CyndiLou's Graphic Crafts!

Serenity Painting

2011-12-25T23:51:00.001-05:00

My daughter painted this for a Christmas present. I think it came out great! I did the lettering for her!

Vintage Phone

2011-12-06T16:24:00.004-05:00

I have seen some interesting vintage phones on Etsy. I have a "Sculptura", or more commonly known as the Donut Phone from the 1970's in my bedroom. When I spotted these slimline phones on the clearance rack, I felt inspired to embellish some of my own! The "Reservation Line" is a white phone decoupaged yellow by using the yellow pages of the phone book. The Poodle is my illustration and it is finished with pink rhinestone trim. The "Hello" phone is also white but covered with gold swirl tissue paper. Vintage phone silhouettes and "hello" in different languages decorate the hand set. Finally, rhinestone trim adds the last touch! I am still working a black phone cover in white pages! It says "Call Your Mother"!!! Hope you like!

Stock the Bar Party

2011-10-13T19:21:00.002-04:00

Times have changed since I got married in 1981! Parties were fun, but more plain then compared to the Uber Events that are planned today! Here is a gift that I made for a couples shower where stocking the newlyweds liquor cabinet was the theme!I got a chance to show off my binding skills too!!! So... Eat, Drink and Be Married!!!

Old Windows Hand Painted for a Garden

2011-07-04T13:53:00.003-04:00

My sister asked me for help painting a gift for her friend, Dee. She wanted some old windows painted to display in her garden. I love doing this kind of project and I was happy to create a flower design to suit the occasion and also teach her about my new favorite paint!!! I just love these Folk Art Enamels! They are wonderful on glass and the colors are glossy and vibrant! It is great having a family project and quick gift! Happy Birthday Dee!!! Send me some pics of the windows in your garden! Happy 4th of July too!

Painting Party Touch~Up!

2011-03-30T13:08:00.001-04:00

So,. . . I have already told you about my new involvement with Visions & Vino, the craft/painting party business. Now, along with teaching, I am designing the patterns being used!!! It is wonderful seeing my work being interpreted by other artists and patrons! What a thrill!!!

I am surprised to see all the other similar companies pop up in our area of Atlanta, but not sure how long they will be around after seeing some of the canvases from these parties. So. . . I am now offering a Touch-up service! If you have attended a painting party class and you are unhappy with your end result, I will touch it up for you! Above you can see the before & after of my latest fixer upper! This is a $40.00 re-do, but I will be glad to meet you and discuss the extent of your make-over. I can change colors, add details or take out mistakes without erasing the wonderful memories you had taking the class!!! Just drop me an email if you are interested in an evaluation!

Cyndilouwho@Bellsouth.net

Visions & Vino!

2011-01-18T11:23:00.004-05:00

I was just hired by one of those Canvas Painting Party Companies! It is called Visions & Vino and is owned by an old dear friend of mine, Belinda. We go way back to the 1980's when Michaels first opened craft stores in Atlanta! I was the Classroom Co-ordinator and she was one of my 30 teachers. Her oil painting skills and her bubbley personality attracted students from all over Gwinnett and surrounding counties! Her new business sends teachers to different locations or to your home for painting and craft parties. Similar companies only have a stationary spot and offer limited projects that are look-a-likes. I have designed all of my patterns so we are able to offer a unique or custom product to our partiers. These painting are for beginners and also for those who are not artistic and want to be creative for relaxation. So please go by the site and check out the offering! I would love to bring some fun to your next "Girl's Night Out" or your neighborhood social!
http://visionsandvino.com/

Hand Painted Glassware

2011-01-14T08:47:00.003-05:00

I painted so many wine glasses this past season I thought you might like to see a few! I do them all freehand!
As always, I used my Bake-On Paints! Stay tuned for more examples! Enjoy!

B-A-C-O-N! Bacon, BACON!!!

2011-01-10T14:55:00.000-05:00

My Bacon Journey start just before Halloween 2010. It is my son's senior year of High School and he needed a costume. I found an old magazine that had unique homemade outfits from the previous year . . . Bacon & Eggs from a foodie mag!

We started making a bacon Toga from a white tablecloth using just red and white paint. Then I over-decorated a Steak N Shake hat with bacon labels printed off the Internet! Then, his girlfriend got involved and we needed a costume for her too! Instead of making another hat I thought about what I could create bacon charms out of! I had a bunch of foam meat trays in my recycling bin so I cut them into stripes, punched a hole at one end and shrunk them in the oven! WOW! it was shaped just like cooked bacon! I painted them all white and used red and black to create the realistic effect!

So . . . Halloween was a big hit and I sold some charms on Etsy too!

Tea Time!

2011-01-09T19:51:00.001-05:00

Here is one of my brainstorm creations from this past holiday season 2010! They are teacups for your tea lover or for your martini lover! I had a teabag tag on each one that had my Logo one side and a "Mar-Tea-ni" Recipe on the other!

I found the cups at the thrift store for 40cents each. The candlestick base was also 40cents! I glued them together and them embellishished the seem with floral glass pebbles. Of course they are hand painted with my bake-on paints first! Enjoy!

Personalized Clipboard

2011-01-05T09:21:00.001-05:00

Here is a custom order that I created for Tammy. It is just a plain brown chipboard clipboard painted with Plaid Folk Art Enamels. The color #4038, Magenta, matched perfectly with the ribbon that I found a Michaels. After painting the name and dots, I baked the piece in the oven so it didn't need a coating or finish! This paint is made to stay on glass and ceramic too! I made a loopy bow with the ribbon and attached it to the top of the clip with a pipe cleaner. I am sure Lexii loved the thoughtful, personalized gift to help her "Play School"!!!

Happy New Year

2011-01-03T10:40:00.000-05:00

Sorry that it has been so long since my last entry. In the next several posts I will catch up on the projects that I completed during the 2010 holiday season. I hope you had a wonderful November & December and best wishes for 2011!

Birthday Zine

2010-10-04T22:13:00.002-04:00

I love Zines...I love Facebook!
It was my Mom & Sisters birthdays last week . . . so I decided to make them a little surprise to go with their gifts. They each already have a Facebook page, but could use a little tutoring on the operations, so I made them a zine on the subject! I think that it turned out really cute! Hope you like it too!

Mediterranean Recipe Card

2010-08-31T20:42:00.000-04:00

On the Recipe Card Challenge Blog, the Design Team, (that means me & some other great Gals), were asked to create a recipe card inspired by a Mediterranean Summer. All the colors and foods of the Mediterranean inspire our cards! The Scrapbook Store To Your Door supports our efforts and set the challenges. Head over there and check out what the other members have created!
http://scrapbookstoreatyourdoor.blogspot.com/2010/07/mediterranean-summer-recipe-card.html

Margarita Party on the 4th!

2010-07-05T17:42:00.007-04:00

Hope you had a wonderful 4th of July! We had a good time
because we were invited to the Miko's Pool Party. I was
thrilled to be asked to bring the Margaritas! When I found
out that they didn't have any Margarita glasses...I knew
exactly what to take as a house gift! Here is how I hand
painted the glasses. I loved they way that they

turned out and the drinks were Fa-bu too! Cheers!

