from the studio

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-20T23:55:00.005-06:00

And so it is Christmas..Or .Hanukkah... or Kwanzaa---.... how ever you Celebrate.. May all celebrations be Merry and Bright--no matter what tradition ,or how, when, or where you celebrate, I honor ALL of YOU! Sending my very best Best Wishes to everyone. Ready to transform? I am......

Want to join me ;0

Online Art Class starts July 7!

2011-06-28T11:16:00.001-05:00

I am thrilled to be teaching my "Art Buffet" class again this summer. It's a fun, improvisational paint and play class. You can check it out here

Hope to see you there!

New York, New York!

2011-06-06T11:39:00.009-05:00

Gosh, I didn't realize that it has been nearly a year since I last updated my blog.. NOT Good. But then I guess it is good that I am sitting here now and posting.

It has been a great year so far this year after probably one the worst years of my life last year. I was glad to see the year click to 2011!

I took my annual trip to New York a couple of weeks ago to attend the National Stationery Show and Surtex (a Licensing Show) Here I am with my fabulous agent Renee from Penny Lane Publishing in front of the panel of my work.

I walked the show for two days and took an excellent seminar on Trends presented by a panel of experts. SOO much to see and learn. I really do love this trip, even though this year it was cold and rainy. I still managed to do the things I wanted and spent LOTS of time walking, both in and out of the show. In one area of the show there was a display of dresses crafted completely from paper.. Fascinating!

On the last day my flight wasn't until 6 pm so walked about 37 blocks to the Guggenheim. I often take in a museum when I'm there and I had never been to the Guggenheim before. They had a retrospective show going on which was absolutely fabulous. Of course the building itself was worth the walk to see. I had seen it before from the outside, but the inside was even more spectacular!

I thought I might take a taxi back to the hotel, but I had plenty of time, it wasn't raining and I knew I'd be sitting on a plane for a few hours, so I walked back through Central Park. All in all, a great day and a wonderful trip!! The calligrapher in me had to pause and marvel at the lovely stone carved bench ;)

Me and my drum ;)

2010-08-23T22:41:00.012-05:00

We do a LOT of drumming around here in Eureka Springs (eternal)!.. so much that I finally broke down and bought myself my own, made for me, drum! - and I LoVe it!! This is my third drum... My first one is made from a BIG cast iron pot: MUCH too heavy to transport! This one is becoming a close companion on outings. Check out the monthly drummings we have at Basin Spring Park

Aside from that monthly gathering, there's always a place to drum, dance, sing, play, hug, kiss and frolic! Oh how I love my little town!

Tonight, we're going to a friend's house for feasting before drumming to the full moon rising, around a labyrinth on the King's River. Hey! We might even howl ;) I'll be sure to have my camera

Has it REaLLy Been THaT Long??

2009-12-24T23:20:00.007-06:00

Last entry June 22??? Good blogger, eh?

It has been a long road since my Daddy went to Heaven in June '08. And now my Momma... under hospice care for over 6 weeks. I pray she will "let go" …soon. Mostly for HER, but we are all here to see the end as she fights. little feisty Italian thang that she IS ;)

i tell my Beauty Queen that it's OK to go, everything is taken care of.. with her Alzheimer's/dementia and seemingly many mini strokes, she is all but incoherent. To see her, her eyes, facial expressions, body language, Italian arm gestures ;) ... well, those all help in understanding what she is trying to say. And she says some tender things, along with little things that just hafta make you laugh or smile.. I've spent many a night there, just holding her, comforting her as best I can…

SOO many things to say.. my TwinZ, Lindy.. Mom's caregiver for over a year became my dear angel-sister-friend the moment we made contact. My 'Beauty Queen' lives with her just 10 minutes away, making it easy to spend lots of time there...

My loving TwinZ takes care of ME too when I am there. She Is SOO good, so kind, loving, patient, accepting... It is NO mistake that we were brought together, a lasting miracle given by Grace through my sweet little Beauty Queen

a fabulous success!!

2009-06-22T17:38:00.017-05:00

I recently completed teaching my first online class. I'm SOO jazzed over the results!! Great Job, guys! Not many of us knew what to expect, all the various learning curves-- and there have been a BuNCh of them-- for EvERyONe of us, student and teacher alike. There's a sense of empowerment after having conquered something. Anyway, I am PrOUd to share some of the results and comments.

Click the pic for a close-up

I'll be teaching this class again in September at My Creative Classroom. To my Fall Semester I am adding another course "Art Buffet"- to include expressive letter/mark making, painting techniques, art journaling and simple bookbinding ideas. Now on with the Student comments, with a BIG thanks for sharing!

Thank you for your teaching and excitement about what we are doing! Your responses really make one want to work harder!

-Jane, MCC Student

I cannot wait for your next class. This is so wonderful to be able to take classes on line. I do not have to drive anyplace, I can do it 24/7 on my schedule, I can do it in my jammies if I want and I don't have to drag my supplies around. There are times that having that in-person experience with your instructor is helpful, but with your videos I feel like I am getting that personal attention. I am so happy to find My Creative Classroom and will be taking more classes that appeal to me.

-Pam, MCC Student

I think Teri is a fantastic teacher, and MCC is very easy to navigate. I have already recommeded both Teri and MCC to my calligraphy guild, and they will be checking it out. I look forward to taking more classes as I'm able.

-Linda, MCC Student

Thank you for offering this wonderful course online. You have a unique way of calmly presenting confusing materials with clarity and empathy. You seem to know exactly what the student's reservations and potential frustrations are before they are even expressed. I am grateful that you are willing to share your experience and talent with others.... the course is presented perfectly, is the right length and is do-able even for people who barely have time to sleep.... I learned a lot and look forward to the fall and to more courses. Thank you for offering this class.

-Anne, MCC Student

This is my first on-line course and I wanted to see how it was done. I have liked Teri's work for a long time, have bought scrapbook paper with her designs, and thought I might learn how she does those subtle colors. I got some good tips from her teaching style that I can incorporate in my own classes and some tips on mixing colors as well.

-Jo, MCC Student

The big draw for me was Teri Martin, she is an awesome woman, wonderful teacher and a great, compassionate, and caring human being

-Fran, MCC Student

I learned a solid starting place for exploring color, and Teri's teaching style is inspiring

-Linda, MCC Student

I love Teri's instruction, and if she were to offer more classes, I'd definitely consider taking them...especially if she could teach some sort of creative lettering... I felt that Teri did an excellent job of putting the class together...just enough info to not make color theory boring, but still informative and practical...this will be very helpful to me...thank you for the class experience, Teri!

-Anita, MCC Student

This was my first attempt at an online class and I think Teri did an excellent job. I think a few weeks longer would help.

-Maggie, MCC Student

My Creative Classroom courses have been an eye-opening experience for me. I'd never have believed I could learn so much about a creative and hands-on technique like Coloring in an on-line class.

-Pam, MCC Student

WOW... I haven't had time to do any playing yet this week with the color studies... but I just took a quick peek in the gallery and I'm TOTALLY inspired by everyone's work...

-Colleen, MCC student

You make me want to experiment and play. I haven't felt that way in quite a while and it is so wonderful that the play is being guided and critiqued!

-Fran, MCC Student

Oh, my gosh, it is just awesome!! I am having so much fun making my little pieces of colorful art!!! I always felt using and understanding color was beyond me but now I feel so much more confident. If I make a color wheel and use those colors they will all work together! I am just amazed and truly inspired!! It is like a light bulb went off!! I have felt so frustrated in the past and now I know why. Thank you so much for opening up this world of color to me.

-Pam, MCC Student

Coincidence.. or Message from Heaven?

2009-06-11T17:40:00.009-05:00

I can't believe it has been this long since I posted to my blog. Shame, shame, shame! My only excuse is that my life seems to change everyday.

This past Tuesday, June 9, was the day my Daddy "LTC Daddio" went to heaven. Needless to say it wasn't the easiest of days. The day before that, my Mom "The Beauty Queen" had a follow up doctor appointment to redo a lab test and burn some basal cell cancer off of her back.

Well, when I went to get her, she was in severe pain. She had fallen and hurt her hip. A similar incident was what sent my Daddy to the hospital. His surgery went fine, and his recovery was going extremely excellent, until his only remaining lung filled with fluid. He wasn't expected to live through the night, but he stayed with us for another 8 days.

As the doctor explained to me that we would do x-rays instead, to make sure she hadn't broken anything, it wasn't easy to keep myself pulled together. Thankfully, nothing broken, just sprained and bruised.

I couldn't let the week go by without honoring my Daddy somehow. The first picture is of his last Christmas with us. The others are from earlier in the year. The last picture is with my Mom and Fabulous son, Eagle.

That night, the skies opened wide and let down some serious precipitation in the form of hail! Unbelievable! I was in my office when I heard the pounding and thought: how on earth can I hear the rain on the roof from the basement. I hollered at Jim, went upstairs and could NOT believe my eyes!

Hail, reportedly the size of golf balls in some areas, smaller than a quarter here. Our prime scout, the Kona Puppy, wasn't sure what to think. he looked to the left and right, but would have nothing to do with going out for further exploration. We didn't blame him!

but to have happened in early Mid-June, on the Day My Daddy passed seemed significant to me enough to share. If you click the picture for a larger version, you may be able to see the halo of hail in the top right corner, my studio deck below, acquiring balls of ice... in June!

From the Arkansas Ozarks, hoping my friends to the north didn't take a hard hit..

Understanding Color

2009-04-02T11:55:00.001-05:00

NOW open for enrollment at My Creative Classroom !!

I Am SOOOO excited. I LOVE to share my joy of color enthusiasm! .. or as a friend would say "colorgasm" ! A 4-week interactive class, resulting in a handy accordion book as a future reference. Fun and Easy! One of Jim's favorite sayings!

I hope you'll join me on my new adventure. The world of teaching and learning online is gaining excellent ground, not to mention cost effective. I am looking forward to diving in head first!

When I first worked this lesson into another class I teach, I thought my students would hate me. Instead, they developed the same obsession I have and actually THaNKeD me for saving them tons of $$$ on 'pretty tubes of color at the art store'. For me, exploring color will be a continuing adventure.. the more I learn, the more I want to discover!

Hope to see you there!

Shameless Self Promotion..

