Art Beckons

Cameo: Chinese New Year Revisited

2012-01-21T09:30:00.001-07:00

I am so excited (and spoiled!) because I received a new Silhouette Cameo as a gift this past week! I've barely had a chance to use it but I think it's amazing. This is my first electronic cutter and now I can see why it seems everyone is obsessed with these things. I have only cut out a few test items - a gift bag with scrolling heart handles and a Peter Rabbit print-and-cut... both of which I neglected to photograph before giving them away. And the third thing I cut were these amazing chinese dragons! These ATCs are for another swap on our Paper Traders group. Look at the intricate details in the cutting! I love it.

The backgrounds on these cards were inspired by Dina Wakely's "warm ups" which she talked about in Nathalie's Creative JumpStart Summit this month. I dipped vintage asian text into black & red alcohol inks and then spread on some gold acrylic paint using a palette knife. So simple and I love the look.

As an added bonus, these cards fit the theme of the current Paper Traders Blog Challenge as well. Anyone can join the blog challenge and you might be recognized as the "Trader Treasure" of the month!

Everyday Creativity

2012-01-07T13:34:00.003-07:00

http://mypanera.panerabread.com

I recently read this article from Panera Bread about creativity and I thought it was worth sharing:
http://mypanera.panerabread.com/storiestips-view.php?id=100

Sometimes we feel stuck and that we can't create anything because our muse is gone. But the author here shares five easy ways to spark your imagination instead of wasting time waiting around for an idea to develop. Worth a read =)

WINTER Banner Swap

2012-01-02T17:28:00.000-07:00

I'm hosting another banner swap on Paper Traders. This one is for Winter and is the last in a series of four banners - one for each season. It has been a lot of fun having these hang in my studio throughout the year... I think they're just so pretty!

Below is a close-up of my banner, showing the detail of one pennant. (Sorry for the grainy cell phone photos.) The blue Plasticfoil background paper was a fabulous garage sale find earlier this year - I love how it looks frosty. I added some extra shine to the chipboard letters by painting over them with some Gleams and then misting them with Starburst Stains. I added some shiny metallic touches by threading gold cord through the lace and adding some glitter glue embellishments.

I think the end result is gorgeous, if I do say so myself =)

Blog Challenge: Chinese New Year

2012-01-02T14:56:00.003-07:00

It's time for another fun blog challenge over at Paper Traders! The theme this time is "Chinese New Year." As many of you know, I am a big fan of asian culture and art so this is a fun one for me.

Hop on over to the Paper Traders blog to participate in these challenges - Anyone can join in and they're easy and fun.

Happy Arting!

Legs

2011-12-26T21:24:00.000-07:00

Recently, I hosted an ATC swap on Paper Traders with a "Legs" theme. The backgrounds on my cards were all hand drawn and watercolored.

Ornaments

2011-12-26T21:19:00.000-07:00

I made these paper ornaments for our 12 Days of Christmas swap on Paper Traders. It's hard to tell from the scan, but I hand painted a pearlescent top coat to highlight specific elements before layering on the chipboard and paper punched pieces.

I also made some ornaments for friends and family... these were done by gluing vintage sheet music to wooden forms and then layering the bird images from napkins. I got the idea for these cute button berries from Sassy & Sweet Notes - aren't they cute?

A Holiday Letter, of sorts

2011-12-25T16:39:00.001-07:00

This week I've received several letters and emails from friends and family - annual updates in the tradition of the Holiday Letter. I've never been very good about writing those, much less getting them sent out and I suppose this year is no different. I think it's because my life seems quite simple and, well, somewhat boring. I don't have any exciting news to share or poignant photos to show off. Mostly, I'm just glad to have made it through another year in relatively safe and sane fashion. But, to bow to tradition and to appease those who complain that I don't share enough about my life, here's an update for the past year...

After my scary auto accident last winter, I purchased a new vehicle in late December 2010. I am grateful to have a reliable car that gets good mileage and runs in perfect condition... it's also nice to have a few extra bells and whistles - automatic windows and door locks are an appreciated luxury!

My health hasn't been the greatest this year - I've struggled with my weight and a pervasive tiredness that had my doctor concerned. After several blood tests, we discovered my Vitamin D levels were "dangerously low" (to quote my doctor) and the supplements that followed have gone a long way to helping me feel less like a walking zombie. I recently joined back up on Weight Watchers and am hoping, once again, to find some success at the scales (after the holiday treats are finished off, of course!).

Work has been extremely busy for me. I'm still working for State Farm (almost 16 years now) but splitting my time between two offices. I'm grateful for the job and benefits - especially in this struggling economy - but working part time at each location makes me feel perpetually behind the game, always trying to catch up, never quite getting there, and feeling stressed out most of the time. Thankfully, I work for two wonderful women whom I love and respect and who genuinely appreciate the effort I put into my work.

In May, I took a trip to Wyoming and South Dakota. I was blessed to attend my oldest nephew's high school graduation as well as visit with my aging grandparents. I often wish I had the time and money to travel to see them more often. I am truly blessed with a wonderful and loving family. In November, I flew to Cody WY to spend Thanksgiving with my parents, sisters, and their families. They have such amazing and beautiful children and I'm a very proud aunt!

Christmas this year is spent here in San Diego, home alone... and appreciatively so. I was lucky enough to get a four day weekend and it's been wonderfully relaxing - a welcome change to my normally hectic pace. I've barely made a dent in my "to-do" list and am already thinking about when I can plan a little "stay-cation" in the near future to finally spend some real productive time at home for some cleaning and organizing that's long overdue.

When I'm not working and sleeping, I'm usually doing art or planning art projects for our Paper Traders group. Moderating takes a lot of time and effort... even more so this past year as our membership has expanded and we took on the challenge of creating a group blog as well. If you follow my posts here, you've seen some of the projects we've done this year. I just wish I had more time to spend on the creative aspects as it's a nice counterbalance to my normal OCD tendencies =)

In July, I was invited to be a guest artist on the popular Gingersnap Creations blog. I was very honored by the recognition. I was asked to create four original pieces - each one based on a different challenge. It was a growing experience for me as an artist and I hope that I can continue to expand creatively.

I am really looking forward to the New Year - even though I know it's just another mark on the calendar, it always feels like a fresh start. I am truly grateful for my wonderful friends and family and am blessed to have their influence in my life. I wish each of you the very best this Christmas Day and I hope the year to come brings you many wonderful blessings!

With love,
Beckie

P.S. Here's a favorite Christmas short I'd like to share with you:

Blog Challenge: Party Hats

2011-12-15T08:33:00.001-07:00

It's time for another blog challenge over at the Paper Traders blog and the theme this time is "Party Hats." I decided to make an actual hat for this one...

Blog challenges are fun to do. Hop on over to Paper Traders and take on the challenge!

Quirky Christmas

2011-12-01T21:53:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that Christmas is right around the corner? The time has really flown by! And it's also time for another blog challenge over at Paper Traders. The theme this time is "Quirky Christmas" and I used some fun images from iTkUpiLLi (love her stuff!) to make this funny little ATC.

Blog challenges are easy - you can make any kind of art you like that follows the theme. Come on over to Paper Traders and join the fun!

Vintage Working Women

2011-11-15T21:49:00.000-07:00

There's another blog challenge opening this week over on the Paper Traders blog. The theme this time is "Vintage Working Women" and I choose to make another greeting card using a vintage image of a nurse.

Blog challenges are easy and fun! Come on over to Paper Traders and play along...

Blog Challenge: American Indian

2011-11-01T00:01:00.000-06:00

The theme for the Paper Traders Blog Challenge this week is American Indian. I made another greeting card using some native dancers that I trimmed from a vintage postcard. The dreamcatcher featured here is actually a clear sticker.

The blog challenges are easy and fun! Come on over and play along...

Altar Shrine

2011-10-30T11:46:00.001-06:00

I'm hosting another swap over at our Paper Traders group. Every year about this time, we celebrate the anniversary of our group with a special project. This year we will be making altar shrines. I created mine using a small 1x2x3-inch wood block for the altar and attaching a taller 3x7-inch chipboard piece to the back to make the shrine and glued beads to the bottom for feet. I covered everything in pretty scrapbook paper and added a beautiful public domain image of Cordelia by Arthur Rackham from "The Tales of Shakespeare" by Charles & Mary Lamb. I got this image from my Green Tiger Press stash =) I dressed up the shrine with german scrap, graced our lovely lady with a regal crown, added some words on friendship, attached some floral sprigs, and placed six offerings on my altar (in honor of the sixth anniversary).

Blast from the Past

2011-10-23T23:12:00.000-06:00

Several of my friends (especially the long-distance ones) have commented that even though they enjoy seeing my art on the blog, they would like to hear more about what is happening in my life. The truth of the matter is... not much. I work full-time (and then some!) and spend most of my spare time working on my art and moderating our Paper Traders group.

The art group is continuing to grow and expand and we created a blog this year - which is terrific, but also a lot of work. I think we get a pretty decent level of participation in our group swaps but it's often hard to get people to host projects so that task generally falls to us moderators. Not that hosting is difficult, but when you do it regularly, it doesn't leave much time to fit in other things.

One of the "other things" I keep telling myself I need to do is to participate in more Single Adult activities with my church. I am perfectly happy staying in and doing the art thing but I'm never going to meet anybody at home in my pj's =) I did recently break out my old gypsy costume and put in an appearance at the annual Halloween dance. It was nice to see a few old friends but I didn't really meet anybody new (it's hard to interact with people in a dark room with loud music) so my goal this next year is to get out of the house a little more before I turn into a complete recluse!

This past week, I actually did get out of the house to spend time with an old friend who was here for business. Tim was my very best friend in high school and I haven't seen him since before graduation - 25 years ago! Sometimes when you reconnect with old acquaintances, it's nice but a bit awkward; but this was not like that at all... instead, we were immediately able to start up a conversation almost as if no time had passed at all. It was great to catch up and rediscover our friendship again. Below is a picture we took when we were in high school... the other photo is (a grainy cell phone picture taken in the dark) from our meet-up this week:

It's hard to believe I've been back in San Diego for more than a year now. Time has really flown. I recently added more shelves to my art studio but it's STILL not clean and organized enough to unveil to the rest of the world. I went "home" to Wyoming this summer and got to see my oldest nephew graduate from high school. I am so proud of him and excited to see him starting college now. I'm planning another trip for Thanksgiving this year and am really looking forward to seeing my family again. I love being in San Diego but it's awfully far from them.