My 1st Zine Swap

2010-06-23T09:12:00.004-04:00

Zine is short for Magazine and is pronounced "ZEEN". In this

swap, I was to Create a single-sheet zine and copy it. Generally,

the zines should be about art or creativity...a publication put

together and distributed by the creator, for love and not profit.

They can be xeroxed or printed; small or big; written, typed,

typeset or drawn; and on any subject. A zine can be loosely

defined as an underground publication that is independently

produced and self-published, typically photocopied. I was to

fill the page, copy it, fold it and then hand embellish and send it

off to the organizer. I should get 5 zines back in the mail from

other artists! I'll let you know how it goes!

Hand Painted Dress

2010-06-06T21:10:00.003-04:00

I can't believe how long it has been since my last post! Sorry

about that! I have been so busy with job hunting and High

School Varsity Tennis with my son! I found this drees on

the Walmart clearance rack and decided to paint it up for

myself. I use Soft Paints and I think it turned out wonderful!

I Have a New Journaling Network!

2010-03-16T14:40:00.003-04:00

Please go by the site and check it out. It is for Journalers
of all levels with prompts, projects and community.
http://thejournalcoach.ning.com/

Free Digi From Dinner for Two

2010-02-12T19:15:00.008-05:00

Here is my design for the Scrapbook Store at Your Door
Recipe Card Challenge this week. The theme was Dinner
for 2 and I created a card for my very romantic Mex Shrimp
Cocktail! Skip over there and see the finished product and
don't forget to grab the digi! Speaking of my Digi's . . .
Silvia from SillyScrap used my Eiffel Tower from the
Valentine Blog Hop and made a card! Please check it out.
She is my 1st viewer/designer to tell me that she used my
work! I am so thrilled!!!You can see the post directly
below for the design. Thanks so much for letting me see!

Welcome to My Stop on the HOP!

2010-02-06T11:33:00.010-05:00

Welcome to my Blog! Iam so happy that you could stop by!

Today I am showing you my Valentine Hanging Card from

a Recycled Envelope! So...Scroll all the way down and

you will find the Free Digi that goes with the design.

If you become my FOLLOWER and Leave me a

comment about the Hop and this Project...I will pick a

winner on Monday to receive a special pink journal

I made from recycled mail ans scraps! I will personalize

the book for the winner! So it is time to just proceed

through the photos and it will show you how I made

this project. You can click on any pic to enlarge the view!

Hope you found that easy! Here are the steps:

Go through your mail, find a legal envelope to recycle,

secure or reglue any loose edges, Trim the envelope

to form a pocket, Cut a piece of paper to line the inside

pocket and top, then glue, Trim corners and cut out tag,

Decorate the outer pocket and Tag! Punch circle so

pocket will hang on your favorite wine or

champange bottle! Voila!

So, I hope you enjoyed this project, grab your Digi's and

her is my Key Word: The

Now it is time for you to hop to Jean!

BUT... don't leave me until you become my Follower

and leave me a Comment!

Thanks,

Have a Fun Day!

Cyndi

Hot Apple Cider and Free Digi

2010-02-05T12:04:00.004-05:00

Here is my entry for the Scrapbook Recipe Challenge called "Drinks to Warm Your Soul". Hope you enjoy the Free Digi!!!

My Valentine Blog Hop with Free Digi's

2010-02-04T16:53:00.003-05:00

My Post for the "Re-purpose with Love, Valentine Blog Hop"

starting on Create It Green on Saturday, February, 6th, 2010

will feature Valentine Gifts made with recycled envelopes. I

will also post the Free Digi's that go with the projects and a

couple of others too!Please join me and my Create it Green

friends for projects, gifts, games and prizes! I will offer a

prize to anyone who becomes my Follower and then leaves

a comment!

You will have to wait till Saturday to find out what it is!

Budget Friendly Recipe Challenge & Free Digi

2010-01-29T16:47:00.005-05:00

On Tuesday, January 19, 2010, my Bath Salt display was featured on the ScrapbookStoreAtYour Door Blog! The Subject was a Budget Friendly Recipe Challenge. Here is the Recipe Card I made for that task. For the "Budget" part or the Recycled part, I added newsprint, Banana Seal stickers and a tassel that I had lying around! I also cut apart 2 of the flowers,(Prima's Beauty Marks)to make the one "Chiquita" Flower! I punched the rest from scrap paper I already had. I painted all of the flowers with a little yellow paint so they all blended together. Don't those seals make great centers!?!
Enoy the Free Banana Digi...Hope you like it!

Valentine Blog Hop 2010

2010-01-26T16:11:00.007-05:00

The Create It Green Blog, Re-purpose with Love, Valentine

Blog Hop, will be Saturday, February, 6th, 2010. It will start

at noon , EST and showcase Blogs of our Contributors, Design

Team, Followers and Friends! There will also be other games

and awards! For anyone interested in having their blog

featured in the Hop Line-up, Please drop me an email at

cyndilouwho@bellsouth.net . The projects, tutorials and

creations will be upcycling oriented and use recycled items

in the instructions! The projects, descriptions and teaser pics

are due by January 31st, 2010. So plan on joining us for the

fun, Free Digi's and prizes! If you can't make it...not to worry!

the projects will still be there whenever you come by!!!

Gifts I created for My Clients

2010-01-21T13:17:00.005-05:00

Now that the holidays are over, I can show you some of the gifts that hand painted and sold in December 2009. I painted many family plates...that is my most popular item. This one was a custom order for the Byrd family. I actually made a bunch of these! The tile was a special order that I received at a Craft Show. I love the way the kitty's fur came out! Lastly, the wine glasses! These were a gift for a Mary Kay Lady and I am thrilled with the look! Everyone was very pleased and I was happy to experiment with some new designs!

Holiday Bath Salts

2010-01-04T18:28:00.008-05:00

Before the Holiday Season started I made a big batch of Bath Salts to ready for my friends. I scooped the mix of epsom and sea salts into clear goodie bags tied with ribbon and a hand written tag. The scent combo was Mandarin Pine!I ended up taking them to a party along with some homemade Cosmopolitian Mixer. I poured the liquid into tiny jugs that I found at Whole Foods by the olive oils. As you can see,-They made a wonderful centerpiece.

Here is the Bath Salt Recipe:
Mandarin Pine Bath Salts
2 4-pound cartons Epsom Salts (appr.16 cups),
4 pounds sea salt or Kosher salt (appr.6 cups),
3 tablespoon glycerin, divided,
20 to 30 drops Orange essential oil,
20 to 30 drops Pine essential oil,
12 to 15 drops green food color,
* cardstock (for tags)

My New Adventure with The Recipe Card Challenge Blog!