2009-02-15T20:27:00.006-06:00

well... isn't that what a Blog is for???

After paying months for a newsletter service, I finally found the gumption, inspiration and desire to begin! My first Newsletter will go out before the end of this week

Newsletter recipients will receive special offers and advance notices (upcoming online classes!!)... whatever whim or happy news strikes on that day!

Subscribe today

dreaming BIG, teri

A little more from CHA

2009-02-12T10:39:00.008-06:00

Taking a quick moment to share a few more things from CHA. Here is a picture of me with my designer Showcase. Thanks to my awesome agent a Penny Lane for sending this to me

And here she is, my lovely agent at Penny lane in her booth on the show floor. Renee is ALWAYS busy.. a real go-getter! She was either on the phone with customers or busy showing books and samples to an interested manufacturer

And here I am, in front of my display area in the Creative Imaginations booth. This was on the last day. I think I look a little worse from wear and tear :)

And here's a peek at my "Asian Way" collection, releasing next month!

At the end of the show, everyone was lulling around, counting down those last few minutes. This is a picture of the amazing folks behind the scenes at Creative Imaginations.

Also, take a look at the video made by Jenn Mason. Jenn Is a CI artist who does some amazing stuff! I'm beginning to wonder if she has learned the secret to adding hours to the day.. OR does she sleep?? check her latest blog with a cool interview here

FiNaLLy!!

2009-02-06T11:26:00.008-06:00

Whew.. what a long week.. OR has it been two weeks??? When I left my mountain home to head for CHA in CA, it was 65 degrees. And this is what I returned to::

the frozen tundra at the airport. This wasn't the worst of it, this is just after I was able to grab my camera from my bags. I was exhausted because I was stranded in Dallas the night before as a result of this storm.

The roads were crazy. For a second, a brief second, I considered taking a walk up to the front of our road. Major damage. Jim had to chain saw his way out one day. But then I came to my senses and decided pictures of our backyard were enough!

We were lucky as only a few branches broke under the pressure of the ice. Our friends down the road had a branch go through the roof of their sun room. Up the street, people cars were covered in debris. Thank goodness for the garage!

These are pics of our backyard. As damaging as it was, the glistening of the ice on the branches and roof is mesmerizing to me!

Next up... Here are some pictures from Creative Imagination's preview party. Always fun!! Getting to see those reps who love to sell my stuff. These were taken at my make and take at the party

I love this woman.. even if I can't remember her name ;( sorry! I handed her my camera and asked her to shoot some pics for me, which she graciously agreed. I told her I had to be serious!

Then she told me I was too serious! Hey this is close to rocket science for a girl who wants to throw paint around!

And here is the lovely Stayce Dewid helping me... and Lord knows I need all the help I can get

and one more of my friend Roann. She participated in the License and Design section and did Fabulously!!!! Way to go, Roann! She was positively glowing!

I'll be back soon, with a few more pics. For now, I hear art directors cracking whips!

Prime Time!

2009-01-16T17:27:00.006-06:00

today i was informed by my agent that a piece of my work will be used as a prop on TV!! This happened before on "Wizards of Waverly Place" but nobody knew when.

THIS time, I go big 3 on the TV show "Criminal Minds" on February 18. BUT, you'd better not blink :) We believe it will be used as wall art in a dorm room. i think she said it will be this piece...

i'm gonna be sure to set the DVR! no money, just bragging rights! hopefully a little exposure? does this look good on a CV? "As seen on TV" LOL!! OH... shameless self promotion, you can buy this piece (among others) at Penny Lane's website

Emerald Isle

2009-01-09T15:17:00.002-06:00

Here's another recent scrapbook collection that recently released. I had SOO much fun designing this one: weaving celtic knots, painting shamrocks and playing with some new mediums. The collection includes 4 papers, a sticker sheet, epoxy stickers and brads. Check out your local scrapbook store!

an Omen?

2009-01-01T23:35:00.005-06:00

my friends, as I close down the first night of the New Year, my reflections of years gone by remain. Last night, as Jim uncorked the champagne, impeccably timed and directly on cue, it blasted across the room, scaring the kona puppy. We toasted the New Year, looking forward with optimism. i wondered where the cork was...

it had landed in my "nest", my cuddle chair where i spread out my journals and whatever suits my fancy :) if you look closely you'll see a stack of journals and such, a basket of quickie "gotta get this idea down" stuff. the antique ashtray holds various tools.. i see a glue stick :) and my glasses are in there too!

but i digress.. in my hand woven shawl/poncho, blanket in my nest, the cork (a New Year symbol of sorts, i suppose) found its nest in mine. i've been trying to upload a close up several times now, if you care to you can click the image for a larger pic) i AM determined to send this before the clock strikes 12. May all your days bubble over with delight in all the right places at all the right times! Here's to a Bright and bursting NEW year

Heaven

2008-12-18T19:20:00.012-06:00

it all started on a cold winter morning last week. The door bell rang. It was the FedEx driver with a special delivery. It my latest studio addition! OH BoY!! I could hardly wait to get it to my studio.

After the long haul down the stairs the pieces started to come into place. The Original Scrapbox is a scrapbooking storage system with a fold out table and cabinets for your home and or studio. This art and craft organizing armoire easily converts into a storage for all your creative uses. It offers shelving, racks, carry totes, ribbon boxes, drawers and then some. Go see for yourself!

As Jim assembled the components, all I could do was pace the floor :) wondering how and where and where and how to place the ALL the shelves and bins. Talk about flexibility!! AND, for the chaos lover in you, I made sure I had my messy, chaotic table in the foreground :)

And here she is, in all her beauty. My New Scrapbox.. which is actually going to serve me better as an Art Supply Station. Eventually, it be filled with paints and all manner of things. I suppose it will all be up to Grace..

Of course, our little helper doggy, Kona puppy was more than happy to strike a pose

I'm still organizing the shelves and bins and have been slowly getting things together, mixing it up with various art deadlines. SOO.. this is Stage one, Stage two is in progress so watch for more pics! SOON! I promise!

After Love comes Heaven!

2008-12-07T10:54:00.004-06:00

Have you ever thought how cool it would be to have ALL your stuff (scrapbook papers, paints, brushes, colored pencils, stamps and stamp pads, you name it!) all in one convenient storage unit that doesn't take up much space? Well, I found it!! Last week I ordered a "ScrapBox".The Original Scrapbox is a scrapbooking storage system with a fold out table and cabinets for your home and or studio. This art and craft organizing armoire easily converts into a storage for all your creative uses. It offers shelving, racks, carry totes, ribbon boxes, drawers and then some. Go see for yourself!

clicking the image above will take directly to their home page where you can watch video demos of this unique product. When ordering, type "100SHIP" OR "terimartin" in the coupon section of the order form to get $100 off shipping! I would LOVE to hear back from anyone who has this or plans to get it..... I can't wait to get mine and you can be sure I'll have studio shots as I decide what to put where when my Scrapbox After months of researching built in cabinets for my studio, this product is almost a steal!

I think I'm in love!

2008-12-05T17:54:00.003-06:00

Releasing now in your local store, one of my newest scrapbook collections. This one is called "My Beloved" and I am SOO happy with the way it turned out! The entire collection is made up of 4 papers, 1 cardstock sticker, 1 Epoxy sticker and a package of heart shapes brads. I can hardly wait to get my samples!

Stay tuned, because I have another release coming up. PLUS I found a cool new storage unit that I want to tell you about. Right now, I'm multi-tasking: blogging, filing real, honest to goodness paperwork into boxes, and cooking dinner.. just to name a few .

Friends and Fun!

2008-09-22T17:10:00.004-05:00

This is my FaBuLOuS Art Director at Creative Imaginations, and her honey, also source manager and part owner. They know how to do it up in style on National "Talk like a Pirate" Day. It makes me smile.. I hope it does for you.. posted with permission!

I know.. I have so many pictures of recent events I want to share. Finding the time is the challenging part!! But stay tuned, as soon as I get it all together, I will give you a sneak peek at my upcoming Scrapbook releases.

Happy Autumnal Equinox!

LoTs of Favorite Pics!

2008-08-11T23:34:00.005-05:00

my friends.. i have been SOO caught up in day-to-day life, all the while wanting to share more and more conference stuff with all of you:: serious and nonsense :)

since it's late, AnD i'm wiped after a Dr. appointment day with my Beauty Queen, sending off weekend guests.. i give you this picture of what has been described as "paying tribute to the Gods of Frivolity".. indeed we were! me and my second cousin Julie, in downtown Naperville during LMS. - photo courtesy Jen in Luv-ville :) thanks babes for A Fab Night!!!!

Check this out..

2008-08-03T11:55:00.003-05:00

-- pun intended!

I knew I had this contract and I have been watching the site, but my designs can now be ordered as checks!!! Here's one design of one 4 pack.

I have two sets!! Check them out here

and here

Too Cool!!!! Their descriptions crack me up! Acclaimed artist? hmmmm.... well, if THeY say so! You can also get a matching checkbook cover and address labels. I think I'll order some today. What fun!

Serendipity at Letters Mingle Souls

2008-08-02T10:57:00.006-05:00

As I slowly get caught up, I will continue to post conference pics in chronological order. These are from Serendipity night. Charles Pearce can sure sing and Irish ditty! I believed he was coerced into this one. There was never a shortage of musicians with a variety of instruments. OH what a night.

I believe there have been some postings of our tattoos during serendipity. Here's me getting mine...done by the nothing but spectacular Georgia Deaver.

If you have never had the honor and pleasure of meeting Georgia. Make SuRE the next time see her, introduce yourself. She is always smiling, laughing and enjoying life. Definitely not a person to feel intimidated by. Quite the opposite, she will openly note her pleasure in meeting YOU.. with a smile, a giggle and a blush! Love ya Ms G!

And finally, Yves, my instructor of the week, getting silly, flexing and showing off his tattoo... WHaT FuN!!

Stay tuned.. there WiLL be more to come..

teri

Live from LMS

2008-07-21T00:04:00.008-05:00

For my CS buddies, anxiously awaiting reports and pics... here is a quickie for ya!

On Saturday night, as Charles and I headed for our "fine dining" experience, the lovely Ms Gemma came along.. she and I decided to make a Charles sandwich :)

Jane Parillo- ACA Extraordiare- became the newest inductee to the Sisterhood of Ilk!