So, that should get me caught up for awhile... I promise to try to be better about keeping everyone updated =)

Burt's Bees

2011-10-23T20:08:00.001-06:00

I'm a BzzAgent and I recently received a free sample of Burt's Bees Natural Skin Solutions for Sensitive Skin cleanser and moisturizer and I've been using it for a few weeks now. I think this is an excellent product for sensitive skin. It's very mild and does the job - fresh, clean skin that is soft and not greasy. The only detractor for me is that it does not include sunscreen protection (like most of the Burt's Bees products)... but then I suppose sunscreen might not be good for those who have extremely sensitive skin. If you want to give this stuff a try, you can get a $2 off coupon from their Facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/burtsbees?sk=app_137656902971961

Vintage Circus

2011-10-23T13:32:00.000-06:00

Over at Paper Traders, Lynda is hosting a Vintage Circus mini book swap. She will take one page from each artist and bind them into books for us. These pages are 4" wide and 3" tall. Most of my images are from Tumble Fish Studio and iTkUpiLLi, with a few other randoms things thrown into the mix. The "C-I-R-C-U-S" pennant actually hangs on a string attached to the card and is not glued down.

Columbus Sailed the Ocean Blue

2011-10-15T11:40:00.001-06:00

The new blog challenge over at Paper Traders is to use a ship in your art. Again, I used my new MyMemories digital scrapbooking software to create a digital collage. I used elements from the "Brise Marine" kit by Mary89 as well as the "Poetry of the Sea" kit from Marie H Designs - both so pretty! Once I had my picture created, I printed it out and layered it on some cardstock to create a little greeting card, complete with real seashell embellishments!

This was a really fun challenge. Hop on over to Paper Traders and play along!

P.S. There's still time to get $10 off your own copy of the MyMemories Suite v2 Software plus $10 in free products from MyMemories.com. Just use my Promo Code: STMMMS53179

Altered Cabinet Cards

2011-10-11T12:07:00.000-06:00

Jeri is hosting a deco book swap on Paper Traders using altered cabinet cards and the theme "Time". For the backgrounds, I trimmed around the people in the photos and then layered in papers from DCWV's Tattered Time paper stack. Since the theme required to use a timepiece in some manner, I layered wings behind various clock faces and attached spinning clock hands with a brad; each card also features a grandfather clock. These are pretty simple paper collage - no fancy techniques - but I think the end result is still good. Once Jeri receives pages from all the participating artists, she will take one page from each and bind them into books for us.

Spiders Hate Orange

2011-10-02T21:15:00.001-06:00

There's a new blog challenge happening over on the Paper Traders blog. The theme this time is "Spiders Hate Orange" and it was a fun excuse to play with my new MyMemories digital scrapbooking software again. I made this page using various elements from many sources (itkupilli, House of 3, etc.) You can get $10 off your own copy of MyMemories Suite v2 Software plus $10 in free products from MyMemories.com if you use my Promo Code: STMMMS53179

I'm excited for Halloween coming up because it's such a fun holiday! I've already purchased my Caramel Apple Pops and if I don't get many door ringers, there will be leftovers for me =)

Jump on over to Paper Traders to get in the Halloween spirit and play along. Happy haunting everyone!

Imaginary Garden

2011-10-02T12:50:00.000-06:00

This is the last spread for the current round in the Paper Traders Round Robin Journal swap. We'll be starting a new round after the first of the year. This last book that I worked in belongs to Heather and she chose a beautiful theme: Imaginary Garden.

For this page, I used the watercolored paper she had included in her book, sponged ink around the edges, and glued a printed floral napkin over the top. I then added dimensional aspects with silk flower petals and punched paper flowers. Finally, I used my fingertips to spread glitter glue to highlight certain flowers. The butterflies and birds were actually rub-ons. Since hummingbirds are a rare thing for her to see up in Canada, I think she thought it was a real treat to have them in her book.

Halloween Flip Book

2011-09-30T12:38:00.000-06:00

Connie is hosting a Halloween Flip Book swap over at Paper Traders. We made a twinchie (2" square) page for each section of the body: head, middle, feet. For the middle, she asked us to put some kind of Halloween image instead of a torso. I used vintage paper dolls for mine and added spooky features - blackened eyes, witch hats, etc. For the center piece, I used the MyMemories digital scrapbooking software to collage a little Halloween image.

When Connie receives all the pages from the other participating artists, she will bind one page from each into a fun little flip book!

P.S. There's still time to save $10 off your own copy of the MyMemories Suite -PLUS- get an extra $10 credit toward any purchase... that's a $20 savings! Just use my promo code: STMMMS53179

Bleached Background Papers

2011-09-16T17:18:00.000-06:00

Unfortunately, these did not scan very well but they're really quite pretty. I made these background papers for another swap in our Paper Traders group. We stamped images onto black cardstock using bleach, then added color back in using various inks, and touching it all off with some metallic stamping - a really easy and fun technique! You'll have to test your paper before you get started as not all cardstocks will yield good results. I tried several (some of which didn't bleach out at all) and finally bought a few pages of Bazzill paper, which worked well.

Game Day

2011-09-15T17:25:00.000-06:00

It's time for another installment of the Paper Traders blog challenge! The theme this time is "Game Day" and you can interpret that any way you want. I used some baseball images layered over an actual San Diego Padres ticket trimmed down to ATC size. There's plenty of time to get in on this one so come play with us!

Autumn is almost here

2011-09-12T17:08:00.000-06:00

I have noticed that the leaves on some of the trees are starting to change here in Southern California. The weather's still quite warm and I'm looking forward to some cooler days. It's hard to believe that Autumn will be here soon... this year had going by so fast! This is my third season banner, which we're making in our Paper Traders group. I am swapping this one with Barbara Staradumsky and as soon as her banner gets here, I'm swapping it out for my summer one as I look forward to the changing season.

MyMemories Winner

2011-09-11T11:47:00.002-06:00

We have a winner! Congratulations to Bethany Austin!! You have won my digital scrapbooking software giveaway. I will be contacting MyMemories to have them send you your exclusive download code. I hope you have lots of fun with your prize. As an extra bonus from me, I will purchase for you the "School is Cool" pack that you said you liked in your comment. Just let me know once you have your MyMemories software installed.

Thanks to everyone who entered. Even though you didn't win, you can still get a terrific deal on this software by using my exclusive "Share the Memories" code which provides a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software plus a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - a $20 value! To take advantage of this special offer, go to the MyMemories Suite link here: http://www.mymemories.com/digital_scrapbooking_software and enter this special code: STMMMS53179

List Randomizer
There were 8 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

Bethany 1
Connie 2
Christine
Connie 1
Pat H
Letha 2
Bethany 2
Letha 1

Timestamp: 2011-09-11 17:33:01 UTC

Carnivals and Fairs

2011-09-09T21:41:00.000-06:00

It's time for another fun blog challenge over at Paper Traders. The theme this time is "Carnivals & Fairs" and I just had to make something using my new MyMemories digital scrapbooking software!

These photos were taken a few years ago when we went to Medieval Times for my friend Carolynn's birthday. Fun times... Love you CC!!

P.S. Only one more day left to enter my software giveaway and have your chance to win a free copy of the MyMemories Suite for yourself...

Round Four: Angels (aka Pretty in Pink)

2011-08-31T17:43:00.000-06:00

This month, I was honored to work in Kim Smith's book in our round robin journal project for Paper Traders. Her theme was Angels and she specifically asked that we use renaissance-style angels in our work. These pages turned out much pinker than I had envisioned but, I must say, they do look better in person than in the scan.

I used scrapbook paper with an old handwritten music ledger on it and then dabbed pink ink over the top using heart-shaped punchinella (sequin scrap). The doilies and trims were originally gold but I rubbed pink acrylic paint on them using my finger. The images were cut out of some lovely Christmas-themed scrapbook paper by Graphic45. I trimmed the words with my gold leafing pen and added glitter to the angel wings using Distress Stickles. As a final touch, I added the metal word plaque "Adore" and the key & keyhole charms at the top (another special request from Kim). The poem on this says:

Away, away! To my love away.

Tel her I send her my love and devotion,

Wide as the world is,

and deep as the Ocean.

MyMemories free software giveaway

2011-08-28T22:20:00.000-06:00

Oh, my goodness! I am so excited to share this opportunity with you. I have been invited to share a special deal on the My Memories Suite software for digital scrapbooking ...AND... one lucky person will win a free copy!

I have to admit that until I was asked to participate in this giveaway, I had not done much scrapbooking and had never done any digital scrapbooking at all. I downloaded a copy of My Memories Suite this afternoon and made 3 pages in just a matter of minutes. This is so easy to use and super fun - I just may have found a brand new addiction. They have lots of freebies on their website to get you started and give you inspiration and I also discovered that it's just as easy to create your own custom designs too.

As a special for all of my readers, My Memories has provided a "Share the Memories" code that provides a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software plus a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - a $20 value! To take advantage of this special offer, go to the MyMemories Suite link here: http://www.mymemories.com/digital_scrapbooking_software and enter this special code: STMMMS53179

Now for the best part - the giveaway! One lucky person will win their own free copy of the My Memories Suite software. I will draw a lucky winner on September 10th. In order to be entered in the drawing please do one or more of the following:
1) Visit www.MyMemories.com and choose a favorite digital paper pack or layout, then come back here and leave a comment telling me which one you like best and why.
2) For an extra entry, you can follow the My Memories blog, Facebook page, or Twitter stream. Just leave another comment letting me know if you've done this.
    Blog: http://blog.mymemories.com/
    Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mymemoriessuite
    Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/mymemoriessuite

That's all there is to it! Entering is almost as easy as using this terrific software. And here is my proof of how simple it is to make beautiful pages in minutes:

And it's not just for scrapbook pages, either - you can make calendars, greeting cards, videos, and more! So why not take advantage of a great promotional price and jump right in and join the fun? =)

Vintage School Memories

2011-08-15T17:59:00.000-06:00

The Paper Traders blog challenge this time is "Vintage School Memories" and I think it's such a fun theme! I made this canvas by starting with some pretty scrapbook paper, which I scratched and sanded before rubbing with Distress Inks. Then I layered a transparency over a page from an actual student reader printed in the 1800's... and added a few school-themed elements to finish it off.

These blog challenges are a lot of fun and open to everyone. So hop on over to the Paper Traders blog and show us your stuff!

Dog Days of Summer

2011-08-01T18:16:00.000-06:00

I loved this quote and had to use if for the "Dog Days of Summer" theme for the latest installment of the Paper Traders blog challenge. I made this pendant by sanding a white tile domino, adhering the photo and words, then applying a generous layer of Glossy Accents. When everything was dry, I wrapped some ribbon around the outer edge and added a bow at the top. I used a jewelry bail to the back so that it could be hung as a pendant.

Run on over to the Paper Traders blog and take the challenge for yourself. It's lots of fun and we'd love to see you strut your stuff!

Decayed Paper Technique

2011-07-31T15:08:00.000-06:00

We had an ATC background swap in our Paper Traders group and my background was made based on Jill Geraghty-Groves’ “Decaying Background” technique as described in the March/April 2011 issue of Somerset Studio magazine.