2009-12-11T08:59:00.003-05:00

Congratulate me!!! I made it on to the Recipe Card Challenge Design Team! I love making recipe cards and using tags so when I found this blog I applied right away! (And that was only a few days ago!) I will get a packet of supplies from the store, and I vow to use these supplies as much as possible! You usually see my illustrations alone, unless it is an altered project, but I will do my best to incorporate other stamps, art and supplies found at scrapbookstoreatyourdoor.com!
I will be getting a list of challenges for the next six months starting in January 2010. So I can't wait to get going and I will be trying to impress you! Please follow me there!
If you have a recipe that you need glam-ed up just send it to me at: cyndilouwho@bellsouth.net and I'll add it to my idea list!
Also---Thank you Julie Crossley, store owner. . . I won't let you down! Thanks so much for the opportunity!

My Blog Hop Winner is ...

2009-12-08T08:16:00.001-05:00

Thank you to all the Blog Hoppers that left comments on the Create It Green event on December 5th! Everyone had wonderful projects and the comments were just as uplifting! The winner of my Faux Samo, Fake Girl Scout Cookie Ornament is...Butterfly07!
Please contact me at: cyndilouwho@bellsouth.net with your mailing information!
Thanks again for making our 1st event a success!

Christmas Blog Hop Altered Christmas Album

2009-12-05T08:07:00.018-05:00

Welcome to the Create it Green Christmas Blog Hog! I hope you have enjoyed the other contributor projects so far. If not,---head over there first and follow along. The offical starting time is 12noon est, but since I have a craft show today, I posted a little early!

Let's Hop to it!!!

Supplies:

-Book from the thrift store or clearance rack, prefer

with hard cover, & content with pictures

-Sand Paper -Tape

-Craft Knife & Metal Ruler

-Glue Stick & White School Glue

-Decoupage Glue -Punches

-Tags & chipboard shapes

-Stamps, rubber & used postage

-Stickers, die cuts, Clip Art & photos

-Acrylic Paint, ink, watercolor & etc

-Paint Brush & permanent markers

-Scissors, straight & fancy edge

-Scrapbook, wrapping & wall paper scraps

-String, ribbon, lace & gold wire

-Buttons, trinkets, charms & etc…

Instructions:

-Prepare book cover, rub the shiny off the cover

using the sand paper, then dust off.

-Go through the book…paper clipping the pages

that are being saved. About half of the pages need
to be removed to make room for the layering,

folding & other desired alterations. Don’t remove the page consecutively, cut randomly throughout the book to create evenness between the covers.

Keep 2 pages together where there is a slide out

planned. Paper clip together as a reminder.

-Remove the pages using a craft knife and a metal ruler. Lay the ruler behind the page that is being taken out. Place it close to the binding and run the knife along the ruler to cleanly take out. Tearing the page out could break the string in the binding.

-Decide on “tabs”. Use puzzle pieces, tags, chip

board shapes, buttons, etc to create page makers.

Use 2 of each item and glue back to back---

trapping the page edge to create the tab. Face any
eyelets or holes out so ribbon can dangle out of

the edge.

-After tabs are created down the length of the book,

tear the edge on either side of the tab to short the

page and make the tab stand out. Then tear down

all the other pages so the tab really shows! The

pages that are being saved for slide outs should be

held and torn together to stay uniform.

-Tearing hint: Use a paint brush and water to

dampen the outline. Let it sit a few seconds, then

pull apart! It creates a nice ruff edge without the

frustration of ripping! Great for tiny pieces!

-Fold pages & glue in place to create pockets .

-Plan a Slide Out. Decorate a tag and have it pull out of a slit in a page. Put a cutting board behind the page and use a craft knife to cut a slot slightly wider than the tag. Turn the page over and mark the area that the tag takes up, then glue the page to the next one –leaving the inside of the outline without glue.
Lightly paint the page and add details with a permanent marker. Follow the design template. Tie streamers to the tag.

-Painting over Text and existing photos doesn’t have to be uniform or solid. Leave special words or titles and photo areas unpainted to have the page say what you want.

-Making a Jumping Jack takes 2 pages. Paint and seal the front page to be dolled up! Decorate the page and the Jumping Jack Elf Template. Cut out. Punch 2 holes in each limb & tie with string as shown in diagram. Add a charm to the center string as a pull. Lay the arms & legs on the page and use a pen to mark the holes where the brads go on the page. Insert brads through limbs and page. Open brads on the back of the page & secure with tape. Glue the page back to the next page to encase the brad backs. On the front, use white school glue to secure the Elf head to the page. Once that is dry, a dot of glue can be adding to the head of each brad to give extra support to the elf body!

-Pages don’t have to be uniform. Tear it up!
-Save elements from old magazines to enhance the theme.

-Don’t be afraid to Experiment…you can’t make a mistake! You can always tape a page back in!

-Collage the cover using any scraps desired. Start
by applying paint to camouflage any unwanted
words, pictures or authors. When gluing on paper,

paint the item on the back with decoupage glue,stick down, then brush over the front with more glue. Place the book in a slightly warm oven, the heat will suck any air out from behind the paper to make it a very smooth surface. Add stamps, stickers or photo cut outs to give the book a personality and title that suites your theme!

So-There it is . . . my favorite holiday album! Grab all the Freebie Digis and leave me some Comment Love and win this Fake Girl Scout Cookie, it's a Faux Samo! (Good enough to eat!)

Feel Free to ask any questions and I'll give the best responce I can. Sorry I am not a great writer, hope the instructions are clear! Please "Follow Me" too! Go over to the Create it GreenYahoo Group and look for my photo album labled-CyndiLou's Graphic Crafts- Blog Hop Pics. There will be all the Digis needed for your project!

Now it is time for you to hop to Jean's Blog for a Rustic Star! Happy Holidays!

Create it Green Blog Hop Countdown Is On!

2009-11-29T19:38:00.004-05:00

Don't Forget to mark your calendars for the Create it Green Blog Hop

on Saturday, December 5th, 2009. It starts at 12noon with green

holiday projects,tutorials and prizes!

Also... don't forget to check out Jan's anniversary give away!

http://createitgreen.blogspot.com/

Papercraft Pleasures: My blog will be a year old next month!#links#links

Happy ThanksGiving and a Free Digi from Me!

2009-11-26T11:38:00.006-05:00

My Blog Hop Project

2009-11-25T19:18:00.003-05:00

On December 5th, starting at noon, EST - Create it Green Blog

contributors will have their first Blog Hop and it is a holiday theme!

Some of the projects that will be featured are: Christmas candy and

Cookie Boxes, Green Christmas ornaments and I will be showing you

a Altered Book(6pm)---from thrift store to keepsake album! So check

out the blog and join the Yahoo Group if you want to add your blog

to the mix! You can also find Create it Green on Facebook! All my

templates will be available on the Yahoo Group file page just after the event!

Christmas Blog Hop

2009-11-24T16:05:00.002-05:00

The Create It Green Blog Contributors are planning an exciting day of blog hopping, tutorials and prizes on December 5th, starting at 12 noon EST. Please join the Yahoo Group "Create It Green", if you have a blog and would like to participate.We do not sell any products just enjoy trying to help save the planet by recycling, re-purposing and re-using products in our crafts. Many of these projects have things that can be found in your own home so they do not require expensive products.
Please join us!!!

My New Blog--- Your Invited!

