Carrie's Art and Soul

A Wedding Gift

2011-05-16T12:41:00.000-04:00

My brother married the sweetest girl last fall, and I am finally painting their wedding gift.

First, I sketched it out while Nora's Little People played all over the canvas....

Filled in some green leaves...

Added some cool blues and greens...

The flowers begin popping out...

And it is almost finished. Just a few more touches and it is ready to head to Washington DC...

Hope they like it!

Work in Progress...

2011-05-10T18:09:00.000-04:00

Almost finished. I can't wait to share this when it is completely done.

Another Owl

2011-05-08T00:39:00.002-04:00

Skylar's owl in my series of owls inspired by my children is finished.

Introducing, "You blessed me with wonder"....

Skylar is named after my love for the ever-changing canvas of sky that is always above us--constantly transforming from one masterpiece to another. So many times in my life, I've been awestruck by sunsets and have thought to myself, "If this is all I live to see, this is enough."

The beauty and wonder of the sky has always captivated me, and my dear sweet Skylar has been no different. Like the sky, she has entranced me with your beauty, creativity and ability to take my breath away. As my first child, she brought so much wonder to my life, and still does to this day.

I love you, Skylar. Thank you. You blessed me with wonder. (And so much more!)

Art for Auction

2011-05-04T23:32:00.000-04:00

One of the things I was most excited to do when we moved was join our town's art co-operative, ArtEast. They have an art gallery in town and offer all kinds of great workshops and classes.

Starting May 6th, ArtEast is hosting "150 Feet of Art Exhibit and Auction" --an ONLINE auction!

Each artist donated one 12x12 piece of artwork--a fundraiser for ArtEast to support its mission of "making art an integral part of the community through teaching, exhibiting and creating art."

Here is the piece I created...

Invincible Summer 12 x 12

If you'd like to check out other art for auction or you'd like to place a bid, visit http://www.arteast.org/

Bidding begins on May 6th at 6pm and closes on May 20th at 8pm.

Please spread the word to everyone you know!

All bids begin at $50.

Wish my piece a little luck and ArtEast lots of luck on this important fundraiser!

How to Paint an Owl

2011-05-04T23:24:00.001-04:00

I recently took Juliette Crane's online art class, "How to Paint an Owl." I LOVED it. It is a great class for anyone--beginners to advanced artists. I learned so much and had no idea how much FUN this was going to be when I signed up!

Here are some of the paintings I made during the 5 week class...

"Bloom" 12 x 12

"You are my Home" 12 x 12

"You blessed me with energy" 12 x 12

I want to share the process because they changed so much from start to finish, and it is fun to see the transformations they undergo.

This is how "Bloom" started. I used spray paint and doilies to get the background effect...

I started to see flowers in the design and traced them with a white oil pastel crayon...

The color scheme began to change...

and below is the final result...

Here is how "You are my Home" began. I was inspired by the moss that is everywhere in WA...

The owl seemed too "cold" to be maternal when I added the baby. I thought she needed to be fluffy like a warm, soft blanket...

But, she began to look to "puffy" to me, so I made her a little smaller and more refined. Here she is now. I think this is my favorite background of all...

I decided to do an owl painting inspired by each of my children that completes the sentence, "You blessed me with..."

The first owl background I made below reminded me of Blane. It is called, "You blessed me with energy." Blane has an unlimited amount of energy (he reminds me of his Aunt Erin) and is an incredible athlete. He always has a ball in his hand. So here is his painting from start to finish...

I'm still working on the girls' owls, and I can't wait to share them as well. I think I will group them together when I hang them up. One down, four to go! Stay tuned for more owls...

Blowtorches and Wax...Oh, Yeah!

2011-02-25T14:58:00.001-05:00

I took a 3 hour "Get Your Feet Wet" Encaustic Painting class recently. Encaustic, a wax paint, is the oldest form of human made paint, going back over 2000 years.

I love this medium. I hope to take more classes soon!

Getting into the Seattle climate...

The process...

The wax paint is kept warm on griddles...

We used blowtorches and wax. It was kind of awesome and a little scary at first...

Did I mention I love the smell of wax? It is heavenly.

It's the Little Things...

2011-01-31T11:53:00.002-05:00

The older I get, the more thrilled I am by all the little moments.

Waking to a colorful sunrise...

Our first organic milk delivery...

Putting Nora's hair in pigtails...

Hiking with the family (and not having an allergic reaction from the heat!)...

The sound of water...

Clean, clear, freshly melted, see-thru water...

Trees dressed up in curly moss rings...

Mossy moss moss...

Meeting fellow artists at our town's Art Gallery and Co-op...

Finding Rainie asleep in her bed...

Sunset views from the kitchen while making dinner...

Cheers to the small moments that add up to our wondrous lives.

Another Tree for Nora

2011-01-27T19:43:00.000-05:00

I've been in a collaging mood lately. It seems to be easier to do when the kids are around than painting, which requires that I get into a different state of mind.

Another addition for Nora's room to fill up some of her empty walls...

I loved incorporating a photo of her and our dog, Rainie. It was so much fun to do...

And, I'm a little bit in love with buttons and faux stitches right now...

I think my "client" was happy with the final product...

She can't keep her hands off the buttons!

I'm thinking that my next tree will be a nighttime scene with owls and stars. Can't wait to get started!

Trees are poems...

2011-01-19T12:42:00.010-05:00

...that earth writes upon the sky. --Kahlil Gibran

I created this large mixed media painting (4 ft. x 3 ft.) entitled "Home" for Nora's room.

It is inspired by her Pottery Barn Kids bedding with its cheerful trees...

...but I personalized it by adding some extra details, such as our town's 3 mountains, Mt. Rainier, the rainy sky, and the salmon runs.

I love that these are our images of home.