SUPPLIES:
canvas or chipboard base
gesso
vintage text & images
sponge brushes
gel medium (I prefer matte)
baby wipes
scissors
sanding block
acrylic paint
crackle paint
alcohol inks
spray bottle filled with water

1) Use something sturdy such as canvas or chipboard for your base. This is a very wet technique so regular paper or cardstock will not hold up to the process (I've done this with success on watercolor paper; this time I used a piece of tablet backing). Prime with gesso.

2) Tear vintage text and images to desired shapes & sizes. Apply with gel medium.

3) Once dry, I trim off the excess paper with scissors and then carefully smooth the edges with my sanding block.

4) Mix some gel medium with acrylic paint of your choice. I usually use a neutral buff color. You can use baby wipes to wipe the paint off of images that you want to show through.

5) Goop on crackle paint around the edges and let dry. I used Ranger Distress Crackle Paint in “Picket Fence” and “Antique Linen”. (Because I am using this piece to make into ATCs, I marked off the sizes for each card and put the crackle paint around those areas so that each ATC would have a crackled edge.)

6) Let your paint dry thoroughly. It will crack as it dries. The thicker the paint, the bigger the cracks.

7) After your paint has cracked, you can drip alcohol inks along the edge then spritz with water and it will run down the paper and into all the cracks. I like to tip my background up on its edge with a paper towel underneath; then I run the bottle of ink along the top edge, spraying with lots of water, and tipping the piece to help the inks run and blend. For this project, I used Adirondack’s “Eggplant” first, followed by “Latte”. This step takes quite a bit of water and is very wet and messy. Let your background dry thoroughly.

8) Now you can use your background as you want.

Let's Go Traveling... to Balboa Park

2011-07-30T19:46:00.000-06:00

For our Round Robin Journal project on Paper Traders, I'm working in Janne Ryan's book this month. Her theme is "Let's Go Traveling" and I chose to feature San Diego's own world-famous Balboa Park, which is one of my very favorite places. I love the beautiful gardens and breathtaking architecture, the wonderful concerts and plays, and all the fascinating things to see and learn about in the multitude of museums. Located in the heart of San Diego, it is a treasure of the city with many free attractions and free parking, too. You can learn more about the numerous things to see and do here by checking out their website: http://www.balboapark.org/

The Gift of Time

2011-07-27T00:55:00.000-06:00

This is the final week of the steampunk-inspired challenges on Gingersnap Creations. This week was a color theme, "Leather, Iron & Brass" and this wall hanging is my contribution. I have had a lot of fun doing these and it's been a real growing experience. Each of the challenges will remain open for awhile so hop on over and join in the fun.

It's a Hoedown!

2011-07-24T20:33:00.000-06:00

I've never done a dance card swap before. These are the cards I made for Nancy's swap on Paper Traders. I made the pictures by gluing napkin images onto cardstock. Dance cards are an old tradition from a time when ladies would have a list of available dances and the gentlemen would request to reserve a space on a lady's card... and maybe even in her heart!

Assemblage Art: Train

2011-07-19T22:21:00.001-06:00

All aboard for another week of steampunk-inspired assemblage art for the Gingersnap Creations challenge. The challenge this week was "Planes & Trains" and I had a lot of fun making this train from all of my swap meet junk. This abandoned engine has become a home for some cute little birdies.

If you feel inspired to try some steampunk-style art, I encourage you to check out the Gingersnap Creations blog and take a go at some of their challenges for this month.

Pin It

Anatomy Swap

2011-07-17T15:43:00.000-06:00

This month, I'm hosting an anatomy-themed ATC on our Paper Traders group. These are the cards that I came up with. I must admit that even though this swap was my idea, I found myself quite struggling to put together something original and artistic... But I'm a firm believer of pushing through my slumps and am optimistic that inspiration will return. I'm not fishing for compliments - just sharing my artistic struggles and hoping that others can relate. Happy Arting!

Big Aspirations

2011-07-17T10:29:00.001-06:00

I had originally made this ATC with the hopes of joining Marion Bockelmann's annual blog swap but I was just too busy to get all of my cards made in time for the deadline. Instead, I am contributing this ATC to the Paper Traders monthly winner-take-all lottery.

Vintage Swimsuits

2011-07-15T18:08:00.000-06:00

Another Paper Traders blog challenge is underway. This week's theme is "Vintage Swimsuits" and I made this little fashion-conscious mermaid using a magazine image for the background, adding plants and shells, and embellishing her tail with my gold leafing pen.

Blog challenges are a fun way to expand your creativity and show off your art. So dive on in - the water's fine!!

Assemblage Art: Time Heals All Wounds

2011-07-12T22:16:00.000-06:00

I have been waiting for weeks to be able to show you my newest steampunk creation. The Gingersnap Creations blog challenge for this week was to use gears, cogs, and watch bits so I created this assemblage, which was a lot of fun! I may have found a new art addiction =) Stay tuned because I have another assemblage to show you next week...

The Gingersnap Creations challenges are fun and anyone can play along so come and join in the fun!

Remembering Danny

2011-07-11T22:49:00.001-06:00

I received word this weekend that a dear childhood friend passed away last week and although I have not seen him in over 20 years, I have found myself spontaneously bursting into tears ever since I got the news.

I have known Danny Gatten almost my entire life, since we were toddlers; and he was my best friend when we were young children. I followed him around everywhere... we often walked to and from school together, sometimes walking backwards in the snow so that no one would know that we were coming instead of going; we would play kick-the-can in the street with the other neighborhood kids; we went to the movies, rode bikes, played board games, jumped on the trampoline. Every Sunday night, our family would go over to their house and the kids would all head downstairs to fight over whether we should watch "Swiss Family Robinson" (the Gatten's choice) or "The Wonderful World of Disney" (the Holso's choice)... usually agreeing to trade off every other week; our parents would be up in the kitchen - our Dads making milkshakes for everyone and our Moms chatting at the kitchen table as women tend to do.

Danny was a fun, popular, and kind person. When other kids would tease me on the playground, he always stood up for me and would invite me to hang out with him and his friends or let me sit on the sidelines while he played ball with his buddies. And, honestly, that's all I really wanted to do because I worshiped that boy! I thought he was the cutest, coolest guy in the world and he was MY friend. Oh, how I dreamed that someday he would be more!

Eventually, our family moved away and time & distance did their thing. Although our parents kept touch, Danny and I didn't for very long and we each grew up and went on with our lives. Once, shortly after high school, I was able to see him again. He had grown into a very handsome young man and was still so kind and friendly to me. Funny how no matter the years that had passed, he still made me feel all giddy inside.

I guess I share all this because I, like most girls, have never forgotten my first love. And I am feeling sad that although I remember the boy, I never really got to know the man... and now he's gone and I will never have that chance. And it's such a shame that someone so young (only a year older than me) should pass away. I also feel sympathy for his family who was almost like a part of my own. Nearly every childhood memory has the Gattens in it - they played such an important role in our lives.

"Mourning is one of the deepest expressions of pure love... 'Thou shalt live together in love, insomuch that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that die.' (D&C 42:45) Moreover, we can’t fully appreciate joyful reunions later without tearful separations now. The only way to take sorrow out of death is to take love out of life."

~Russell M. Nelson

I'm grateful for my knowledge of the plan of salvation. My testimony of God's eternal plan of happiness brings me a measure of comfort and I hope his family feels that too.

On the Road

2011-07-05T22:35:00.000-06:00

The Gingersnap Creations blog challenges for July are underway! I am honored to be a visiting artist for this month... and now I can show you my first contribution - a mixed media art card for this week's theme "On the Road." The challenges are fun and anyone can play along so come and join in the fun!

Christmas in July

2011-07-02T09:40:00.001-06:00

It's time for another art challenge on our Paper Traders blog! This time I made a greeting card for the "Christmas in July" theme using a transparency layered over sheet music and adding a pink flower rub-on:

These challenges are so much fun! And they're open to all art bloggers so check them out and come play along: http://papertraders-art.blogspot.com/search/label/Challenges

I'm a Gingersnap Creations Visiting Artist for July

2011-07-02T09:28:00.002-06:00

I am very flattered and excited to be asked to be a visiting artist on the Gingersnap Creations blog this month. I'm not sure why they picked me but maybe it's because the overreaching theme this month is machines with a focus on the steampunk style and I did get a lot of positive feedback on my steampunk valentines awhile back. Whatever the reason, I am really very honored to have been asked! So now you'll all get to see what I've been doing with all that swap meet junk I've been collecting =)

The challenges will be announced weekly on Wednesdays so be sure to check back each week to see my newest creation. And don't be afraid to jump in and join the fun!

Round Two: "Happiness is..."

2011-06-30T10:26:00.009-06:00

It's time for Round Two of our round robin journal project in our Paper Traders group. This month, I was working in Ammi Rostin's journal. Her theme was "Happiness is..." and one of the things that makes me happy is having some quiet time to curl up with a good book =) I went a little crazy with the rub-ons for this page!

Red, White, and Blue Bird

2011-06-15T20:57:00.000-06:00

It's time for another art challenge on the Paper Traders blog! The theme this time is "Red, White, and Blue Bird" and I decided to go with a decidedly patriotic theme in honor of Flag Day this week. I actually made the background a long time ago when I was practicing some new techniques. This one was done by using clear embossing powder to stamp the framed words onto blank card stock to create a resist for the watercolor. After painting, I then reheated the embossing until it soaked into the paper to create a batik effect. The eagle image was trimmed from an old birdwatching book I found at the thrift store =)

These challenges are so much fun! And they're open to all art bloggers so check them out and come play along: http://papertraders-art.blogspot.com/search/label/Challenges

Participate in our art challenge

2011-06-04T13:35:00.000-06:00

Our Paper Traders online art group has a group blog where we are hosting our first art challenge. These challenges are open to the art blogging community, whether you are a Paper Traders member or not.

Check us out here for more details: Paper Traders Art Blog

My entry for this "Celebration" themed challenge is this bookmark:

Saturday Swap Meet

2011-06-04T13:24:00.000-06:00

It was time for another scavenging trip to find more steampunk playthings. Above is a photo of what I found today. Stay tuned to (hopefully) see these items featured in some new art soon!

Round One

2011-06-01T09:54:00.059-06:00

It's been a few years since we did a round robin journal project in our Paper Traders group. They are a lot of fun but it can be heartbreaking when a book goes missing half way around the world =(

After much demand, and setting some very specific rules and guidelines, we finally decided to give it another go. We have two rounds going, each with five artists participating. My journal theme is "Trees"...

front cover

ideas page (written on leaves inside the envelope)

sign-in page

The following spread was made by creating a background using a method loosely based on Jill Geraghty-Groves' "decaying background" technique as shown in the Mar/Apr 2011 issue of Somerset Studio:

first spread - left side

first spread - right side

I made this second spread completely from scratch... the background was painted by scraping acrylic paints over the paper with a credit card and then sponging inks and paints over that using various stencils and punchinella (sequin scrap). The circles were added by dipping my bottle lids in leftover paint and stamping them on the page. The leaves took me DAYS AND DAYS to cut out! I used japanese washi paper and cut all the tiny sections of leaves out by hand then layered them onto my tree branches. Then I dabbed glue around haphazardly and sprinkled with several colors of Martha Stewart's vintage leaf glitter (love this stuff!). I think it turned out awesome and looks sooooo much better in person than in this scan (you'll just have to trust me on that =)

second spread - left side

second spread - right side

By the Seaside

2011-05-16T09:45:00.013-06:00

For May, I hosted an ATC swap on our Paper Traders group with a "By the Seaside" theme. I left it pretty open and there was a wide variety of creative art from our participants.