Then.. a few hours later, Let's get this party started!! We happened upon Mr Clark of Twin Rocker paper. sorry darlin, I forgot your fist name... and the other darlin on the violin.. memory fails.... but my eyes can spot him anywhere!! Jen singing, me dancing

and now the CS dinner (more pics soon as time allows... but i was humble at the the generous presentation of you sneaky folks and Gems beautiful "T is for Teri". I'd heard the rumblings and I thought there was bookmark project.. boy was i EvER wrong..and humbled.... my kisses are blowing to YOU from Chicago... words fail, And I'm shedding a tear as I write this.. THaNK you ALL!!

and finally, the Fab Mr Moscato...

i need sleep..... i managed ALL day today on 3 hours of sleep.......

gathering angels

2008-06-19T18:37:00.004-05:00

i'm not sure where, or how to start...

these past several weeks have been a blur. i don't know how to write about this publicly, but i feel a strong need to do so... it all started with my Daddy falling on Mother's Day

in honor of my daddy "LTC (Lieutenant Colonel) Daddio" as i fondly call and refer to him -and STill and WiLL continue to do so....

October 7, 1923 - June 9, 2008

My Daddy and the Beauty Queen moved here (Sept 2006) because Jim and I had. They came for a visit, they saw, they liked it, and made a decision to live here. Who wouldn't?? IF my Daddy were still alive, he might write another amendment to the Bible! (i should share with you his "on the sixth day, God created" ... story!) He became a REaL Arkansas "mountain man, hippie", i would tell him. i LoVed him so much... jim sez this picture shows the glimmer of a trouble maker's eyes...

I LoVe YOU, Daddy....

and i'm going to miss you, terribly....

He left us with MaNY memories .. He started his "memoirs" in 2000, wrote his own eulogy in 2005, and has left us a book of his life. WHaT a gift. We all knew about it, but he said he'd rather we wait to read it. i think we were each given the privilege of reading a chapter, or part of a chapter. But, The Epilogue was hidden... crafty man!... i've only JuST begun to read all of what he wrote.

He explained the memoirs were mostly HIS life "pre US" -with small references-

3 wars, lung cancer and imbalance..

My daddy.. in your final words, you hoped we remembered you with love… from the deepest part of my heart, i am going to miss you, daddy... and now there are tears.. tears you speak of many times in the writings you've left behind. i promise to honor our memories..... i can only say that i am BEyONd BLeSSeD to have had the past couple of years to spend with you...

always, daughterio

More from Mother Earth

2008-04-27T12:04:00.002-05:00

here's a page using my New Mother Earth Collection. I really Love this collection and this layout by one of Creative Imaginations' Design Team members, Linda

My artist's samples haven't arrived yet.. but I can hardly wait!!!

a quick glimpse at a day..

2008-04-16T19:50:00.002-05:00

.. it's almost 8:00 pm... i am supposed to be making dinner (scrambled eggs! -with cheese and veggies) but jim had to run to the store, so i'm sneaking a moment..

i've just come in from a short, but relaxing break on the back deck after a long day's work. the sunset is breathtaking! the squirrels are scurrying about to settle in and the deer are making their evening trek down the path to wherever the go for the night. the birds are singing the evening songs. so sweet and beautiful. i wish i could sit there forever. but i have to scramble :) - literally and figuratively - because i will be back to work after dinner and a little puppy love.. well, okay.. two puppies :)

sorry no pics :(

with hugs, teri

check it out!

2008-04-15T10:42:00.004-05:00

One of my most recent Scrapbook releases is my "Mother Earth" collection. I had SOO much fun creating this line... using LoTs of recycled stuff: fun, fun, FUN!! There are 4 papers and 2 sticker sheets: cardstock stickers and chipboard stickers... in stores Now!

Now, Creative Imaginations is inviting YOU to the challenge!! Check out their Blog and see a cool project by one of our designers, Linda. There is a link on CI's site to see more of her work.

You can use any of their papers in the challenge to win prizes! I know... not everyone is a scrapbooker (including me.. shhhh!) but I still use my papers and stickers on altered books, journals, cards.

More news soon!!!

THiS is TOO CooL!!

2008-03-23T18:30:00.006-05:00

well, at least it is to me :)

i knew it was coming, but i had to restrain myself until i saw it for myself on the web. it's official!! you can now put my work on your walls as a mural!! it's almost frightening to think of my work being reproduced THaT Big!! Here's a direct link to my pages on Murals Your Way

Mr Hilton? :) if you're reading, don't you think these would be fabulous in lobbies, mezzanines, spas, massage centers?? gosh.. it would be a dream come true... coming back from a lovely day by the beach at the Sheraton, Marriott, Westin..... headed for a soothing massage, in a room filled with relaxing aroma and rejuvenating art. OK... well maybe i really DO need to get a life :) but ya can't blame a girl for trying.. while i'm thinking hotels, my friends are thinking local spas, chiropractors... and hey, ladies... how about something lovely to look up at when you're having your annual exam at the doctor? even my physical therapist could use something on his ceiling for me to gaze at during traction :) okay.. now i'm just rambling.... or giddy... there's more coming, so stay tuned! -and thanks for reading!!

teri

California Classes

2008-03-07T12:08:00.006-06:00

As promised, here are some pictures from my classes in CA. I had an absolute BLaST and I think the participants did, too. The class was "Color and Calligraphic Painting" It was a one day class in San Diego and 2 evenings in Orange County. I think we ALL could have enjoyed another day! But we did accomplish a fair amount of work

Everyone was busy painting their color wheels and prepared papers

This was our Community supply table in San Diego

..and me, holding up one of my demo pieces

Then it was onto Orange County for more fun!

Painters in action!

We had a supply in OC, too! I basically supplied everything but the brushes!

And finally, just one of the many gorgeous pieces painted!

Thanks everybody!! I had the Best time playing and splashing paint with you!

this blog entry is brought to you by.....

2008-02-25T18:31:00.003-06:00

…the letters

O U C H !!

i tripped over a power cord in my office last week and wiped out my big toe. sheeesh! actually, had i not been able to keep my balance, i might have knocked my head! SOO.. i've been horizontal for a few days, on ice and such. just so ya know, i haven't forgotten about posting my CA trip!

it's about time..

2008-02-20T17:43:00.002-06:00

in more ways than one :)

so many of our colleagues have shared pictures and stories from CHA in CA. how do they do it?? i need more time!

i had a ToTaL BLaST and have a Bunch of pics. i will see about squeezing in a few bits and pieces as often as i can.

thanks to all of the great folks in San Diego and Orange County for taking my color and painting class.. and also to the many fine folks i met and played with at the Creative Imaginations booth. i always enjoy carrying on with you during the make and takes!! thanks for stopping by!

for a little fun, here is a picture by Sandy D in the OC class. Sandy is an awesome calligrapher and photographer! Sandy.. if you're reading and have a website, post it in the comments OR write me and I will pass it along.

stay tuned!! meanwhile i'm off to see about getting more paint on my hands!

California, here i come!!

2008-02-04T17:45:00.000-06:00

it's show time!!

by this time tomorrow, i will be in California, eating sushi with my dear friend.. i can't wait!!

with CHA right around the corner, there's buzz all over the place!! i have SOO much to talk about and not a lot of time before i head out of here tomorrow morning.

the excitement starts (well, after the sushi and quality time with my friend, cary!) with a full day class on Wednesday with the San Diego Fellow Calligraphers. OH boy are we gonna have fun! - i PROMISE to take pictures and share! then i will head north to my (most recent) old stomping grounds and teach an evening class for my calligraphy/paint splashing buddies up there.

Then comes CHA and all the excitement around it!! The Creative Imaginations Team has been hard at work preparing for the show! Our design team is showing their best work with projects using NEW Releases! They are featuring an artist each day on their blog Me, i have three new collections along with several themed Swatchbooks! I AM SOO excited!!

Stay tuned.. i will update as I can... meanwhile, here are a few projects using my my "Sweet Beginnings" Collection, from one of our awesome Team members, Linda. check out her blog!

Thanks, Linda!! YOU RoCK!

i've got more to share... hopefully in the morning. in the mean time, be sure to check out CI's blog

snow wonder

2008-02-01T18:33:00.000-06:00

we had a good 8"of snow fall between last night and the night before. it was a soft, quiet snow…not at all like the day before which started out with morning temps of high 50's! darned near shorts weather :) somewhere around noon, the wind came howling with gusts of 70 mph. then the temps dropped rapidly:: from 60's to 20's=JuST like THaT. how CRaZYY!

everything was covered in white yesterday, and most of today. Jim and Kona Puppy like to throw and play with sticks, but sticks were hard to find :)

instead, Jim threw snowballs at Kona, and the Kona Puppy LoVeD it!! he loves playing with his "daddy". we like to tease him about his lily white butt :) and now here he is, blending in with snow!! ahh.. my little doggie, pure as the driven snow! --NoT!! he is well versed at the skill of being a pain in the butt! but we love him, and everything about him.

it's hard to believe we've had him for more than 2 years now!! he is definitely showing signs of growing up!

As the day warmed up and the icicles began to melt from the roof of the house, I was mesmerized at the sign that appeared on the deck below.... the
water had left the marking of a cross.. it was quiet magical! I called for jim to come out and have a look with me. It was then that he told me that he was the one to shovel the horizontal crossbar away--- bursting my bubble! Oh well... i think i still prefer to believe in magic!

but is it a tool??

2008-01-29T18:56:00.000-06:00

ever since i posted those pics of a few of my tools, i've been using another favorite friend :) a funky paper towel!! i'm telling you: whatever is handy… and there's almost always a paper towel that really belongs in the garbage can! so why do i keep these and use them? because they are there :)

these are so used and crusty with acrylic that they can't be uncrumbled.... otherwise they'd be laying flat on table with the pile of 6 or 7 that might not get used as rags. every now and then i scan some of them, or put them in a collage. these are destined for trash!

i'm part of The Tree!!