2009-11-18T12:07:00.001-05:00

Surprise!!! Here is a new addition to my Blog family! It is a resume of all the party invitations that I have created over the years. I was inspired by Meda and her invitations at: http://handmadebymeda.blogspot.com/
I started making calligraphy party invitations when I worked at the Paper Parlour, in 1992. It is one of my favorite projects to design. I'll be adding more as I scan them in! Let me know what you think!

http://imakeinvitations.blogspot.com/

To Celebrate my achievement---here is digi bell you can use for your invitations or holiday project! Just click to enlarge the image-- then right click to save to your file! Send me some comment love! Enjoy!

Fake Girl Scout Cookie!

2009-11-16T14:56:00.006-05:00

If you scroll down you'll see the Girl Scout Purse I created after shopping at the thrift store. Ever since I started carrying the bag, friends and strangers have tried to grab the fake cookie dangler hanging from the handle. As an artist...I know that anything that gets this much attention---Must be reproduced! So, here is a step by step photo tutorial on how it was done.
If you like papier-mache, try Celluclay for the cookie base. A cardboard circle can be an alternitive. I used orzo pasta for the coconut, but rice could be applied too! My favorite spray paint is the cheap stuff from Wal-mart, it's around $1.00 a can, but be sure to get the trigger unit to attach to the top! It makes the spraying go so easy! My favorite decoupage glue is Royal Coat or Modge Podge, plus it serves as the top coat!
Click on the pic to see the enlarged photo view!
Enjoy your Faux Samo Ornament and let me know how you like it!

Name Tag Idea Comes to Life

2009-11-10T22:44:00.004-05:00

I have had this idea in my head for a while, I finally got it out! I wore that crazy shingle name tag during my kid's Marching Band years! I got more attention at away events that it really got me thinking. So I started collecting all these items that could be the base badge part. The "Joann" and the "Shirley" are both made on some old grocery store name tags, but in the future I will show what else I can concoct! Click on the pic and see all the details enlarged!

Another Thrift Store Upcycle Creation & Free Pattern!

2009-11-08T15:43:00.009-05:00

Yes --- I am into handbags lately! This is another Thrift Store bag that I found for $2.00! I started by applying a blob of acrylic paint and swirling the edges until it looked feathery. I went through my paper scraps and found some of my own clipart, dinner napkins and other scrapbook snips! I decoupaged everything around the white area, coating the fronts and backs. When it was dry I added so gold & blue acrylic paint, stamps and pen & ink -to pull it all together. I coated the painted areas with a little more deco glue to seal the top!
I also like dangley stuff, so it is finished off with an old necklace medallion(RT), a black cross earring(RT), and a shoe clip(L).

Plus---I love wings. So---here is my pattern that you can copy. You will see that I use it on many of my items! Just click on the pic to enlarge, then right click & save to your photos! Let me know if you like it!

I want to make you ---want to touch it!
How'd I do?!

Recycled Bag in a Girl Scout Theme

2009-11-06T16:43:00.009-05:00

I was helping a friend put together a Halloween Costume at a thrift store when I spotted this cool purse! It was only $2.00! (It's great since I am having a handbag fetish lately!) I was inspired when my friend told me that Girl Scout Cookies are being sold early this year, so I couldn't resist turning this Babe Bag into something Theme-riffic! The outer portion of the bag is printed cloth, so just gave it a shot of Fabreeze and then looked for images on Google. I was able to print out some vintage pics, logos, cookie copies and box illustrations for the collage. I glued them on the the bag with my favorite Royal Coat Decoupage Glue. I also painted GS berets on the girl's heads. The rhinestones were already on the front of the bag!
Then, I just had to have a cookie! Samoas are my preferred weakness! Doesn't it look good? I impressed myself! Not bad for a bar coaster, broken up toothpicks, paint and hot glue! Click on the pic and see a larger view!
GOT MILK?!

Dig My New Blog Header!

2009-11-06T15:52:00.008-05:00

Here is what my header used to look like! BIG Difference!

Hi---

Sorry that it has been so long since my last post! Many things have been happening at home and on my computer!

First,-I resigned from the Creatively-Green Design Team because management was at a "Stand-Still" as far as orders and creativity was concerned. I am looking for ways to move forward not backward. So ---I am now a contributor over at http://createitgreen.blogspot.com/

with some other former CG Design Team members. We also have a Yahoo Group with the same name! Come join us there for some wonderful green crafting and scrapbooking!http://groups.yahoo.com/group/createitgreen/

At home-

Both of my daughters are involved in buying real estate so I have been out house hunting and having a great time! So- exciting!!! I'll be sharing their home decorating creations in the near future!

***I honor of my ***Blog-a-versary...I made a new blog header and turned this template into 3 column! It was alot of work, but I did it without any help! I am so proud!!! Hope you enjoy it!

My Blogiversary Was Yesterday!

2009-09-06T16:11:00.010-04:00

Yesterday, September 5th, was my 2nd Blogiversary and my 28th Wedding Anniversary! In honor of that. . . here is a photo of a wedding I went to in May. I made the Ring Bearer, Daniel, a nest to carry.( Miss Partridge married Mr Byrd!) The nest was a fitting tribute! So- - - here's to everyone, may we Celebrate with a Salute to the Past and a Toast to the Future! Thanks for all your wonderful comments during the life of this blog! Many Blessings to you!

My First Blog Award, IdyllHours!

2009-08-27T20:20:00.027-04:00

OMGosh, I am so honored,(being a blog award virgin)! I got this Beautiful Accolade, called the "Idyllhours Blog Award", from my cyber friend, Cindy aka Luciesfloozies. Please visit her blog, to see her wonderful creations!!

(Cindy-You are so sweet to think of me!)

www.luciesflooziestwo.blogspot.com

(I have to tell you... I love this award, but I was disappointed in the image that went along with the honor. The person who first started this award did a wonderful job in choosing the sentiment and photo to represent this Badge. I thought it had gotten diluted with use. So I reconstructed the logo. I wish that I could have found the original, but I came upon too many broken links. Please forgive me if you are reading this and you were the creator. I did my best!)

Of course, there are a few things I have to do,
My obligation, as being an Idyllhours recipient, is to fulfill this pledge upon the following conditions: In accepting this award, I must name 5 things that I enjoy doing, and in no particular order, and I must pass this Honor on to 5 more people and they are, in no particular order! If I have left you a comment---that I have given you this award, please click on the Badge to enlarge it before you right click to save it to your computer and post it to your blog!

My 5 Favorite Activities:

1-I love watching TV & old Movies and eating popcorn!

2- I love getting dressed-up and going out with my husband, Joe! -I started this blog on our Wedding Anniversary, 9-5-2007

3- I can't live unless I am creating! And I am very good at all kinds of arts & crafts! Hope you agree!

4- I am really enjoying Facebook! -I love looking at every one's photos & finding old friends!

5- I adore my children; Mindy, Hanna & Kevin! they are almost grown & I am very proud of them!

Oh- I want to include my new Kitten, Ma Cherie!

