied tastes out there, and more times than not, someone will like what you don't necessarily think is "all that", LOL.

However, I decided to post here three of my creations that I would consider my favorites, and why:

I really love the way these painted golf balls turned out. I think they really do look like candy! Not only are they a cute gift for that chocolate lover, they also make a great gift for any golf enthusiast. I like this creation so much for it's originality and versatility. Besides, they make me hungry!!! :)

This is another of my favorites, more for what it says than for how it looks. Too many people are negatively effected by the current economy crisis, and the president doesn't seem to have the right answers. Just my humble opinion.

And finally, I really like the way this one turned out! I never really made anything Star Trek related, but for a first attempt, I don't think it's half bad.

Why don't you post some of your favorites today, and why they are? :) Enjoy the weekend!!!

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

2009-09-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

My husband put this anime movie on the other night, and as I was feeding the baby, I figured I'd watch for a moment or so. Well, "The Girl Who Leapt Through Time" caught me, and I watched the whole thing. It was so interesting and touching, I just had to recommend it. It even inspired me to knock out some new ACEOs!

Made with ink and colored pencil, I really like the way these turned out. I also then tried to draw some wolves from Wolf's Rain, and couldn't quite get them right. I shall try again soon!

And the winner is...

2009-09-18T10:12:00.000-07:00

Hello! It's been a while, I know. We had to change shelters, and now I am further away from the computers. But it is my hubby's day off today, and we decided to take the trek over here and catch up on stuff.

Using random.org , the winner of my contest is missbmckay! I will create the name of her choice in fantastic graffiti, and post it here when I'm done. Congrats, missbmckay! And thank you to all of you who entered.

And, on a completely different note... proof of the

water hole on Long Island!!!

Candy for Friday (not really)!

2009-09-04T11:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday every one! It's been a long while since I've had anything in my Etsy shop other than ACEOs, but I decided to branch out a little bit. Here are some new items I made just last night... candy and cupcake golf balls!

I'm happy to be creating some fun things. Come see these and my new barrettes at my Etsy shop!

Freedom to Marry

2009-09-02T10:09:00.000-07:00

I rarely deviate from the goal of this blog, which is to post craft related topics only. However, today is a rare exception. When I logged into my email a little while ago, I found this:

Apparently, Ben & Jerry's (ice cream I really like) has renamed their traditional "Chubby Hubby" ice cream to "Hubby Hubby" in support of Vermont's Freedom to Marry. You can read the press release here.

I am not going to go into a big morality debate. I have my little corner of the internet and I am saying what I believe, that gay marriage is not what God intended. I do not hate or even dislike anyone. I will continue to show love to every one, because that is what God wants me to do. But I will not support this, and am hereby renouncing Ben & Jerry's, and I won't eat their ice cream anymore. I know they believe they are doing a good thing, but the Bible is quite distinctly clear on this topic.

On a completely different note entirely, don't forget to enter my giveaway! This one is really cool. The winner will receive their name designed in graffiti on durable 110lb cardstock... perfect for matting and/or framing! The graffiti will be done in the color(s) of the winner's choosing. It will look hot! Scroll down three posts to see an example! So, if you'd like to win, here's all you have to do... Giveaway ends September 10! Winner will be chosen at random.

(1.) Vist my Etsy Shop and post here telling me what your favorite item is and why.

Best of luck to every one!

Beautiful days and giveaways!

2009-09-01T11:55:00.000-07:00

LOL... I live on Long Island, NY, and today is an absolutely gorgeous intro to September. Autumn is my FAVORITE time of year, I really adore it. As soon as October starts, I have a goal to do at least one outside thing a day to commemorate. We'll see how that goes, lol!

I made a new ACEO that I'm quite pleased with. Here it is!

It's a vellum psalm adhered to a pre-cut ACEO painted with blue distress ink. Then I affixed a cardboard stamped lighthouse and blue glitter-paper waves. I really like this one... I kept thinking of what else I could put on it, but I think it's great just the way it is.

And, to celebrate the opening up of the fall season, I'm having a giveaway! This one is really cool. The winner will receive their name designed in graffiti on durable cardstock... perfect for framing! The graffiti will be done in the color(s) of the winner's choosing. It will look hot! Scroll down two posts to see an example! So, if you'd like to win, here's all you have to do... Giveaway ends September 10!