For my card, I used a version of Tim Holtz' "rusted enamel" background technique, as described in his book A Compendium of Curiosities. It's hard to tell from the photo but the entire background is heat embossed.

My Stuff, Your Stuff

2011-05-07T00:33:00.000-06:00

We held a really fun swap on Paper Traders this month. It was a "stuff" swap and we sent our swapping partner an envelope full of random ephemera; then their challenge was to make one ATC using some of the items, sending the finished card back to the person who's stuff they used and keeping the extra ephemera for themselves.

Well, I was having so much fun, I couldn't stop... and I ended up making THREE ATCs from the stuff I received. I forwarded the top two shown here back to my swap partner and am entering the card shown below in this month's winner-take-all ATC lottery. (For this last card, I added the picture from my own stash.)

Not Quite Summer

2011-05-07T00:24:00.000-06:00

Another fun banner for a swap on Paper Traders. This one is for Summer using half circles which were the perfect shape for some fresh watermelon slices! It's difficult to tell from the photo but these are very sparkly - with glitter accents and generously spritzed with glimmer mist =)

Live in the Sunshine

2011-04-24T12:47:00.000-06:00

My friends and family are having a chilly Spring but here in San Diego it's mostly sunshiney and getting warmer all the time. Soon the heat of summer will be here (ugh!) but until then, I am enjoying the pretty blooms all around me and the mild weather of the season in Southern California. Happy Spring, everyone!

Surfer at Sunset

2011-04-05T10:33:00.017-06:00

I am really loving being back in San Diego again and am enjoying the beautiful Spring we've been having. I know that Summer is just around the corner and then I will be complaining about the heat (ugh!) but I will enjoy this cooler season while I can.

Next month, I am hosting an ATC swap on our Paper Traders group. The theme is "By the Seaside" since I am really feeling the love of living in an ocean-side community. I made this ATC as an inspiration for the participating artists. I used my watercolor pencils to paint the background and added some sandy texture at the bottom by combining acrylic paint with some resin sand texture gel.

Spring is here

2011-03-29T22:51:00.000-06:00

Baseball is starting, the weather is warming up, the ice plant is blooming, the rain is tapering off, everything is green everywhere you look... Spring is here!

To get into the spirit of the season, we had a pennant banner swap on Paper Traders. Here is a picture of the one I made (which is now winging it's way to Linda)...

... and I was the lucky recipient of Darlene's beautiful creation which I will be hanging up in my studio to get my creativity blossoming =)

Beeswax & Butterflies

2011-03-29T22:17:00.000-06:00

So, these are boring. I was having trouble regulating the temperature of my beeswax and the layers not building and I'm not thrilled with the results. BUT, I am hoping to learn how to do this technique properly and then maybe I can stop fighting with the medium long enough to let my creative muse out to play... next time. Moving on...

A couple more ATCs

2011-03-29T22:11:00.000-06:00

Every month, our Paper Traders group hosts a "Winner Take All" ATC lottery. It's a lot of fun - everyone puts in one ATC and at the end of the month, we draw a winner who gets all of the entries... and then it starts over again for the next month. Entering just one ATC is not a big risk but when you win it's like a party in your mailbox!

These are the two ATCs I made for March and February. The latter is pretty simple but the first one took a couple of days to layer up the background. This was a variation of Jill Geraghty-Groves' "decaying background" technique as shown in the Mar/Apr 2011 issue of Somerset Studio. I didn't have the distress crackle paints she recommended so I used an all over clear crackle instead but I still think it turned out pretty nice.

Fashionistas

2011-03-29T21:46:00.001-06:00

Recently I hosted a "Fabulous Fashionistas" canvas swap on our Paper Traders group. For these, I used a pre-printed texture paper background and then I glued printed napkins over the top using PPA (Perfect Paper Adhesive). When everything was dry, I used some rubons for added details. The ladies' clothing is a combination of papers and fabrics and lots of glue =)

Congratulations to my OWOH winners!

2011-02-17T22:22:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much to everyone who stopped by during the One World One Heart event. It was so much fun visiting everyone. I hope I will have a chance to go back and see everyone's blogs and spend a little more leisurely time the next time around.

So now, it's time to announce my winners. Drumroll, please....................
...................................

Winner #1 is Mitz! As the first name drawn, Mitz will get first pick of one of my books.

mitz said...: ... this is ** book-a-riffic** great give-a-way.. thanks for the opportunity mitz_zee@yahoodotcom; Saturday, February 12, 2011 3:24:00 PM MST

And Winner #2 is Shawkl!

shawkl said...: I love crafty books...and love fabric boxes! So, your prize is super for me! I'm keeping my fingers crossed! Happy OWOH! When you have a moment, come visit with me...and I'll be back here again too! Kathy www.shawkl.com; Monday, January 31, 2011 4:27:00 PM MST

Congratulations to you both and thanks so much for playing along!

One World One Heart offering...

2011-01-31T01:03:00.001-07:00

http://awhimsicalbohemian.typepad.com/a_whimsical_bohemian/one-world-one-heart-1.html

Welcome to my stop on the One World One Heart worldwide blog event!

This blog is my "home" on the worldwide web... Here, I share a little of my personal life and a lot of my artistic one. I am a member of Paper Traders, an online artists community and most of the projects I do are for swaps with my fellow group members. Thank you for visiting my blog. I hope you will come back soon!

For my offering, I will be giving away one book to each of TWO lucky visitors - either The Wreath Book or Making Decorative Fabric-Covered Boxes. Just leave a comment on this post and I will select two random winners on February 17th. If you have a preference for which book you would like to receive, please indicate that in your comment. Also, make sure I have a way to contact you if you win!

COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED... WILL BE ANNOUNCING WINNER SHORTLY...!

Valentine Steampunk

2011-01-30T21:41:00.002-07:00

Utilizing some of my recent swap meet finds, I completed these Valentine Steampunk assemblages for Cathy's swap on Paper Traders. These were a ton of fun to make!

Paper Traders

2011-01-17T09:06:00.002-07:00

http://papertraders-art.blogspot.com/search/label/Home

As I'm sure you know, I am a member of Paper Traders - an online artists' community. Several years ago, I became one of the group moderators along with my mom, Connie Holso, and Keron Lee - a wonderful artist from Melbourne. Being a moderator can be challenging at times but immensely rewarding. I have gotten to know so many talented and kind artists from around the globe who have inspired me with their creations. Recently, Keron decided to step down as moderator for personal and artistic reasons. In her place, Cathy Calamas from South Carolina has stepped up to the task of helping to make Paper Traders a fun and creative place to be.

With that goal in mind, we have jointly created a new blog just for the Paper Traders group - a public face for our private group. This forum will give us a chance to show other artists what we are all about... and hopefully entice them to join in our artistic journey =) We'll have tutorials, free downloads, and galleries of our members' artwork. I'll still have my personal blog here but I hope you'll have fun finding out what my art friends and I like to do in our spare time...

2011 One World One Heart blog event

2011-01-16T19:01:00.000-07:00

One World One Heart is a worldwide event for bloggers only. It gives all those who blog a chance to meet and mingle and form connections with those they may not have otherwise met from all over the world. In the past 4 years this event has grown to over 1,000 participants with lasting friendships formed along the way. It's like a gigantic open house allowing you to travel without ever leaving your home… going from blog to blog (in various countries), seeing the wonder each one has created, and meeting all the fabulous people behind those blogs. As a bonus, each blogger participant will offer up a door prize just for dropping by, saying hello, and seeing their world. It’s really that easy. The fifth (and final) One World One Heart will begin on January 30 and run until February 17, 2011. If you're interested in participating, click HERE for all the information.

I will each be offering something for the blog event - details will be unveiled when the event begins on January 30th. I encourage you to join in the fun!

Scavengering for Art Supplies

2011-01-16T18:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I spent the morning at the swap meet and then checked out some of the local thrift stores... all in my search for cool stuff to use in my art. I'm trying to come up with something for a Valentine Steampunk Assemblage swap we're doing on Paper Traders. I found this store called Architectural Salvage that is awesome! Most of their stuff is too pricey for my pocketbook but it sure was fun to browse =)

Catching up on the past six months...

2011-01-16T18:10:00.000-07:00

Moving back to San Diego has been terrific although I still feel like I'm in my adjustment period. It took me several weeks to find a new home and even longer to get unpacked... I still am not completely settled in but I'm getting there. I found a cute duplex in the suburbs and am blessed to have a nice landlord, a friendly neighbor, my own laundry room, a garage, a yard, and the best part - a whole room to dedicate to my art studio/office!

I used my birthday gift cards to buy shelving for the studio and I am almost done getting everything put in its place. I would have been done ages ago if I didn't keep hauling stuff out and making messes (along with art) along the way.

Shortly after moving into my new home, I discovered this nest of baby birds right outside my window.

I've really enjoyed catching up with old friends and making new ones since coming back to San Diego.

Sadly, my best friends relocated to the Monterey Bay area shortly after I arrived. I was lucky enough to get to spend a long weekend with them over Halloween. On the way home, I took the scenic route down the famous Highway 1...

Being back in Southern California gave me the opportunity to attend one of my online artist friend's art showing... and to finally meet her in person. Kate Carvellas was as sweet in person as I'd come to know her online and a talented artist too!

Although I went home for Thanksgiving, I spent a lovely quiet Christmas at home this year.

I'm looking forward to the new year and good things =)

Asian Influence

2011-01-03T17:35:00.000-07:00

If you follow my art, you probably know how much I love asian themes in my art. Here are some items I've done recently - all for Paper Traders swaps. At the top, small chipboard houses using some really great joss paper I found for backgrounds. Above, some paper thread bobbins for a tiny bobbin book.

Below is the triptych and handmade envelope I created for another swap. The lady in this one is a pop-up... a little trick my mom taught me =)

A couple more ATC swaps

2011-01-02T17:19:00.001-07:00

As you can tell from the short random posts, I'm trying to get caught up from my half-year hiatus. Here are my contributions to a couple of ATC swaps I did for Paper Traders. For the one above, the challenge was to use a postage stamp; the swap below was to use a silly take on a movie title... both were lots of fun!

Recent ATCs

2011-01-01T16:59:00.000-07:00

Our Paper Traders group hosts a monthly ATC lottery. Here are some recent ATCs I made for them. Now, if I could just remember to get them sent off to the corresponding winners!

