California Part IV: Venice w/ family

My mom, niece, and me, enjoying Sunday morning breakfast at an outdoor cafe.
Watching the sunset outside our apartment window.
Watching Harry Parry outside our apartment window.
Sunset on the beach.
Dinner in Santa Monica.

California Part III: More Venice

Oh, I'm not done yet...
I was missing my chihuahua, Moondog, about then.
Van Gogh replica on the boardwalk.
The entrance to Venice Suites, my great hotel.
The ceiling at the entrance.
A Rasta guy w/ a very strong opinion about our government. Notice the trailer in the background. Lots of the vendors on the beach drive their trailers to the beach to sell things. Because parking isn't allowed on the beach at night, they drive up the block to park and sleep before doing it all again the next day.

California Part II: Venice Beach

Well, what can I say, it's Venice. Lots of unique people, artists, homeless, performers...
Harry Parry, the infamous turban-wearing, roller-blading, Jimi-Hendrix-inspired Venice mainstay. I see him every time I visit.
A view from my apartment window. The "candle guy" and other artists.
One of the many homeless, this elderly man slept outside of our window. People brought him food every day which he shared with the pigeons. There was one white pigeon that would sit on his lap and eat out of his hand.
I liked this guy's tattoo.
Look at the kid in his pjs skateboarding on a Sunday morning. Doesn't get much better.

California Part I: Newport Beach

I had the pleasure of traveling to California recently for some more Shiva Rea training. I talked my mom into coming with me. Our first stop was Newport Beach to visit my niece. Here are some of the pics:

Pigeon at Bolivar Peninsula.
Crazy waves that my mom and I came upon.
Lifeguard at the famous, Wedge.
Surfer dudes at the Wedge.
Even crazier waves.

My Latest Creation

This one is great for the holidays. It's going in the craft fair I'm participating in this weekend. Get it before it's gone!!

Royal Hope Beaded Cross:

spread a little bit of hope in the world with this sparkling inspirational piece! this shimmering wire-wrapped beaded cross necklace features shades of royal purple, deep ocean blue, and brilliant silver.

miniature glass and silver beads are wire-wrapped around a medium-sized silver cross charm. the word HOPE graces the center of the cross. the pendant dangles on a silver ball link chain with adjustable lobster clasp closure.

CROSS CHARM: 1 1/2 inches long by 1 inch wideCORD LENGTH: 15-18 inches, adjustable

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week's artist is exceptional!! KatherineCooper defines what an etsy artist should be. Her store is professional and her jewelry is simply beautiful. I met Kat on etsy chat and she is one of the most polite and genuine people on etsy. Click on the pic to see more.

A message from the artist:

‘Apple Blossom’ reminiscent of a more gentle age by Katherine Cooper of The Vanilla Room Design Studios, London. Beautifully light weight for day or evening wear, a single strand of apple blossom in soft apple greens and deep emerald greens, accented with opal whites and crystal, designed on a vintage gold plated chain with a large fancy gold plated lobster clasp...

My Latest Creation

Here's the latest from my etsy shop, moondog treasures. It's called Dark Night at Sea.

More info:

beautiful wire-wrapped beaded cross perfect for the holiday season.this dazzling necklace features a large cross surrounded by swarovski crystals and glass beads in the elegance of black and silver.

in the midst of all the beads is the focal point: a silver-toned charm with the word "Believe" inscribed in the center. the cross dangles on a silver ball link chain with adjustable lobster clasp closure.

CROSS CHARM: 2 inches long and 1 1/2 inch wide

CORD LENGTH: 15-18 inches adjustable

Hope you like it!!

Awww, I'm featured on a blog!!

Check out this great etsian's blog. She's featuring my store this week!!

http://jenspens.blogspot.com/

Thanks, Jen!!

Etsy Artist of the Week

Aaaghh!! Scary Spiders!! This week's artist is JodieFlowers and she was definitely chosen for her originality. Click on the link below to see more of her screen porch spiders!!!

