ArtFloozy

FOR BRIAN

2009-11-16T15:38:00.000-08:00

This post is for our good friend Brian...who slipped away from us yesterday. Our hearts are breaking for his family...especially his wife Marie and their two children. Please keep them in your prayers and remember that life is fragile and brief. It's so important that we make every precious moment count.

We love you Brian...

xoxo, amy

HALLOWEEN 2009

2009-11-12T19:43:00.000-08:00

Hi all...just popped in to post some pics from our Halloween party.

A fun time was had by all...

Congrats to CATWOMAN for winning the costume contest!

Enjoy that 'mermaid-blue' bottle of Hypnotiq!

Until next year...

xoxo, amy

FLOOZY JEWELS

2009-11-08T11:28:00.000-08:00

Hi all...check out this POST on my AdornTheWearer blog...new and exciting stuff!

xoxo, amy

Fall Is Here!

2009-10-21T20:57:00.001-07:00

Fall is FINALLY here...but you wouldn't know it from the weather we've been having. I can't believe it's still in the nineties...

A quick sneak peak at the Halloween costume I've been working on...

And a dee-lish harvest of Halloween-ey tags, ripe for the decorating....

I tried to snap a quick photo of these two cute little lovebirds, but an intruder entered the frame before I could get to my camera... They're still awful cute, huh?

And what post would be complete without a revealing photo of her highness... What a lady!

xoxo, amy

AN AMAZING ENCOUNTER...

2009-06-07T19:49:00.001-07:00

We FINALLY had our Whale Shark encounter...something I've wanted to do for years and something that George has wanted to do since he was a little boy and learned (in the Guiness Book of World Records) that they are the largest fish on earth. We went with a small group 2 hours off the shore of Cancun.. past Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy. The water was like glass...disturbed only by an occasional giant manta ray (the mantas themselves were 8-10 feet across). It wasn't long before we spotted several whale sharks. The one we swam with (tagged #662 by the Mexican Whale Shark Project) was a 25-30 foot female. Simply awesome. We took turns swimming with her for hours as she fed on plankton at the surface. Her tail, from top to bottom, stood almost 8 feet tall (and when it brushed up against George he said it was like bumping into a brick wall). It's difficult to get a sense of her size from most of these photos, but you can see our guide scraping the barnacles from her tag in one of the last photos.

just simply breathtaking....

xoxo, amy

CHICHEN ITZA

2009-06-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

Some photos from our excursion to Chichen Itza...too amazing for words...

xoxo, amy

AQUA en CANCUN

2009-06-07T19:42:00.001-07:00

I see aqua...everywhere...

xoxo, amy

SNEAK PEEK

2009-05-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

Hi all...click HERE for a sneak peek of my newest jewelry designs (using the ancient roman glass I acquired at the Tucson Gem Show this year). It's kept me busy the last few weeks...my studio has been a flurry of files and wire wrapping tools....

xoxo, amy

JOURNAL WORKSHOP

2009-04-26T09:27:00.000-07:00

In a few weeks I'll be traveling to Tucson to teach a lead a workshop for Torrey and my new Tucson friends... I'm posting these photos (of the journals I'm currently working on) so you'll have an idea of what we'll be working on. You don't NEED to bring anything (but yourself of course). However, bring B & W/COLOR COPIES (from Kinkos, etc...not prints from your printer) of a few favorite photos if you can as you'll be able to use them in some of the techniques we'll be experimenting with. I'll bring extra copies, etc...but it's often more rewarding to use images that mean something to you. We'll bind the journal from scratch and explore various background and transfer techniques. See you all soon!

xoxo, amy

WHAT THE HECK HAVE I BEEN DOING?

2009-04-02T19:03:00.001-07:00

So I'm back from Connecticut and FINALLY taking a few minutes to update my blog...

I had a fab-U-lous visit and had the chance to see so many family and friends. A big hug, kiss, and heartfelt thanks goes out to my sister Heather and her family for letting us crash at their house for so long. We celebrated my Grandma Nancy's 80th birthday while we were there. I saw family I haven't seen in 20 years or more...it was just fab-U-lous.

I snapped this super adorable photo of my niece Amber...as she waited patiently for Heather and I to finish painting the meditation room... What a cu-tie.

We took tons of photos as we had four generations present. This photo is of myself (duh), my Grandma Nancy, Mom, and Heather (with her super sexy pink hair).

Then, in March, George and I ventured to Strawberry, Arizona for a hike to Fossil Creek. I'd tried this hike with my Mom and Wayne about 10 years back...it's not what you'd call a 'beginner' trail...and we're pretty much 'beginners'. Things went better this time around...but it still kicked our butts (for being non-hikers).

Sweet little Goge...on one of our many 'rests'....

Some beautiful Manzanita...in bloom...

And...finally...after 2 hours of downhill hiking...a 1200' drop in elevation...and knowing that you need to hike back UP when it's all over...we reached the creek at the bottom. The water was pretty low and we'd heard that part of it had been dammed up...but it was still beautiful to hear the rushing water and walk along the trail.

And then LAST weekend, we decided to do some work around the yard. Made a cute little container garden (inspired by the AMAZING MS. MEYERS)...

...and FINALLY put in our back yard lighting and some plants between the Queen palms... the lights are gorgeous...raw copper (so they'll patina with age). George picked out a few choice boulders at the rock yard and we were good to go. Moving all the GRAVEL wasn't fun...but it was good to be out in the fresh air and we'll be able to enjoy it every time we're in the back yard now...