Creepy Cottages

2010-12-31T17:12:00.001-07:00

For Halloween, our Paper Traders group had a Creepy Cottages swap. This is my creation, featuring a cute birdie from ArtChix.

Out with the old... In with the new...

2010-12-28T15:58:00.002-07:00

On the day before leaving town to visit my family for Thanksgiving, I managed to total my car. The accident was my fault and an embarrassingly stupid move on my part. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured - it could have been so much worse - but my subcompact 2004 Hyundai Accent didn't fare too well against a Dodge Ram pickup! I finally got out of my rental and into a new (at least new to me) car - a 2010 Hyundai Elantra with power, cruise, and lots of nice little amenities I had been doing without. Alas, they came with a car payment attached but at least I have something nice, newer, and reliable to get around in.

On a lighter note, I had a wonderful time visiting my family in Wyoming over the Thanksgiving holiday. I arrived just in time for the traditional dinner, sacrificed sleep for some Black Friday shopping deals, had a Harry Potter movie marathon with my nieces, went to kindergarten with my youngest niece, watched another niece perform admirably at her swim meet, helped my mom rearrange her art studio, and managed to read a novel and complete an art piece in the process. Not a very restful vacation but definitely a fun and special one!

This is the art piece I completed on my vacation. It was my birdhouse-themed contribution for the Fifth Anniversary swap on Paper Traders. The couples featured are my grandparents and great aunt & uncle =)

Christmas Crafts

2010-12-24T17:05:00.000-07:00

These are two items I made for Christmas swaps on Paper Traders - some inchie ornaments (made with Tim Holtz fragments) and a paper ATC ornament.

Below are some handmade Christmas cards I made - and donated - for my women's church group...

Naked Postcards

2010-05-15T05:28:00.001-06:00

I'll bet that caught your attention, huh? Actually, it just refers to mailing art without an envelope - such as in the case of these postcards I made:

The theme for this Paper Traders swap was one "zetti" postcard and one "steampunk" postcard. I'm not sure I quite captured the themes in their true intent but I'm not unhappy with the results. A big thanks to Lorna for hosting this one - it was fun!

Asian Charms Box

2010-05-15T05:19:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to quickly share a photo of the box I made for my 16 color charms...

The wooden frame that I used for the base was a dollar store find!

No Spam Allowed

2010-04-29T06:05:00.000-06:00

Sorry, everyone, but I keep getting spam comments here so I have had to turn off posts from anonymous users and enable comment moderation. I apologize for any inconvenience this might cause. Thanks for understanding.

In the Spirit of Crayola

2010-04-15T20:36:00.000-06:00

Liz is hosting a token/charm swap in our Paper Traders group. Her theme is the 16 colors that come in a box of Crayola crayons: red, red-orange, orange, yellow-orange, yellow, yellow-green, green, blue-green, blue, blue-violet, violet, red-violet, carnation pink, brown, white, and black.

I gave mine a common theme by using various asian papers for each one. I got the idea from vintagepix' button charms that I saw on Flickr. It took a little trial and error but I finally figured out the secret for doing these without too much mess...

I adhered the paper behind the clear buttons (which I got from Stampin'Up!) using crystal lacquer (diamond glaze, papier glass finish, etc.) but I had trouble with it oozing out through the buttonholes when I pressed them together. My solution was to cut the ends off of some cheap cotton swabs that had plastic stems (like tiny straws) - they fit perfectly in the holes and the excess glaze oozed up inside the straws instead of all over the front of the buttons... then I placed my finger over the top of the straw when I removed each one, creating a tiny vacuum that sucked out the excess goo!

All I need to do now to finish this project is to make a cute little storage/display box...

San Diego, here I come!

2010-03-14T09:01:00.002-06:00

(photo from www.vroomvroomvroom.com)

Lately, my posts have been infrequent at best. I wish I had some new art to show you but I've been spending what little spare time I have sorting things to give away... You see, I've decided to move back to San Diego this summer!

I am super excited to be going back - I miss all my friends so much and I will even be returning to my old job. My bosses and coworkers in San Diego are awesome people and dear friends so it's going to be really nice to get to work with them again.

In the meantime, I am trying to pare down all my stuff to the bare minimum. I'm getting rid of all my "big" clothes - so I won't even be tempted to let any of those old pounds climb back on! Lots of extra shoes, videos, old computer equipment, linens, craft supplies, and most of my furniture. I still have tons to do and I know the next two months will fly by - I'm planning to move over Memorial Day Weekend at the end of May.

The most important thing still to do is find an apartment! For those of you who are in the area, let me know if you've got any good leads =)

Altered Puzzle Pieces

2010-02-21T16:45:00.000-07:00

I am hosting an altered puzzle piece swap on Paper Traders - the theme is Four Seasons and these are my entries. I followed Barb & Bevlea's technique and it was a ton of fun! I love the glassy finish you get from the Dimensional Magic - pretty cool =)

Yippee for Me - A New Book!

2010-02-17T21:16:00.000-07:00

Today my mailbox held a fabulous prize... a new book, Stitch Alchemy, that I won from the beautiful and generous Kim! I am so excited about this book because I have been wanting to learn these techniques of combining paper and fabric collage. Thank you so, so much, Kim!!!

Be Happy

2010-02-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

This is my entry for this month's winner-take-all ATC lottery on Paper Traders - another fun and funky collage a la Teesha Moore!

Renaissance Women

2010-02-15T20:55:00.001-07:00

On Paper Traders, Connie is hosting a Gothic Arch swap - the pages will be added to the deco books we made last year. The theme this time is "Renaissance Women" and I wanted to use works that were a little lesser known. I chose women who where all painted by Il Bronzino - in most cases, these women were background characters in his works. For example, these women...

...can be found in this fresco:

And these two women...

...are found in this painting:

The backgrounds on these arches have more texture than really shows in the scans. I glued down torn vintage (gothic) texts and then covered with napkins or tissue paper. I used my gold leafing pen to finish the edges of each page. On each of them, I added accents with metallic & pearlescent paints and more touches with my gold pen!

Here are the rest of the pages I made...

Congrats to my OWOH Winners!

2010-02-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

Using the generator on Random.org, I have picked 3 winners for my paper giveaways. Drumroll, please...

Congrats to -

Loralynn
Cathy Horner
Anji Gallanos

Please send me an email with your mailing information so that I can send your goodies right away!

Thanks to everyone who stopped by to visit. I hope you'll come back soon =)

One World One Heart 2010

2010-01-29T22:41:00.011-07:00

***** COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED - I'LL BE DRAWING OUR WINNERS SHORTLY...

Lisa "oceandreamer" Swifka started the ONE World-ONE Heart event in 2007. The original idea behind this giveaway event was to bring bloggers together from around the world who may never ordinarily meet. It closes the gap of the blog community and enables us to interact, discover new and wonderful people and, in the process, possibly win a prize along the way. This is more than wanting to win something - it's about finding kindred spirits. It transcends geographical location, social economics, political affiliation, religious beliefs... it's a coming together like the giant community we are on this planet. If only it took a simple giveaway to create PEACE everywhere! In the meantime, here we give from our hearts. We are not solving the world's problems nor are we curing anything nor are we changing the world. We are merely generating a closer community between humans through blogging. The mission of this event is to meet new people and them meet you. It is almost like being in a huge convention room where you meet and mingle - only the "hello my name is" badge is each persons blog.

I participated in this last year and it was so much fun! However, I almost didn't do it this year because I have been so busy but... I just couldn't help myself =) This year, I'm giving away some of my "stash" - fun items for paper collage. I laid these out on my bamboo floor mat for the photos... I guess that's kind of like a magic carpet, right?
There are 3 prizes up for grabs.

PRIZE #1 - Asian Ephemera:

PRIZE #2 - Specialty Paper Collection, includes handmade, mulberry, rice paper, etc:
(This prize will not be awarded to an international participant due to the real leaves, petals, seedpods, etc. that are in many of these papers)

PRIZE #3 - Tissue & Napkin Assortment:

You do not have to be a blogger to enter; just leave a comment below along with some way for me to contact you if you win (a blog link or email). I will draw 3 lucky names from all the comments on February 15th.

Please take some time to view my blog (or bookmark it for later =) and make sure you visit all the other OWOH participants! Have fun and GOOD LUCK!!

***** COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED - I'LL BE DRAWING OUR WINNERS SHORTLY...

Check out KC Willis...

2010-01-27T22:05:00.005-07:00

KC Willis Studio offers on-line workshops where she teaches the basics of her techniques and inspires you to new creative heights: www.collagecamp.ning.com

There's also Mixed Media Mania where you take what you learned at Collage Camp and in these workshops KC teaches Altars and Shrines, Altered Books, and Works on Paper: www.mixedmediamania.ning.com

And for those of you already making art and wanting to know how you take it to the next level and get yourself a regional or national audience, she also has the super exciting Marketing Mindset: www.marketingmindset.ning.com

And if video workshops aren't your thing, how about KC Willis Live! You can take a multi-day class with KC in her very sweet Victorian studio house in Longmont, Colorado. Check it out at www.studioretreats.ning.com. (I'd really love to go there!)

(Okay, so if you've checked out KC's site, you'll see that this shameless little promo is my way of getting my hands on one of her FABULOUS hand-crafted creations... but I really am a fan of this gal's work =) Check out her blog, Lipstick Ranch, here: http://www.kcwillis.blogspot.com/

Apologies

2010-01-24T08:15:00.003-07:00

For all my dear friends and those of you who have been kind and generous with your time... I realize that I have lately been slow to acknowledge and respond to your posts. After reading Rice's post on etiquette today, this really was brought to my attention:

"...Respond to correspondence in a timely manner. RSVP, for [goodness] sake. They sent you an invitation; the least you can do is let them know whether or not you plan to attend. Answer your emails, return the phone calls, respond to the texts. If you don’t have time to do these things, you must let people know ahead of time, as in, “Here’s my email address, Sally, and you may use it at your will, but you’re not important enough to me to make it likely that I’ll respond any time in the foreseeable future. Just so you know.” Like that. This is one of the toughest for me, as I always leave The Fun Email, the personal correspondence, for last. Like cake. I do all the work stuff first. So sometimes the wonderful personal emails languish in the inbox for days and days while I take care of work. And that’s a shame. And I’m going to try to do better. Really I am. Am I too stuck in my ways to learn to, at least sometimes, go ahead and eat dessert first? Or, sheesh: to even begin to eat dessert at all?"

This blog - and all of the people I have connected with through it - are my candy, the sweet treat that I save to give it the time to formulate a well thought out reply. And I look at my inbox and realize that I am very far behind! I am sorry. Life has been very busy for me lately but I will try to do better. Please know that I truly do appreciate every single comment I receive and I hope you will continue to come and visit me here =)

ARTIVITY Giveaway

2010-01-21T20:19:00.002-07:00

My Paper Trader friend, Lorri has had quite a creative frenzy and is sharing some of her resulting treasures... check it out!

http://auslorri.blogspot.com/2010/01/giveaway-for-my-blog-followers.html

Cool Clip

2010-01-20T18:33:00.004-07:00

The other day, while taking out the trash, I noticed this clip laying on the ground near the dumpster. I don't know exactly what it is for but I thought it was cool so I snagged it. If you have any clever ideas for what I should do with it, I'm open to suggestions... otherwise I'll just add it to my art stash until some future date when the perfect project presents itself =)

Not Quite Beach Weather!