My Favorite 5 Blogs:

1-Barb at Purse Project, http://iwannanewbag.blogspot.com/

2-Sue a Creativly-Green Friend at http://suestampindaly.blogspot.com/

3- Jackie my Creativly-Green DT friend, http://chicscraps.blogspot.com/

4- Joy, Craftymug at http://craftythisandthat.blogspot.com/

5- RecycleCindy at http://www.myrecycledbags.com/

There are so many others I would choose also, but for now this is my five.

Thank you again Cindy...this means a lot to me....
Please visit all my Blog Friends and leave some "Comment Love"!

Creatively Green Scrapbook Store

2009-08-12T20:05:00.006-04:00

Here is what my page on the Creatively Green Scrapbook Store looks like! Join me and become a member! When the form asks where you heard about the site, please use my name: Cyndi Pfeiffer ! Be sure to check out the gallery before going to the store! There are so many great projects!
~~~~WELL, This is what it used to look like! I have since resigned from the Design Team and I have been banned from the Forum. The owner wasn't telling the truth about when she shipped the order and other design team materials. I felt it best that my name wasn't connected with a site that lacked integrity.

Decoupage Letter Box Instructions

2009-08-10T08:37:00.003-04:00

I will have a very busy day tomorrow! Here in Atlanta, GA it is the first day of school! My son has been out since May 20th or around there!!! We will be up at 0'dark-30 -making sure he is up and on his way to the neighbors to hitch a ride with a classmate! (He wouldn't dare ride the bus! OH, the Horror!)He will be a High School Junior! I would have thought that I was walking him to the bus stop for his 1st day of Kindergarten! Time has flown by especially since he is my 3rd and last one to be in High School! (Treasure your young one's days, ladies!) Then, it will be time to tackle a college admissions problem, but the institution of higher learning is only down the block! Thank Goodness!

Well, enough of that! To my good news -Craftbits.com allows you to submit your own creative project ideas to be featured on the site. You can either submit via a free program or through a professional paid program. My decoupage letter box that I made for my daughter, Hanna -is up for approval on the Professional Paid Program! I am Psyched! So---tomorrow I will have to photograph the box on a white background and then go get another box at Michael's to remake the project creating step by step photos as I go! Keep your fingers crossed that I will be approved after I submit all the material!You should give it a try too! Craftbits pays up to $45.00 per project!

http://www.craftbits.com/

Collage for Kathryn!

2009-07-27T13:48:00.003-04:00

Here is the collage that I just finished for my friend Kathryn! She and her husband enjoy entertaining their lush backyard! I have add many items that would have normally gone in the trash! Click on the pic to see the enlargment and check on the details! Enjoy!

I Made the Creativly-Green Design Team!

2009-07-24T11:11:00.005-04:00

I am proud to announce that I am one of 12 new designers to be picked for the website Creatively-Green.
Here is their Welcome!:
We specialize in creative, alternative, handmade art and craft supplies with a conscience. As a family owned business, it is our mission to bring you unique, non toxic, and safe alternatives, without compromising on quality.
We are the first online store to specialize in eco friendly scrapbooking and paper art supplies. We just dont have some recycled items, thats ALL we carry! We also manufacture our own line of recycled cardstock, available in muti packs and monochromatic. Available in all sizes. Beyond that, we have a few lines of handmade recycled embellishements. Some of these lines include: Clay Artz, Whoopsie Daisies, Wax Duds, and coming soon we will have our own line of pressed artistic papers. It is our plan to not only bring you fantastic products but to also provide you with fabulous design ideas, a GREEN community and gallery, where you can create and share all of your talent!
They are also have a Facebook Fan Page, so go by there and so my projects!
http://www.creatively-green.com/Gallery.html

Brew Awakenings Winning T-Shirt Design!

2009-07-15T08:32:00.003-04:00

Yes! My Design won! I'll let you know when Jenni has the shirts ready!

Aura House Mandala Contest

2009-07-14T21:02:00.002-04:00

I won 3rd place! HooRay! Check Out the other Winners!
http://aurahouse.com/mandalagallery.htm

Mixed Media Decoupage Box

2009-07-03T13:27:00.009-04:00

I just finished a box for Hanna to be used as Graduation Letter storage. It is made from a plain white pencil box with a latch. I painted and glued on ball feet made from my spa bath liquid lids. For the exterior decoupage I used paper napkins, my own digital clip art, pressed flowers, craft paint and spackling. I painted and glued the box inside with black flocking. The outside also has cooper metal shavings to accent the spackling to make it look worn. I dabbed the same paint color on the lock and key & added a coordinating tassel. It turned out beautiful!

Santa's Magic Key

2009-06-30T23:01:00.005-04:00

Here are the projects that I just submitted to Cloth, Paper Scissors. They had a call for entry on their Fan page on Facebook. The poem say:

This key is very special- - - You see- - -It won’t work for you or me!
Just hang it outside your door, Go to bed and worry no more!
Hurry and close your eyes -And say, “Goodnight”.
Because Santa is using your key, And visiting tonight!

Military Wedding Platter

2009-04-23T16:27:00.001-04:00

I painted this for a Military Wedding Shower! All the guests signed and then the bride decided to take it to the wedding reception! I'll post another pic as soon as I get one from the mother of the groom!

Recycle a Snack Can

2009-03-25T14:43:00.003-04:00

Here is my new project for Food Donation Money at my husbands tennis match! It is made from a Frito Lay Snack can. There is a slit cut into the plastic lid.

Feed the Kitty means to Contribute money to a pool or reserve, as in I can't make a big donation this year, but I'm willing to feed the kitty something. This term, originating in gambling, incorporates a pun, since kitty can mean "cat" as well as "pool." [Late 1800s]

Baby Shower

2009-03-22T12:05:00.006-04:00

Look at these beautiful decorations from the baby shower Hanna and I went to yesterday! I printed the Poem Cards and Grandma Dana(Bun Bun- as some call her!) did the rest! Such a wonderful party! We will all be praying with you Moma Bessie!

Personalizing

2009-03-16T08:45:00.006-04:00

By the late 1970's, personalizing gift shops started to appear from Texas to To Georgia. The trends began in craft stores and developed into a specialty store by the 1979. The attraction of the retail boutique was the artist in residence. Blank acrylic, plastic, and ceramic items line the shelves waiting to be decorated by the handpainters who were sitting in the center of the shop. This is how I started my art career. In 1978, while I was in college, I learned to use Wet Paint from Illinois Bronze, to hand paint dot lettering on almost any surface. I worked at NameDroppers and I was really good at it!

Custom Baby Shower Invitation!

2009-03-12T12:23:00.008-04:00

Here is a custom order I recently completed. The invitation was made to match the new mom's nursery bedding for a baby boy.
Check out my new blog that features my other hand made invitations:
http://imakeinvitations.blogspot.com/

Drinks

2009-03-04T19:11:00.003-05:00

I am taking this really great Emory Nutrition Class with a wonderful teacher named Linda. Here is one of the boards that I made for her. Thought you would enjoy seeing it!

Cheerleading Squad Banquet Gift

2009-02-19T14:40:00.003-05:00

My latest painting was done on tiles for a cheerleading banquet. Didn't they come out Great! SO Cute!