I hope to make her a few more paintings to go along with this theme in the near future. This took me several weeks--because I only have 15 minutes here and there to work on it, which is a frustrating way to create art if you ask me:)

But, I am happy with the result even if it is at a snail's pace, and I hope Nora is happy with it for many years too!

First Painting of 2011

2011-01-05T14:02:00.000-05:00

"Follow your dreams and magic will unfold (I promise)."

My daughter has chosen a whole new color scheme for her bedroom, and she needed some artwork! Voila...she is my inspiration for my first painting of 2011. It feels wonderful to hold a paintbrush again!

As I've said, I truly believe that when we don't listen to our soul's whispers and follow our authentic path--because we are afraid, doubtful or take the easier way--our lives get completely off track. And then, like magic, forces try to push us back toward what we should be doing...until the universe is shouting at us to listen up!

Here is a peek at my "studio space" right now--right smack in the middle of our kitchen and the kids' play area. We are working on making a space in our garage, but until then I will be inspired by the chaos and crazy/creative energy of our busy kitchen!

Hello 2011. I'm Back (Finally)!

2011-01-03T12:41:00.002-05:00

After taking a hiatus due to a move across the country, I am so excited to finally re-open my creative biz.

I have missed painting terribly--my body physically aches for it. Sometimes I get cranky and whiny because I don't have time to paint and feel frustrated by the mundane and all-consuming tasks of motherhood...

But, after a near death experience on New Year's Eve--a car swerved into our lane and came within inches of smashing us in a head-on collision--I've again been reminded that family is the most important thing in my life and not to stress about the rest.

So this year, I'm going to be gentle and forgiving with myself and just do what I can do

--even if it means not painting as much as I'd like to

or not being able to blog as often as I think I should.

I know that my children will be grown before I am ready, and I want to enjoy every moment

with them. I never knew how fast time could go or how

my heart swells more every day with love for them,

and being present to honor this time is my first priority.

With that being said, I hope I get to paint, sew and learn more in 2011!

Looking back on 2010, I think my word for this past year is "Believe." My faith that the universe is on your side and that magic and miracles exist has grown from years of observation and experience.

The Summer of 2010 was one that I will never forget. With my heat allergy reaching an all-time high in severity and Cincinnati under a heat wave the entire summer, I had to stay inside for several months, which honestly, was completely miserable. I hope I never have to live thru that again.

My mantras for 2011 are "Healing" and "Releasing Fears." I have the feeling that the two might be interconnected but I'm not sure how or why. I'll have to wait and see..

I'm believing more than ever before that when you follow your authentic path, magic unfolds around you.

And, I feel that I am on that path right now. So I look forward to watching the magic unfold and sharing the wonder of this journey with you in 2011!

I hope to have some new paintings to share soon!

MOVING Sale!! Get your Pillows now for the Holidays!

2010-10-18T11:18:00.000-04:00

My family and I will be packing up and moving out to the Pacific Northwest (Yay!) And things are already getting hectic around here. I'll be making pillows for awhile longer and then closing up shop until we get thru this major transition.

So if you want to buy for the upcoming holidays, please order now!

As an incentive, I'm having another SALE!

1 pillow for $35

2 pillows for $60 (saving you $10)
3 pillows for $85 (saving you $20)
4 pillows for $100 (saving you $40 and costing you $25 per pillow--not a bad amount to spend on a gift!)

Remember, you can request colors, hobbies and interests when ordering these pillows. I can also do schools or sports teams!

Please contact me soon to make a purchase before the store relocates to the other side of the country!

FOR MORE PILLOW SAMPLES, CLICK ON THE PERSONALIZED PILLOW TAB ABOVE.

Tennis Balls and Shoes=Great Mixed Media Tools

2010-10-10T22:07:00.002-04:00

My children have been amazing me with their ability to think outside the box! They've been spending their weekends outside painting anything and everything they can find...dollhouses, wooden barns, old tables, a surfboard, etc...

I love that this is their life! It is the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of autumn and the beautiful breezes and smells it brings! (Although today felt like summer.)

Blane knocked my socks off when I came outside and saw him dipping a tennis ball in paint and then throwing it onto the surfboard. It produced some super cool results! And then he squirted paint globs on the surfboard and tried to hit his targets with the ball.

Then, our house painter accidentally stepped on a painting I was working on that I left on the floor. As he apologized profusely, all I could think of was how cool the design from his shoe looked in the wet paint and ran up to find as many old shoes as I could to paint with.

A trip to Goodwill is in my near future to get more old shoes with fantastic patterns--they are super cool stamps that make great textures!

Even Nora couldn't resist getting messy this week this paint:) She loves to play in the art room while we are all painting...she loves the stamps and ink pads. I can't wait until we move so I can set up a little space for her.

I'm already dreaming of all the fun things to put in it--playdough, watercolors, fingerpaint, etc...I can't wait to see what she does with it and how she too will inspire me with the creativity we are all born with!

First Art Opening! The Bowen Center for Women's Health

2010-09-30T23:07:00.007-04:00

Tonight was my first art opening at the Bowen Center for Women's Health. I have to say I never thought I'd have a public art showing in my entire life. It was quite a rush with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.

What made it best of all is the people that were there--my mother, my daughters, doulas, midwives, male doctors who are midwives at heart, henna artists, massage therapists, etc. It just seemed like the perfect place to give birth to myself as an artist.

I just love sycronicity! The artwork and event really brought all my favorite passions together--flowers, birth, art, the spirituality of womanhood and celebrating the sacred feminine.

I sold this piece that has birth affirmations on slips of paper to a midwife for her office. I hope it inspires and empowers the women who read it, and I hope they feel the love that I made it with.

(I really like the moon in this one--I used silver spray paint and a super cool stencil to get this cool design.)

Two of my favorite pregnant women pieces that are finally finished...

In Full Bloom

Tree of Life

Here are a few more small pieces I did (8x10). They are inspired by the book, She, by Kobi Yamada.