2010-01-16T22:47:00.002-07:00

I made this ATC just for fun... a take on the record cold temperatures this year!

Secret Valentine Birdie

2010-01-16T19:46:00.004-07:00

I'm just barely finishing up all the Christmas candies and treats and now the stores are full of tempting valentine sweetness! Makes it very hard to stick to my healthy eating goals...

In our Paper Traders group, we are having a secret valentine swap and this is the front of the card I made:
I made the background by tearing pieces of vintage text and music and layering them with some Perfect Paper Adhesive (love this stuff!). Then I covered it all with a layer of flower-printed tissue paper and added some rub-ons from EK Success. The little birdie was a pre-made embellishment from Prima but I made the lacy heart myself.

This background technique is my favorite - I've used it on several projects - it's super easy and always turns out so pretty!

Graffiti

2010-01-09T11:57:00.005-07:00

While I don't think it is ever okay to deface property, I do think that some forms of graffiti are very artistic. That was the inspiration for an ATC swap I'm hosting on Paper Traders. My rules were that it must be hand-drawn and not contain any profanity or nudity. These are the cards that I made. I colored the letters using a combination of oil pastels and Marvy markers... and a lot of elbow grease with my paper stumps.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-23T17:34:00.004-07:00

For all my friends, I wish you a very merry and BLESSED Christmas! As I head out to spend the holiday with dear friends, I leave you with this message - an excerpt from Henry B Eyring's "Home for Christmas":

Blessed with His Light

There is [a] glimpse of heaven that becomes easier to see at Christmastime. It is of light. Heavenly Father used light to announce the birth of His Son, our Savior (see Matthew 2; 3 Nephi 1). A new star was visible in both the Eastern and the Western Hemispheres. It led the Wise Men to the child in Bethlehem. Even wicked King Herod recognized the sign; he feared it because he was wicked. The Wise Men rejoiced because of the birth of the Christ, who is the Light and the Life of the World. Three days of light without darkness was the sign God gave to the descendants of Lehi, heralding the birth of His Son.

We remember at Christmastime not only the light that announced the birth of Christ into the world but also the light that comes from Him. Many witnesses have confirmed that light. Paul testified that he saw it on the road to Damascus:

“I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.

“And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

“And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest” (Acts 26:13–15).

The boy Joseph Smith testified that he saw a marvelous light in a grove of trees in Palmyra, New York, at the beginning of the Restoration:

“Just at this moment of great alarm, I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me.

“It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!” (Joseph Smith—History 1:16–17).

Such light will be visible in our heavenly home. It will bring us joy then. Yet even in this life you have been blessed with a part of that wonderful experience, through the Light of Christ. Every person born into the world receives that light as a gift (see Moroni 7:16). Think of the times you have had an experience that makes you a witness that the Light of Christ is real and precious. You will recognize from this wonderfully assuring scripture that you have been guided by that light:

“And that which doth not edify is not of God, and is darkness.

“That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day.

“And … I say it that you may know the truth, that you may chase darkness from among you” (D&C 50:23–25).

In a world that is being darkened by evil images and dishonest messages, you have been blessed to recognize more easily the flashes of light and truth. You have learned for yourself that light grows brighter as you receive it gladly. It will become brighter and brighter until the perfect day when we will be in the presence of the Source of the light.

That light is easier to discern at Christmastime, when we are more likely to pray to know what God would have us do and more likely to read in the scriptures and so more apt to be on the Lord’s errand. When we forgive and feel forgiveness, when we are lifting the hands that hang down (see D&C 81:5), we are being lifted ourselves as we move toward the Source of the light.

You remember that the Book of Mormon describes a glorious time when the Savior’s faithful disciples reflected His light for others to see (see 3 Nephi 19:24–25). We use lights to celebrate the Christmas season. Our worship of the Savior and our service for Him brings light into our lives and into the lives of those around us.

We can with confidence set a goal to make this Christmas brighter than the last and each year that follows brighter still. The trials of mortality may increase in intensity, yet for us, darkness need not increase if we focus our eyes more singly on the light that streams down on us as we follow the Master. He will lead us and help us along the path that leads upward to the home for which we yearn.

There have been times, often at Christmas, when we have felt parts of what we will experience when we at last come home to the Father who loves us and answers our prayers and to the Savior who has lighted our lives and lifted us up.

I testify that because of Him, you may have an assurance that you can go home not only at Christmastime but also to live forever with a family whom you love and who love each other.

A Second (Medical?) Opinion

2009-12-18T21:16:00.003-07:00

This morning I had my annual exam and since my GYN has started her own practice, I had to fill out a whole new patient profile including some pretty personal questions about my history.

I thought it was funny how my doctor seemed to think it was strange that I am not currently "active" in an intimate way (apparently no one is expected to uphold any kind of standards these days) and she even went so far as to suggest I try some internet dating in order to find someone with whom I can have a relationship. I told her I'd been down that road and was scared off by all the weirdos!

Any way, I read on Rice Freeman-Zachery's website today about some other internet dating fiascos that seemed to echo my own experiences... I laughed my butt off because it's just so sad and so true! You can read about them here: http://voodoonotes.blogspot.com/2009/12/internet-dating.html

Second Base (A "girls only" kind of post)

2009-12-14T19:48:00.006-07:00

Today was a milestone for me: my first mammogram. I have been putting this off for two years (much to the frustration of my GYN) because - let's face it - I was scared! I had heard so many horror stories of pain and "pancakes" - you ladies know what I'm talking about - and, as a full-figured kinda gal, I was really dreading the experience. Thanks to new digital equipment and the gentle Lucinda at the radiology lab, I would like to say that it was No. Big. Deal. And such a relief to finally have it done. Ladies, take care of your boobies - get your mammograms!!

Fuzzy Chicks

2009-12-12T18:59:00.002-07:00

A few of you wondered what those fuzzy yellow things were in the middle of my stash... well, here they are - aren't they the cutest?

Simple Pleasures' Bag Sale!

2009-12-12T13:16:00.003-07:00

Suggested Retail Price = $488
Actual amount I spent = $20

This weekend, my favorite local craft store Simple Pleasures had a fantabulous promotion - as much stuff from their clearance section as you could fit in your bag for $20. The ladies who checked me out said I may have had the biggest before-discount total... I am a good shopper and a VERY good packer to have gotten all of this into my bag =) Most of what you can see in this photo is about half of what it actually there - I tried to buy at least two of everything so I could share the bounty with my Mom <3

C-C-C-COLD!!

2009-12-11T20:33:00.008-07:00

(This is not my photo... I found it online but I can't remember where!)

I love winter. I love snow and crisp, cold days. I love watching the seasons change and autumn brings such anticipation for the crystal-coated treat of winter.

This week, I hate winter. Mostly I hate what the extreme cold has put me through...

First, I was unable to make it to work on time one morning when my fuel line was frozen. Good advice: when sub-zero temperatures are in the forecast, add some HEET gas-line antifreeze and top off your tank - trust me, it's worth the $2 investment.

Second, when cold weather starts causing water mains to burst around town, do NOT drive through the standing water - it will coat your car's mechanical systems and freeze up in the cold weather. Another good piece of advice: don't use your parking brake in winter. My wheel wouldn't budge and I was stranded again... thank goodness it finally warmed up above freezing today and I was without a car for only one more day. (I'm immensely grateful for my wonderful home teacher and his lovely wife for coming to my rescue and taxiing me around!)

All of these things may sound like common sense to those of you who have spent your lives in cold climate areas but after living in California for 20 years, it never even occurred to me. By sharing my woes, I hope I can prevent some of you from making the same mistakes.

Aaaahh... a warmer, sunny weekend is ahead - for once I am turning my back on cold-hearted winter and embracing the sun!

JOSEPH SMITH’S FEELINGS ABOUT HIS PROPHETIC MISSION

2009-12-05T14:01:00.005-07:00

Time for another lesson summary from Relief Society this month...

JOSEPH SMITH’S FEELINGS ABOUT HIS PROPHETIC MISSION

“I have no desire but to do all men good.”

FROM THE LIFE OF JOSEPH SMITH

From the beginning of the Prophet Joseph Smith’s ministry, his life was often in peril. Though the Lord delivered him many times from his enemies, the Prophet knew that once he had completed his earthly mission, he could die.

The Prophet was well aware that he and all of the Saints living in Nauvoo were in an increasingly dangerous situation. As Nauvoo grew larger, some of the people who lived in the area began to fear the growing political and economic power of the Saints, and mobs began again to harass them. The Prophet was in particular danger, for authorities from Missouri made repeated efforts to capture him, and apostates from the Church became increasingly hostile in their efforts to destroy him.

In the sermons and writings of the last few years of the Prophet’s life, there is a sense of urgency in his words. Knowing that his time was short, he labored earnestly to teach the Saints the things that God had revealed to him and encouraged them to prepare to receive these truths. He also expressed his great love for the Saints, even declaring that he was willing to lay down his life for them.

It is remarkable that while the Prophet was enduring so much persecution and was pressured by the constant demands of the growing Church, he found time to show that he cared for each Church member as an individual. Many Saints in later years remembered the love and kindness the Prophet Joseph showed to them.

Aroet L. Hale recalled: “The Prophet … frequently used to come out of the Mansion [House] and play ball with us boys, his son Joseph being near my age. [The Prophet] Joseph would always conform to the rules. He would catch till it came his turn to take the club, then, being a very stout [strong] man, would knock the ball so far that we used to holler to the boy that was going for the ball to take his dinner. This used to make the Prophet laugh. Joseph was always good natured and full of fun.”

Margarette McIntire Burgess recalled another experience with the Prophet in Nauvoo: “My older brother and I were going to school, near to the building which was known as Joseph’s brick store. It had been raining the previous day, causing the ground to be very muddy, especially along that street. My brother Wallace and I both got fast in the mud, and could not get out, and of course, child-like, we began to cry, for we thought we would have to stay there. But looking up, I beheld the loving friend of children, the Prophet Joseph, coming to us. He soon had us on higher and drier ground. Then he stooped down and cleaned the mud from our little, heavy-laden shoes, took his handkerchief from his pocket and wiped our tear-stained faces. He spoke kind and cheering words to us, and sent us on our way to school rejoicing. Was it any wonder that I loved that great, good and noble man of God?”

Why do you think he was able to maintain such a cheerful, caring attitude?