A message from the artist:

These colorful spiders attach to any screen. Just put their little legs through and watch the smiles they bring. They can also be positioned to stand around on all eights, as a delightful little conversation piece during tea or on lunch dates! Handmade of polymer clay and wire. Hand painted with acrylic paint and sealed with a poly acrylic high gloss finish. Also available in tack form for the wall or in magnet form for the fridge!

World-Wide Global Mala Event

For the month of September, i'd like to donate 50% of all sales of mala bracelets from my "like, wow, yoga jewelry" section to the charities of the Global Mala, an incredible yoga event that will be going on across the world on World Peace Day, Sept. 20th. See their web-site http://www.globalmala.org/index.php for more information. Click on the picture below to see more jewelry from my store or to purchase a mala bracelet.

On September 21-23, the Global Mala Project, whose purpose is to unite the global yoga community, will implement events throughout the world in honor of the United Nations International Day of Peace. Forming a “mala around the earth” through collective practices based upon the sacred cycle of 108, the mission of the Global Mala Project is to raise both funds and consciousness for some of the most pressing issues facing the world today.

I studied yoga with Shiva Rea, the coordinator of this event, in the summer of 2007 (photos at very bottom of this page). I'll continue my studies with her this October. This event is very close to my heart.

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week I'm featuring BirdWatching. My grandmother and my mom always loved living around birds. Now I'm the same! So, this was a natural choice for me. Such a cute store with very unique items. Click on the pic below to visit her etsy store.

A message from the artist:

Hi! My name is Sarah and I am the owner and designer of BirdWatching.etsy.com. I started BirdWatching in March of 2008 with a desire to create beautiful and functional nature-inspired items.I LOVE creating and designing. Etsy is my "real" job even if it doesn't make much money (YET!). I LOVE my customers and couldn't ask for a better experience so far on etsy.

Etsy Artist of the Week

Today's artist is NuyoricanGreetings. Her votive holders are beautiful and her pictures are great. Lots of deep fall colors! Click on the pic below to visit her etsy store.

From the artist:

I'm a Nuyorican born and raised and I've always longed to have my own business. I've been creative since I can remember which is of course why I ended up on Wall St. for 20 years! (insert laugh here).

I began creating written 'books of intention' that included creative writing and imagery as holiday gifts a few years ago. This evolved into poetry, greeting card and inspirational writing and the decorative votives I have begun listing here. I particularly like using Saints because they remind me of my mother and grandmother's in-home altars :-) - but I also use angels and flowers and pretty much any image that catches my fancy.

Etsy Artist of the Week

Sojourn Curiosities. I can't believe after almost a year on etsy.com that I have not featured this wonderful seller. I talk w/ her all the time on etsy chat and she always has such great advice. Look at this beautiful pendant she has created. Truly talented person!! (click on the pic to visit her store)

From the artist:

There have been two main intrigues in my life, for as long as I can remember: the myriad journeys of existence- of the mind, body and spirit- and using words to describe them. I convey these musings in beautiful beads, ribbons, wire and found objects.

My pieces are accompanied by a name, a story, a snippet of what inspired me to create the piece, or what the piece inspires within me. This is my journey, with many a sojourn. Thanks for coming along.

I'm on Youtube!

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week I'd like to feature a photo magnet from AllieArt4Children. I'll be traveling to the coast soon w/ some childhood friends of mine. This photo made me think of them. We've known each other for so many years. Even though we haven't done our best to stay in touch, when we are together, it's as if we had never been apart. Here's to childhood friends! Click on the pic to see more of Allie's store.

A message from the artist:

I am a pediatrician by training, currently a stay-at-home mom of four wonderful little people. This career change has given me the opportunity to pursue my dream of finally "doing something" with my photography. Taking photographs and creating with them makes me really happy.

As you can see, most of my work involves nature and children. Through this etsy store, I am trying to combine by love of photography with my desire to continue to be an advocate for children. I hope you enjoy these photos as much as I've enjoyed taking them.

Dance!