iGoogle Themes!

2009-02-15T21:24:00.007-05:00

This is so cool! I used my Paisley Plant Design to make a custom theme for my iGoogle homepage! You can get it too, it will be in the theme directory soon! Let me know how you like it!

Heart Flower Valentine Dish

2009-02-05T20:28:00.005-05:00

Valentine Kite

2009-02-03T19:03:00.003-05:00

Here is my second new Valentine design. I hand painted it on a ceramic dish and baked it on! Hope you enjoy it!

Bride and Groom Balloons

2009-02-02T16:05:00.006-05:00

This is my latest creation for Valentines day! It is a pattern that I have been using for many years. I first used it when I worked at the Paper Parlour in the 1980's and I have enjoyed painting it ever since. Leave me a comment if you want me to make one for you! It is $25.00 and that includes that personalizing! Great for Valentines Day or an Anniversary.

Grandma's Garden Blessing

2009-01-26T12:01:00.005-05:00

Back in October, My Grandmother passed away at the age of 96. She didn't want anything done after she was gone---no viewing, no funeral, no fuss! She was cremated and we put her ashes into her beloved "Grandma Bag"(It has hearts and all the grandchildren's names on the front). Then, my Mom, sister Andrea, Aunt Maureen, and myself got to work and created this bookmark keepsake. We each added to the life story and searched for poems that she would have liked. Two of the poem pieces were in her her desk and the rest we found on the Internet. After putting all the part together and laminating, -we sent them to everyone in the family and on Grandma's Christmas card list. We won't ever forget her. Her memories, recipes and stories live on in everyone who knew her. I love you Grandma.

Readers get a FREE Pattern

2009-01-04T15:09:00.009-05:00

I have had several crafters ask me for patterns of my work and I have been baffled how to do that. For my birthday, 4 days ago, my darling husband figured out how to do it! So as an experiment today, I will import a pen & ink illustration of "Tree for Me" and you can right click it onto your system! Just right click & Save! Don't forget to send me some Comment Love!

Friendship Contract for the New Year

2009-01-03T10:35:00.009-05:00

I got an email yesterday from a good friend in my neighborhood and I had to share it with you. I also thought you might like to see one of my illustrations in progress. I will post the finished one sometime in the future. Please check back!
So--- here is my 2009 Contract to you:
After serious & cautious consideration . . Your contract of friendship has been renewed for the New Year 2009! It was a very hard decision to make. So try not to screw it up!!!(LOL)

My Wish for You in 2009. . . May peace break into your house and may thieves come to steal your debts. May the pockets of your jeans become a magnet for $100 bills. May love stick to your face like Vaseline and may laughter assault your lips! May your clothes smell of success like smoking tires and may happiness slap you across the face and may your tears be that of joy. May the problems you have forget your home address! In simple words . . .

May 2009 be the best year of your life!!!

Thanks Chiquita!

Happy New Year 2009!

2009-01-02T11:09:00.006-05:00

I am a day late with my toast to you, but I know you don't mind! This drawing, I did last year for New Years 2008, but it is still appropriate for this new year! So I hope that your 2009 is happy, brite and you reach all your goals and resolutions!
Here is an interesting article from the Goals Guys to inspire you!
http://www.goalsguy.com/Events/n_facts.html
Have a Happy!
CyndiLou

The River Hand Painted Plates

2009-01-01T11:54:00.004-05:00

This is the last of my holiday creations that wanted to show you. My daughter, Mindy got the order from one of the sales managers at her office. Her entire sales team recieved one, I painted 18 to be exact! I just love that Pebeo Bake-on Paint! I hope you enjoyed my hand painted goodies! Happy New Year and Happy Birthday to me!!!

Snowman Flakes

2008-12-31T08:44:00.005-05:00

Here is another one of my creations that kept me going through the holidays! It was designed for a friend that has all of her family over on Christmas Eve! Once again I used the Bake on Paints; my favorite! Love this platter too!

Hand Painted Santa's List Plate

2008-12-30T21:24:00.003-05:00

This is the design that got me through the holidays without a job! I painted this design on a plate with the Bake on Paints. I carried it around everywhere I went and asked everyone if they wanted to see it. I actually got my first orders by doing this. I impressed myself! I ended up selling about 30 of them!
I know I can make a business out of this! I am now working on designs for Valentines Day and Easter!

Knifty Knitter Santa Bag

2008-12-29T19:50:00.007-05:00

I started playing around with a Knifty Knitter 2 years ago when I made hats for everyone that Christmas. Last year, we received a red velour goodie bag with a white fun fur collar and pom poms down the front, but it wasn't made very well, but I still thought it was cute. I knew I could improve it! In October, while at a Ladies Club Meeting and a friend was knitting(with Needles) a bag that she was going to felt and then add an eyelash yarn to the top edge. I immediately thought of my circle loom! That's when my Knifty Santa Bag was born. As of now, I have made one for all the girls in the family! Then, I was invited to a Grandmother Shower and I made a Pink one.(I tucked some baby utensils inside!) It looks so Victorian; I am going to make one for myself!!! So---I am having a little trouble with the instructions, if you are familiar with those abbreviations, please leave me a comment and lend me a hand! Let's collaborate!

Our Annual Holiday Card

2008-12-28T12:03:00.002-05:00

Here is a photo of our Christmas card for 2008! I finally finished getting them all out yesterday! At least it was done before New Years! It was Hanna's idea and it turned out great!

Looking for Another Job

2008-12-27T12:28:00.008-05:00

I finished this project in September and by October 23rd I was walking out on my Publix Produce Manager. This happened a week after I returned from my Grandmother's funeral and I was still feeling the loss. From the beginning, she didn't want me in the Floral Department and couldn't find anything nice to say about any of my work. I had been warned about working for her, but I was sure that I could win her over with my talent and customer interaction!

I am "Special", you know!!!

She is just one of those people that shouldn't be dealing with the public, let alone managing other Publix associates! I just snapped under the pressure because I couldn't take another of her complaints, rude sales floor behavior, condescending attitude and the inability to hear me. She got me with her finger pointing (literally!), her threats, her over buying, and contradictions of tasks. I don't regret a thing, except it was a lousy time to quit a job and a paycheck! It is a shame that she had to ruin it because I loved that store, I had worked for Publix 11 years and I worked very hard to please her with hardly any breaks. The reality was. . . I really wasn't using my full potential artistically -and that-. . . I believe, is a sin.

Please send me some Comment Love!

Today Is My Blogiversary

2008-09-05T17:57:00.008-04:00

HooRay for me, today is the 1st anniversary of Blogging! It is also my Wedding anniversary! Joe and I were married 27 years ago today! I hope you are as happily married as we are! I love being married!

Wine Bottle, Wine Label Swap

2008-08-28T09:30:00.005-04:00

I just finished writing up the swap I will be hosting on Swap-Bot. Here are the details if you are interested:
USA SWAP (Because is my 1st time hosting!)
Sign up before September 28th and mail your completed project by November 8th, 2008!