What can we do to remain happy and loving during times of trial?
• Reach out to supportive friends/family
• Attend the temple
• Pray for guidance/comfort
• Fast
• Give service to others

PROPHETS TEACH WHAT GOD REVEALS TO THEM;
WE STRIVE TO UNDERSTAND AND GIVE HEED TO THEIR WORDS.

“There has been a great difficulty in getting anything into the heads of this generation. It has been like splitting hemlock knots with a corn-dodger [a piece of corn bread] for a wedge, and a pumpkin for a beetle [a wooden mallet]. Even the Saints are slow to understand.”

“I have tried for a number of years to get the minds of the Saints prepared to receive the things of God; but we frequently see some of them, after suffering all they have for the work of God, will fly to pieces like glass as soon as anything comes that is contrary to their traditions: they cannot stand the fire at all. How many will be able to abide a celestial law, and go through and receive their exaltation, I am unable to say, as many are called, but few are chosen [see D&C 121:40].”

What can interfere with our ability to receive more truth?

What can we do to be “prepared to receive the things of God”?
• Follow the commandments and teachings of Church leaders
• Pray for guidance/knowledge
• Be worthy
• Take the sacrament
• Attend the temple

ALTHOUGH PROPHETS ARE MEN WITH HUMAN FRAILTIES,
THEY ARE CALLED OF GOD TO TEACH AND LEAD HIS PEOPLE.

The Prophet’s journal for November 6, 1835, records: “I was this morning introduced to a man from the east. After hearing my name, he remarked that I was nothing but a man, indicating by this expression, that he had supposed that a person to whom the Lord should see fit to reveal His will, must be something more than a man. He seemed to have forgotten the saying that fell from the lips of St. James, that [Elijah] was a man subject to like passions as we are, yet he had such power with God, that He, in answer to his prayers, shut the heavens that they gave no rain for the space of three years and six months; and again, in answer to his prayer, the heavens gave forth rain, and the earth gave forth fruit [see James 5:17–18]. Indeed, such is the darkness and ignorance of this generation, that they look upon it as incredible that a man should have any [dealings] with his Maker.”

“When did I ever teach anything wrong from this stand? When was I ever confounded? I want to triumph in Israel before I depart hence and am no more seen. I never told you I was perfect; but there is no error in the revelations which I have taught. Must I, then, be thrown away as a thing of naught?”

“Although I do wrong, I do not the wrongs that I am charged with doing: the wrong that I do is through the frailty of human nature, like other men. No man lives without fault. Do you think that even Jesus, if He were here, would be without fault in your eyes? His enemies said all manner of evil against Him—they all watched for iniquity in Him.”

What counsel could you give someone who refuses to follow a Church leader because the leader has some kind of character flaw?
• Pray for patience/understanding
• Study the scriptures
• Speak to the leader directly
• Fast, ponder, and pray
• Remember the Church is perfect, but the people are not

Joseph Smith’s journal for October 29, 1842, records: “I … went over to the store [in Nauvoo, Illinois], where a number of brethren and sisters were assembled, who had arrived this morning from the neighborhood of New York. … I told them I was but a man, and they must not expect me to be perfect; if they expected perfection from me, I should expect it from them; but if they would bear with my infirmities and the infirmities of the brethren, I would likewise bear with their infirmities.”

How does this statement apply in all our relationships?

DESPITE OPPOSITION, PROPHETS FULFILL THE MISSIONS GIVEN TO THEM BY GOD.

“I speak boldly and faithfully and with authority. … I know what I say; I understand my mission and business. God Almighty is my shield; and what can man do if God is my friend? I shall not be sacrificed until my time comes; then I shall be offered freely. … I thank God for preserving me from my enemies; I have no enemies but for the truth’s sake. I have no desire but to do all men good. I feel to pray for all men.”

“I prophesy and bear record this morning that all the combined powers of earth and hell shall not and cannot ever overthrow or overcome this boy, for I have a promise from the eternal God. If I have sinned, I have sinned outwardly; but surely I have contemplated the things of God.”

“When men come out and build upon other men’s foundations, they do it on their own responsibility, without authority from God; and when the floods come and the winds blow, their foundations will be found to be sand, and their whole fabric will crumble to dust.”

“Did I build on any other man’s foundation? I have got all the truth which the Christian world possessed, and an independent revelation in the bargain, and God will bear me off triumphant.”

What experiences have you had in which God has helped you to fulfill your responsibilities in your family or in a Church calling?

PROPHETS LOVE THOSE THEY SERVE AND DESIRE TO LEAD THEM WELL,
EVEN IF DOING SO REQUIRES REPROVING THEM.

“… I can taste the principles of eternal life, and so can you. They are given to me by the revelations of Jesus Christ; and I know that when I tell you these words of eternal life as they are given to me, you taste them, and I know that you believe them. You say honey is sweet, and so do I. I can also taste the spirit of eternal life. I know that it is good; and when I tell you of these things which were given me by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, you are bound to receive them as sweet, and rejoice more and more. …”

When have you tasted the sweetness of the truth?

“I have intended my remarks for all, both rich and poor, bond and free, great and small. I have no enmity against any man. I love you all; but I hate some of your deeds. I am your best friend, and if persons miss their mark it is their own fault. If I reprove a man, and he hates me, he is a fool; for I love all men, especially these my brethren and sisters.”

How can we rejoice in the words of a prophet or other Church leader even when he reproves us for our misdeeds?

SUMMARY

“I will from time to time reveal to you the subjects that are revealed by the Holy Ghost to me. All the lies that are now hatched up against me are of the devil, and the influence of the devil and his servants will be used against the kingdom of God. The servants of God teach nothing but principles of eternal life, by their works ye shall know them. A good man will speak good things and holy principles, and an evil man evil things. I feel, in the name of the Lord, to rebuke all such bad principles, liars, etc., and I warn all of you to look out whom you are going after. I exhort you to give heed to all the virtue and the teachings which I have given you. …”
• The good feelings of the Spirit will reveal the truth to our hearts.

“I cannot lie down until all my work is finished. I never think any evil, nor do anything to the harm of my fellow-man. When I am called by the trump of the archangel and weighed in the balance, you will all know me then. I add no more. God bless you all.”
• If we wait until then to discover the truth, we will be too late!

How has this chapter influenced your testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith?
• I felt a very strong Spirit in reading this lesson; I am encouraged by the strength of his resolve to do what God expected of him.

More Funky Art

2009-11-29T16:58:00.002-07:00

I decided to try making more art in the style of Teesha Moore's tutorials. These are both ATC's which I found much more challenging due to their small dimensions (about the size of a playing card). Still it was a fun project, even if the results are a bit odd =)

Blue Christmas & Red Hot Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T08:57:00.006-07:00

This week, my parents came to visit for Thanksgiving. I was so excited to have them come here! My mom is by very best friend and usually I only get to see her once or twice a year. My dad is a cool guy too and I love doing things with him. When I go home, we often go fishing together. This weekend, we took a drive up to the Florissant Fossil Beds and took a short hike - although the melting snow made the trail alternately slick and muddy. We had a yummy Thanksgiving dinner and did some Black Friday shopping too.

My mom shares my artistic interests and we do a lot of projects together, often participating in online swaps through Paper Traders or other groups. As I posted earlier, our Paper Traders group puts together a CafePress calendar each year. We had to come up with one more spread for December so mom and I watched a few of Teesha Moore's tutorials and then put our heads together for this collaborative creation using magazine ads:

I had so much fun with this! It is unlike anything I've ever done and was very freeing... I think I'll try doing an ATC this afternoon in the same style. Take some time to watch Teesha's how-to videos... she's so easy going with her art - I love it!

UPDATE: Our extra calendar page wasn't needed after all but there are still many lovely pieces of art to display, including my pear mosaic. If you're interested in a calendar, you can order one here: http://www.cafepress.com/PaperTraders.324251835

Christmas Inchies

2009-11-22T11:23:00.003-07:00

It's hard to believe that Christmas is just around the corner! Our Paper Traders group is having an Inchie House swap - with a Christmas ornament theme. I made mine out of clear plastic and sprinkled some FlowerSoft snow inside so they're like mini snow globes - the box portion is only 1-inch square! I found these tiny little nativity ornaments at Michaels and they were just the perfect size. The "thatched" roofs are covered with four different colors of brown glitter.

Anniversary Shrine

2009-11-14T18:26:00.007-07:00

Every year around this time, our Paper Traders group makes a special project to swap. This year we are constructing mini matchbox shrines. Because this is our fourth anniversary, the theme was to use the number 4 in some way - mine, obviously, is Four Seasons. The "leaves" on the trees are made using FlowerSoft - such a cool product! The text paper I used for the background came from an old book I got at a local thrift store that was printed in 1796. I love how they used an "f" instead of an "s" like we do now.

Water Journal

2009-11-14T07:44:00.002-07:00

This is the spread I did for Joanie's "Water" themed round robin journal on Paper Traders. The scan really doesn't show how sparkly this page is... it has received a generous shot of Starburst Stains spray as well as some turquoise art glitter.

“He Was a Prophet of God”: Contemporaries of Joseph Smith Testify of His Prophetic Mission

2009-11-07T16:19:00.005-07:00

Has it been a month already? Time always seems to go by too fast this time of year. Another teaching Sunday has rolled around and here's my lesson for this week...

CHAPTER 43
“He Was a Prophet of God”: Contemporaries of Joseph Smith Testify of His Prophetic Mission

“I feel like shouting, hallelujah, all the time, when I think that I ever knew Joseph Smith, the Prophet.” (Brigham Young)

Dallin H. Oaks: During my college studies at BYU, I was introduced to the History of the Church, an edited compilation of the writings of Joseph Smith and others. After I graduated from law school, I carefully read all seven volumes. I also pursued personal research in original records in Illinois, where the prophet Joseph lived the last five years of his life. The man I came to know in this way was not the man I had imagined. When I was a boy, growing up in the Church, I imagined the Prophet Joseph to be old and dignified and distant. But the Joseph Smith I met in my reading and personal research was a man of the frontier – young, emotional, dynamic, and so loved and approachable by his people that they often called him “Brother Joseph.” My studies strengthened my testimony of his prophetic calling. What a remarkable man! At the same time, I could see that he was mortal and therefore subject to sin and error, pain and affliction. Overarching the Prophet Joseph’s entire ministry were his comparative youth, his superficial formal education, and his incredibly rapid acquisition of knowledge and maturity. He was 14 at the First Vision and 17 at the first visit from the angel Moroni. He was 21 when he received the golden plates and just 23 when he finished translating the Book of Mormon (in less than 60 working days). Over half of the revelations in our Doctrine and Covenants were given through the Prophet while he was 25 or younger. He was 26 when the First Presidency was organized and 30 when the Kirtland Temple was dedicated. He was just over 33 when he escaped his imprisonment in Missouri and resumed leadership of the Saints gathering in Nauvoo. He was 38-1/2 when he was martyred.