(that is a photo of my grandma in this collage)

Sunflower House made an appearance too...

We love how our henna-ed arms turned out too!

Random Acts of Kindness--Ding Dong Ditching and Love Letters Across the Universe

2010-09-27T21:22:00.002-04:00

Recently, the kids and I were inspired by this video entitled, "The Great Ding Dong Ditch." In case you don't want to watch it, the idea is to leave kindness on people's porch steps--whether it's a nice note, flowers or even money.

If you have time to watch it, I must admit it is darling and will brighten your day--the music is adorable too so you'll be tapping your toes and smiling all the way thru. We also can't believe how much the little girl in the first shot looks like Nora:)

So after watching this, the kids decided to leave notes, flowers and a print of a painting I did for two of our neighbors. Here is one of the notes Sophie made that we left on their doorsteps.

Here they are running home before our neighbors get to the door...

They had a blast and were so energized afterward!

A few months ago, we left "random love letters to the universe" all over Ludlow Avenue in Clifton. The kids wrote notes on scraps of paper and hid them all over the street for people to find--in parking meters, atm machines, flowers, bike baskets, etc.. They wrote things like...

"You have a beautiful smile."

"Believe the universe is on your side."

"Follow your dreams. They know the way."

These were 2 of my favorite activities that I have ever done with the kids. I highly recommend both!

...MOVING!

2010-09-19T14:24:00.000-04:00

My hubby landed his dream job and it just happens to be in the most perfect place for our family...the beautiful state of Washington. And one of the best parts for me is the climate!

The average temperature is 65 degrees. It is overcast 80% of the time--just what I need to live a more functional life with my severe heat and sun allergy! The heat and humidity of Cincinnati really made this summer difficult for me and my family.

I fought to keep depression at bay but questioned how much more I could take--being under house arrest for months is NOT my idea of a good time. I feel like this is a wonderful gift that has brought me so much hope!

Things might get a little crazy here as we prepare for a quick departure--they want him to start soon! But, I can't wait to share this experience--we are ready for an adventure!

My First Public Art Showing...The Bowen Center

2010-09-16T21:10:00.005-04:00

Anyone who knows me well, knows that I am in LOVE with all things BIRTH.

I have had lifechanging, wonderful births that have made me feel more connected with my sense of spirituality and magic than any other moments of my life.

I used to be a labor doula as well because I wanted each woman

to have a positive birth experience!

So, it only seems fitting that my first public art showing (that is if I have time to make any) will at the Bowen Center for Women's Health.

I've finally finished a few pieces that I've shown bits and pieces of in progress over the last couple of weeks.

Part of Tree of Life 16 x 20 Original Painting

I'm very excited to get my work out there! And thanks to my two-time doula and friend, Jamison, who works there, my art with hopefully be inspiring and empowering pregnant women who visit their center.

(Oops. that's what my face is expressing after i accidentally had nora at home in a labor tub.
jamison, the proud doula who saved the day, looks on!)

Jamison and I have had the best time during the labors and births of my last two children. We talk and hang out and just totally are in sync.

Having a doula was hands down the best decision I ever made to prepare for birth! It is a totally different experience when you have one!

If you live in Cincinnati, the Bowen Center is having an open house on September 30th from 6 to 9pm. The address is 11317 Springfield Pike. Cincinnati, OH. 45246.

Mountain Girl 12 x 12 Mixed Media Original

PS--I finally finished my sister's painting with a quote from the book, She.

I've decided that I'm going to do a series of paintings based on quotes from that book and hopefully hang some in the Bowen Center.

PPS--Big, Big News to Share Next Tuesday!

Hope you'll stop back to share some major excitement with us!

Art in the Garbage and Voodoo Doctors = A Very Strange Day!

2010-09-14T12:45:00.004-04:00

Yesterday, I went to what my friend calls a "voodoo" doctor to treat my heat hives. He came highly recommended from her mother-in-law and sister-in-law who are both physicians but send patients that they cannot help to him. They say he performs miracles on their patients with hopeless cases.

(found art explained later)

I must say it was one of the oddest experiences I've ever had but very cool too!

His subconscious tapped into my subconscious, and he healed me. I have to go back in 10 days, but so far I haven't had allergic reaction from the heat.

Which is strange because I have been doing crazy things outside and been in many situations where I should have gotten my heat hives.

I also didn't take my heavy medication last night because I ran out. Usually, if I don't take it, I wake up and have a MAJOR reaction just from walking down the stairs.

(more found art)

So far the VOODOO seems to be working! I'll keep you posted---I'll see how it goes over the next couple of weeks. If this works, it would be unbelievable!

Here is one of the crazy, physical things I did yesterday in the middle of the day with the sun beating down on me, which made me on-fire hot but no hives (this hasn't happened in 7 years).

While driving yesterday, I found a bunch of HUGE original paintings leaning up against someone's garbage cans.

I couldn't not save them! But it was HOT, physical work.

I also can't help but wonder if these two odd experiences yesterday are somehow related.
I haven't quite made a connection yet, but who knows?

Here are some more of the paintings I saved (this is not all of them though!)...

Sneak Peek: What's Happening in My Studio This Week...

2010-09-09T22:41:00.005-04:00

Here's what has been going on in my Art Studio lately...

I painted this awhile ago but just photographed it to add to my online gallery:

And I've been working on this (unfinished) painting inspired by my sister. The words are from "She" by Kobi Yamada. I think they fit my adventurous sister perfectly.

Mountain Girl 12x12

She has worked hard and dreamt big--and is reaping the rewards of her courage and hard work by living in a place she loves, doing the work she loves! I'm so happy for her and inspired by her zest for life.

And I've made some progress on one of my pregnant woman paintings. I'm so excited because I finally tried to make faces a little more 3 dimensional by adding color and shadow (not finished yet).