2008-01-27T18:14:00.000-06:00

Leanin' Tree that is! and i couldn't be happier! I LoVe working with so many FaBULoUS companies and the people that make it all happen. i am truly blessed...

so.. anyway, we signed a contract with Leanin' Tree late last year. once all was finalized i was welcomed "to The Tree". So here I AM, debuting on the first page of their 2008 catalog

if you know Leanin' Tree, you KNoW they do a beautiful job on their cards. colorful inside and out, all the way to the envelope :) i recently received my samples and they are ABsOLUtELy Gorgeous!! look for them at an LT display near you. hey, if we have them here in podunk, they MuST be everywhere!! i know our local gallery who carries Leanin' Tree will have them...

Wowee... 2 blogging days in a row. smirk! hey, if i'm not careful, i may be blogging everyday :) <-- did i say THaT??

tools of the trade

2008-01-26T16:58:00.000-06:00

I am delighted to have been invited to teach for two of Southern California's calligraphy societies.. One in San Diego and another in Orange County.

In preparing for this class and putting together my supply list, I decided to give the participants some visuals of a few of my tools.

I have to chuckle when I look at some of my brushes. For some reason, I am attached to my oldest and nastiest brushes. I do keep my brushes clean, but I am far from fanatical about it. The brush on the right is just an ordinary inexpensive household brush from Home Depot or the like. Its original purpose is to prepare paper with gesso or acrylic medium. It surely has seen better days and if there's nothing else in my view when a whim strikes, I even use it to paint with!

I like to recycle containers and such. These are plastic egg cartons that I absolutely love to use... and use.. and use. Especially the lids.. LOL! I keep the egg sections because, well... I just like looking at the colors! But it also gives me a future reference for color ideas. Playing color is such a fascinating thing, I don't think I will ever tire of it!

just because..

2008-01-16T22:20:00.000-06:00

i want to be a better blogger

i want to be a better blogger…

i enjoy having peaks at pieces of others' lives.... and i am always happy to share mine. i just want to make certain that i begin to take time for sharing at least a nugget. SOO..

here's a little something that's been making me smile… a picture of our new "nephew", kona puppy's cousin :)

our buddies down the street brought their little baby puppy home a little over a week ago. a soft, squirmy ball of sweet, warm fur. who could resist??

and the winners of the "test" are.....

2008-01-02T20:32:00.000-06:00

Diana in Montana

gl. in Portland

and
Donna Livingston

CoNgratulations!! and thanks to all of you lovely folks for indulging me!

Please send me your full names and addresses to teriATterimartin.com or through the contact page on my website

Choose from a 2008 Calendar, a Journal (see November 19, 2007) or one 12x12" art print from Penny Lane

and yer right, KT.. I'm NoT a good blogger.. i PRoMIsE to be back soon!!!!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T19:48:00.000-06:00

i hope you all had the very best of the Season! here is one of my favorite pictures from Christmas.. my mother, who i call the Beauty Queen. if you are from Virginia, you know about Mrs. Fearnow's Brunswick Stew and how delicious it is (not to mention hard to find) The Beauty Queen loves it (as you can see!) Santa brought her 20 cans!! and NO, she won't share :)

now, is it just me, or does time have a way of increasing warp speed?? please, oh please slow down for just a little while! i keep telling myself "next month" but not this time... next month i will be in CA for CHA. i am delighted to have been invited to teach a one day class in San Diego and a two night class in Orange County. I am SOO excited to see, visit, laugh, play, splash paint with my old friends.. write me if you want details. look out California:: here i come !

next up: the winners of the "test" :) i'll also be adding a comment to that post. thank you friends, for reassuring an apparent needy blogger

this is a test ;)

2007-12-19T21:28:00.000-06:00

this is a test. this is only a test..

if this were a real post, it would contain informative content :)
if you're reading this, i'd love it if you posted a comment!
i want to know if anybody's 'listening'..
sometimes i feel like i'm talking to myself to myself...
which isn't uncommon and maybe not such a bad thing :O
seeing as how i already talk to myself...

thoughts on paper anywhere
(typed or hand written-even on the computer!)
have a way of engraving themselves in our hearts.

during this giving season, I have LoTs of goodies to share... calendars, boxed sets of cards, journals.. who knows what whim might capture me!! SOO.. leave a comment and i'll put your name in the hat for when that infamous whim strikes! <--- she visits often!! something tells me it could be often! ask jim, he knows :)

There are so many things to be grateful for. expressing gratitude has become an everyday habit for me. may your days be filled with love and gratitude, peace and happiness...

boats and boys!

2007-12-12T19:36:00.000-06:00

this past saturday was the Beaver Lake Sailing Club's Christmas and awards party. I don't think I ever showed you last winter's boat haul out/ bottom repair which took place in our driveway. neighbors and delivery guys and sundry all poked fun about it. HEY! we had a hard winter last year, and it was freaking cold. too cold to go and strip, sand, fill and finish the bottom of of 24 ft sailboat (did i get that size right jim?? smirk) i could dig those photos out to post if i must..

so.. their intention was to launch the beautifully clean bottomed boat :) that's where the winter comes in. that boat sat in the driveway till... i dunno, late Spring?? people started suggesting we plant flowers in it! hey.. not a bad idea.. just around the corner from highway, there's an establishment that uses old toilets as planters! strange, maybe... but worth a little chuckle!

but i digress. they missed the Spring series altogether, gathered a new crew and shook out cobwebs during the short Summer season and took 1st place in the Winter series!! a first for Anahi and her crew!

from left to right: Tom, Billy, Jim (hiding) and Dan. Jim and Dan own Anahi with another fellow. I wasn't able to get a shot of Jim until everyone stepped way..

Dan had sailed the boat over from it's dock to the Sailing Club. Jim and Billy want to help Dan cast off. On the way down to the dock, we found a rickety wheel barrel. Stan offered me a ride.. i wasn't sure because it was straight downhill ;) Billy decided to get in and off they went!

here are a few shots of the boats lit up for Christmas.

Dan, with Jim and Billy helping, prepares to head home to the other side of lake. the rest of us fair weather sailors traveled by car!

Jim, ever the devoted sailor, was too busy and involved in his tasks to hear me call him to turn around! along with a chorus of Stan and Billy, he obliged!

and he's off... can't say into the sunset. it was awfully cold and foggy, but sailor Dan endured!

It was a fun evening, good food, good company. next year, watch out everybody!!! the crew was introduced as they were awarded as a "force to be reckoned with"! CoNGRaTuLATiONs guys!

in my own little corner…

2007-12-06T18:32:00.000-06:00

…in my own little chair, i can be whatever i want to to be! smiles. okay, well maybe it's not so little :) one of the many things i am thankful for: my chair, aka my nest!

i just thought you might enjoy seeing my creative space upstairs...

when i'm not in my office/studio/kitchen or bed, i'm on my chair surrounded by journals and various inspiration material :) there's a 1950s ashtray on the table with water brushes, pencils, glue stick and such. seems everything starts with a pencil ;) the basket holds watercolor pencil sets, sets of cool colored ball point pens (sorry, can't remember the name-- G-tech 4 or something?) pastels, palettes and whatever happens to be around at the time. click on the pic for a closer look.

i've been meaning to share this little corner of my world with you for some time now. i had the silk leaf mobile special ordered for the colors. the air vent is in the corner behind the chair so the leaves are almost constantly moving.. i LoVe it! Oh, and yes, the two paintings there are mine. i guess it's a little eclectic! ask me if that bothers me!! (but don't ask jim) -the painting behind my chair might get replaced at some point, who knows? the entire wall to the left of this pic is empty, awaiting it's perfect piece. i suppose the saying is true: there is only one constant and that is change...

and the winner is....

2007-11-30T10:38:00.000-06:00

Ramona!

Your name was drawn from the hat to receive a copy of my dream journal. Please email me your address. my email is teri AT terimartin.com. OR you can go through my contact page on my website

Thanks everyone for playing!! stay tuned.... another whim could strike at any moment. I will be offering a dozen or so of these journals for sale. If you are interested, contact me as described above and I will give you details. First come, first served!!

OH... my shipment won't arrive for another week or so, but still in time for Christmas!

special delivery!

2007-11-19T17:31:00.000-06:00

I am SOO excited by my most recent samples!! check it out.. a blank journal using my work on the covers

and sorry if i sound braggy (but it IS My Blog! smirk) but i also LoVe the back cover and inside. it is so beautifully manufactured! i only get two contract samples and jim quickly laid claim to one. i HAD to have MoRE!!

in a desperate effort to get more, i contacted the manufacturer ;) the journal is only being distributed as a trial for now, so the print run was limited. BUT.. i DiD manage to get my hands on some! i'm thinking i can offer a few for sale, as well as doing a RAK -stay tuned - they could even be personalized on the first page. i would LoVe feedback as i will have a very limited supply and i want to share as many as i can. naturally, i am going to keep a couple JuST for me! and then hope these things fly and we will all see more!!!

hmm.. let me see.. if you've read this far, let the RAK begin!!! i will draw one lucky winner from all comments posted between now and Thanksgiving. i'd LoVe to learn what you ALL are thankful for and/or any feedback regarding the journals i will soon have available

speaking of things to be thankful for, i think i'll start working on my list now! and will share it with YOU when i am done.. there are so many blessings...

This just in!!

2007-11-08T18:08:00.000-06:00

I just received this today from my agent/publisher!! I'm so jazzed! They distribute wholesale, but they also have an online retail store, so if you want to know immediately where to get them, surf on over to Penny Lane

following links

2007-11-07T11:56:00.000-06:00

i've decided to have a lazy day today.. seems i've been going a million miles an hour for.. for... forever!! don't get me wrong, i have piles of stuff to do, but I DON'T FEEL LIKE doing ANY of IT!! So there!

going through mail this morning and catching up.. after sleeping in till 10!! i came across a link to another fun little thing on the web. i am tickled with my name acronym!! people tell me i'm talented -- even though it is hard to comprehend (oh boy! an idea for an essay in my spare time!) Easy? yeah, sure.. in more ways than one :) revolutionary?? maybe. but Important?????? perhaps some meditative thinking is required.. maybe in front of stoker with pillows, blankets and a doggy! that's right- first day of the season to fire up that wood burning stove in ye old studio.

T	Talented
E	Easy
R	Revolutionary
I	Important

Name Acronym Generator
From Go-Quiz.com

Just for fun!