Amasa Potter recalled being present at a powerful sermon the Prophet Joseph Smith preached to a large group of Saints in Nauvoo: “When [the Prophet] had spoken about thirty minutes there came up a heavy wind and storm. The dust was so dense that we could not see each other any distance, and some of the people were leaving when Joseph called out to them to stop and let their prayers ascend to Almighty God that the winds may cease blowing and the rain stop falling, and it should be so. In a very few minutes the winds and rain ceased and the elements became calm as a summer’s morning. The storm divided and went on the north and south of the city, and we could see in the distance the trees and shrubs waving in the wind, while where we were it was quiet for one hour, and during that time one of the greatest sermons that ever fell from the Prophet’s lips was preached on the great subject of the dead.”

The Saints who heard the Prophet Joseph Smith speak bore powerful and vivid testimonies of his prophetic mission. Many of them recorded their memories of discourses they heard him give and experiences they had with him, for they wanted the generations that followed them to know, as they knew, that Joseph Smith was truly a prophet of God.

For a testimony of the restored gospel to be complete, it must include a testimony of Joseph Smith’s divine mission. The truthfulness of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints rests on the truthfulness of the First Vision and the other revelations the Lord gave to the Prophet Joseph.

LIKE THE EARLY SAINTS, WE CAN KNOW THAT JOSEPH SMITH IS THE PROPHET THROUGH WHOM THE LORD RESTORED THE FULNESS OF THE GOSPEL.

President Gordon B. Hinckley: An acquaintance said to me one day: “I admire your church very much. I think I could accept everything about it – except Joseph Smith.” To which I responded: “That statement is a contradiction. If you accept the revelation, you must accept the revelator.” It is a constantly recurring mystery to me how some people speak with admiration for the Church and its work while at the same time disdaining him through whom, as a servant of the Lord, came the framework of all that the Church is, of all that it teaches, and of all that it stands for. They would pluck the fruit from the tree while cutting off the root from which it grows… We do not worship the Prophet. We worship God our Eternal Father and the risen Lord Jesus Christ. But we acknowledge the Prophet; we proclaim him; we respect him; we reverence him as an instrument in the hands of the Almighty in restoring to the earth the ancient truths of the divine gospel, together with the priesthood through which the authority of God is exercised in the affairs of His Church and for the blessing of His people.

Eliza R. Snow, the general president of the Relief Society from 1866 to 1887: “In the cause of truth and righteousness – in all that would benefit his fellow man, his integrity was as firm as the pillars of Heaven. He knew that God had called him to the work, and all the powers of earth and hell combined, failed either to deter or divert him from his purpose. With the help of God and his brethren, he laid the foundation of the greatest work ever established by man – a work extending not only to all the living, and to all the generations to come, but also to the dead. He boldly and bravely confronted the false traditions, superstitions, religions, bigotry and ignorance of the world – proved himself true to every heaven-revealed principle – true to his brethren and true to God, then sealed his testimony with his blood.”

Wilford Woodruff, the fourth President of the Church: “I have felt to rejoice exceedingly in what I saw of Brother Joseph, for in his public and private career he carried with him the Spirit of the Almighty, and he manifested a greatness of soul which I had never seen in any other man.”

Mary Alice Cannon Lambert, an English convert who emigrated to Nauvoo in 1843: “I first saw Joseph Smith in the Spring of 1843. When the boat in which we came up the Mississippi River reached the landing at Nauvoo, several of the leading brethren were there to meet the company of saints that had come on it. Among those brethren was the Prophet Joseph Smith. I knew him the instant my eyes rested upon him, and at that moment I received my testimony that he was a Prophet of God… He was not pointed out to me. I knew him from all the other men, and, child that I was (I was only fourteen) I knew that I saw a Prophet of God.”

What impresses you about these testimonies?

This was a man who was so filled with the Spirit that those around him could feel and see it
Despite possible persecution, they were compelled to testify that Joseph Smith was truly called of God

What is the foundation of your own testimony of Joseph Smith?

I have a personal testimony of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and, therefore, believe that Joseph Smith – as the man who brought this great book forward – must be a true prophet of God.

How did you obtain this testimony?

[Invite class members to share their personal experiences. I plan to share mine during my lesson but it's very sacred & personal and not really appropriate for posting on the internet.]

You may wish to write your testimony in your journal or share it with your family.

JOSEPH SMITH WAS AN EXAMPLE WE CAN FOLLOW IN DEVELOPING A CHRISTLIKE CHARACTER.

John Needham, an early English convert: “Joseph Smith is a great man, a man of principle, a straight forward man; no saintish long-faced fellow, but quite the reverse. Indeed some stumble because he is such a straight forward, plain spoken, cheerful man, but that makes me love him the more.”

John M. Bernhisel, a medical doctor who boarded in Joseph and Emma’s home in Nauvoo for several months during 1843 and 1844: “Joseph Smith is naturally a man of strong mental powers, and is possessed of much energy and decision of character, great penetration, and a profound knowledge of human nature. He is a man of calm judgment, enlarged views, and is eminently distinguished by his love of justice. He is kind and obliging, generous and benevolent, sociable and cheerful, and is possessed of a mind of a contemplative and reflective character. He is honest, frank, fearless and independent, and as free from dissimulation [false appearances] as any man to be found… As a religious teacher, as well as a man, he is greatly beloved by this people.”

William Clayton, an English convert who served as a clerk to Joseph Smith: “The more I am with him, the more I love him; the more I know of him, the more confidence I have in him.”

Joseph F. Smith, the sixth President of the Church: “He was brimming over with the noblest and purest of human nature, which often gave vent in innocent amusements – in playing ball, in wrestling with his brothers and scuffling with them, and enjoying himself; he was not like a man with a stake run down his back, and with his face cast in a brazen mold that he could not smile, that he had no joy in his heart. Oh, he was full of joy; he was full of gladness; he was full of love, and of every other noble attribute that makes men great and good, and at the same time simple and innocent, so that he could descend to the lowest condition; and he had power, by the grace of God, to comprehend the purposes of the Almighty too. That was the character of the Prophet Joseph Smith.”

How do these statements describing Joseph Smith’s appearance, personality, and character influence your feelings about Joseph Smith?

Preparing this lesson has really helped me to see how great and marvelous his accomplishments were

Think about ways you might develop some of these same character traits.

Post a favorite quote/testimony on my bathroom mirror
Pray for strength to develop our own spiritual character
Read scriptures and other good works for inspiration and greater understanding

Joseph Smith: I shall speak with authority of the Priesthood in the name of the Lord God, which shall prove a savor of life unto life, or of death unto death… If you wish to go where God is, you must be like God, or possess the principles which God possesses, for if we are not drawing towards God in principle, we are going from Him and drawing towards the devil… Search your hearts, and see if you are like God. I have searched mine, and feel to repent of all my sins.

Thomas S. Monson: I love the words of President Brigham Young, who said, “I feel like shouting Hallelujah, all the time, when I think that I ever knew Joseph Smith, the Prophet whom the Lord raised up and ordained, and to whom He gave keys and power to build up the kingdom of God on earth.” To this fitting tribute to our beloved Joseph, I add my own testimony that I know he was God’s prophet, chosen to restore the gospel of Jesus Christ in these latter days. I pray that… we may learn from his life. May we incorporate into our own lives the divine principles which he so beautifully taught – by example [courage, faith, honesty, patience, diligence, missionary work, love]– that we, ourselves, might live more completely the gospel of Jesus Christ. May our lives reflect the knowledge we have that God lives, that Jesus Christ is His Son, that Joseph Smith was a prophet, and that we are led today by [a] prophet of God.

AS THE PROPHET THROUGH WHOM THE GOSPEL WAS RESTORED, JOSEPH SMITH TAUGHT GOD’S PLAN OF SALVATION WITH CLARITY AND POWER.

Brigham Young: “The excellency of the glory of the character of Brother Joseph Smith was that he could reduce heavenly things to the understanding of the finite. When he preached to the people – revealed the things of God, the will of God, the plan of salvation, the purposes of Jehovah, the relation in which we stand to him and all the heavenly beings – he reduced his teachings to the capacity of every man, woman and child, making them as plain as a well defined pathway. This should have convinced every person, that ever heard him, of his divine authority and power, for no other man was able to teach as he could, and no person can reveal the things of God, but by the revelations of Jesus Christ.”

Joseph L. Robinson, a counselor in a bishopric in Nauvoo: “We have long since believed and verily known that Joseph Smith was a true and humble Prophet of God, but now our eyes do see him, and our ears hear his voice, which is like the voice of the mighty thunders of Heaven, yet his language is meek and instructive, edifying much. But there is a power and majesty that attends his words and preaching that we never beheld in any man before, for he is a mighty Prophet, a holy man of God. He truly had been educated in the things pertaining to the kingdom of God and was highly charged with the Holy Ghost, which was a constant companion.”

How can these testimonies about the way the Prophet Joseph taught the gospel and explained the scriptures help us as we study and teach the gospel?

Sometimes we may think the Gospel is too complex but its principles are simple and beautiful
Let the Spirit guide us in our study and in the things we say to others when sharing our beliefs

LIKE THE EARLY SAINTS, WE CAN TREASURE UP THE WORDS OF JOSEPH SMITH AND LIVE THE PRINCIPLES HE TAUGHT.

Wilford Woodruff, reporting an April 6, 1837, sermon: “President Joseph Smith Jr. arose and addressed the congregation for the term of three hours, clothed with the power, spirit, and image of God. He unbosomed his mind and feelings in the house of his friends. He presented many things of vast importance to the minds of the elders of Israel. Oh, that they might be written upon our hearts as with an iron pen to remain forever that we might practice them in our lives. That fountain of light, principle, and virtue that came forth out of the heart and mouth of the Prophet Joseph, whose soul like Enoch’s swelled wide as eternity – I say, such evidences presented in such a forcible manner ought to drive into oblivion every particle of unbelief and dubiety from the mind of the hearers, for such language, sentiment, principle, and spirit cannot flow from darkness. Joseph Smith Jr. is a prophet of God raised up for the deliverance of Israel as true as my heart now burns within me.”

What do you think it means to allow the truth to be “written upon our hearts as with an iron pen”?

To have a testimony that will stick with us, no matter what comes
Job described using an “iron pen” to carve his testimony on a rock to stand as a witness for all time – our testimonies should be shared with others as well [see Job 19:23–24].

Brigham Young: “From the first time I saw the Prophet Joseph I never lost a word that came from him concerning the kingdom. And this is the key of knowledge that I have to-day, that I did hearken to the words of Joseph, and treasured them up in my heart, laid them away, asking my Father in the name of his Son Jesus to bring them to my mind when needed. I treasured up the things of God, and this is the key that I hold to-day. I was anxious to learn from Joseph and the Spirit of God.”

How can you follow the examples of Wilford Woodruff and Brigham Young in your study of this book and as you study the teachings of the living prophets?

Hunger after the words of our prophets & leaders to gain a greater understanding of God’s plan for us
Cherish the words of God’s servants
Study diligently so that we can recall these things in times of need