Well, that's all for now. Thanks for stopping in...

xoxo, amy

OFF TO THE FROZEN TUNDRA

2009-02-18T13:59:00.000-08:00

I leave tomorrow for the frozen tundra of the GREAT NORTHEAST...for a long overdue visit with family and friends.. Mom, Aunt Carol, and I are flying back east to celebrate my Grandma Nancy's 80th birthday. I'm excited to be spending a week with my dear sister Heather...but SO very sad to be leaving my precious little Goge behind. Fortunately, Twitch is ecstatic at the thought of having him all to herself...so I'm sure she'll keep him company.

xoxo, amy

FOR AMBER

2009-02-08T10:21:00.000-08:00

I'm posting this little video clip for my niece Amber...because I think she's one of few who will truly appreciate it. UNFORTUNATELY, I had my camera turned sideways (so you'll have to tilt your head at a 90 degree angle to watch it...(sorry).

xoxo, amy

AQUA VIGNETTES

2009-02-08T09:54:00.000-08:00

vi-gnette (vin-yet)

-noun

any small, pleasing picture or view

some aqua vignettes scattered throughout my studio for inspiration...

xoxo, amy

DYeING FOR MORE TAGS

2009-02-08T09:50:00.000-08:00

Just a couple quick pics of what I worked on LAST weekend... I hand-dyed another big batch of tags... It was a lovely temporary addition to our poor, bald, fig tree in the back yard. Now they're tucked safely in my studio...just waitng to be made into special little cards for special friends...

xoxo, amy

A DELICIOUS FIND

2009-02-08T09:41:00.000-08:00

Joanie, Janet, Torrey, and I spent the day in Tucson yesterday...seeking treasure at the Tucson Gem Show. My most treasured 'find' was ancient Roman Glass...photos below. We spent over an hour at this one tiny booth...digging through trays and bins of these 'jewels'... I bought way more than I NEEDED...but not nearly as much as I WANTED... Each piece was such a treasure in itself...can't wait to incorporate some into finished pieces.

This glass was produced in the Roman Empire over 2000 years ago (dating to approximately 300 B.C.). A primitive 'free-blowing' technique was used to make beautiful bottles which were then used for wines, oils, perfumes, and medicines. Among other things, the materials used to form the glass included sand, metals (for coloration), and seaweed. The iridescence you see today is the result of chemical decomposition...from extended exposure to acid in the soil.

The large green piece you see in the two photos above is the top of a bottle and about as big around as a quarter. In one of the pictures you can see that part of the cork is still intact...unbelievable. This very special piece is bound for Connecticut...a special present for my little sister Heather...
Each piece looked delicious enough to eat...like some kind of magical rock candy.
xoxo, amy

FINDING AQUA IN PECULIAR PLACES

2009-02-08T09:39:00.000-08:00

DINO SIGHTING...

2009-01-27T13:27:00.000-08:00

This post is for my darling niece Amber...to show her that dinosaurs really DO exist and that they're freakin' huge! See you soon!

xoxo, amy

AQUA en AVALON...

2009-01-27T13:16:00.000-08:00

I see AQUA...everywhere...

xoxo, amy

THE ARTISTs OF THE ISLAND

2009-01-27T12:36:00.000-08:00

During our recent visit to the City of Avalon (on Catalina Island), we were lucky enough to discover 'the Artists of the Island'. ..Will Richards and his wife Cindy.

We were zipping around town on our rented golf cart and, by chance, turned off on a little side street to check out what used to be 'Bird Park'. As we exited the cart, we heard music coming from the hill immediately behind us and looked up to discover WILL RICHARDS' STUDIO... What a fantastic treat.

Will graciously invited us in for a tour...and it was like nothing we'd ever seen... A hillside mansion constructed of recycled materials, sea glass, bones, shells...you name it. It was dreamlike...walking from room to room...peeking into each and every tiny space to reveal the treasures they contained. The most fab-U-lous windchimes made from driftwood, abalone, and old chandelier crystals.

Tilework, assemblage, mosaics, mobiles, paintings, soapstone carvings, and more... Truly a sight to behold...and such an inspiration to create.

My favorite room, by far, was the open air bathroom with seashell encrusted counters and a fully functioning 'conch shell faucet'...

xoxo, amy

A HUGE THANK YOU

2009-01-07T19:05:00.000-08:00

thank you all SO much for your support...

xoxo, amy

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

2009-01-07T18:29:00.001-08:00

Hoping everyone had a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year. Posting a pic of our AQUA tree and a few of our decorations...

oooohhhh....look at the SPaRLKES!

We were lucky enough to have my mom, stepdad, and grandfather in town for a few days...grandpa is doing SO well... And I'm pleased to mention that Mom has been SMOKE-FREE for over two months now...we are all so proud of her.
And let's not forget little Miss Christmas Spirit...
We received an invite for a New Year's sleepover from our dear friends the Rolfs... Abby is the ultimate hostess... We donned metallic party hats as we rang in the new year (mine was pink...of course).

George made good use of ALL the party favors he could find...

The boys (hesitantly) gathered around for a group photo...

Wishing everyone health and happiness in the new year...

xoxo, amy

A LONG AWAITED VISIT...

2009-01-07T17:51:00.001-08:00

So...my DARLING baby sister finally came out from Connecticut after seven loooooong years. We had SUCH a fabulous visit together. We had tons to catch up on (in between the *bucks and the shopping of course). I'm FINALLY getting around to posting some pics from our whirlwind weekend adventure...an adventure which started with ELVIS waiting for her at the airport...

Her 'ultra-luscious' pose... she is SO 'mom-esque'...

After a quick stop in Mesa, we headed to 'My Florist' to meet Kristin for lunch...

Heather 'chilled' with a nice glass of Merlot...

And I sampled a new Reisling...

Our waitress was kind enough to snap a quick group photo...

Then it was on to a fun antique store across the street...where we were greeted by this lovely creature...

"Do you want to sit on my hand?" she asked innocently...

A touching moment in the 'costume corner'...which HAPPENS to be where we found Amber's T-Rex costume...

Next stop...SAS Fabrics...a fabulous fabric and trim warehouse in Central Phoenix. Rolls of brightly colored taffetas...as far as the eye can see...

Oh, and let's not forget Heather's SAS 'porn pose'...

Kristin...with an armload of fabulous finds...

After SAS, we headed home to work on a custom ring for Heather's 'Toad Eye' stone... Girls with torches...that's hot.

After our silversmithing experience, we headed to Cheesecake Factory for dinner with George...

...and got dessert to go...