2007-10-24T15:53:00.000-05:00

a friend sent me this link.. and being a color fanatic, i went to check it out. interesting! a LOT of it is spot on.... some a little grey. there is a link at the bottom of the "darkviolet" but it's hard to see. if you want to see what color you are, mouse over the bottom bar and the link should become visible! AND if you want to share your color, i'd LoVe to hear!!

you are darkviolet
#9400D3

Your dominant hues are blue and magenta. You're the one who goes to all the parties but doesn't quite fit in at every one... you know what you want, but are afraid of what the world might think of it. You're a little different and that's okay with them, and if you're smart it's okay with you too.

Your saturation level is very high - you are all about getting things done. The world may think you work too hard but you have a lot to show for it, and it keeps you going. You shouldn't be afraid to lead people, because if you're doing it, it'll be done right.

Your outlook on life is brighter than most people's. You like the idea of influencing things for the better and find hope in situations where others might give up. You're not exactly a bouncy sunshine but things in your world generally look up.

the spacefem.com html color quiz

Time Flies when...

2007-09-24T12:38:00.000-05:00

Goodness, I can't believe how terribly long it has been since I've blogged. Where do the days and nights go??

I just got off the phone with one of my licensees where she uttered the same sentiment, then weakly sang the Beach Boys "Fun, Fun, Fun till your daddy takes the T-bird away". Something tells me we'll have to have a chat with "Daddy" ;)

So, I'll tell you something exciting I've been working on and waiting to announce. At Surtex, we garnered a few wonderful contracts. I am THRiLLeD to announce that we have signed on with a publisher/agent.. a 2 part contract. Penny Lane is a Fine Art Publisher who sub-licenses images for various industries. We are beyond excited.. even more so now that they have returned from the Atlanta Decor show, where they debuted my work. Thanks to my art director for sharing these pictures with me!!! OH! don't forget to click on the pics for full size images..

As a result, they will be publishing and distributing several of my paintings! I'm not sure if it gets anymore exciting.. but, hey.. it's been a crazy ride for more than four years and I'm still kickin' !!

exciting news?

2007-07-30T18:32:00.000-05:00

Rumi has long been one my most turned to poets. a 13th century philosopher, lover of heart and soul, this quote "Be with those who help your being" has indeed become a motto for me since i first read it, many years ago...

i am THRiLLeD to have this card accepted for distribution at..... Trader Joes's!! one of my ALL time favorite stores, sorely missed by many us out here in the sticks :)

If you frequent TJs, take a camera :) just kidding!! BUT it would be awesome if all my friends rushed to their nearest coolest market in a town, take look! hey.. even buy one-- or two!! i only get a minimum of samples and am holding on for dear life.. heck, i ~might~ even go buy some more for myself ; ) -- Kansas City here we come... ?

studio and deck tour

2007-07-15T17:49:00.000-05:00

here i am .. working on a sunday. but that's nuthin' new :) okay, so i'm taking a break between projects. OH and multi-tasking, too! i've got a whole lot of studio/deck pictures i want to share.. i leave for Chicago to attend the CHA trade show early wednesday morning. i'm scrambling to finish projects and prepare, soo.... i will let the pictures speak for themselves (for the most part :)
the first one is a familiar picture

and this one is looking from the other side. the wall is the back of my office.. eventually (whenever THaT is :) it will be finished in some fashion. starting with everyone's favorite: sheet rock !!

and for those of you who think it looks WaY TOO clean, i give you the other side.. my table is full of things that need to be dealt with in some variety. but, YES.. i STiLL have a little room to paint!

looking at the same back wall from the other side of my table, you can see my flat files (also covered with various whatever's) and my lovely drying table: two plastic boxes from art show days (still filled with pieces of some sort) and a door! plans are for custom built cabinetry all along that wall.. eventually ;)

continuing around the corner, my stove, and such.. ~eventually~ ALL the building/sawing/painting stuff can go somewhere else! OH, and there's the 'other' door! that one has been there all along.

right around that corner and .. ahh.. finally we get to go outside!! plans for that right wall are a big sink and cabinets/counter. umm.. eventually :)

looking left (and up) and who's that on the living room deck?? long time no pics of jim!!

this shot looks the other direction. the stairs lead to dining room deck. ~eventually~ we will add on so that two upper decks connect. OH and there will be additions to the lower deck as well. this was the obvious good place to start!!

and a better view of the landing that leads to the steps that leads to the other landing that was added to the dining room deck

this shot is looking back from above said and shown landing to the living room deck

what's a post without my kona puppy?? he always wants to be where the action is!

and back inside we go.. i hope you enjoyed this quick photo tour. now i think i'll sit on that deck before i start into the next project. hey, there's almost an hour before dinner ; )

the occupation :)

2007-07-09T12:32:00.000-05:00

At long last... here it is:: a picture of my new and improved studio area. the window on the left is an addition, and the other one is a replacement

below is another view. naturally, the kona puppy always wants to be in the picture :)

the other side of the studio is the same.. no renovations... YET! but, what's next?? OK, Ms. Kings.. i knew yer really gonna hate me now, but i'm having a deck put on just outside those french doors. here's a quick shot of the beginning

Jim and our handy dandy carpenter had to build a support for the upper deck to hold it up while they replaced that corner 4x4 with a 6x6 for extra stability. you can also see one of the cement foundations for the new deck. and YES! it is done!! well.. mostly. i'll be adding more pics.. stay tuned!

the big unveiling!

2007-06-28T18:28:00.000-05:00

today, my new windows and french doors were unveiled!!
the plastic barrier is gone.. and SO is the most of the dust that came with the process. gotta love that 'process'! the walls and floor were vacuumed AND mopped, to prepare for occupancy (haven't taken pics of the occupy part yet :)

OH.. if you are one of my cozy friends to whom i directed to look at the 2nd post, it will now be the 3rd :) holy cow.. things are happening fast and furious around here.
Here's a picture of the whole wall

I've got a BuNCh more pics.. and LoTs MoRE going on... but i'm fading... i'll share more pictures tomorrow...promise!

YES.. there WiLL be 'wall treatment' of some variety :) <- ask jim, he'll tell ya. smirk. but not until all the rest of the drywall is in place, ceiling and all. stay tuned!

the state of things

2007-06-21T19:10:00.000-05:00

well... it WAS the deciding factor on buying this house: my 'basement' studio. i was adamant about how finishing the studio was the priority. wouldn't you know it, other priorities came up (don't they always?) and to be quite honest, when the time came to make studio renovations i had a hard time giving up half of my space. i mean, knocking out holes in the side of my wall for door installation, window upgrades and additions seemed less exciting when the time came two days ago .. June 19 to be exact.

but all the ingredients (doors, windows, supports, etc) were bought, paid for and delivered weeks ago. Tom, our carpenter was ready and the weather was forecasted to be favorable. OK. FiNe. i somewhat reluctantly agree. We moved everything from one side to the other to make room for a 'construction zone'.

here's what it looked like before

and here's what it looks like now:

these shots are from the vantage point of exiting my office. you can see the left hand side walled off with plastic to keep dust from going everywhere

next a couple of shots from another perspective

what's going on behind that curtain, you ask? .. let me show you!

ahh, yes.. FiNaLLy, my french doors and windows are in. tomorrow brings finishing touches, replacing dry wall and such. after that, i'll move back in before going to the next stage. a girl MuST have elbow room to paint! pictures of the new improved space are sure to come!

Manhattan Report..

2007-06-03T19:03:00.000-05:00

..and it's about time!

sometimes, it's hard to believe how time flies, yet also seems to stand still in certain moments.

a moment like knowing someone through a small online group of tight knit women for 12 years and meeting some for the first time in NYC! that's when time stands still.. for a moment. you feel like you've known this friend all your life. sitting down at a meal together is like catching up and with a feeling of "it seems like only yesterday" that we sat down together.

Kaye and her adoring husband Travis joined us for dinner on our first night there. they were celebrating their 30th anniversary! jim made sure i didn't embarrass him by blurting out any of my knowledge of the Japanese language ((hi Nobu!))

anyway, here we are. me, preparing to eat sushi while everyone else ordered cooked food ! ;)

then next night, another list Sistah, India and her husband Josh drove in from New Jersey. Okay.. now THaT was a crazy night!!

as we were placing ourselves for the picture, Kaye noticed how i snuggled in on her hubby!! ;)

and then there's just us girls....

THaT was an incredibly FuN night... i even got to "blurt" in English :) the waiter was perplexed and not sure he believed that we'd known each other for so long and have never met in person. but we assured him it was true. he asked how we connected via internet and i blurted out "women seeking women!!!!"

Kaye and Travis were able to come to the show on the first day. We were busier than usual, but after a while it slowed down enough for a nice visit. I'll put some more booth pictures up soon!!

coming soon!

2007-05-27T10:15:00.001-05:00

I have just returned from a FABuLOUs trip to NY where we once again set up a booth in the licensing show that runs concurrently with the National Stationery Show. (Pictures and report to come) We have LoTs and LOTS of wonderful things and products coming up in the very near future.

I am proud to announce that my first professionally published 12 month wall calendar for 2008 will be hitting the shelves this July! You will be able to find them in stores such as Hobby Lobby, Half Price Books--just to name a few! Pinch ME!!

My calendars can be pre-ordered on the web at Calendars.com! Just type my name in the search box. Hurry! Quantities are limited!

OR if you prefer to support of one my favorite suppliers, Brenda at Paper and Ink Arts She should have her supply before the summer winds to an end.

STAY TUNED!! There's much more coming!! I've already been informed that I will be releasing a 2009 Calendar! I couldn't be more thrilled!!!!

artists and hippies and cars, OH My!

2007-05-10T18:28:00.000-05:00

.. picking up where i left off...
Prepared to be bombarded with pics!

i'm adding more from the ARTrageous Parade with some short commentary. the way time is flying, i'd better get these up before the next exciting event ; )

and here come Kathy, J.D.'s wife

then they mingled a bit.. i kept trying to get them to turn my way!! i STiLL LoVe the fairy wings... i MuST have some!

This was my favorite costume!!! whatever that head piece was made out of (something slinky like??) it collapsed and expanded.. TOO Funny!