~You will make TWO ATC’s PER PARTNER. ~You will have TWO PARTNERS.
~So you will make a total of "4 ATC'S".
~One of a wine bottle still life, one of a wine bottle label
~One Vertical, One Horizontal
~Each ATC must be a different orientation.
Example: the vertical ATC could be a still life featuring a wine bottle and glass. The Horizontal ATC could be the wine label. The label one should include profile details of your partner.
Can be goofy or serious. The choice is up to you!
~Designing your label on Photoshop is fine, but please make some sort of painted or collage detail.
~Please do not send just an ATC with stickers!!!This swap is for the advanced ATCer who wants a challenge. Use your imagination and send something you would enjoy to get in the mail from another swapper!
~I will put more samples on my Flickr.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cyndilouwho/
~I hope you like this swap! I am trying to redeem myself from a bad summer and a very late send on my part.
*Newbies welcome, with a Completed Profile.
~Please upload finished pieces and received swaps to the Swap Gallery!
*Any questions, complaints, or concerns about this swap or a swapper, please PM me.
If I have forgotten anything, please let me know.
~And last but not least.... Have fun,have a glass of wine and toast to this swap!

So, stop by Swap-bot and sign up!
http://www.swap-bot.com/swap/show/20811

Jonathan's Birthday!

2008-08-05T18:48:00.003-04:00

This week Hanna goes on vacation with Jonathan's family to celebrate her leaving for college and Jonathan's birthday. She had me paint him a nylon cooler with the Sompson's on it. I normally don't do this kind of thing, copying cartoon characters, but he love them and we think he is a great guy. I think it came out really good!

Beautiful Boutonniere

2008-08-03T16:48:00.004-04:00

So you saw my first arrangement earlier on July 27th, 2008, now- here is my first boutonniere. Hanna says that it needed more baby's breath for balance, but I thought it was pretty darn good!

Hand Doddled Vest

2008-08-01T18:46:00.005-04:00

I have been cleaning out many areas of the house since I have been- - -kind of - - out-of-it for a while. OH, it is bad here, but getting better. I found this vest that I painted in the early 90's...I love it, so I scanned in some of the designs. Hope you like it! It is a white, T-shirt cotton vest, I tie dyed it, then used a permanent, fine point marker for the doodling. It has a zentangle feel!

Hand Made Hamburger

2008-07-31T17:02:00.005-04:00

OK! I like to play with food! I made this for Uncle Doug's Birthday.
He is restoring a 1966 Blue Rambler Wagon and he is also collecting props to use when he takes his Baby to car shows. So- - -I mad this hamburger and personalized logo drink for him to put on his carhop tray! It came out really BOSS! Yes, there is a coated, dryed bun, but you will never guess what I made the beef pattie out of!?! Well, you will have to leave me a comment before I tell you!
So take a guess!
Or you can beg me!
TeeHee

Hand Made BOGO

2008-07-30T16:25:00.007-04:00

"Buy One, Get One Free"

Signs are so much fun!

The clear rectangle that is

on each board, is a sign

holder. A small sale sign

would be slipped into

the sleeve!

Hand Painted Baby Clothes

2008-07-29T20:39:00.010-04:00

Well, today is my Kevin's birthday and he is on a summer trip with his best friend, Nassim. I am glad he is having a good time, but I miss him. Here is a picture of him when he was a baby in 1992. The other photo is of the hand painted baby clothes that I made for gifts when the kids were little. I sold quite a few too! Everyone loved them! What do you think?

DOUBLE TROUBLE

2008-07-28T17:43:00.004-04:00

Look what my son did on photshop! He's so talented! Love you, Kev!
I can't believe that you will be 16 tomorrow! Happy Birthday!

My New Job

2008-07-27T19:37:00.005-04:00

I have been on my new floral job since July 7th, and here is a photo of my first attempt at making an arrangement. It has 1 dozen red and yellow roses. Not bad for a 1st try! I have to keep the department fresh and stocked. I also make balloon bouquets and water the plants! So much better than my last Publix position in Pricing! Leave me a comment!
Florist Cyndi

Cookbook Swap- We Don't Need No Stinkin' Recipes!

2008-07-22T13:29:00.000-04:00

I already showed you the cookbook I recieved, but I forgot to take pics or scan in what I created for Colorfizz. Thought that you would like to see the photos that she put on her Flickr. The rules of the swap were to make a cookbook about yourself and send to a partner. I named the book to honor my non-cooking abillities. I have a very hard time following the recipe instructions without getting off track. I very rarely read a cookbook, so these are my recipes that I know by heart and doing this project got me to type them into the computer.

Missed Your Birthday

2008-07-20T13:45:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, July 19th was Joe's Birthday! Sorry I wasn't with you most of the day. I guess I should say...this is your class photo from about the 8th grade, in 1969? I had to work and then you and the kids rushed off to the Braves game downtown. I'll make it up to you!

Make an ATC

2008-07-15T12:17:00.002-04:00

As their name indicates, ATC are Art Trading Cards and they are collect able, a brilliant idea born of the older sports-themed trading cards. The one rule that makes an ATC derives from their origins: the dimensions of the ATC must be 2.5"x3.5".

There are a couple of rules to follow. First, an ATC mustn't be sold, only exchanged, as the whole essence of these tiny works of art is about artists meeting (by correspondence or online if need be) and exchanging their works, thus meeting many artists and getting exposed to many personal styles. Second, on the back of each ATC the artist writes part or all of the following information: name, contact information, title of the ATC and number (1/8, 2/8...) if it's part of an edition. By definition ATCs are made in limited numbers, often no more than one of a kind. Unique ATCs are called originals; sets of identical ATCs are called editions and are numbered; sets of ATCs that are based on one theme but that are different are called series. What most collectors really want are cards that were made with care. Based on that, numbers are meaningless.
That's all! The above is all you need to know to start making your own ATCs. Common sense dictates that they should be sturdy enough to survive mailing, and of reasonable thickness (unless you specifically want them otherwise. Transparent card sleeves are useful to protect the cards if need be. This is particularly true if they can easily get smudged or if the medium might stick during transport. I always put mine in sleeves and add a information card slipped into the back and it is numbered, even if its just for me.

I store my ATC's in a baseball card collector album. It keeps every together and easy to carry with me and show off!

I use Royal Coat as a finish on the cards I make. It's made by Plaid, the same company as Modpodge, but better. I like to make sure the elements I glue on will stay on and I like the decoupage style look! I also heat set my items after coating. I apply a coat of Royal Coat as a base and immediately lay my art or decoupage pieces on to the card and smooth the bubbles out with a brush. Then I brush some more RC on top to make the piece to look thick and white. While I am doing that, I am preheating my oven on WARM. After coating, I place the card in the warm oven, directly on the rack, close the door and shut the oven off, let sit for 10 minutes. After 10, art should be clear and the paper is sucked down on the ATC card without wrinkles. You may have to play around with your timing or the amount of glue you apply.

Let me know how it works out!