Sunday was SPA-day. We headed for the Camelback Inn bright and early...

We checked in...then headed for a quick hike up Mummy Mountain.

A beautiful shot of Heather against the gorgeous backdrop of Camelback Mountain...

We relaxed by the pool while we waited for our facials...

We ordered appetizers...one of which was this beautiful 'painter's pallette' of hummus and guacamole...

Most of which I ended up wearing...

Due to 'sail-size' bread which caught even the slightest breeze...

Again, it was SUCH a wonderful long weekend...

Love you miniature sister!

xoxo, me

A NEW ARRIVAL

2008-11-03T18:32:00.000-08:00

Just a few quick pics of George's NEW BABY... My car loves her new boyfriend.

xoxo, amy

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2008-10-28T11:22:00.001-07:00

Just a quick note to wish everyone a HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

xoxo, amy

MAKING SWEENEY

2008-09-07T18:06:00.001-07:00

NEW BABY!

2008-08-06T21:05:00.000-07:00

Just a few quick pics of my brand new baby...isn't she just fab-U-lous?

xoxo, amy

AQUA-LICIOUS

2008-08-06T20:46:00.000-07:00

In paradise, everything is AQUA...

xoxo, amy

SNEAK PEAK

2008-07-27T11:49:00.000-07:00

Hi all...just popped in to post a quick SNEAK PEAK of my table display for this coming Wednesday's jewelry event. I've jeweled my fingers to the bone since we returned from Mexico last week...haven't even had time to post pics of our trip.

Aren't these photos just dee-LISH? And don't you just LOVE AQUA? I had fun selecting just the right accents (from my stash as well as Joanie's) and was even able to incorporate some sea glass and sea fans that we just found in Cozumel.

well...that's all for now.

xoxo, amy

JEWELRY JEWELRY JEWELRY

2008-07-10T18:59:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post a quick thank you to JESSICA and ANGIE for the invitation to participate in their JEWELRY EVENT. I can't wait ladies...it sounds like it's going to be fab-U-lous!

Other jewelry... and MORE other jewelry....

xoxo, amy (aka the floozy)

VIVA LAS VEGAS

2008-07-06T11:51:00.000-07:00

We spent the 4th in Vegas with Kristin and Scott (at the beautiful Venetian). It was such a treat...

The Grand Hall (off the main lobby) was unbelievable...

and the Grand Canal Shoppes were almost surreal...

Gondolas floated through the waterways in the Grand Canal Shoppes...

On Thursday night, we walked down Las Vegas Boulevard from the Venetian to Bellagio...

The Bellagio fountains weren't the only thing putting on a show (thank goodness these were censored)....
Then, it was on to the slots. We LOVED the Wizard of Oz machines (which had cushioned, high-back chairs...complete with surround sound).
We made a new friend...who apparently had $10,000 dollars in his $200 shorts...
Some of us had a stronger connection with him than others...

On the 4th, we dined at Benihana... dee-li-cious!

On our last afternoon in Vegas, we strolled over to the Forum Shops at Caesar's Palace and were lucky enough to find the JUICY COUTURE store! How exciting (especially for George and Scott).

And, for anyone that wanted to know, the wallpaper in the dressing rooms is just as cute as the rest of the shop... Don't you just love toile?

We also noticed that CHANDELIERS are all the rage in store displays...

In between the gambling and sightseeing, we also spent two lovely afternoons by the pool. It was so nice to just hang out and relax.

Thanks again guys for a wonderful trip.

xoxo, amy

PAYSONFEST 2008

2008-06-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

PaysonFest 2008 was a huge success! Thanks, Ladies, for such a wonderful time. I'm posting some pics to recap our 'Pearly Girl' retreat...

First, a quick stop at McDonalds in downtown Payson...to stretch our legs, get some wholesome fried food, and entertain the locals...

From there, it was ON TO THE CABIN... Upon arrival, we relaxed for a while and took in some clean mountain air......and a cocktail (or two)....
The lucky hostess was SHOWERED with lovely gifts (thanks again...I'll cherish them all...) Then, it was time to break out the supplies and get goin'...
Kristin was edna-bentley quite pleased with her cover...
...as was Chrissy...
Joanie was focused...she had a plan... Kristin did her ADDY page...Janetta WAS the Pearly Girl Poster Child...
and she taught us some great yoga moves...
We had tons of good food, great drinks, and wildly entertaining conversations. We celebrated our last night with some s'mores.... Thanks again for a fab-U-lous time...can't wait for our next one in the fall!

xoxo, amy

CALLING ALL PEARLY GIRLS...

2008-06-18T08:49:00.001-07:00

It's almost time girls...just two more days!

xoxo, amy

el MALECON

2008-05-26T12:15:00.000-07:00

Another digi-page from our trip to Puerto Vallarta...using photos from an afternoon on 'el Malecon' (the oceanfront boardwalk in downtown Puerto Vallarta). The images in the background and most of the photos are sculptures along the boardwalk. One of the photos in the 'stack' in the lower right hand corner is a 'surveillance' photo of George and Karl sneaking to buy ice cream from the walk-up window at McDonalds. cacahuetes....cacahuetes...

"We just went in to use the restroom"...riiiiight...do they look innocent to you? BUSTED!xoxo, amy

PAYSONFEST 2008

2008-05-21T10:55:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder to RSVP if you haven't already!

xoxo, amy

FAJITA REPUBLIC

2008-05-21T10:11:00.000-07:00

Finished another digi-page using photos from our recent trip to Puerto Vallarta. Our first night there, we wanted to find somewhere close to the condo to grab a quick dinner. Fidel (from the front desk) recommended
FAJITA REPUBLIC. It was fantastic! The place was packed (with what looked like a wedding reception... everyone dressed in casual white.... very beautiful). The carne asada fajitas were to die for...rustic chips were served in a 'cone' of heavy paper...and the salsa was dee-LISH. Just wonderful.

xoxo, amy

MAS FOTOS de PALOMA...