In Full Bloom 16x 20

I don't know why I didn't do this a long time ago. I think I finally just got brave enough and told myself it was time to challenge myself and push myself a little more.

Have a great weekend everybody. Thanks for reading. It means so much!

Where will you be in 5 years?

2010-09-08T08:04:00.003-04:00

I found this amazing video to wish my husband a Happy Birthday. I watched it one night before bed and couldn't sleep I was so energized. The next day I showed it to my kids and got chills and tears in my eyes.

I hope you will take the time to give yourself the gift of watching this. It's also a great gift to send someone on their birthday or share with your children! It is based on a book by Dan Zadra. Here is the link to the video:

http://www.live-inspired.com/the5book/index.html

This image is from http://www.live-inspired.com/

So what do I want to do over the next five years? Here are a few dreams that are on my list...

1) Become a full-time artist and develop my own style
2) Get rid of my heat allergy
3) Have an art show of some sort at a gallery or coffeeshop or somewhere--to see my art out there in the world!
4) Attend an art retreat or workshop
5) Create a living wall in our home

So, what is on your 5 List?

Learning from the Experts

2010-09-03T14:50:00.001-04:00

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up." Pablo Picasso

The biggest struggle for me on this creative journey? Finding my very own style.

When I asked my art teacher how to do this, he said, "That is where the magic happens." At the time, I wanted to say, "Can you be a little more specific?"

But today, I think I felt a little bit of the magic. And I'm starting to keep a running list in my head that has taken the shape of a recipe, which I envision all mixed together in some ancient swirling cauldron stirred by some long-haired goddess in a flowing gown. But first, here is what came out of the magic:

In Full Bloom--work in progress

Tree of Life--in progress

Connected--work in progress

(An Incomplete) Recipe to Develop Your Own Artistic Style

1) Chunks of Time--A rare commodity in Motherland, but chunks of time are required to let loose and play with paint. Little 15 minute sprinkles here and there are not enough to get into cooking mode. Creativity, inspiration and materials must simmer.

2) A Cup of Spontaneity--This is what I learned today. I'm always amazed by my kids' creativity. Recently, I noticed they don't think while creating--they just go for it. So today, I decided to "Paint fast and fearlessly." (I know this is grammatically wrong but it is what I call it!)

I didn't let myself think at all. I chose a color quickly, made quick lines and did not let myself make any conscious decisions. Most importantly, I didn't critique. I didn't let the voices of self-doubt enter my head. It was almost as if I shut down my mind.

These random acts produced some fun results, and I finally felt like parts of myself that I didn't know existed were surfacing. Things I could do that I didn't know I could, colors I didn't know I liked, etc.

This is all I have for now, but I'm hoping to keep adding to this list. I'd love to hear your own ingredients for creating artwork that is uniquely yours!

A Season Behind...

2010-08-30T07:53:00.002-04:00

I've been wanting to paint one of my favorite quotes since last winter, and I finally did it. I'm just a few seasons behind schedule...

After I painted it, I sealed it with melted beeswax...I can't remember a time when I've had so much fun! I used real dirt in the painting as well. I LOVE the creative process.

I made this for a friend who wrote these words on her blog. I had to paint something to try to capture the beauty of her words in visual form. I covered this in beeswax too.

As a BEESWAX addict, I plan on using it a lot more in future paintings. It is so much fun to have a new toy to play with!!!

JuICy HoUsEs!

2010-08-27T08:57:00.001-04:00

A friend of mine, Sylvia Drown, recently blogged about a class she attended in San Jose called "Juicy Houses." When I saw the pictures, I knew I had to make my own!

I created a house for each home I've lived in, which totalled 7 homes.

(I made one house to represent college.)

These are works in progress. They will be mounted to a painted canvas eventually, but I couldn't wait to share them because they are so much fun and easy to make!

My children got into it too. They helped me think of meaningful things to include on the houses that we've lived in and had a blast creating their own JUICY HOUSES.

All it takes is scrapbook paper, scissors, glue, glitter, stickers, pictures and anything else you want to add to make your houses juicy!

Celebrating Happy Mistakes!

2010-08-25T10:53:00.001-04:00

"Happy Mistakes" or "Happy Accidents" in ART--things that you don't plan on while creating but that lead you to something even more beautiful than you imagined. We have a few children that fit this description too:)

This is what happened to me when I signed up for an online creative biz course called Flying Lessons by Kelly Rae Roberts.

I signed up for the course on accident (I thought it was an art class). I was so excited Kelly was teaching a class that I signed up before I read the description. Gotta love serendipity...

Born with Wings--Original Mixed Media 12x12

When I found out it was a biz class, I couldn't believe it! I didn't even have anything to sell--I was still trying to learn how to paint and find my own style. But...

...it ends up this course gave me the courage I needed to take my dreams seriously.

The BEST part of the class was making friends with creative souls all over the world. These women are angels to me.

I don't think I could have gotten thru this summer's emotional heat allergy rollercoaster

without their positive energy and support!

And together, we are flying! I am SO SO SO grateful to these women

for their encouragement

and for being examples of courage,

taking risks and making yourself vulnerable.

So cheers to Happy Mistakes!

I love watching how life unfolds in its wondrous ways.

I'd love to hear about your Happy Mistakes!

(I made this last year after reading Kelly Rae Robert's book, Taking Flight.)

Christmas in August Sale!

2010-08-23T08:45:00.001-04:00

I've been busy making personalized pillows--thanks for the support, friends!

For those of you who want to order some for the holidays, I'd like to make this a little easier on all of us.

Now you can get your shopping done early so you can actually enjoy the holidays, and I won't be overwhelmed with pillow orders!

So until the end of this month, Pillows are ON SALE!

1 pillow for $35
2 pillows for $60 (saving you $10)
3 pillows for $85 (saving you $20)
4 pillows for $100 (saving you $40 and costing you $25 per pillow--not a bad amount to spend on a gift!)