2008-07-13T19:55:00.000-04:00

Here is a new logo I did for a ladies tennis group! It came out so cute!

New Shopping Bags

2008-07-11T16:18:00.001-04:00

Aren't they so cute!

Cheesecake Tarts in CookBook Swap

2008-07-10T09:01:00.002-04:00

Cheesecake Tarts
-2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
-1 1/2 cups sugar
-4 eggs
-2 teaspoons vanilla or lemon extract
-1 box of vanilla wafers
-2- (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
*Line muffin cups with paper liners.*Beat cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl until soft and creamy. *Gradually add sugar, beating until light and fluffy.* Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each.*Stir in vanilla or lemon extract.* Place a vanilla wafer in each paper lined muffin cup; spoon cream cheese mixture over wafers, filling lined muffin cups almost full. *Bake at 350° for 15 minutes. Do Not over bake!*Chill then spoon pie filling on top and chill again.

-Makes about 36 mini fruit cheesecakes. Great for any holiday or special event.

I just finished a CookBook Swap and this is one of the recipes that I included,. . .I did the illustration too! The top photo is the book I received from Kay! Isn't it beautiful?!? I also just got the measuring spoons from my sister! A 4th of July gift! Now I can measure a Nip, Smidgen, Pinch and a Dash! Thanks Andi!

Blog Love Is All Around

2008-07-08T21:27:00.003-04:00

This is a blog link swap. So the idea is. . . you send your own blog link to your "assigned partners" through the Swap-Bot Contact form.
You then recieve 5 links back, you then check out them blogs.
Every type of blog was welcome! Stop by and take a look at them, don't forget to leave a comment so they know you were there!
Blogs I sent my address to:
http://afrogladycreation.blogspot.com/
http://my-crafty-mess.blogspot.com/
http://sunrooms.livejournal.com/
http://mudandmischief.blogsome.com/
http://www.madeofstarsdesign.com/
Blogs I recieved to check out:
http://www.tabroom.blogspot.com/
http://apeystar.livejournal.com/
http://www.crazymiracle.com/
http://ashirin.blogspot.com/
http://vanmarieke.blogspot.com/
Swap Coordinator:
http://thetwohannahs.blogspot.com/

All were a great read! Thanks everyone!

Publix North Region Flag

2008-07-06T18:23:00.002-04:00

My store gave me a challenge the other day; design a North Region Flag for the corporate office and stores. Which do you like? I'll let you know if they pick one of mine! Leave me a comment!

Depp Ocean Collage Postcard

2008-07-02T20:43:00.000-04:00

Here is one of my Swap-bot swaps from a couple of months ago. I liked itso much. . .I mailed it in an envelope. I made it on illustration board with acrylic paint, pen & ink, and Johnny Depp cutout that I altered and glued on! What do you think?

Hoping for Peace of Mind

2008-07-01T14:46:00.004-04:00

I am in a really stressed out phase right now. Thanks goodness I should be starting a new job next week in hopes of simplifying my life. Whenever I get this way, I try to take bathes, take care of myself and reflect on more peaceful times. This piece is from one of those times.

My husband, had the sweetest mom, Betty. She was my best friend, when we were first married and the kids were little.

I painted this for her when I found the poem and I used it as a gift, I don't remember the occasion, probably, Mother's Day.

She left us in 1997, and Joe's dad gave it back to me, so it has been on my kitchen counter ever since. I recently, took it apart and scanned it in to my computer. I am very pleased . . . it brightened up so nicely!

It reads---"How Blessed I am. How fortunate I've been, That you are his Mother and also my Friend."

I will to add the poem back on, It's not the same without it!

FYI!- Joe's mom's name was Betty Louise and his dad sometimes called her Betty Lou. That is how I got my pen name. Just thought you might like to know.

Love You Mom!

CyndiLou

I NEED a Break!

2008-06-29T11:19:00.000-04:00

I am right in the middle of a very heavy duty stress job right now, in pricing. It is my big week because my supervisior is on vacation. When she gets back, I'll be trasfered to the Floral Dept. Thank Goodness!!! I am much for suited to hands on floral concepts. I am ready for a change.

What is Mehndi Style?

2008-06-26T16:57:00.000-04:00

Mehndi body art, a tradition of India and other Middle Eastern nations, has gained popularity worldwide. Resembling intricate tattoos, mehndi body art is applied to the surface of the skin using a paint-like henna paste. The paste stays on the skin for several hours. When it is removed, it leaves behind a stain that darkens over the following 24 hours.
Mehndi is associated to lots of things - a good dark design is a sign of good luck for the marital couple. It is common for the names of the bride and groom to be hidden in the mehndi design; and the wedding night cannot commence until the groom has found the names. Some examples of popular traditional images used in mehndi designs are the peacock, which is the national bird of India, the lotus flower, and an elephant with a raised trunk, which is a symbol of good luck.
My artwork is a tribute to this artform. I enjoy adding the intricate patterns to my paintings.

Urban Hanna

2008-06-25T14:54:00.001-04:00

Here is a collage of my daughter, Hanna. I made it a few months ago, but I made a copy of it and will be cutting it up for a keepsake box cover. We need to put her Senior letters and other high school memory items in something. I'll show it too you when I'm done!

Wild Flowers and Butterflies

2008-06-22T20:17:00.001-04:00

Today I am showing off a zentangle type painting that I call Mehndi style. The board was painted first with an edging color then, thin paint was splattered and swacked in the middle. When it was totally dry, a fine point permanent pen was used for the details! I love the doodly look!

Remember Emily?

2008-06-21T10:34:00.000-04:00

Remember, recently I told you about our friend Emily, who just got married? Here is a mixed media collage painting that I did of her. It has a photoshopped portrait and background, then that is decoupaged on to a canvas panel with silk flowers and fern Spackled on.
Tell me what you think!
Spackler CyndiLou

This is Sydney. . .

2008-06-20T08:29:00.003-04:00

This is Sydney, with Wine and Poetry. She is a collage made with paper napkins, decorative paper, a photoshoped photo, rubber stamps and my own personal handwriting. Oh and of course, my favorite decoupage glue, Royal Coat.

Tree and Landscape

2008-06-17T08:12:00.001-04:00

This is one of my earlier Mehndi style paintings featured on Artwanted.com

Look Ma. . .a New Painted Collage

2008-06-15T21:24:00.000-04:00

Daisy Flower College Painting

2008-06-13T09:10:00.000-04:00

Zentangles. . .Zen who?

2008-06-12T18:07:00.001-04:00

What is a ZENTANGLE?

It is a fascinating new art form that is fun and relaxing. It increases focus and creativity. Zentangle provides artistic satisfaction and an increased sense of personal well being. Zentangle is enjoyed by a wide range of skills and ages and is used in many fields of interest. Well, . . . it is basically doodling and an easy to learn and relaxing method of creating beautiful images from repetitive patterns. Mine were created for a swap. I had 2 partners. It is easier for me to draw 2 similar groups. Sometimes thinking of what to do is half the battle! Try one yourself.

Another Wednesday Off

2008-06-11T08:05:00.001-04:00

Here I am and its a Wednesday, I usually work on this day, but my hours were cut ---again!
I need a new job. The grocery business wasn't my first choice, but it was a regular paycheck and it was sort of something like art. I can't rely on that now either. At least my "chops" are up.
So- here is one of my swaps. It was for Canvas Painting on Swap-bot and I made it for Kristin. She loved it.