(1.) Vist my Etsy Shop and post here telling me what your favorite item is and why.

That's it! Real easy, right? Well, I hope to get a lot of responses, and YOU could win! Thanks so much!!!

Hearts?

2009-08-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

So I've recently been wondering about this hearts thing on etsy, and therefor, began a thread. You can view it here, if you're interested:

No One Calls "" a Favorite Yet

I put my "Lost Octopus" up for sale a few hours ago, and already it has a heart! I guess what would be really cool is that if people heart an item, if they would send the creator a quick little note saying that they hearted the item, and why. That way it would somehow mean more, right? Just my two cents.

Completely Different!

2009-08-26T11:01:00.000-07:00

Hello every one! Well, I promised I'd post a picture of the finished
ACEOs from yesterday, and I only got one done, but I'm very surprised at the direction it took... so different than what I had planned for it! But I guess that happens with art. Anyway, here is the finished piece. You can see how it began on yesterday's post.

No longer about fall or even leaves dying... now it is a "Lost Octopus". I really like it, even if it isn't what I expected it to be. Also, it was a boy's birthday today in the shelter where we currently live, so I made this for him last night. I like the way it turned out, but I can do better when given more time.

Well, he seemed to like it, so that's good. I'm really trying to hone my graffiti skills... it's tough, because it's totally an individual art form. You've just got to find your groove, as it were. I'm trying! :) Also, I'm happy to report that my husband is back to making ACEOs!

He hasn't made one since we left California... a long time ago. Here is his debut! It's listed in my etsy shop here! Come by and take a look at my latest ACEOs. And have a great day every one! God Bless!

New Works

2009-08-25T11:39:00.000-07:00

I've been in a very creative mood lately, but sometimes, when I first begin a project, I don't like it so much. Then, as time goes on and I flesh it out a bit, it gets a lot better. Here I'm posting two cards I'm working on currently. When they are done, I will post how they've come out, and you will witness the difference first hand. Anyhow, pics!

Here is an ACEO that I'm making with a real leaf. I'm looking to create an aged yet
Autumnal look. The idea: that there is beauty in the death of the leaves as Autumn comes along. How'm I doing?

And this one is one I've begun with a graffiti/city thing going on. I like it so far.

That's all for today! Still trying to figure out the benefits of Twitter, LOL. Does anyone else find it overwhelming? I mean, I dig finding out about people's art and what not... but do I really need to know how many times they've gone to the bathroom in the last hour?

Mypartyshirt.com!!!

2009-08-23T13:20:00.001-07:00

This post is a special one, because I am writing about a GREAT gift site! That's right, it is My Party Shirt! Let me tell you, you can find a gift for ANYONE on this site.

Did your sister love Full House? Look at this!
What about the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers? They have the 6 main Ranger shirts, plus the white ranger!
And who could forget the fabulous Boy Meets World?

Mypartshirt.com not only has fantastic shirts, they are also easy to contact, and ship VERY quickly. They take pride in delivering a quality product, and it shows. And they have MORE than just T-shirts, too! They have hoodies, AND accessories, like this cool belt

and the greatest air freshner ever!

So when you get a chance, go visit My Party Shirt ... you won't be dissapointed!

Pretty Cards and Tooth Decay!

2009-08-21T11:46:00.000-07:00

OK, how's that for a blog title? LOL. Yesterday, I experienced root canal. It was all gravy until the numbness wore off... ouchie! It's difficult to eat today, so I'm taking it slow.

Still hot hot hot out here in Long Island. I still haven't gone to a beach yet... I have GOT to see the ocean soon or I'm going to go nuts. Here are two greeting cards I made for friends... one is a thank you, and the other is for a baby shower. I really like how they came out!

How did they come out? I also did this new ACEO, on what else? A WIC check! (Pasted onto some studier card stock, of course!)

Decembering into Autumn...

2009-08-14T10:45:00.001-07:00

Hard at work right now on multiple ACEOs. I am trying now to do "altered prints", where I print bits of my original work, cut and paste them to ACEO cards, and then decorate or alter them however my mood directs me. I like the way they are coming out thus far, hope to have them up soon.