Just watch.

http://www.vimeo.com/1211060

Etsy Artist of the Week

I met this week's Etsy Artist of the Week in Etsy Chat, a fun place where all the craftsy people go to unwind. Meet WendyConradArt. Her rooster paintings are my favorites. Click on the pic below to see her entire store:

A word from the artist:

Title: "Red Butler"

Size: 5 1/2 inches by 5 inches by 3/4 inch deep

Medium: Acrylic on wood

Description: Original potrait of a rooster with a white background. Painted on wood reclaimed from a construction site that would have been discarded otherwise. Hangs on the wall by raffia looped through 2 holes drilled in the wood. Titled and signed by artist on the back.

Inspiration: Living in the rural North Georgia Mountains, there is animal inspiration everywhere. I love to paint farm animals, in particular roosters, chickens, and cows. Red Butler is a regal rooster! Part of the “Barn Blocks” series.

Wow! My First Interview!

I've been featured on someone's blog. Yea!! Click on the pic below to read all about it.

Etsy Artist of the Week

Meet CourtneyWatson. Her etsy store is recycling with a purpose! She makes jewelry out of 100% telephone wire. What a creative mind! Click on the photo below to see her store:

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week, the artist is Colorada. I love how she uses recycled materials for some of her projects. Very innovative and creative! Click on the pic below to see her entire store:

A word from the artist:

I love the perky little tie on this top and the sweet little puffed sleeves. It makes me think secretary, somehow. The soft sage and tan print are fun without shouting, but the sleeves and tie will get you noticed.

Summer is here with it's warmth and color. Find something to wear to that special event or just to make you smile. Retro fashions inspire me and you'll find lots of handmade retro goodness to love as you browse the shop. I create from the design up limited edition or one of a kind items. Some are from new materials and others are made of recycled fabrics. I love to find vintage fabrics or sometimes clothing that needs re-thinking and do something fun!!

Etsy Artist of the Week

Put on your shades for this one. This week's artist is LittleDickensDesigns. I chose this artist because it's the beginning of summer! My kids just got out of school two days ago and we're headed to the pool! This sun print made me smile. Click on the pic below to see the entire store.

From the Crafting Table

Cancun Waters Bracelet

So many years ago I went to Cancun with a college buddy. Way back when before all the high-rise hotels were built along the white sand shores. The color of these beads remind me of the color of the ocean there.

medium-sized turquoise rectangle beads surround a large silver-toned oval bead. interspersed are smaller turquoise beads and silver findings. piece is closed off with a toggle clasp and dangling heart charm.

SQUARE BEADS: 3/4 inch x 1/2 inch

OVAL BEAD: 1 inch x 1/2 inch

BRACELET LENGTH: 8 inches

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week we have ColoradoCatNipToys. What a cute idea!! A blanket and a toy! Click on the image below to visit the entire store.

A word from the artist:

Your cat will enjoy his afternoon nap on this one of a kind black and white kitty quilt. A Colorado Catnip Toy is attached to the quilt so your kitty can do some kick boxing before settling for that power nap on his new bed. Ragged edge kitty quilts measure approximately 21x21 inches and are machine washable. Each quilt square is lined with quilt batting for extra fluffiness. Each blanket is made from 100 percent cotton fabric.

If you love your cats as much as I do mine, you have found the best place on earth for catnip toys, mats and quilts! Each item is handmade with love and the help of six kitties. All but one of my "kids" were orphans. I raised one from a kitten, and the others I have acquired for one reason or another. I have had cats all my life.

Our babies

Look at these sweet little baby birds that were born recently just outside our front door! Their mom and dad fly back and forth frequently bringing them bugs and worms, but they still make lots of noise! Watch the video below.

My Latest Creation

Here is a new one called "the deepest ocean".

tiny seed beeds of the deepest green are attached to a silver cross which hangs from a dark brown leather cord. necklace closes with a silver lobster clasp.

CROSS CHARM: 1 1/4 inches by 1 inch

CORD LENGTH: 18 inches

Etsy Artist of the Week

CollisionWare joins my Etsy Artists of the Week. I've chosen this piece because Dick and Jane were such a part of my childhood. Click on the photo below to view the entire store. Enjoy.