2008-05-18T10:42:00.001-07:00

Leo sent another photo of Paloma....que adorable!

xoxo, amy

SWEET LITTLE PALOMA

2008-05-15T18:51:00.001-07:00

While in Puerto Vallarta, we took a day trip (by boat) to a small town called Yelapa on the other side of Banderas Bay. We rode ashore in pangas and rented horses to ride uphill through a lush little village to a hidden waterfall. There was a small open-air restaurant at the end of the trail where we stopped to enjoy a cerveza and stretch our legs. It was here that we befriended

SWEET LITTLE PALOMA...

Precious 'Paloma' sat with us (soaking up attention) until it was time to head back down the trail. Our new friend Leo (who makes the trip to this place quite frequently as a videographer on the boat to Yelapa) sent more photos of her after we returned home. He said he brought her a piece of ham 'from me' and that she ate it very quickly... (how cute). She is just too adorable for words and I may have to steal her the next time we visit.

xoxo, amy

LA IGLESIA de NUESTRA SENORA de GUADALUPE

2008-04-30T06:29:00.001-07:00

More digi-art from our trip to Puerto Vallarta.

Set on Calle Hidalgo in Puerto Vallarta, La Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe (the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe) is considered the heart of Puerto Vallarta religious life. The structure was built over the course of a 12-year period beginning 1929 and is filled with handcarved columns, decorative moldings, beautiful statues, and stained glass. The original church crown (which was installed in 1963 and made of concrete) is said to have been modeled after a tiara worn by Carlota, mistress of the Emperor Maximilian. Sadly, it was completely destroyed by a 7.5 Richter-scale earthquake in 1995. A temporary replacement (made of fiberglass) is the crown you see today...but it has become deformed over time due to the materials that were used to build it. An effort is underway to restore the crown to its glory...an effort sized at approximately $800,000 USD.

BOY BUTT

2008-04-23T18:37:00.001-07:00

This post is for a darling-dear friend of mine...but I won't mention who.

She recently told me that she's been working out hard and has finally LOST HER BOY BUTT!

I'll believe it when I see it...but thought I'd post this incase she forgot what her boy butt looked like back in 2006.

Hi Dah-cy...

xoxo, amy

CAFE DE OLLA

2008-04-23T18:17:00.000-07:00

I'm posting the first piece of digi-art from our trip to Puerto Vallarta. This page contains some photos from our wonderful dinner at Cafe de Olla

(which was highly recommended by our new friend Leonardo and some random guy from San Fransisco).

Karl and Chrissy shared a seafood platter fit for a king. George sampled BBQ south of the border. I had delicious grilled shrimp...and many margaritas. The place was packed and there was a line out the door...well worth the wait.

xoxo, amy

RECUERDOS Y ENCUENTROS...

2008-04-13T09:12:00.000-07:00

We got back from a FAB-U-LOUS week in PUERTO VALLARTA last night and while the trip may be over, the memories will last forever...

Here are a few "THINGS WE LEARNED IN MEXICO"...

#1 - You can get very inexpensive (and sexy) haircuts downtown... #2 - Every great night starts out with a little black dress... #3 - All the good clubs have ceilings lined with egg cartons......and HUUUUGE Margaritas...
#4 - It's all about 'who you know' and 'where you go' when you're looking for a good time...
#5 - It's OK to ride your burro on to the dancefloor...
#6 - There are many cute puppies in YELAPA...

(these are photos of 'Paloma'...who I wanted to steal...)

#7 - Mules and Zebras DO mate...
#8 - White mini-skirts and horseback riding are NEVER a good combination...

#9 - Rum punch flows freely on the cruise to Yelapa...

#10 - Behind every good woman stands a great man...with 45 SPF ...
#11 - Iguanas LOVE being photographed...
#12 - If you want to find the good bars, you have to look UP... (this is the view from 'de Santo'...an open air club on the 3rd story).
#13 - Jorge es muy SEXY SEXY...
#14 - All the best bars have beds instead of chairs...
#15 - Baby TIGERS are adorable....
...and scratch when you try to turn them around for the camera....

That's all for now...need to finish unpacking.

xoxo, amy

TIME TO MAKE THE EGGS...

2008-03-25T13:57:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, George and I colored eggs with Mom and Wayne...here are some of our creations...

Is that SWEENEY TODD? on an egg?

xoxo, me

JUST A GIRL AND HER GRANDPA...

2008-03-20T18:32:00.001-07:00

This post is for my grandpa Rudy who is recovering at Banner Health Hospital in Glendale, AZ right now. He, my mother, and my stepfather came out for a quick weekend visit last Saturday and he ended up in the emergency room that night with a blood sugar level over 500...very scary. After CAT scans, X-rays, and other various examinations, he underwent emergency surgery and is expected to be in the hospital for another week or so. He was finally moved from Intensive Care to a regular room on Wednesday night...and is on the road to recovery.

I know Grandpa misses his kitties (especially Charlie)...and that the kitties (who are at home in California) are anxious for Grandpa, Mom, and Wayne to return. Fortunately they have some good neighbors that are taking care of things in their absence.

I printed off an 8x10 photo of 'Charlie' for Grandpa's hospital room and also a copy of the above picture (of Grandpa and I when I was about 3). He made the headdress I'm wearing in the photo...he's very talented.

Wishing you a speedy recovery Grandpa...

xoxo, amy

NEW DIGI-ART

2008-03-20T18:26:00.001-07:00

A page just for TWITCH because she's OH SO CUTE...

And a digital brush I created using a photo of our palm trees...

BIGFOOT SIGHTED...

2008-03-12T10:18:00.000-07:00

Use caution when traveling through Peoria...there's been another BIGFOOT sighting.

xoxo,

DIGI-STUFF

2008-03-09T17:53:00.001-07:00

Playing with a new digital 'die-cut'...

REMINDER ON ART DETOUR

2008-03-06T09:58:00.001-08:00

Hi all...just a reminder that ART DETOUR 2008 takes place this Saturday and Sunday. You can read more about ART DETOUR by clicking **LINK**. The MAP for ART DETOUR is linked **HERE** for your viewing pleasure.