I have really great new fabric to choose from. Here are some that I have fallen in love with....

I also have fabric with just about any hobby/interest/obsession you can think of--owls, baseballs, cowboys, trucks and cars, frogs, butterflies, etc., that can be personalized for a truly special gift!

Don't forget I do schools and sports teams too! Wouldn't WHO-DEY look great on a pillow?

(This one is being sold in The Spirit Shop at Cincinnati Country Day School.)

Finding Beauty and Feeling Blessed

2010-08-20T10:13:00.003-04:00

When I started this blog, I was worried that I wouldn't have interesting photos and enough to write about because I'm stuck inside. And, I love beautiful nature pictures! But, I've found that there is still plenty of beauty surrounding me...

And, when I notice it, I feel so blessed...

My sweet hubby bought me this pillow because he said it had special meaning to me and my heat allergy!

I have fallen back in love with my Art Studio, which I've neglected for awhile. Instead, I was using every other room in our house! It feels great to be back in this space!

I bought this antique apothecary dresser several years ago and finally had it painted by my friend and owner of Patina, who refurbishes furniture. This week, I finally organized my scrapbook paper and other mixed media objects. I love it!

I'm working on this girl who is made of wings. Her hair is butterflies and flowers, and she has her own pair of purple wings too. A work in progress...

My hubby also brought me sunflowers and Belguim waffles from the Farmers' Market this week. (Isn't he great?) I feel blessed that I have been able to "Live Simply" this summer. Even though this summer has been a challenge, I think I will look back at it with gratitude and appreciation for a

slower paced life!

I'd love to hear about the beauty and blessings in your life!

Squiggles!

2010-08-18T10:13:00.001-04:00

This fun family activity is one of our absolute favorites--and there is no cost and no prep time required (as long as you have paper and markers or pens in your home).

How do you squiggle?

1. Draw a squiggle on paper
2. Pass the papers around
3. Turn the squiggle you get into a picture of some sort
4. Laugh and be amazed at your family's creativity!

We LOVE to play this game when friends and family visit. We keep all our squiggles in a binder and have our guests sign theirs to include in it. My kids love to look thru it!

Here are some examples from our squiggle games over the years...

The green curlies are the original squiggle and were turned into a man carrying shopping bags.

The squiggle was the shape that I turned into a genie coming out of a lamp.

This squiggle was the purple shape that Skylar turned into a carriage.

Grandpa Harrison turned the green squiggle into a golf course.

We sent this idea into Family Fun Magazine and they published this picture of the kids! They were so excited!

I'd love to see your squiggles too!

Things that Make Me Smile Lately...

2010-08-13T09:05:00.001-04:00

I got the idea for this post from a new friend of mine, Juliette Crane, whose artwork and creativity also just happen to make me smile.

Fresh from the Ocean by Juliette Crane

Other things that make me smile lately...

Cupcakes my daughter, Skylar, made one night when we were craving chocolate....

My bff since childhood coming over to sew with me. She chose the most cheerful fabric for pillows for her newly-finished basement. i love her visits! she ALWAYS makes me smile...

Don't you love her happy fabric?

Saying goodbye to stuff going to Goodwill and hello to less clutter...

Celebrating a miracle with a friend who is thrilled to be pregnant after facing some challenges and who has been one strong mama thru it all....

My little Nora's chalkboard masterpieces....

When my children bring me treasures from our garden like these Chinese Lanterns...

Finding pregnant photos of myself. Pregnant bellies always make me smile! And I love seeing how big I was--was I really that big?

What has made you smile lately?

Town Pride

2010-08-09T09:21:00.003-04:00

Our town is known for its flower-filled street signs. When we moved, I wanted to paint our old sign for sentimental reasons--it is where my husband and I met and where our 5th child was born.

A local boutique--"Wyoming on the Avenue"-- is now selling 8X10 prints of this piece. You can also purchase one by contacting me. If you order one, I will customize the print by adding the street name of your choice unless you prefer one that says "Wyoming."

I think they'll be great gifts for yourself or hostesses, newcomers to the community or families that are moving away.

If you live in another town and have a special symbol you would like painted, let's talk!

Town/School/Sports Team Pride

Get ready for back-to-school and fall sports season with a personalized pillow

of your favorite school or sports team!

Wonder

2010-08-06T11:26:00.001-04:00

In Eat Pray Love, Elizabeth Gilbert picks one word as "her word." When discussing this at book club, we each picked "our word" that best defines who we are. I chose Wonder. It just seems to fit perfectly--everyday I am in wonder at it all...

the beauty...

Daydreaming (11x14)

the possibilities...

the mystery...

the unexpected joy...

the love...

the blessings...

the connections...

the magic...

of it all.

If you had to pick your word, what would it be? Please leave a comment and share!

Yummy Apple Pizza!

2010-08-04T10:38:00.001-04:00

One of our family's favorite ways to create together is in the kitchen. And Apple Pizza is our very favorite thing to make.

Our Apple Pizza even won first prize in a child-friendly cook-off...it really is delicious and nutritious. And the best part about it is that kids love to make it and eat it!

We eat apple pizza for lunch, dinner, as a snack or even for dessert.

This is a Must-Try. You will not be disappointed:)

Ingredients:

sliced apples
shredded cheddar cheese
tube of biscuit dough
sugar
cinnamon

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

And, for the next steps, please watch the following video. Starring some of my little chefs...

And here is the end result...

To recap:
1) Flatten the dough until it is thin like pizza crust
2) Place thinly sliced apples on dough
3) Mix the cheese, sugar and cinnamon together
4) Sprinkle the cheese mixture on top of the apples
5) Cook at 375 degrees for about 10-18 minutes...until the dough is completely baked (this will depend on the type you use and how thin you flatten it)

If you make it, I'd love to hear your reviews! And your children's too!