A word from the artist:

The Early Years- run, jane, run

Take a trip back in time and celebrate your youth with Dick and Jane. The Early Years fits a little of everything. There’s a pocket for cash, coins and cards. It's the perfect size for when you don't want to carry a ton. It has 1 small pocket behind the change purse that is perfect for folded cash and 2 card slots that fit about 5 cards each. The outside is made from vinyl so keeping it clean is an easy chore. Just wipe it down with a wet cloth.

Etsy Artist of the Week

It's all about fun this week!! This week's artist is ZadyBall. Click on the pic below for the entire line of fun fabric toys!!

A message from the artist:

This fabric reminds me of "Good and Plenty" candy - the yummy candy covered licorice.

A Zadyball™ is designed first of all with babies in mind. They are soft to hold and cuddle, and have lots of strings to grab and rub. Lots of babies have a “lovey” and many times the item they pick has something for them to rub – whether it’s the corner of a blanket or the nose on a teddy bear. The knotted ends of the strings are great to fulfill baby’s need for something to rub!

Why Babies love them:1. Easy to grab and hold on to from a very young age2. Good for teething3. Soft to cuddle4. Knotted ends are very soothing to rub5. Makes a great lovey

Why Toddlers love them: 1. Once a lovey, always a lovey2. Soft to cuddle (everyone loves soft things!)3. Easy to throw and catch, especially when you are just learning how

Why Mommies love them:1. Babies love them and we love our babies!2. Easy to clean, just throw in the wash!3. Safe!4. Soft enough that you don’t have to worry about things breaking or anyone getting hurt when it is thrown around

My Latest Creation

Here is my latest listing on Etsy: Azure Seas Rosary Bracelet.

This bracelet features 10 chinese crystal beads interspaced with smaller glass beads and 1 large silver bead. The 10 crystal beads count off the "Hail Mary" and the larger bead is for the "Our Father". Attached to the bracelet are a silver "inspire" charm and a sterling silver cross. The bracelet closes with a lobster clasp and adjustable chain.

BRACELET LENGTH: 6 - 8 inches w/ adjustable chain closure

CROSS SIZE: 1 inch long; 1/2 inch wide

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week's artist is PaperCutsByJoe. This one is my favorites:

Message from the artist:
Inspired by a Charles Ashbee necklace (1896-1903) and a William Morris tapestry (1877). The overall look is based on a traditional Wycinanki (Polish Papercutting) papercut. Wycinanki cuts are typically created by stacking layeres of color paper cutouts on a black papercut background. My first color piece! 18x18 unframed.  Each of my designs are original, one of a kind pieces, cut by hand from a single sheet of black paper and mounted to white mat board.

To see the newest Etsy Artists of the Week, click here and sign up to receive email updates.  Questions? Contact me at moondogtreasures@live.com

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week's feature is UberArt! This store has some very creative journals!!

A word from the artist:

This cool medieval-looking journal is an excellent place to pen your creative thoughts and doodles! This hard cover, blank journal is hand-bound using Coptic stitch and embellished with a glass and polymer clay medallion. The inside covers are a marbled design, color coordinated to match the outside of the book.

From the time I could hold a crayon in my hand, I always wanted to be an artist when I grew up—and here I am! I am a mixed-media artist and have dabbled in everything from paper arts to jewelry design, collage and pottery. My art reflects a fusion of the many different skills I’ve learned in working with such diverse media. Currently I’ve been studying bookbinding which represents the majority of my recent listings.

Etsy Artis of the Week

This week's Etsy Artist is Dorset Hill Beads. Just look at the beautiful lavender color of these beads. And she made them herself! I'm impressed.

A note from the artist:

Chunkies are my most favorite shape to make right now...I love how these came out...I used light rose as the base and layered silvered ivory shards for the marble effect.

Hi! My name is Eileen, I live in a suburb of Maryland with my wonderful husband, 2 sons and our bulldog. I love creating one-of-kind lampwork beads and being able to share them with people like you. I have found my artistic passion.