I'll be at Janet's studio/gallery (stop #20 on the detour/map) all day Saturday. Hope to see you there!

xoxo, amy

WHAT'S HAPPENED LATELY?

2008-03-04T10:29:00.000-08:00

Wow! I can't believe it's already March...where is this year going? I thought I'd take a few minutes to upload some pictures from my camera and share some of my more memorable experiences since the beginning of the year...

On January 25th, I helped a certain friend (who shall remain nameless) BEGIN to reorganize her 'Keeping Room' (aka 'studio', aka 'art space'). If you can't guess, this is one of the BEFORE pictures...

Then, on February 2nd, George and I joined Joanie & Jerry and Janet & Mike for a birthday celebration at Macaroni Grill. Joanie's birthday was January 31st and Mike's was February 2nd. A fun time was had by all, although some trouble makers were sighted throwing rolls of toilet paper in the ladies' room...(I'm using the word 'ladies' very loosely here...and you know who you are).

Yummy, yummy, chocolatey, birthday cake....
In February, I made this delightful little gift box for Scott to give to Kristin for Valentines Day...The box held an invitation for a much anticipated SPA DAY! Can't wait....

On Valentine's Day, George and I went on a double-date with Scott and Kristin to Buca di Beppo. Our bottle of Reisling and Peach Bellini hit the spot...

Also, in February, George got his new DRY SUIT...isn't he just darling?

Then, on February 26th, I was stalked by this mysterious bird while dining on the patio at BBG (Blue Burrito Grille). He lurked in the shadows until the moment was juuuuuust right...

then made a break for the tortilla chip that had fallen from our table...

With his hunger satiated, he posed for a quick photo near some lovely pink flowers...

On February 29th, I had my FIRST EVER Chuck E. Cheese experience in celebration of Addy and Avery's birthdays. George and I joined the birthday girls, Scott, Kristin, Karl, Jen, and Curt for the excitement. Addy proved that you don't even have to be tall enough to SEE the game in order to win loads of tickets...you only need to be tall enough to stick the coins in, reach up, and press something.

After pizza, games, rides, and a flurry of tokens, out came the birthday cake and shimmery candles (nice touch, mom).

Addy attempted to blow out the candles with her mouth closed (yes, through her nose...)

Several times....very cute.

All in all, it's been a good year so far. Am looking forward to the next adventures that lie ahead (First Friday, Art Detour, Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel, and anything else I've forgotten to mention).

xoxo, amy

TAKE A DETOUR...

2008-02-20T18:14:00.000-08:00

This post is for my sweet friend JANETTA

and serves as an informal invite for everyone I know to attend FIRST FRIDAY on March 7th and/or

ART DETOUR 2008 on March 8th/9th.

It's very important that you do because our

'Saint Janetta' will be participating in both this year.

NOTE - the assemblage featured in this photo is Janet's...it's utterly fab-u-lous and just so happens to be my FAVORITE piece of hers...

If you've never been to ART DETOUR, it's something you simply have to do. It's an awesome experience...for art's sake. You can read more about it and FIRST FRIDAY **HERE**.

Anywhoo, big kisses and happy wishes to Janetta...

xoxo, amy

(aka 'duck wiener')

DIGI-WHAT?

2008-02-19T16:39:00.000-08:00

I'm so glad to see that my friend CHRIS is experimenting with digital scrapbooking. We're both kind of new to it, so we're learning together. I found a great tutorial (on VEERLE'S BLOG) on creating your own brush files (.abr files). I only had a few minutes to PLAY when I got home tonight...but created the 'typed text' brush used in this photo as a test. The instructions worked like a charm! Chris, this might be something you'd be interested in...

xoxo,

amy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AVERY!

2008-02-12T17:27:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to wish Avery a HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I can't believe you're a whole DECADE old...before you know it, you'll be as old as I am. And I also can't believe that we're FINALLY going to start painting your room tomorrow. I think the colors you picked out are going to be FAB-ulous! I put together a quick digi-scrapbook page so you can see how cool they look together!

See you soon!

xoxo,

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY BABY!

2008-02-10T09:22:00.000-08:00

xoxo, me

SO IN LOVE...

2008-02-06T13:31:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it, but our SIXTH anniversary is just around the corner. Seems like just yesterday we were planning for the wedding...but it also feels like we've loved each other for a lifetime. I love him more every day...

Thought I'd post a few of my favorite pics of us together (apparently we only take pictures when we're out to dinner)... :o)

At FOGO E BRASA in September 2007...

At MACARONI GRILL in Februrary 2008...

At MARGARITAVILLE in January 2008...

And one picture of my imaginary boyfriend and I (before my husband showed up at Margaritaville in January 2008...)

SWEET BIRD OF PEACE

2008-02-05T07:25:00.000-08:00

Finally, there is PEACE on West Willow... For months now (maybe longer) our sweet baby, Twitch, has been terrorized by a feline intruder. The stranger would enter through her cat door, eat her food, 'nest' in her bed, pick fights in the early morning hours and recently started to 'mark' her territory....NOT cool. George built a 'friendly' trap and we finally captured the bad kitty this past weekend. Our home is 'ours' again...and Twitch is at peace. I snapped this photo of a little dove at our back door the other day...our little harbinger of peace.

xoxo, me

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY

2008-01-24T10:19:00.000-08:00

Find balance between the things you NEED to do and the things you WANT to do. PRIORITIZE, but never forget to PLAY. Make time to do things instead of assuming that there will be time later. Do one thing that you WANT to do in exchange for every thing you did because you NEEDED to. Always make time for those you LOVE because they won't always be there. Make your time count...don't count your time. Don't regret the things you didn't accomplish today...just re-work your plan for tomorrow. Don't worry if things don't always go perfect, as it just means there's an opportunity to do it better next time. Tell HIM you love him every time you see him. Hold his hand and kiss his cheek whenever the opportunity presents itself.

xoxo,

A COLD AND BLUSTERY DAY...