Also working on a multi-textured "Summer Fruits" picture for this month's Dawg Group quest.

I am nursing a current love affair with the Decemberists. I can't remember how I found out about them, but I really enjoy their music, almost as much as my all time favorite band, Radiohead. I already made this ACEO a while back:

with some lyrics from their song "Red Right Ankle". I can't wait to see what I come up with next. Autumn is on it's way, my favorite time of year. It is a point of high creativity for me... it is difficult to look out at the beauty of this time of year and not create.

Husbands Just Don't Understand

2009-08-04T13:09:00.000-07:00

Today's blog post will be brought to you by... creative stress!

Alright. We are all crafters, right? And let's face it. We craft because we LOVE it. It's nice if we make money, but we would do it regardless. Why? Because it's in our blood. It's what we do. It is who we are.

That being said, I feel it is unfair of my husband to threaten to cut off buying me crafting supplies if I don't sell more art cards. I mean, wether or not he's serious is not the issue. That's like telling Van Gogh you're not going to buy him paint anymore. Van Gogh needed to paint because he was a painter, the same as we are whatever respective craft we do.

Does anyone else feel the way I feel?

Anyway, here is my latest ATC, up for trade. Want it? Comment here!

How to Make an ACEO!

2009-08-01T08:44:00.000-07:00

Hello every one, and welcome to my fun little tutorial on making an ATC/ACEO! ACEO stands for "Art Cards, Editions, and Originals." They are 3.5 by 2.5 in size (the same size as a baseball card), and are made for selling. ATCs are just like ACEOs, only they are created for trading purposes only. Either one is very addicting to make and to collect. Here I'm going to show you one I made just last night. Of course, there are many different materials that can be used to make ACEOs, so this is just one little example of the tremendous fun that can be had. Enjoy!

The very first thing you'll need to do is ensure all your family is otherwise occupied. For example, I had to make sure last night that my husband was on the bed, happily playing on the laptop. He truly is a wonderful man who supports me in all my creative endeavors, even though he "sometimes" threatens to cut off my crafting supplies if I don't sell more ACEOs!

I also had to ensure that little baby Kyle was blissfully in his own crib.

Once my loving family was where they all belonged, it was time to gather the materials I might use. As I said earlier, you can use just about any materials you can imagine to make ACEOs. The sky is the limit! But one thing I definitely recommend is chocolate! Notice the huge Hershey bar?

After you have gathered all your materials, you are starting with a fresh, clean card. Half the fun of making these cards is deciding how to make your next one! For the purposes of today's tutorial, however, we are going to make a beach ACEO.

I took my newest set of clear stamps, "Coastal Clear Stamps" by Inkadinkado, and attached them to a thin acrylic block. I really love the versatility of clear stamps. I feel they give as much detail as the wooden ones, and they are a lot less expensive. And the designs are endless!

I then inked the stamp with a funky new ink by Tim Holtz, called Distress Ink. This one is "Broken China", and gives the effect of broken china! It is not easy to see from this picture, but the ink really is cool. I stamped the top of the card and the bottom.

After inking the shell design, I proceeded to cut two strips of thin blue ribbon and attach them lenghtwise to the card with glue. The strips were longer than the card itself, so you can cut off the excess once the glue dries. I used a blow drier to help the drying time.

Then, I cut a small block of designer paper that I thought would accent the blue ink. I glued that block to the card, and stamped different shells with black ink right onto the square.

Once that was done, I took a sticker of a B with a small seashell on it and attached it to the card. Then, I used two Gellyroll Stardust pens (blue and green) to write the rest of the word beach.

I also used the two Gellyroll pens to accent waves along the top and bottom of the card that I made with black marker.

And there you have it, my finished ACEO "Beach Day". I am happy with the way it turned out, and I only ate half of the chocolate bar!

I encourage you all to try and make some of these fantastic cards. I really enjoy creating them, and the feeling when they turn out better than you hoped is very rewarding. Please leave me any comments if you have any questions about making them, and above all else, remember to enjoy yourself! The creative process can be so much fun if you do it right. With chocolate!

New ATC's up for Trade!