Next came Africa in the Ozarks.. a simple float followed by the drummers and dancers! What a ToTaL charge they give off. one of these daze.... if my life ever slows down, i am going to the tuesday night classes!!!

and another fun hat..

this next picture, i just could not resist.... definitely a slice of life here

and what parade isn't complete without a marching band!

a new hybrid flower!!! behind her come the diversity artists.. our friends Stan and Billy were part of that

Stan is in the blue beret with tea strainers for glasses. Billy is wearing the yellow beret. I told him he looked like the secret service.. seriously guarding whoever is in that car!!!

still irresistable.. little girls dressed as princesses!

and the fun continues... more costumes.. belly dancers.. another class i intend on participating in...

a finally.. a few cars from the ART Car parade. the VW bug is completely covered with found cigarette butts! who'd have thoughts ugly butts would make a cute bug??

thus concludes my photo sharing.. i HOPE you enjoyed them!!

my little town

2007-05-09T18:30:00.000-05:00

Click on all the photos for full size!

May is a month of Celebrating the Arts. well.. it IS an artist community. i was telling friends about attending the Artrageous Parade downtown on saturday. they ALL asked if i have picutres as crazy as the Easter guys! YES, i DO! and i hope you'll have as much fun looking at them as i did being there! i took over 50 pictures. but don't worry, i won't put them all up ; )
this was our first vantage point. at the Main crossroad through old town Eureka.. looking uphill towards the
Flat Iron Building and down towards Basin Springs Park.There's an ampitheatre there.. art benches. .

almost always something going on, even if it is a guy playing guitar...
the police were the first to come down the hill, making sure the way was clear before the festivities began. behind the police car, you can see the leaders of the parade.:: The Art Colony..a recent addition to our little town. J.D. and Kathy Harris are the propietors. The Art Colony was built single handedly by J.D. He is an amazing sculptor, welder, jack of ALL trades and really one of the coolest guys to be around. he has built a "colony' with artist studios, for those who need a place to hang out and paint. AND they have LOTs festivities beginning!!

Their part of the parade started with the banner, "Kindle the Creative Fire" which is what this town is ALL about.. no matter what your spark may be.

and here comes J.D. on something he concoted.. i'll hafta ask him about it ; )

i've got more pics to come... stayed tuned.. the best is yet to come!!

the visitor

2007-04-23T19:26:00.000-05:00

this morning, as i sat in my office catching up on mail, i heard a weird noise. at first, i thought it was condensation from the a/c dripping from the pipe into the drain just outside my office door. i checked, it was wet and dripping, so i went about my day.

soon, i wandered into my studio.. the noise was louder in there. i see some movement inside of stoker (my wood burning stove's name ;) at first i was alarmed, but then i saw this.
a little bird trapped in stoker. poor birdie. i went to tell jim and he came down to help. okay.. that's when i grabbed my camera ;) he was busily flitting all about, trying to find his way home. one thing i DiD know, is that we didn't need a released bird bouncing offf the windows ; )

he fluttered all around inside.i couldn't believe that he managed to get all the way through the flue. naturally, the kona puppy had to be involved in what was going on. he was promptly ushered outside! then, jim and i discussed the best way to help a little birdie get out.

we finally dedcided to put a box around the open doors, hoping he would hop inside. yeah, right. then i threw some pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds in there and left the room quiet.

i had a meeting upstairs, and by the time i was done, we were able to coax the frightened birdie into the box and release him outside.. one happy little winged beauty!

The likes of these ; )

2007-04-10T19:23:00.000-05:00

can you believe these are some of the crazy people i hang out with???? the names are being withheld to protect the innocent --you KNoW who you are ; )

sorry sweetheart, i couldn't help myself.. the devil made me do it. snicker

lovely hula hands ; )

2007-04-08T14:11:00.000-05:00

i was playing 20 questions with the girls on a message board the other day. BOY, i tell ya, those ladies are are smart. the question was "What professional career did i give up to become a CA girl?" some smarty pants (--sorry, T, couldn't resist!) got it on the fourth question. Then ... THEN, they want to see pics.

Okay, ladies, just for you!

Here's a pic of me and my brother.... i was tempted to hide the date ; ) but, heck, i haven't changed very much at all.. snicker!

years later, i was the Princess of Ni'ihau for May Day. my mother sewed my gown and everyone always wanted to me to dance at their functions. this one below is somebody's 50th wedding anniversary. are ya happy now??

You've GOT to see this!!

2007-04-07T16:57:00.000-05:00

it's the cutest thing..a little Princess Purse! -made by Cheryl Mezzetti using my Princess Collection

Cheryl is the Design Team Coordinator for Creative Imaginations. She's been designing the MoST awesome stuff with my newest collections. She'll also be joining in on tonight's chat (see below)

You can see more pics of her purse at her website along with LoTs of other creative stuff i'm sure you'll get lost in! YOU RoCK, Cheryl!

anybody wanna play???

2007-04-07T12:09:00.001-05:00

here's an invitation for all you scrapbookers, paper lovers, party people etc ; )

Today the good folks at ScrapHappyKT are hosting a "Celebrity" event.. featuring ME! LOL! There are contests (also fun for you calligraphers out there!) AND there will be a LIVE chat starting at 8pm Central.

You'll need a user name and password to play in the chat or contest. I have been hanging with these ladies for over a month and they are the most fun and loveable bunch! Join us, won't you??

Kansas City here we come!

2007-03-31T12:38:00.000-05:00

and it's no April Fools either!

we've been wanting to go to KC, it's the closest "Big City" aside from Tulsa.... i'm sure KC is more intriguing ; ) hey, i don't mind hanging out with a bunch of "crazy little women there" ; ) but really, my eyes will be on two men.. hehehehe! jim and i are celebrating our 20th Anniversary this year (May 9, actually) but we've decided to do it up big early and this is our chance!

Soo.. who's the "other" guy???? AHHHHH... the reason for celebrating early:::

that's right! damn near front and center seats for Eric Clapton in the Kemper Arena. it just doesn't get much better than that! May is TOO hectic with Surtex and such, so we're headed out, staying two nights, touring, shopping, breakfast in bed. LOL!! not to mention that it has been 15 years since the two of us took a vacation JUST for us.. no family, no business.. ALL pleasure!

and my man of honor::

cute, humble, sexy
and he takes GooD care of his 'vehicles' smirk.. he's gettin' it all polished up for the big road trip! i'm just not sure he has any fun ; )

well, ya know he's gotta get his "zoom, zoom" ready for the festivities :) let the good times roll!

more from the Chateau :)

2007-03-31T12:29:00.000-05:00

it has been a crazy several weeks here... between cranking out deadlines, i've been playing "Bed and Breakfast". OH.. i can hear jim laughing now!! ME??? do breakfast?? scandalous ; ) often when we have houseguests, he's already gone to the local bakery and has an assortment of fresh pastries for everyone. by the time i stumble out of bed, he's seen to the coffee and breakfast condiments. Okay, Jim?? not that you'll read this. but yes, credit where credit is due! Oh, and i love you for that, and everything else....

what I really wanted to share was these pictures of my wonderful son, Eagle

This was his last night here before headed back to CA. i LoVe having him here and always hate to say goodbye. but he'll be back soon.. i hope! and just so I don't leave LTC Daddio out, here's a picture of him too!

Chateau de Martin--

2007-03-17T12:59:00.000-05:00

is open for business! LOL! i've joked that ever since we moved here, we've averaged at least a houseguest(s) per month. Last week, my sister was here for the Beauty Queen's birthday

can you tell she's having a wonderful time??? OH! OOooops! that's my sister Linda

I made her a card using some of my new Princess scrapbook collection. I used a picture taken on Christmas 2005 where i had given her a tiara wrapped in purple velvet. we decided to do the "Beauty Queen Wave" so i asked them to do it again.. you can see the Christmas 05 picture here

Daddy said he has never seen her so happy. it was the first time in forever that she got to spend her birthday with her daughters and we made sure she was treated like royalty! .. then she started to cry. tears of happiness of course

today my wonderful son arrives, along with nephew #2. nephew #4 arrived last tuesday.. they should be here any minute and i still havce ToNs of work to do!!!

CHA Winter Releases

2007-03-04T11:21:00.000-06:00

Many thanks to Andrea Deer designer extraordinaire for Creative Imaginations for sharing these scapbook layouts with me. They feature my recent releases "Bride 2 Be" and "Wedding" Collections.. in stores SOON!

now if i could gather the patience to be THaT good with an exacto knife! amaZING! i prefer a pen, pencil or brush any day! not to mention that my husband always backs away slowly whenever i have something sharp in my hand. LOL! did i mention that i am having a dinner party tonight??

then there's my wonderful son Eagle

budding musician and professional chef. whenever he comes for a visit, he gives me a lesson on the proper usage of a kitchen knife "mother, mother, mother..." he says! OH.. if you look real close, he's used some of my letter stickers on his guitar

and i just happened across this picture on his website, doing his entrepenurial thing promoting his music in Berkeley. there's a little "like mother, like son" in him... Okay, fine, Jim gets some credit too!!

I've got LoTs of exciting stuff coming up, so stay tuned!!!

New Releases!

2007-02-15T18:17:00.000-06:00

I'm SOOO excited! I JuST received my samples from a company that is publishing four of my paintings as notecards!! They come in a beautifully boxed set with the "Dream" image on the cover. There are 4 each of 4 designs. These cards are 5"x5" square cropped and sized reproductions of four of my 30" x 22" calligraphic paintings. The "Dream" has already been published as a poster and now two more (the "Imagine" and "Live, Laugh, Love") will also be releasing as 20" x 16" posters VERY soon. I don't always know where anything can be found specifically, but I'll see if I can find out...

CHA Day 2

2007-02-03T19:26:00.000-06:00

i was SOOO THRiLLeD when my dear friend Kingsley was able to come and spend a day and half with me!! we had a ToTaL BLaST!! we took classes, we schmoozed, we did our best to beg, borrow and steal ; )

between classes, we wandered as many aisles as we could. Kingsley was overtaken by the chocolate fountain! in fact, this is her second go 'round

Later that evening, we had sushi. dining on sushi was on the top of my agenda! well, Kings, not being a big fan of sushi, managed to find something to suit her fancy. she made some mention of sitting at the sushi bar between two crazy women! … well, i think i can take a stab at who ONE of them might have been ; ) I even learned a new Japanese word or two-- hi Nobu!

we are ALReAdY looking forward to next year, huh, Kings?

and Toni, i am ever so sorry we missed you... i mispaced ALL my important 'notes to myself'--including cell phone numbers and other manner of things. maybe some day i'll figure out a no fail method ; ) Hope the show was prosperous for you!!!