2008-01-16T20:41:00.000-08:00

We had to make a stop on the way home from work (and it had been SUCH a horrible day). I spied these birds perched high up in some twiggy trees and thought they looked rather photo-graphique! The stark contrast of the branches and the birds against the chilly grey sky captured the mood of this 'cold and blustery day'. Perhaps tomorrow will bring sunshine.

xoxo,

X-MAS, WE BID YOU FAREWELL...

2008-01-09T13:49:00.000-08:00

Well, the time finally came to take down the x-mas tree. No one was sadder to see it go than Twitch (as you can see from the photo below). She held her ground right down the last row of branches...

And then sat there looking extremely pitiful in the space 'her' tree once occupied...

POOR THING...

A FUN DAY IN GLENDALE

2008-01-09T12:17:00.000-08:00

Just a quick shout out to Kristin, Avery, and Jen for a fun day in Glendale last Saturday. We did a little ANTIQUING...

Found some FUNNY HATS (what a surprise)....

Came across some beautiful PINK roses on our afternoon stroll to the CREATIVE QUEST! I used this opportunity to try out the 'color filter' feature on my new camera (which I LOVE!).

And had a lovely lunch at THE SPICERY...

Where they have BIG BUNS!

And french dips BIGGER THAN YOUR FREAKIN' HEAD!

ciao!

xoxo, me

PEORIA'S STRANGEST HOME VIDEO

2008-01-08T15:45:00.000-08:00

For those of you that haven't yet had the great fortune to see it, I'm posting a video of Twitch 'doing her thing'...which appears to be MASSAGING George's lap for hours on end. What a tramp... She will literally do this for hours if you don't stop her. Her eyes roll back in her head, she drools, and her whiskers point straight down...she is very STRANGE.

SWEENEY TODD!

2007-12-30T21:14:00.000-08:00

Well...I've seen SWEENEY TODD twice in as many nights and ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT! George and I went on Saturday night with Joanie, Janet, Jerry, and Mike...then I went again tonight with Suz and Rachel (Urchin).

I'm including some pics of my movie night with Suz and Urchin.

Ummmm, nice face Urchin...

NAUGHTY OR NICE?

2007-12-29T08:49:00.001-08:00

Twitch must have been nice (in SOMEONE'S eyes) this year...because she received several gifts. Here are the play by play shots of her opening her gift from Joanie and Jerry...

And here are a couple shots of my grandpa's kitty (Charlie)...who is just as cute as can be (and black as coal).

A VERY JUICY CHRISTMAS!

2007-12-27T09:24:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to post a quick note to say thank you to everyone for a very merry x-mas. A special thank you and big x-mas hug go to my sweet baboo (Goge) for my beautiful new JUICY COUTURE watch! I LOVE IT! What could be more 'ME' than a PINK JUICY WATCH with SKULL AND CROSSBONES and CROWN WINDER? It is SUCH a special watch that it came with it's very own little 'dresser'... I heard a rumor that a little joanie-bird nudged him in this direction...THANK YOU JOANIE!

Goge and I took a little road trip to California to visit my mother, stepfather, and grandfather. It was so good to see them and we had a really nice visit. LOVE YOU GUYS!

Again, thanks to everyone for such a wonderful holiday and so many lovely gifts. You are too kind, too generous, and very much appreciated!

xoxo,

amy

AMY OF THE MERFOLK

2007-12-19T08:01:00.000-08:00

Woohooo! She's finally here! For anyone that doesn't know, my mega-artistic sister (Heather) makes and sells fairy figurines (you can check them out at http://www.notchroadfairies.com/). She sent us one as an x-mas gift and I liked it so much I asked if I could commission her to make a special 'mermaid' for George for x-mas. She graciously did so...and 'Amy of the Merfolk' arrived two nights ago. She's absolutely gorgeous. I couldn't wait, so I gave her to George last night. Wanted to post a few pics of the various stages of her construction.

Here, also, is a picture of another one of Heather's fairies. Again, GOR-GEOUS!

Heather, you are soooo talented...and I am sooooo proud of you. Thank you soooo much for allowing me to give George such a unique and special gift this x-mas.

xoxo, amy

CHARTREUSE AND AQUA AND HOT PINK...OH MY...

2007-12-16T11:44:00.000-08:00

Ok...so our gift wrap matches our x-mas tree...and our x-mas tree matches our mantle decorations...and our decorations match our x-mas ball wreath...and it all matches our x-mas cookies....you got a problem with that?

MAKING CHRISTMAS...MAKING CHRISTMAS...LA LA LA...

2007-12-16T10:26:00.000-08:00

Tis the season for wrapping presents, curling ribbon, and looking for the scotch tape...

Tis also the season for baking goodies...

And time to decorate the tree...start to finish!

Even kitty gets a tree...

xoxo for now,

amy

TRICK OR TREAT !

2007-11-06T06:10:00.001-08:00

What a TREAT it was to go trick or treating with Addy and Avery on Halloween night...they looked absolutely adorable in their little corpse bride costumes (great idea Ave!). The girls did their own makeup...

And Addy was kind enough to help me with mine...she'll make quite a little beautician some day...

Addy was so cute....we wanted to get a shot of the girls together so Kristin told Avery to squat down. Addy assumed Kristin was talking to both of them...so she quickly obliged. Oh! you can see the infamous 'bucket' in this picture too...the one that Addy 'fohted' in...(will explain later).

Here's a cute shot of the girls walking down the sidewalk to the next house. I think Addy took the lead once she realized that you could actually get CANDY just for walking up to the house and saying three little words....TRICK OR TREAT!

And, last but not least, the infamous 'demon child' photo....this blog entry wouldn't be complete without it. Addy was running back to the sidewalk after a big 'candy score'...her eyes glowing red with sheer delight (either that or she was possessed...we're still not sure).