2009-07-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

Hello every one! I have some new ATCs that are up exclusively for trading. Are you interested? Come take a look!

My ATCs!

My Boy!

2009-07-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

Here he is!

He loves to eat his blankie!

Mommy and baby!

And my latest ACEO. I've had fun working with Distess Inks lately... they have all different kinds of texture-looking effects, from wood to brick. Check them out at Michaels or online... just search for Distress Ink!

Time Waits for No One...

2009-07-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

My baby passed the 3-month milestone on the 12th. I am continually amazed at how fast time is flying by. My life is filled with rattling toys, cooing, and holding head up high. I am a very happy and fulfilled mother. I wish we weren't living in a homeless shelter right now, but it really isn't bad. It is a nice, clean place with decent people who leave us alone. It's just the stigma of a "homeless shelter"... I want so much more for my baby. Both my husband and I are doing every thing we can, but the Department of Social Services doesn't allot us enough money to really find a place. Perhaps a studio... but I've been told that most landlords will not rent a studio apartment to 3 people. But the search continues! I do not want my baby to be in a shelter for Christmas... honestly, I don't want us in a shelter any more days than necessary. We've already been there about 2 months.

Anyway, I ramble too much... I created a new ACEO for those of you who love baby items... :)

ACEO Contest!

2009-07-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

Hello every one! I'm having an ACEO contest! YOU could WIN!!!

Come check out the link and reply either there or here...

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6220432

Happy Monday!

2009-07-13T11:53:00.000-07:00

Just blogging while I have a quick second (husband is waiting and baby is sleeping!)

Wanted to share a few ACEO's I've been working on that I'm particularly happy with... you can find them at www.aloquin.etsy.com

Let me know what you think!

Hello!

2009-07-08T13:20:00.000-07:00

Just checking in, been quite a while. Computer time is scarce, but I wanted to say I'm back in NY and my precious new baby boy is now going to be 3 months on the 12 of July! How time flies... I'll write more in the near future. God Bless!!!

Come see my latest ACEO at Etsy! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26919641

Works in Progress

2009-03-07T18:50:00.000-08:00

I haven't written in a little bit, I've been away from the computer. I'm planning on moving back to NY in 18 days, and I'm nervous that it may not be a wise decision. In any case, here are two ACEOs that I'm currently working on.

This is inspired by the song "Red Right Ankle" by the Decemberists. It is a haunting yet meaningful song that I enjoy very much, and I felt the lyrics were too good not to make art out of.

I have been interested in patterns and graffiti lately, more so than usual. I was in Barnes and Noble the other day, sitting in the art section, and was pleased to find more books on the subject.

That's it for now... back to work. It's hard to sit for too long because my back hurts due to the pregnancy. But I'm going to keep drawing as long as I have hands!

One of my Favorites!

2009-02-28T12:31:00.000-08:00

I follow a lot of blogs, and I can't read through each and every one of them (although, I do try my best!) One of the ones I absolutely read ALL THE TIME is Polymer Clay Ponderings . This blog is always so intuitive, interesting, and fun that I look forward to reading it.

Garritygal makes clay angels, babies, and the absolute best clay cupcakes I've ever seen. It makes me hungry every time I peruse my little clay baby holding a cupcake on my bed post. Her talent is obvious, her prices fair, and her communication top notch.
Please do yourself a favor and check out her blog and her shop... you won't be disappointed. Oh, and did I mention she's got a wonderful giveaway contest going on now? Go see. Go!

2 Fairies Out of One!

2009-02-27T21:43:00.000-08:00

Someone in the ACEtsy Team has recently been making ACEOs that stand alone as individual cards, but also go together to create one masterpiece. I was intrigued by this idea, so I decided to give it a try. How did I do?

St. Patrick's Day is coming!

2009-02-25T14:53:00.000-08:00

So I illustrated the letter P with green and black designs around it. It's been a while since I worked on something like this, and I had a lot of fun doing so. It's available for purchase for only $4.00 on my Etsy shop.

Thanks for looking!

Daiso!