CHA Report

2007-02-02T23:28:00.000-06:00

gosh, when i look around the web and see what's already posted about CHA, i wonder if i am a slug? ;) i DeFiniTLeY feel like one!

CHA has GOT to be one of the most overwhelming shows ever. eye candy everywhere.. everything from scrapbooking to fibers to knitting and sewing machines, art supplies--almost anything one can think of!!

every show, Creative Imaginations has a preview party for their biggest customers. this year was a Holywood theme. upon entering the room, folks are greeted with a glass of champagne, then a fellow dressed as Austin Powers set up with a professional photographer ready for each person's moment in the spotlight! Those pictures will be ready from the photographic company shortly and i'll be sure to post them here.

meanwhile, here are some shots from the party.... this is John, our printer extraordinaire.

one of my favorite things to do is to linger around my display and listen to comments and meet folks. Here is a small peek at my new wedding line that released at this show. it comes complete with coordinating paper and stickers for the Bridal Shower and Bachelorette Party.. so far it appears to be a grand success!

These ladies here are admiring and ordering my Princess line that can be found in stores now. It really is an adorable collection.

When it was time to leave, i waited for the shuttle with one of our customers. We decided to have our picture taken together. Jeanne.. if you're reading, email me and i will send you a copy! this picture is also for my friends with whom i moaned and worried about formal attire. thank goodness the little black dress and flat sandals are "in"!

journal entry

2007-01-26T10:38:00.000-06:00

some friends of mine on a small email list are getting together to work on a journal project together. these ladies are among the most generous and encouraging women i know. following a thread, i was telling them about a particular journal entry of mine.

I did this on the plane trip here in august of 2005. we had never been to eureka springs, knew very little about it other than the fact that i have a friend who lives here. he told us we should come take a look. we flew out with the intention of buying a house. i picked up the in flight magazine and started ripped out things that appealed to me. i started glueing them down and here is what came out....

if you click on the photo, you can see a larger version. what amazes me is that things turned out almost the way i envisioned it here on this spread... paradise, nature, a big house.... note that i always include the date(s) that i work on my pages

but even MORE amazing to me is the next spread... when friends learned that we were moving from california to arkansas, they looked at me as though i was crazy. okay, well, i AM crazy!! anyway, i would begin to describe this little historic town, populated by lots of transplanted artists and hippies. what could be better, i asked.

Now, when people ask me how i like it, i tell them i LoVe it! who would have thunk that this wonderful oasis awaited in the middle of the country. it wasn't until this past summer when i was sharing my journal with a friend and i turned to this page...

WoW! i had envisioned an oasis on the way here, and that has been how i've been describing it since we moved. ahh... the power of visualization! - all with a glue stick and some colored pencils!

Today, i am off to california to attend a trade show where new my scrapbook designs and rubber stamps will preview. if i can find the time, i'll see about posting some pictures while i'm there

How??

2007-01-18T23:26:00.000-06:00

.. how did it get to be january all of a sudden?? not only january, but half way through the month? there's been LoTs to share with zero time. is that becoming an old recording?

here's my buddy who never fails to put a smile on face. his favorite game involves this red rubber bone, a favorite toy.

one of his other favorite things is feet. he LoVes to play the foot game and can always be enticed! just a snapshot of a happy moment in the middle of certain life changes...

life in a small town...

2006-12-20T19:18:00.000-06:00

as promised... a recent police report from our "Lovely County Citizen". it comes out every week on thursday and some entries always have a humorous bent. one week laundry was reported stolen from a hwy 62 laundromat, but was found "hiding in a dryer"!! a friend recently remarked that she had sent a copy to a police officer friend in a big city. his comment was that this stuff would NeVeR make into any kind print. but hey, what can we say... gotta report something!

Holiday Home Tour

2006-12-05T11:17:00.000-06:00

this past sarturday was a holiday home tour. there were several victorian homes, B&Bs and retreats open for viewing. our friends and neighbors, stan and billy, asked us to go and we said why not?? we all had a blast!! at our first stop, we were invited to make a gingerbread house. at first we looked at each other and wondered. but thanks to the kids who live inside me and stan, we sat down and made our best attempt to be creative. .. we may have gotten too ambitious ; ) Stan wanted to make a geodesic dome? -is that right Stan? he built while i tried to bite the ginger bread into appropriate size and shape. needless to say, we failed horribly! we finally gave up, realizing it had become a california house, destroyed by earthquake, landslide and finally wild fire ; ) the propietor told us she would have a picture of in the upcoming edition "The Lovely County Citizen" -our weekly local paper. (more on that in a future post!). if that REALLy happens, i'll scan it and send it along, what a hoot!

Billy and I ventured up the stairs to where a private jacuzzi sat above the town. We had an ice storm blow through just two days before and temps remained at or below freezing so everything was quite frosty!

The next two photos are of the view from the jacuzzi level. in the distance of the above photo, you can see the old historic Crescent Hotel (circa 1886??) high atop the hill. i am also quite taken with rock formations around here, and even though it is cold just to look at it, we marveled at the icicles glistening in the late afternoon sun

regrouping

2006-10-29T10:45:00.000-06:00

finally.. i am able to take a little bit of a breather after several months of filling deadlines. my studio is in ToTal disarray. i suppose i need to motivate myself and get in there, organize a bit so that i can get on with painting and playing in there. at the moment, all surfaces are covered with various paints, books, tools, papers... OY! where to start??? while at the annual lettering arts conference, i picked up a cool new thing from Brenda at Paper and Ink Arts it's this cute little bag, with handles and pages for keeps pens and brushes in. i LoVe it!!!! it makes finding the right tool SOO much easier. before aquiring this little goody, i kept my pens and brushes, organized by type (flat brushes, pointed brushes, edged pens, expressive pens, etc) each in their own separate roll up thingy. VERY hard to locate just what i am looking for while taking a class and having to work in a limited space. the best i've been able to do so far is to get all my tools organized in this little bag. i suppose i'd better get to some serious regrouping in there--then i can PLAY!! this time of year, all my licensees are satisfied with the art requests they've made, giving me time to make art just for me. i hope i still remember how!!

Latest Additions

2006-10-22T20:37:00.000-05:00

While i am not in the habit of calling my space a basement... it's my studio and office!.. it still is very much a basement. it gets cold down here in the winter!!! jim has been researching wood burning stoves. we polled some people on the pros and cons, but let me tell you, these new stoves are built right! clean burning when run properly, toasty warm, and doesn't seem to generate the dust which was one of the 'cons'. well, it arrived and was installed this past thursday, and what a fabulous investment!! three guys came early and went to work.. of course, kona puupy was more than eager to help!

the chimney goes through the ceiling of the studio, up through the laundry room, the attic and finally outside. it was fascinating to watch. thay have all these cool little devices for finding the location of the joist beamsone guy worked from the top down and the other guys assembled the chimney going up. the foreman guy must have been joking when he told me they'd be done by 2:30 after arriving just shortly after 8 am, because they were done and gone by noon! And here she is, in all her glory and warmth!!
we were told (and really weren't expecting) for this little baby to heat the entire house, but by golly... she does!! looks a little lonely there now. the three of us have found ourselves sitting on the floor down here every evening since. next, we're going to get a couple of cool floor rockers we saw at the furniture store. kona LoVes lying in front of the fire! --and so do we! as things progress, we'll be doing some stone work behind the stove, along with the rest of the finishing that needs to go on down here. all in good time, i suppose!

last night, three more guys arrived with a truck load of seasoned wood.... looks like we have plenty enough to get us through the winter!!

a few weeks ago, i bought a futon couch for my office. it's perfect!!!! makes for a cozy little space to sit when looking through books and such. now jim says it's a lot nicer to come down and visit me! when i bought it, it was covered in a black cloth. i ordered a nice cover for it which arrived on the same day as the stove.. how handy!

Life and times

2006-10-08T11:20:00.000-05:00

I have been threatening to update everyone with what's been going on here in the Ozarks, and I FiNaLLy have a moment. Life has NoT slowed down for a moment since I returned from the Lettering Arts Conference. Deadlines, more deadlines and then some. Look for LoTs of new and exciting things on the shelves of your favorite stores soon. More on that to come.

In mid September my parents made the big move from Hawaii to an assisted living place just a few miles from us. I am very happy to have them so close. It's taking the Beauty Queen a little while to adjust, but she is slowly beginning to enjoy her new life. The first order of business was to outfit their apartment with new furniture and all the accessories. I'll get a picture soon. I've been taking videos, but no stills. silly me!

Last night was Daddy's birthday. We had planned to go to a nearby steak house, just a mile down the road from their apartment. Gaskins Cabin must have awesome food.. they will only take reservations for 7 or more people, otherwise it's first come, first served. We figured with wanting to eat at 6 pm, that shouldn't be a problem. Well, when we pulled into the parking lot, there were hoards of people milling about. I rushed in to get our names on the list, only to find there was a two hour wait! YiKeS! By then it was 6:15, so I called the Horizon Restaurant and they said they weren't taking any reservations until 7 o'clock. Okay. We want a 7:00 reservation. It was about a half hour drive from where we were, so it all worked out. We still got to have steaks and they were Delicious!!!!!

We had LoTs of fun and laughter, watched the sun set over the lake, enjoyed our meal, our waiter and each other!

As for Gaskins Cabin-- we will return on a quieter night. Wednesday is prime rib night. Jim and I have been wanting to go and now we have the perfect excuse!!!

Jacob Clark

2006-09-08T22:30:00.000-05:00

My dear friend, Michael Clark, popped in on the Thursday evening social at this Summer's conference in VA, accompanied by his young son. I was SOO enamored with Jacob... what an amazingly precious child! when i asked him if he had a girlfriend, hey said: "yep! 203!" i suppose i will have to take anumber ; ) Mikie... your boy is beyond precious!-- now why we didn't we have OUr picture taken? phooey on us!

all good memories for me....

so where was i??

2006-08-25T23:25:00.000-05:00

a friend signed off in a post this evening "what a lawn strange trip it's been" -well, i haven't been hanging out on the lawn, but i did capture an evening moment under a tree in Harrisburg, VA-- at the conference. my head has been buried in deadline work since i arrived home

i think in a few weeks, i'll get some lawn time ; )
~teri

want to see??