As for the bucket that Addy 'fohted' in... We all know that Halloween is about the TREATS, but we sometimes overlook the TRICKS...that was not the case this year. We strategically placed a remote controlled 'fart machine' in Addy's candy bucket. As people would open their doors and she'd say 'trick or treat', I'd press the button on the remote. I'm sure people were surprised to hear such a BIG sound come out of such a cute little girl. At first, Addy would say "I fohted in my bucket" whenever she heard it (apparently she thought she really had). After a while, however, she caught on and insisted it be removed from her loot bucket. Oh well, it was fun while it lasted....

MORE HALLOWEEN PHOTOS

2007-10-31T09:07:00.001-07:00

Hi all! Just a couple more photos that Jen (the Beer Maid) sent after the party...

The 'Captain'....

and 'Baby Girl'... (can't get enough of her, can we?)

HALLOWEEN BASH

2007-10-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

George and I would like to extend a HUGE thank you to all our friends for making last night's Halloween party such a great success. The costumes were ABsolutely FABulous and we sooooooo enjoyed having you all over.

First, we'll start off with some pictures of our costume contest winner (BABY GIRL...shown here with her pimp) and runner up (the 'OVEN'... last seen with 'the Bun Maker'). Congrats!

There were also several pirate sightings at last night's gathering (which made it a perfect time for the charter meeting of the Flamingo Pirate Society).

Jack Skellington (aka Beetlejuice) and Sally (aka Raggedy Ann, aka Ronald McDonald) also stopped in 'for a spell'. Sally helped Jack with his drink...

The Pearly Girls gathered together in the photo BOOOOOOOOth for a few cute shots (this is the only one that could be published due to the graphic nature of the others...aka Janet's naked butt).

Jerry, dedicated to maintaining his HOT new physique, took a few moments for an impromptu workout. Joanie couldn't keep her hands off of him...

This clever little KEG thought ahead and brought his own BEER MAID...good thinking!

Cowpokes...and witches...and bikers...OH MY!

And, last but not least...a couple photos of the 'coffin table' and our haunting 'spread'...

Thanks again everyone...it was a BLAST!

xoxo,

amy

I WITH STUID....(ME TWO)

2007-10-25T07:38:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics from an art day with the 'Blobitz Girls' back in September. We were working on scrapbooks from our recent trip to Catalina. Avery thought she was soooooo cute when she typed out 'I'M WITH STUPID' using the label maker (to wear as she stood next to me)...only she typed 'I WITH STUID' instead. We made her a new label...then I reciprocated with a 'ME TWO' label for my own forehead... Who's the STUID one now?

The other pic is from a late night 'poolside party' with the Blobitzes and Wilhelms. Addy and I tried to see how much water we could displace from the pool...we didn't get very far. George, Scott, and Karl challenged each other in a riveting dart tournament. Addy and I cheered from the sidelines (and the phrase 'good job Goge' was born). It was that night that Addy finally taught me how to use my fart machine from Spencers....I never realized you actually had to make physical contact with the behind for it to work. Thanks for the info Addy.....

FOR CAROL....

2007-10-25T07:17:00.001-07:00

Ok, this blog entry is for my dear friend Carol (who is hounding me about not posting for over two months now...which I realize is far too long but didn't think anyone was reading this damn thing).

So, since August 15th, we WENT to Catalina, came BACK from Catalina, lived, breathed, worked, played, etc. In September, the Martha Stewart 'Halloween' issue prompted the absolute NEED for me to decorate (extensively) for Halloween...and it's been all consuming ever since. To that end, I'm posting some pics of some decorations throughout the house. These photos are about a month old (and there's been MUCH decorating since then), but I haven't taken more photos yet. Will try to do so soon.....Carol. :o)

CATALINA BOUND...

2007-08-15T12:26:00.000-07:00

We're headed for Catalina (with seven other divers/friends) bright and early tomorrow morning...can't wait. The weather is supposed to be absolutely gorgeous (80s during the day and mid-60s at night....may even pack a pair of jeans). Hoping I'll find some time to relax and work on my new journal. Talk to you all when I get back! xoxo, me

UNRAVELED!

2007-08-13T06:54:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to tell all my old friends how wonderful it was to see you at Art Unraveled this past week...it's been far too long. And, of course, a cheery hello to all the NEW friends I made...it was great fun meeting you. As usual, I absolutely LOVED the classes I took with Susan Lenart Kazmer...(will try to post pics of the pieces I made soon). Until later! xoxo, me

VIVA LA VICTORIA!

2007-08-07T18:04:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in a previous post, my sister Vicki came out for a visit last week. We shopped, and made jewelry, and shopped, and sewed a costume, and shopped, and took a road trip, and shopped, and went to SONIC for tator tots, and shopped, and had a spa day, and shopped, and got Vicki a pedi, and shopped, and almost bought a $65 umbrella at Juicy Couture (but ended up just buying socks), and watched all three seasons of The Office, and shopped, and went to Starbucks (gotta love the bucks), and shopped some more...

The day before she left, we made pocket sized travel journals to document our adventures (see photo above). I'll treasure mine always...thanks for a great time Vicki, Viva La Victoria!

A TRIP TO TLAQUEPAQUE

2007-08-07T18:00:00.000-07:00

One of my sisters came out for a visit from Connecticut last week and we took a day trip up to Sedona with George. We stopped at Tlaquepaque (one of my favorite little 'detours' regardless of the final destination). Snapped these pics there before the storm rolled in that afternoon.

PAJAMA PALOOZA

2007-08-07T17:34:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of the houses I made at PAJAMA PALOOZA (aka my pajama party) in July. Thanks to all the Pearly Girls for attending...it was so much fun! Good food, great friends, x-rated Mad Libs, classic scary movies, and staying up WAY too late...all followed by a relaxing day of art. We'll have to do it again next summer.

Deeeee-LISH!

2007-08-07T17:16:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd post a pic of the delicious tags that I've been making...and we may as well just assume that any gift I give over the next few months will most likely have one of these babies attached.... xoxo, me

A SHRINE FOR BLEU

2007-06-04T19:49:00.000-07:00

This is an altoid tin shrine that I made for my husband in honor of our beloved BLEU. It was the first workshop that I took from Michael deMeng (a phenomenal artist and fabulous teacher). George and I took a workshop from him together last year...it was a blast.