2009-02-24T21:49:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I've been in Cali for what now, 2 months? Something like that. Anyway, today my husband and I went to the mall after the
prenatal visit (every thing is coming along great!) and by the mall is a store called Daiso. It's basically a Japanese thrift store, with most items $1.50. I went in looking for barrettes, but let me tell you, the store is absolutely fantastic! I love it, and I could easily become addicted if I had money. LOL. Thankfully my loving husband told me to get crafty things if I needed them, and of course I need them!

These are actually flat color sticker sheets, and you can draw/cut out the stickers that you make yourself. I can't wait to begin using these to make some interesting ACEOs!!!

Here we have a shape punch, which is primarily used for scrapbooking, but the possibilities are endless. AND yes, this is a SAKURA pen... just like a gellyroll! I couldn't believe it when I saw these... I LOVE these pens!

And we even got some new pencils/markers at Target. So what the heck am I doing on the computer... I've got to go make stuff!!!

Guess what...

2009-02-21T19:17:00.000-08:00

4 Glasses of Water???

2009-02-20T04:48:00.000-08:00

Yep, you guessed it... off for my first California sonogram (had a few in NY, but they wouldn't tell me what I was having, due to their particular policy at the Health Center where I went). So I'm up early drinking and getting ready to go... I'm due April 11, so I really hope they'll let me know today what I'm going to have. Either way, my baby is a gift from God!

When your finished work is less than ideal...

2009-02-14T17:20:00.000-08:00

What do you do when you've worked for a while on something, and it comes out looking poorly? Do you donate it, recycle it, try and add it to something else?

Today is a frustrating Saturday. I'm home alone (prime crafting time!) But every thing I make seems to be falling short... I don't know, maybe I'm off my groove. Perhaps I should take a break, watch a movie or something, but then I feel like I'm wasting my art time.

Eh, who knows. Anyhow, here is what I've been making... where have I gone? I can do so much better than these three...

BIG 4 DAY DAWG SALE

2009-02-13T10:12:00.001-08:00

This is a wonderful sale going on over at Etsy, all the way from Friday through till Monday! Come see all the wonderful DAWG Team artists with amazing sales in their shops, you'll find every thing from jewelry to ACEOs and a bunch in between. Just do a search for DAWG Team on the Etsy home page, and you'll find all our items.

I myself am offering free shipping on all items, discounts on select items, and a buy two get a 3rd free on ACEOs... the free one being one of your choice, or I will custom make one for you. How wonderful is that? Come on by!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=20200198

Art or Crime?

2009-02-12T15:57:00.000-08:00

Here is my latest ACEO, my comment on a growing trend in society... is graffiti "art" or "crime"?

Graffiti artists every where tag walls, spray subways, and draw all over their blackbooks. I realize that your corner grocer probably doesn't want to come to work one morning to see his beautiful white wall covered in graffiti, and a lot of young people DO it simply because of rebellion, but it is not fair to lump all graffiti into that one category.

If you look at it closely, you'll see line and form used very carefully. You'll see colors blended and stark against one another. You will begin to depict style, and tell one artist from the other. I do not use the term artist sparingly. I know that these people take pride in their hard work, just like a sculptor or scenic painter would.

Take the popularity of Basquiat, for example. His work was against the very society that adopted him.

There is room for graffiti, it is not all garbage and done to "mess things up". Seriously, the next time you're out and about, take a good look at the side of that building or decrepit fence... you're partaking in an art gallery experience without paying the admittance fee.

Appreciate art for all it's worth, for remember, one man's trash is another man's treasure.

Quilted Inspiration

2009-02-07T18:53:00.001-08:00

I don't know why, but I've been on a quilt kick lately. Maybe it's the upcoming baby, and thinking how I'd like to make her/him a special memory quilt some day. That would take a lot of time, however... I piece and sew by hand, never touched a machine. Here is a small wall quilt I made for a baby shower once.

It was the first thing I'd ever quilted, and I really think it came out well. In any case, that was a few years ago. Now, I just make ACEOs that look like quilts. :)

I still have to darken the writing on the pink one, but I like how they turned out. I'm not selling these, as they were made for specific people, but I wanted to share anyway. :)

Bad, bad internet...

2009-02-07T15:38:00.001-08:00

... must... get... off... computer... so I can make things!!!

A Little Deviation from ACEOs Today

2009-02-06T11:29:00.001-08:00

Today I felt impressed upon to post this Praise Report.