2006-07-26T09:30:00.000-05:00

http://www.letterforum2006.blogspot.com/

sorry for the lack of a hyperlink......
having a BLaST conferencing with my buddies!!!

Taking a break

2006-07-17T19:14:00.000-05:00

Gosh... it's been such a long time since i've taken a moment. It has been Grand Central around here! Since we returned from New York, we've hosted two sets of guests.. well, one of them wasn't a 'set', just my very dear friend Amy, who was here a week or so ago.

Before that, nearly my entire family was here. My mother, father and brother came from Hawaii. My sister and her two grandkids drove in from Nashville and my dad's niece, nephew, their daughter and granddaughter drove down from Chicago. It was all so new, different and WoNDeRFuL for me to be able to host everyone. We all had dinner one night at a lovely restaurant that overlooks the lake at sunset. Beautiful. Here's me and the Beauty Queen, photo credit thanks to Cousin Julie!

It's become a tradition for me, jim and kona to play on the floor after dinner. it wasn't hard to get the kids to play along, in fact kona found himself with LoTs of action!! That's my sister Linda with her two grandkids. I guess it's hard to resist the kona puppy sometimes!

And so look who gets into the action... the Beauty Queen!! We had a little party that night and after everyone had left, we decided to have a little fun. Notice the little foot in the bottom of the picture. We had a BLaST crawling around on the floor playing "puppy"!!

The party's over!! My parents spent another day after everyone had gone. . I went down to my studio to do a bit of work and when I came upstairs, I saw the cutest sight... don't kill me LTC Daddio! You two were irresistable! I even have video!! -don't worry, i won't publish THaT! They were pooped and Daddy had cut his chin shaving. It was so much fun having everybody here and I'm looking forward to having them here again. However, the work pace hasn't stopped, especially with all this activity. For now, I better get back to work!

Surtex, New York

2006-05-27T14:59:00.000-05:00

We've just returned from New York having participated in an annual licensing tradeshow. We had a blast and made lots of excellent contacts. We had digitally printed panels on polyvinyl that we unrolled and velcroed along the walls. here's Jim.. making progress
We took swatches of my fabric and placed them all around the top of our display Here's a shot of the other side. We hung several originals near the desk and set up props. A friend of mine in California had sewn the cutest things for me before we moved.. thanks, Dona! I also had mocked up some gift bags and boxes

And finally, a shot with me and my wonderful husband at the end of a long three days

Workshop at CPs

2006-05-08T10:08:00.000-05:00

My Buddy Charles has been teaching an ongoing workshop in Little Rock. This past weekend, the class was held here in Eureka Springs, I'm guessing because of all the weekend's festivities. After promising to behave myself (and those who know me, know how hard a task THAT is ; ) I was invited to come and see what everyone was up to.

Charles sets up a workshop space in the studio area of his house... with all those windows and high ceiling, it is a Perfect place for a class. Downstairs in his basement, Charles gave a quill curing and cutting demo, then everyone got their very own quill... except for me I guess I wasn't a student and didn't qualify! Anyway, it was fun. After telling many of his students previously about how I work in my pajamas, they encouraged me (even insisted!) that I show up in my "uniform". So I DID!!! all I had to do was throw a hat on my head and boots on my feet. Sorry, no picture ; )

Gallery Hoppers!

2006-05-07T19:33:00.000-05:00

Last night was another night of Openings around town. First we went to Eurekan Art, a beautiful gallery. You can learn a little more about them here Somehow, I managed to get in a few pictures last night. Here's me and my buddy Charles. He was floating a bit last night because one of his beautiful paintings sold at the Opening on Friday!
Then we went to Randal's opening. Shame on me for not having any still shots. I bothered everyone with with my video camera instead ; ) I've got some GReAT clips from both of last night's gallery hops. Then we all toddled off to dinner at Sparky's, popular with locals and tourists alike. Me and my favorite guy, Jim, good friends and good times!

I promise to be back tomorrow with today's events..

Opening Night!

2006-05-06T11:58:00.000-05:00

Last nigt was Opening Night for "Art as Prayer" at Studio 62 in Eureka Springs. What a fabulous turnout and a VERY inspiring exhibit. If you find yourself yourself in the area, be sure to stop by! This is a picture of me with my pieces and the gallery owner, Jody. Jody is an extremely gifted painter. You can see more of her work here

My good buddy Charles Pearce and his friend Kerry... Charles was in a bit of a silly mood and having himself a good old time. Want to see more of his work? Clickhere

Two very dear friends, Randal and Mary, also attended. Randal has an opening reception this afternoon ay Eureka Thyme. Click here to see Randal's work

And finally, my loving and gorgeous husband, engrossed in conversation All in all, a wonderfully enjoyable night with lots of good friends, making new friends, surrounded by stunning and inspirational art. Thanks Ron and Jody!! You guys are awesome.

OH! If you want to see some of Ron's awesome photography, return to the Studio 62 website and click "pinhole photography"

There's lots going on in this town during the month of May. I'll see how many pictures I can capture to share.. but for now, it's off to the studio for me. I feel like splashing paint around!

Opening May 5!

2006-05-03T09:14:00.000-05:00

I am absolutely delighted to announce that I have been invited to participate in my first group gallery show! The exhibit is being held at Studio 62 in Eureka Springs and is called "Art as Prayer". More info here I will be showing this piece "The face I had before" along with another canvas "infinite Passion" If you are in the area, please come by!

Happy Easter!

2006-04-16T11:56:00.000-05:00

Wishing all my friends a Happy Easter with a welcome to spring. Indeed it is a beautiful day here in the Ozarks.. the dogwoods are in full bloom, the birds are happily chirping and the soft breeze is keeping things cool. Now, do I want to go and plant some trees, or shall I play in my studio.. decisions, decisions...

return to CA

2006-03-13T15:51:00.000-06:00

I recently flew back to Orange County to participate in a journaling workshop.. it was wonderful:: the class, the instructor and reuniting with my calligraphy group there. Some of my friends lamented that I had not been keeping up with my blog.. that they always visit looking for what's new with me. I suppose that i first became all consumed with my little dog, Kona (who is now thriving!) Then we bought a video camera. My two guys (son and husband) may come to rue the day.. they know how dangerous I can be. Heck, I am paparazzi with my digi cam, wonder what I might catch them in with my video ; )

But I digress... here are a couple more spreads from this journal. Just don't ask me how many journals I keep!!

kona IN action

2006-02-16T09:30:00.000-06:00

konaINaction
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

what a dog! he loves chasing and getting sticks. look at him fly through the air. jim and i get a chuckle out of those ears!

i made a snow angel!

2006-02-16T09:29:00.000-06:00

snowAngel
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

it was gonna be a snowman, but with bare hands? brrrr...

snowNose

2006-02-16T09:26:00.000-06:00

snowNose
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

naturally, kona had to inspect the new entity on our deck!

flurry

2006-02-12T17:06:00.000-06:00

flurry
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

i can't believe after all these months, it snowed two days in a row.. i was happy to be inside where it is warm and cozy. i must be starting to like it here, because it really didn't bother me. it was quite beautiful, but like i said, i was happy to be inside ; )

long, strange trip

2006-02-03T16:09:00.000-06:00

Kona
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

i know it's been a while since you've seen me. four days after we brought kona home, he became very sick and was diagnosed with parvo, a life-threatening doggy virus. he had to be hospitalized and fed intravenously. it was heart breaking, knowing i might never see him again.

anyway, he came through fine and has regained his full health. needless to say, he has taken every spare moment to his attention. now that we're over that hump, you might see me posting more!

my kona dog

2006-01-07T18:17:00.001-06:00

konaDog
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

i have wanted a doggy for so long.. it's been forever since we've lived anywhere where we can have a dog. well.. THaT's all changed. we adopted Kona from the shelter this week. he is the cutest puppy.. probably part hound part lab, but nobody's 100% sure. he sure is smart though... and very quickly becoming the most spoiled doggy in town

that CaN'T be comfortable!

2006-01-07T18:17:00.000-06:00

konaBed
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

this is kona's first night home.. getting used to his new digs ; ) he has plenty of room to be fully in there, he just didn't want to! silly dog. after closed in for his first full night, he realized it was MuCH more comfy

upside down

2006-01-04T11:26:00.000-06:00

table
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

it wasn't easy seeing my table turned over, but jim insisted on painting the legs. okay, i agree, it is MuCH nicer. FiNaLLy, it's done! umm.. i think!! well.. at least for now! AND, i've officially taken it over ; )

going down?

2006-01-04T11:23:00.000-06:00

downstairs
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

i FiNaLLy managed to get most of my books unpacked! oh joy!! i was worried about not being able to get to them until new shelves were made. but what's this? an old funky shelf, left by the previous owners. it is pretty funky.. it took a bit of pleading to get jim to agree to let me use it--temporarily. he has these standards, you see?

the next photo is from my office. i brought this book shelf with me. once again, the pleading worked ; ) jim wanted to trash this one in california. i whined, saying "where will i put my books??"

in the office

2006-01-04T11:21:00.000-06:00

books
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

The Beauty Queen

2005-12-30T09:35:00.000-06:00

beautyQueen
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

jim and i went to hawaii for a family Christmas this year. here i am with my mom in her home. i've been calling her "Beauty Queen" lately so i decided to give her a tiara. she LoVeD it! here we are.. doing the "Beauty Queen wave"

Happy Holidays!

2005-12-21T08:40:00.000-06:00

socks
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

wishing you a warm and cozy holiday and a blessed new year

getting even

2005-12-11T11:19:00.000-06:00

fairPlay
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

i guess two can play at this game ; )

i ordered a hat rack from ebay and it came a few days ago. i absolutely LoVe having all my hats out where i can see them.. i love putting them on just for fun. but this is what i get.... i didn't hear Jim coming and got busted! there i am, in my jammas and a hat. he cracked up. you can see the hat rack in the reflection of the mirror

hanging

2005-12-11T11:10:00.000-06:00

hanging
Originally uploaded by teriamartin.

he can't away from me when he's on the step stool..i told him i can't help myself!!! besides, this is all such a milestone, it needs to be documented doncha think?