UNA VENTANA EN COZUMEL

2007-06-04T19:42:00.000-07:00

I took this photo on a trip to Cozumel, MX shortly after Hurricane Wilma (in December 2005). No particular reason for posting it...just happened across it when I was looking for a picture of Ms. Twitch and remembered how much I loved it. There's that 'seaglass green' again...

DOG TAG NECKLACES

2007-06-04T19:06:00.000-07:00

Here are some examples of my 'dog tag necklace' and a 'booklace' that I made a couple years ago. The covers are etched and oxidized nickel silver. The pages are mica and have tiny treasures riveted inside them (small bits of ephemera, vintage photos, gem types).

AN ALTERED STATED OF MIND (photographically speaking)

2007-06-04T19:01:00.001-07:00

George and I took my sister (Vicki) to Puerto Vallarta two summers ago. We walked around town one afternoon and took some beautiful pictures at a church that was hundreds of years old. I altered this photo and have it hanging in my studio. I'd almost forgotten how much I enjoyed this process...note to self - do more of this.

SEAGLASS...OCEAN'S TREASURE

2007-06-04T18:47:00.000-07:00

I have an obsession with seaglass...especially the light aqua stuff. I remember collecting it even as a little girl, coveting every piece. As children, our parents would take us to Bluff's Point in Groton, CT quite frequently. We'd make the hike out to the Point and spend the day beachcombing, steaming clams on a campfire, picking wild roses, and playing in the sun. Some of my most vivid childhood memories are of those trips to the Point.

I'm headed back to Connecticut to visit family in two days. We've planned a trip to Groton Long Point. Dad, I'll be watching for you at the end of the path. xoxo, amy

SHE'S JUST AN OLD BAG...

2007-06-04T18:36:00.000-07:00

Here's a pic of my first tote...the colors remind me of seaglass. My favorite parts are the sequined triangles and the big terrycloth pom poms (which I made from a faded old hand towel). They just POP off the side...

FLOOZY'S GOT A NEW BAG....

2007-06-04T18:28:00.000-07:00

I finally finished my new PINK & ORANGE tote last week. Isnt' it just DELISH-OUS? I've had the pieces cut out for months and finally had the chance to do all the handstitching when we went to Mexico last weekend. I spent two days relaxing on the beach, listening to my iPod, and stitching away...it was so relaxing. I made a second one for a friend (Hi Rachel!)

RESIN CHARMS AND EARRINGS

2007-06-04T18:16:00.000-07:00

Now that I'm making my own bezels, the possibilities for working with resin are endless. I started making these earrings and sold every pair...time to make some more. I love the idea of being able to make custom charms as gifts (or for MYSELF)! oooops....did I think that out loud?

NEW JEWELRY

2007-06-04T18:04:00.000-07:00

Here are some new pieces I've been working on. Some really fun rings and pendants...lots of movement, I just love them. I stumbled across these antique glass dogon rings at a local bead store and bought 'em up....they are SOOOO GORGEOUS. I also found some in cobalt blue at an antique store...just as beautiful but don't have any pics posted of them yet.

WELCOME TO MY BLOG!

2007-06-04T17:15:00.001-07:00

Welcome to my BLOG! Still trying to get set up...will write back soon! xoxo

ArtFloozy

FOR BRIAN

HALLOWEEN 2009

FLOOZY JEWELS

Fall Is Here!

AN AMAZING ENCOUNTER...

CHICHEN ITZA

AQUA en CANCUN

SNEAK PEEK

JOURNAL WORKSHOP

WHAT THE HECK HAVE I BEEN DOING?

OFF TO THE FROZEN TUNDRA

FOR AMBER

AQUA VIGNETTES

DYeING FOR MORE TAGS

A DELICIOUS FIND

FINDING AQUA IN PECULIAR PLACES

DINO SIGHTING...

AQUA en AVALON...

THE ARTISTs OF THE ISLAND

A HUGE THANK YOU

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

A LONG AWAITED VISIT...

A NEW ARRIVAL

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

MAKING SWEENEY

NEW BABY!

AQUA-LICIOUS

SNEAK PEAK

JEWELRY JEWELRY JEWELRY

VIVA LAS VEGAS

PAYSONFEST 2008

CALLING ALL PEARLY GIRLS...

el MALECON

PAYSONFEST 2008

FAJITA REPUBLIC

MAS FOTOS de PALOMA...

SWEET LITTLE PALOMA

LA IGLESIA de NUESTRA SENORA de GUADALUPE

BOY BUTT

CAFE DE OLLA

RECUERDOS Y ENCUENTROS...

TIME TO MAKE THE EGGS...

JUST A GIRL AND HER GRANDPA...

NEW DIGI-ART

BIGFOOT SIGHTED...

DIGI-STUFF

REMINDER ON **ART DETOUR**

WHAT'S HAPPENED LATELY?

TAKE A DETOUR...

DIGI-WHAT?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AVERY!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY BABY!

SO IN LOVE...

SWEET BIRD OF PEACE

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY

A COLD AND BLUSTERY DAY...

X-MAS, WE BID YOU FAREWELL...

A FUN DAY IN GLENDALE

PEORIA'S STRANGEST HOME VIDEO

SWEENEY TODD!

NAUGHTY OR NICE?

A VERY JUICY CHRISTMAS!

AMY OF THE MERFOLK

CHARTREUSE AND AQUA AND HOT PINK...OH MY...

MAKING CHRISTMAS...MAKING CHRISTMAS...LA LA LA...

TRICK OR TREAT !

MORE HALLOWEEN PHOTOS

HALLOWEEN BASH

I WITH STUID....(ME TWO)

FOR CAROL....

CATALINA BOUND...

UNRAVELED!

VIVA LA VICTORIA!

A TRIP TO TLAQUEPAQUE

PAJAMA PALOOZA

Deeeee-LISH!

A SHRINE FOR BLEU

UNA VENTANA EN COZUMEL

DOG TAG NECKLACES

REMINDER ON ART DETOUR