Sweet Little One

2010-08-02T19:45:00.004-04:00

I've been feeling sentimental lately, watching my children grow.

One day, I noticed Nora, our smallest and last, filling up so much more of my lap. I remember how she used to not even reach it, but would just snuggle up in my chest and sleep. I already miss these moments with my older ones, who I cannot even lift now.

When I realized how much she was growing, I had to paint this...in hopes of capturing this moment since I cannot capture time and make it slow down.

(sweet little one 8x8)

sweet little one,

today as i rocked you

and hummed our special songs

i noticed

you fill up more of my lap

your soft body

growing as fast as the weeds

your dad refuses to pull

they just grow and grow he says

but i want to try to stop them

anyway

tonight as i rocked you

and hummed our special songs

i held you longer

and tighter

slowing my breath

to match yours

and bidding time

to sleep as well

so you remain mine

to hold and snuggle

to kiss and comfort...

an eternity is not long enough

to spend holding you,

sweet little one

Works in Progress...And Pillow Winner!

2010-07-30T14:59:00.000-04:00

It's been a busy week at our house! Pillow orders and paintings are in progress.

I'm taking an online class called Mixed Media with the Girls, and it is fantastic! If you have ever wanted to create art but were afraid to try, this is the class for you! There are so many things I love about it, including that it is self-paced, the videos are so helpful, the projects are SO cool and beginner-friendly, and Wyanne makes them easy with tips and tricks! I really think anybody can do these projects!

Here is one I'm working on of my 4 girls. They aren't glued down yet and the girls and background aren't finished!

A close up of the collaged canvas...

This is a napkin that is collaged to the background. It doesn't look like a napkin at all on the canvas!

And now for the winner of the Organic Pillow Giveaway!

Here is a photo of my son picking out the winner with eyes closed...

Drum roll please.....

The 6th comment is from Elizabeth. Hooray! You are the winner!

Have a great weekend!

Anyone Can Kandinsky!

2010-07-28T09:45:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite art books is The Usborne Children's Book of Art by Josie Dickins.

We use this book as a starting point for many of our family art projects.

I read the pages about the artist that is our source of inspiration for the day...

...For example, the book says, "Kandinsky claimed that looking at colors made him hear musical sounds."

While we create, we talk about this quote, what we think it means and what sounds different colors make to us.

We talk about the color wheel, color harmony, complementary colors, how to choose colors to put next to each other and how that affects the feeling of the piece...

I am always surprised by what my kids say during these conversations. It gives me insight into what is going on in their minds that they only have a chance to express while we are creating together.

It's all just so unexpected and unpredictable, which is what I LOVE about the creative process. We learn so much about ourselves and others.

Anyone Can Kandinsky. This was one of the simplest projects we've ever done.

Supplies:

* Oil pastels, crayons or paint (we used oil pastels)

* Paper

* Image of Kandisky's artwork (Farbstudie Quadrate). I printed one from the Internet.

Simple Steps:

1) We read a little bit about Kandinsky and his work from the book I mentioned above.

2) We folded our paper until we had 6 even squares. This alone was a nice challenge for the kids to solve. We chose 6 circles instead of 12 (Kandisky's #) because of the size of our paper and their attention span. I wanted them to really spend time on each circle rather than rush thru them to get all 12 done. Younger kids could do even 1 or 2 --OR--each person in your family could do one circle on the sheet, and you'd have a collaborative family piece of art. How cool is that?

3) Start drawing, coloring and having fun! Adults should participate too...you'll be surprised how much fun it is!

***These turned out beautiful and make great artwork to decorate your home. Our baby stared at them for hours...so if you have a little one, use it to entertain and delight them too! Nora loved the bright colors and contrasts. We would prop it up with something while changing her diaper or while she was lying on the floor.

Remember, if you do any of these crafts...please send photos to me so I can post them on my blog. Thanks!

And, don't forget to enter in the PILLOW GIVEAWAY from Monday's post. Your odds are good-I think there are only 8 participants so far!

Pillow Giveaway and New Prices!

2010-07-26T00:47:00.008-04:00

Organic...what a lovely word. Whether referring to design or food, organic invokes a lifestyle that exists in harmony with nature. Which is why my new favorite pillow in my house is the Organic one pictured below...

And, I'm giving one away this week! (Make sure you enter to win at the end of this post.)

Shoppe News: I've been working on arrangements to buy wholesale so that I don't have to charge so much...I'm making progress. (A 12x24 canvas at Michael's is $40 people!) Once I am an officially-registered business, I should have even more opportunities to buy wholesale.

For now, I've found ways to cut my cost so that I can reduce my paintings by $10 a piece and reduce the pillows by $4 as well. Check the Etsy Shoppe for new prices!

I haven't had much time to paint lately, but I do have some new pillows to share that I love and hope you love too!

$15 each in my Etsy Shoppe.

Made with 100% organic cotton. You choose the back--same color as front, brown polka dots, dreamy green seen above or yellow polka dot (see fabric sample in my Etsy Shoppe).

Owls in Apple and Lemon Trees....$35 in Etsy Shoppe

(This one is taken, but I will create one in its likeness. This one has a cute pink polka dot back.)

New Samples of Personalized Pillows too!

Owls are appliqued on the back of the pillow from my new fave fabric--owlies.

This colorful plaid fabric is an easy way to bring some color into a boy's room!

Personalized pillows are now priced at $35 (formerly $39)

Want to enter to win the Organic pillow?

1) Leave a comment here. I'd love to hear your favorite quote or words you'd like to see in a painting, but if you can't think of anything just write whatever you'd like!

2) Please tell your friends via email or facebook about this blog and giveaway.

I'll announce the winner this Friday!

My Little Friend, Hope

2010-07-22T23:06:00.006-04:00

This tiny flower grew out of our concrete steps last year. I adored her and looked forward to our daily encounters...she seemed to be full of things to tell me.