A woman whom I was friends with back in our church in NY had an unexpected stroke the other day. Well, after she was rushed to the hospital, the doctors called the family together and basically told them to say their goodbyes, because the woman would not make it through the night, and even if she did, she would be a vegetable. One of her faith-strong daughters stood up and said "I don't accept that". Well, thank God for His mercy and gift of faith, because not a half hour later the woman was sitting up in bed, fully cognitive and recovering. Glory to God!

It brings tears to my eyes as I write this. We can become all too caught up in the daily grind of life that we sometimes forget how good God really is. Do not become victims of circumstance, or believe the worst because every one else does. Remember who you serve, because He most certainly does NOT forget about you. :)

God Bless!!!
Jen

MY very own Cupcake!

2009-02-05T10:07:00.000-08:00

So, inspired by all the cupcakey-goodness going around, I decided to try and make a cupcake-themed ACEO.

I had the perfect pale pink yarn, so I began by making the icing with the yarn in a circular formation. Then I illustrated the "cup" part with ink and colored pencils. I then added heart confetti for sprinkles, and painted around the entire cupcake with watercolor. After that, I made the quilt using pencils and marker. This is the final result. I think I like it (I'm always critical of my work).

Anyway, I'm finished, and I don't think it came out too bad. :P

And in other news... here is an ACEO I made the other day for my brother's girlfriend, who's birthday is tomorrow. Her favorite color is purple, and I hope she likes it!

Cupcakes!!!

2009-02-04T14:05:00.001-08:00

OK, for the last two weeks or so, I have been on a cupcake craze. I never really thought about them much in my life, in fact, I couldn't care less. The only memory at all I have of them is that when I was a little kid I brought some that my mom made into school for my bday, and the kids all complained that they tasted like soap. Maybe they did, I don't remember. You know how kids can be.

Anyhow, I've absolutely fallen in love with all things cupcake recently, and in lieu of actually having some to eat, I decided to appease my addiction with what else? Etsy!

Here we have the most adorable cupcake baby hats! I totally adore these, and am seriously considering getting one in the future... (once my baby is actually born, of course!) These wonderful hats are made by NinisHandmades! Go check her shop out, there are plenty more, and all different!

Next, we have cupcake ACEOs! I should consider myself kind of fortunate for not having spending money right now, or I'd buy all of these up, right away! DianaEvans makes fantastic ACEOs. Go have a look!

CraftydsCreations has such adorable embellishments, among many other items for Valentines Day and Easter! Aren't these cupcakes the best???

How about cupcake earrings? PoppyPenny has them!

And lastly, what could be better than a personalized cupcake pillow! Even if you're on a diet, you can totally snuggle up to this beauty with no guilt! Go see KimsMissPrissyshop!

OK, I've so gotta find a job so I can get some stuff... wonder if they'll hire a 3rd-trimester preggo lady who can't hide it anymore???

Favorites!

2009-02-02T10:26:00.000-08:00

I've been in the mood today to spread the love, so I decided to make a post today featuring some of my favorite sellers on http://www.etsy.com ! Please take a look at their work, they really are exceptional artists. Enjoy!

I have been following the work of Nati Pierandrei for years now, ever since I first discovered her illustrations. I love her style and subject matter, and really enjoy the expressions she manages to make on her characters. Really beautiful work!

Next, we have the wonderful art of Carambatack! I adore the unique way she uses collage to fill in her illustrated characters hair. It looks hard to do, and they come out fantastic!

Now, JessicaDoyle made this absolutely adorable Deco Bird, that I just had to include because it's one of my favorite items!

Take a look at Paperelle's Shop! She makes wonderful jewelry, and isn't this gocco print card the best? If I am having a baby girl, I'm so using these cards as announcements!

EllieLee makes wonderful ACEOs, especially this one, which actually brought me to tears when I saw it. Positively beautiful! No matter what we're facing in life, we always have something to give thanks to God about.

Well that's it for now. I do hope you enjoy their shops, and this beautiful day. I hear it's on the warmer side in NY for once! It's a little breezy here on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, but a stunning day nonetheless. Now, all of you... get off the computer and go make something!