I am mostly self taught but have been fortunate enough to have taken a few classes from artists that I consider to be highly regarded in the lampwork world. My beads are made with soft glass such as Morette/Effetre, ASK, Lauscha and others. After each bead is created I tuck them into my kiln for a good night sleep so they will wake up sturdy and strong to last a lifetime...

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week, I'm featuring a baby Etsy Artist of the Week. This store is only a few days old, but don't you love it? Click on the picture to see the entire store. Read below. These have an interesting history.

A message from the owner:

In Mexican iconography, a retablo carries special prayers and wishes to God. A familiar retablo painting (on wood or tin) would have someone who is ill lying in bed beseeching the Virgin Mary for intercession to regain their health. I love these wooden prayers... I love painting on wood... I love sending these prayers into the universe and hope that they land beside you...

This piece is from my Peaceful Neighborhood collection and begins with the foundation of most houses - sheetrock; then it is layered as most homes should be - peace, love, and hope.This retablo measures 6" x 12" and comes with a matching easel for display.

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week's artist is Studiotto. I just love these bowls - so delicate! This artist hails from Istanbul. Great work!! Click on the pic below to see more.
From the artist:

• I am a senior student in Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University (İstanbul) in Traditional Turkish Handcrafts department, specialized in Ceramic and Traditional Tile Design. During my education I realized that I don’t want to be a designer that works with predetermined ideas so I started my own studio in 2007.

• My design can be seen as a modern approach to traditional Turkish Tile Art. Thanks to my educational background, I have developed a way of expressing my self as a craftsman. I materialize my designs on various forms and kinds of ceramic, tile and porcelain forms that I buy, found or gifted from anytime anywhere. I do both underglaze overglaze handpainting, depending on the material and design itself. All pieces are food safe and are hand washable.

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week's artist is FeltLikeStitchin. I just couldn't resist - A Picasso Mr. Potato Head!!! I love this! Check out the store by clicking on the picture below. Lots more fun felt items where this came from. I also love her bunny rabbits.
From the artist:

Here's how my Mr Potato Head usually looked!This is based on my favourite toy when I was a kid (back in the days when we used real potatoes!)Pablo is a totally wonky member from the Vegi branch of the DiDi Doll family tree. He is hand stitched from beige felt with appliqued, padded features. His ears are stitched to the sides of his head, and he has big felt feet (he can't stand up on his own but he leans pretty well!) His little felt hat perches on his lumpy head. Just like when I was young, I've plonked all his features randomly around the potato - it's much more fun than a sensible face!

Etsy Artist of the Week

Congrats to kuteklipboardsbyamy! Her adorable store is the feature for this week. I really like this one... Click on the pic to see her whole store!Take a look at my "Kute Klipboards"!! Every one is unique and handcrafted. I have never made any two alike so each is one of a kind!! They are made with quality papers and sealed with mod podge and a permanent acrylic sealer. I've been making these for years and hope you enjoy browsing through them as much as I've enjoyed creating them!!!

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week's Etsy Artist of the Week is SweetShawty. I love her idea of recycling! Check out the Koolaid bag. Click on the pic to view her entire store:

A message from the owner:

I am so excited to be a part of the Etsy Community. I pride myself on quality items and good customer service. All my items come from a smoke free and pet free home. I am truly a ''Shawty'' at only 5 foot. I am a mom and a wife! I've always loved to create things. I get my talent from my Great-Great Grandmother. I have so much fun creating with my art. It's so exciting to me to see things come to life step by step.

Thank you for visting my shop! Rock On and Always Express Yourself!!! Sara =)

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week's Etsy artist is kittygrrlz. I just love the yarn in her store. Click on the pic to view her entire store.

Here's a word from the artist:

I'm a librarian, and a knitter! I make hand knit items with luxurious, fun & funky yarns! I learned how to knit at the DIY Trunk Show in Chicago in 2004 . . . it changed my life! :) I love to knit as it is calms me and focuses my attention. I prefer to knit with the funkier yarns, and tend to stay away from your basic yarns.