She whispered to always have hope...anything is possible...love always wins...beauty prevails even amidst our darkest days...small things count...believe the universe is on your side...

She shouted to not be afraid to show the world who you are...

She insisted that she wasn't the only one--that there was magic talking to us everywhere. We just had to pay attention and listen.

And now, she is telling me to bloom--no matter where I am.

Confession--I don't really feel like an artist...not yet. Philosophically, I believe we are all creative beings...but when I try to apply that to myself, it's difficult.

I didn't go to art school. I don't know much about techniques and color theory. I'm meeting other artists who know so much more than me and are so talented.

Recently, this has paralyzed me....making me actually afraid to try to create...until I came across this picture and remembered my friend, Hope.

I'm sprouting from a meager art background with just my desire to create because it makes me feel good. But even if it what I create is something small--hopefully it can make other people happy too.

And, I'm tired of putting things off until that perfect time. If this seed had waited for the perfect soil, she never would have bloomed on my front steps and brought me so much joy and wisdom.

If I waited to start this blog until I felt like a real artist, it would never happen.

It is so easy to put dreams on hold until everything is perfectly aligned the way you imagine. It's like having children--there is never a perfect time.

So here's to being as hopeful and brave as a flower blooming in concrete!

And my little friend insisted that I end with this...

Be proud of who you are. No matter where you are at in your journey. You are enough.

Picture This!

2010-07-20T22:52:00.011-04:00

It's my first Family Art Wednesday! These projects are for everyone--whether you are a parent, grandparent, babysitter, aunt--you can do these with or for the kids in your lives.

Before you know it, you'll be hanging your own unique art on your walls. Here's something I made for the kids' bathroom. And all I did was cut and paste!

Sunday is our Family Art Day. Recently, we used family photos to create custom, one-of-a-kind artwork!

Sophie and Nora in a canoe by Sophie

The Family Circus by Emma

Nora awake at night and ready to party...based on a true story.

The kids loved imagining and seeing themselves in different scenarios! They were putting their heads on different figures in magazines and on each other's bodies and thought it was HILARIOUS!

Interested in making your own? Here is what we learned...

Supplies recommended:
* Photos of your family
* Scrapbook paper
* Markers
* Paint pens
* Glue

Tips:

1) Show your kids examples from this blog or visit Claudine Hellmuth's site to give them an idea about what you are going to do.

2) Have photos with various size headshots or scan your photos to your computer and shrink or enlarge them and then print out to fit your picture.

3) Put your photo down first and design your artwork around the photo to make sure the sizes match.

Kid Feedback:
Sophie said, "I liked knowing a few days before the project what we were going to do. It gave me time to think about who I wanted in my art and what scene I wanted to put us in."

Mom Feedback:
It is a good idea to give your kids a heads-up so that they can brainstorm about what they want to do, BUT kids are great at being spontaneous too. Knowing who they wanted in their scene ahead of time helped me prepare by making sure I had enough headshots for everyone!

Good luck and please send me photos of your artwork to share on this blog if you decide to make your own!

New Personalized Pillows! and Etsy Shoppe is Open!

2010-07-18T23:51:00.008-04:00

1) Etsy Shoppe is open! To celebrate, I'm offering 15% off everything this week! Here is the link: http://www.etsy.com/shop/carrieschmitt

(For custom and commissioned orders, there is a new tab above "Pricing and Purchasing.")

2) New Artwork is Available! Beach Girl (or Boy) and Horse Lover...

3) Check out these adorable Personalized Pillows ($39 each in my Etsy Shoppe)! I've got some really cute models too!

That's my sweet little Blane, who picked fabric that had fish, baseballs, dogs and an overall blue/green scheme.

Nora, who is feeling under the weather, loved her pillow right away! We picked out turtles, pears, polka dots, zinnias and pink plaid for hers.

This is the back of Nora's pillow.

My 3 older girls designed their own. Don't they look great?

And the Winner is...

2010-07-15T20:21:00.082-04:00

I'm so excited to announce the winners of the art giveaway!

But first, I wanted to share some of my artwork...(I'm building suspense here, folks!)

Each painting is special to me, and I'll share some of the stories behind them over time. Here are two and more can be found in my new "Art Gallery" tab above or click here.

Sunflower House (48inx60in)

Sunflowers have special meaning to us. Last year I planted over 200 seeds with my children while 9 months pregnant. My goal was twofold--to go into labor and to make a special house out of sunflowers for my children.

We had success on both fronts:

1) I went into labor and had Nora at home in a labor tub after only 2 HOURS of labor (apparently squatting to plant seeds does wonders).

2) My children enjoyed their Sunflower House all summer!

This painting will have to do as our Sunflower House until my heat allergy subsides, but I know someday I'll be outside planting more of these majestic beauties! Until then, I'll fill our home with paintings of them, and always remember Nora's beautiful birth.

Love Found (16inx40in)

I created this to celebrate the way my husband and I met--we were neighbors.

While we were dating he sent me a note that said, "I love baseball, motherhood and apple pie, figures I would fall for the girl next door." As soon as I read that line, I knew I had to paint it!

And now to announce the winners of my first ever giveaway...(Do you ever wonder how blogs choose winners? I assigned each person a number and had my son pick 2 numbers out of a hat.)

Winner of the Musical Tree Painting: Jacqueline

Winner of the Reusable Bag: Linda R

Thanks to everyone for participating and sharing this blog with your friends! I hope to have another giveaway soon.

Have a great weekend! And try to stay cool:)

My First Art Giveaway...and a Tour of My Studio/Home

2010-07-14T09:48:00.001-04:00

To celebrate the launch of my blog and to thank everyone for being so supportive, I'm giving away an 5in x5in original piece of art entitled, "Musical Tree."