Take a look

I've found a new French friend! ParisChicBoutique on Etsy. Here is my favorite item from her cool French shop! Click on the pic to go straight to her shop:





From the owner:
Bonjour my friends! Welcome to ParisChic Boutique where you can find the most divine decor for that shabby chic Parisian lover in all of us. From oil paintings to hand painted tiles, you can find just about anything with an Eiffel Tower, Fleur de lis or French Poodle and more!

Most pieces will teach a french word or two!What makes it so special is that every item is hand painted...EVERY item in our shop. No stamps, no decals (although that makes beautiful artwork too) but all hand painted. Each piece is individual...no two pieces are the same.Shop for yourself, for the baby's nursery or for your shabby chic vintage home! Ooohhhlala ~ Come shop and enjoy!

**visit our new blog**
http://parischicboutique.blogspot.com
We will feature a new french saying a day while we showcase a related item from a fellow Etsyan.

My Webkinz

An entry of a little personal nature. (I know, I never blog!!). So here's my son, reading a book he and I published together to his 1st-grade class. I'm so proud of him!

Click on this link to watch:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qdYY2-c8OU

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week I'm featuring a brand new Etsy Artist, MamaMayborneDesigns.etsy.com. She's only been a part of Etsy since December. Beautiful work. Here is a sample. To visit her store, just click on the photo.

Some info from the artist:

Welcome to my brand new Etsy store! I look forward to serving you. Please check out my designs, profile and/or blog (http://www.mamamaybornedesigns.blogspot.com) for additional information.

I strive to create pieces that captivate and compel approving glances from adoring eyes. My jewelry designs also emphasize durability and versatility to make everyday wear possible.I enjoy playing the matchmaker who joins the wearer and their object of desire into a long-term, enduring relationship.

Etsy Artist of the Week

Adventuresof JRsShop is the Etsy Artist this week. Her work is beautiful. I'm such a fan of the fingerless gloves...and these are cashmere!! She mentions in her profile that she learned her craft from her grandmother. Same here!! Love you, Granny!

Click on the pic below to view JR's store.



Here's more about the artist:
This is a cozy little pair of cashmere handwarmers. They are hand crocheted in cashmere with a scalloped edge around the fingers and a ruffled trim along the cuff. Three functional buttons seal the deal. Hand dyed pure Mongolian cashmere.

After graduating from Boston University with a Pre-Med/Biology degree last spring, I immediately began knitting, weaving, and crocheting. After going broke from spending all of my money on cashmere yarn, I decided that I needed to make it my job to share my art with others. Thus, Adventures of... Jessica Rose was formed. A of JR is based in the heart of the historic, artistic and beautiful Woodstock, NY. A of JR was facilitated by my Nana, who taught me how to crochet and is a product of my lifelong fascination with culture, art, science, nature and all things good in the world.

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week's featured artist is AllisonStrine. I love jewelry and was so amazed at the work that she does. Isn't this fairy pendant so cute? Click on the pendant to visit her etsy store.

A word from Allison:

By day, Allison Strine is a happy mixed media/collage artist whose exuberant creations have won awards and appeared in national arts magazines. At night she's a not-very-good cook, a wife to a right brained husband (or is it the left - the one that's all about math and none about art), and a tucker-inner of two glorious children.

All jewelry comes prettily packaged in an organza gift bag with candy - let me know if you don't want the candy! (I'll eat it!) The outer envelope is recycled whenever possible - but if you want clean and new, just let me know and we'll do it!

Etsy Artist of the Week

This week's artist is PhriendlyK8. I love how she calls her work "fabric painting". Very original. Click on the picture to view her entire store.


A note from PhriendlyK8:

I would love to make a custom item JUST FOR YOU! Contact me to place a custom order! you can contact me through Etsy or email me at phriendlyk8sthreads@yahoo.com The sky is the limit when it comes to custom pieces so don't be shy! HAPPY SHOPPING, and I hope your day is filled with PEACE & SMILES!