I used a gesso transfer technique from an online course I am taking with Claudine Hellmuth.

Because I am a) loving all things "tree" right now, b) it is fun to give stuff away and c) I love when I see people using reusable bags instead of plastic while shopping...

...a 2nd winner will receive this adorable reusable shopping bag that says, "Craft, Create and Conserve." I know a lot of Crafty, Flying Women are going to love this. And even if you are not a Crafty, Flying Woman, you will love it too!

To enter the giveaways:

1) Visit the new page I created on my blog that gives you a sneak peek at where I love to create--my studio/home. You can click here or click on the tab at the top of this page that reads "Studio/Home."

2)Then leave a Comment below and tell me your favorite place to create OR something you love about your home.

3) Please share this blog with friends. Not required but would be much appreciated!

The contest will end this Friday, and I will announce the winner on my blog.

PS--My good camera has been in the shop for a couple of weeks. I'm hoping to get it before Friday so I can FINALLY post some of my original artwork, not just the personalized paintings! Stay tuned...

I will always...

2010-07-11T17:03:00.134-04:00

* Miss my grandparents

* Carry my childhood friends in my heart

* Feel nostalgia for the summers of my youth

* Love to watch babies sleep

* Worry about my children when they are not with me

* Believe gardens are sacred places

* Love to create

* Ask why?
* Want to learn more

* Feel euphoric at bookstores

* Think my sister is beautiful

* Miss seeing my siblings every day
* Feel blessed to have such a loving family and grateful to my parents for everything

* Love to be in water
* Be drawn to the ocean's pull

*Wish I were still a diver

* Love the smell of baby breath and hair

* Wish my children weren't growing so fast

* Trust maternal instinct
* Treasure the experience of having all unmedicated births, especially Nora's waterbirth--that was so amazing!

* Search for soulmates and rejoice when we cross paths, even if only for a brief time

* Know what matters after spending the day at the Ronald McDonald House
* Treasure the small and the simple

* Remember when my son said to me, "Mom, you are my whole heart."

I 'd love to hear what is on your "I will always..." list. Please share!

My Invincible Summer

2010-07-01T22:48:00.160-04:00

Summer to me has always meant impromptu outdoor cookouts with loved ones, lazy days spent at the pool, and being absolutely enchanted with the sights and smells of my garden.

Henry James said, “Summer afternoon, summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.” And I agreed with him…until now.

In the past year I have developed a severe allergy to heat (strange, I know). Now, I am sequestered inside my home for days and weeks at a time.

Initially, I considered this a curse and went through the typical cycle of loss--anger, pity, and so on. What was I going to do all summer without the pool and my beloved garden? Without cheering for my kids at their swim meets and baseball games?

I listened to my heart in sadness as I felt all the pain of losing a part of myself. But I also listened to my heart and let my deepest desires guide me toward a healthy and perhaps even more fulfilling place.

I secretly have always wanted to be an artist. I never had the courage because I thought it was frivolous and unnecessary. I didn’t think it deserved a high enough priority to make time for it. There are children to take care of and bills to pay and really my needs should come last, right?

According to my heat allergy, wrong. Suddenly, my calendar is wide open. Yes, I am unable to do fun outdoor activities, but also unable to do the mundane—grocery shopping, errand-running, chauffeuring children around town. I have more “free time” for myself than I have had since college.

Now, I’ve filled those gaps that left my heart aching with painting flowers instead of planting them. I’m taking amazing online courses about creativity. I’m learning to enjoy indoor plants. I'm learning how to sew. I even started this blog. I'm doing all the things I've put off for years!

I’ve felt gratitude from the love I’ve received from my parents and friends who are always surprising me in ways they offer to help, constantly redeeming my faith in humanity and reminding me to pay it forward and help someone else.

And, I’ve learned that art isn’t frivolous—it gives me an energy that makes me a better wife, mother and friend. Creating art was missing in my life, perhaps I just needed to let go of some things to make room for it…

like a sunflower that must die so that hundreds of new seeds have a chance to grow.

Could this heat allergy possibly be a gift? A curse and a blessing?

And this made me wonder, does everyone else feel this way about something in their own lives, as well? If so, I wish you patience and perspective as you uncover dimensions you never knew you had.

Albert Camus said, “In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me lay an invincible summer.”

I think I have found my peace. This isn’t my gardening summer. It isn’t my poolside summer. This is my invincible summer.

(photo courtesy of my adventurous sister, Erin)

Open to Possibilities

2010-07-01T20:21:00.109-04:00

Being Open to possibilities...that's how I'm feeling right now (and what is painted on the door of my Art Studio). I'm starting this blog is to share moments of my life, art and the creative projects my family and I enjoy. I'll also be opening an etsy shop soon, which I am so excited about.

Over the next few weeks, I'll be posting more original artwork and content. Please check out my personalized paintings for kids by clicking on the tab at the top of this page or click here. I'll also be opening the door of my studio and home to give glimpses into my life as an artist and mom.

In the meantime--to celebrate how good if feels to open up and put doubts aside--check out this short 14 second video of an evening primrose blooming. You can actually see it bloom in real time (this is not sped up). These beauties bloom--or I should say burst open--at dusk in June and July.

They are magical.

I think everybody can relate to what it must feel like to be an evening primrose. You know those moments when you are just bursting with joy or something you just can't wait to share with the world? To shout from the mountaintops? To go on Oprah and jump up and down on the couch about?

We all have those moments, and I'm hoping these new endeavors in my life as a blogger and artist bring more bursting-evening-primrose-feelings to me and whoever reads these posts.

Cheers to the wonder and magic that surrounds us every day!

PS--I hope you'll check in with me on my blog often. If you'd like to be notified when a new post is made and when I am having ART GIVEAWAYS and special discounts, please sign up for my Facebook Business Page or sign up to be a "follower" of my blog. Thanks!