New Artistic Mother's Group Forming

I was so pleased to be contacted by Trudy Callan yesterday asking me if I'd like to be a part of a new Artistic Mother's Group. We will be working through the projects in The Artistic Mother by Shona Cole.

You can read all the details on Trudy's blog.

The launch date is March 6th. I hope that you'll join us!

xoxo
Bethany

Little Climber

I've never had a climber like my little Q-tip. Thanks to his escapades, my kitchen has been reduced to this.

 

If he makes to to 3 years old, I'll have succeeded as a mother. My goodness.

Thumby Eating

My boys were hands down the funniest little dudes when it came to baby food introduction. When I fed Cam, I needed 3 different baby spoons because he would grab them after I put the food in his mouth. (One for each Cam hand and one for me.)

On the other hand, Quinn didn't care too much about the spoons, he was way more into his thumb. Every spoonful of baby food was followed by a good minute or two suck on the thumb. It would take forever to feed the kid! Usually, I would have to remove his thumb under great protestation to give him more to eat. Needless to say, the mooshy baby food stage only lasted about a month before he was eating small bits of table food.

I took these pictures of my little thumby eater when he was about 5-6 months old. The pictures were initially very very blurry. (It is hard to feed a baby, hold a camera and discipline 4 other children at the same time.) But, they were so special to me that I couldn't bear not to use them. So I discovered a great technique for blurry pics. In PSE, I increased the contrast to a crazy level. Then I converted the pic to b&w. Magically, it seems to decrease the blurriness factor and produce some super-cool pics. Try this the next time that perfect pic is blurry.

 

 Materials: Crafter's Workshop doodle template; Bazzil cardstock; My Little Shoebox letter stickers; Scrap in Style TV pattern papers, journal card, ribbon, label and construction stickers; SRM Sticker; Sassafras Lass monster pattern paper; Shimmerz Spritz in Licorice; Sharpie pen; machine and thread

A few close-ups.

  

Happy Creating!

xoxo

Bethany

Doodling Templates

I just completed a very fun review on The Scrap Review on The Crafter's Workshop doodle templates. I don't think I can say enough about these templates. They are so versatile and fun to use. This week, I'll be going through my projects and giving you more details on how and why they were made.

I've been itching to do a page with this pic of Cam that my good friend, Sara, took years ago. I went through my stash of papers and put this layout together pretty quickly.

 

Materials: Crafter's Workshop doodle template; Bazzil cardstock; SRM stickers; Sassafras Lass monster pattern paper; Scrap in Style TV paper, ribbon, construction and label stickers; Heidi Swapp butterfly; Delta acrylic paint; micron pen; Distress ink; 

photo courtesy of Sara Jarvie

You can see the sun burst behind my embellie block. I simply used a stiple brush, my template and black acrylic paint. When you apply your paint, make sure that your brush isn't too wet or it will seep under the template (aka stencil). Also, apply the paint with tapping motions as opposed to swooshing motions.

I used a lot of older papers on this layout, but I kept them fresh with the addition of the cute monsters (Sassafras Lass). One of my favorite things is to combine papers from multiple companies. It adds a bit of unexpected spice to a piece. Don't you think?

By the way, a big thank you to Dan who left a comment with the name of the foam that I use to ink my edges. It's called Cut'n'Dry Foam, by Ranger. (I couldn't remember the name while filming the videos here and here.)

Oh, and Kendra asked me where I purchase my malted milk powder for this recipe. I get it at the grocery store. The last time I found it in the tea aisle. (Go figure...)

Happy Monday!

xoxo
Bethany

Doodle Lion

Before I start with my topic, I'd like to answer a few questions that I've received in my comments.

1. Where did you get that fabric? 

I purchased it at a local store in Chandler, Arizona called 35th Avenue Sew and Vac. I stopped in to drop off my sick vacuum and left with a treasure! Happy day!

2. What Shimmerz color did you use on this layout?

Initially, I thought that it was Shimmerz Vibez in Before Dawn. However, yesterday I tried to recreate the look and realized that I used Shimmerz Spritz in Licorice. I hope that I didn't lead anyone astray with this error! Shimmerz Vibez in Before Dawn doesn't have as much shimmer in it so the effect is much more subtle.

Now, I have a question for you.

I've gotten a couple of comments from people who have had trouble using Shimmerz products. I would like to know what trouble you had and what product you used. If you don't feel comfortable publicly commenting, please send me an email. I'm working on a trouble-shooting video and would like to give you real-life solutions to your Shimmering problems. (giggle) Don't worry, I'll change your name to protect the innocent.

Now onto the really fun stuff. I did this art journal page a few weeks ago just for fun. I've been wanting to try my hand at doodling whimsical animals and this is what I did.

Initially my lion was supposed to be a cute rabbit, but he morphed...a...lot...

 

I used Shimmerz paints, Pearlz and Blingz on his clothes, hair and fur.

I also experimented with another fun technique on these circles. I'll be doing a video later on it so I'll keep it under wraps until then.

While I worked on this page, I felt especially thankful for my husband, Todd, who is such a source of strength in my life. He doesn't get too many layouts because well...the kids are so cute, but he plays a big role in my art journal pages because in some ways, they are more intimate and entirely devoted to, ummm, me.

Have a great day!

xoxo
Bethany

Please Don't Hate Me

...because I found these fabrics on major clearance. I know it's hard not to...

Am I not the luckiest of souls? I know! I couldn't believe it either! When I left the shop, I tucked my bag under my arm so no one could possibly swipe my treasure from me. I've spent the last 24 hours happily washing and ironing my beauties so they are all ready to cut and sew into beautiful tunics and skirts. It is almost too good to be true. Sometimes, life is just so great. Isn't it?

Speaking of great, I'm reading the most wonderful art book evah. I'm seriously loving it. It is Shona Cole's The Artistic Mother. I'm not kidding when I say that it has changed my entire conception of the fine balance between motherhood and art. It is a must read for any mother who loves to create. (I just put it in my bookshop.) This quote by Rebecca Sower especially affected me.

My biggest piece of advice would be not to care what the neighbors think! Pull back from the cycle of trying to keep up with them by worrying about having a nice lawn, spotless home, over-the-top, latest-style clothes or gadgets. Don't try to impress people; it consumes a huge amount of time (and money) and often is not even serving yourself or your family. Constantly ask yourself why you're doing what you're doing. If you aren't satisfied with the real reasons, consider cutting it from your life. I think we all have plenty of areas where we can reclaim time.

I think that we all need to remember that. Actually following Rebecca's advice is like putting down a heavy backpack for the first time. And walking along without it. Feels kinda like flying. I like it.

Another wonderful resource that I just discovered is The Happiest Mom blog. I love Meagan Francis's keen insight on motherhood's challenges and joys. It is another must read.

Finally, My Little Shoebox is having a contest over the next few weeks. My baby pic will be up this week. You'll have to guess which one is me. Hint: I'm the cutest. (giggle) Good luck!

Happy Creating!

xoxo
Bethany

Shimmerz Vibez v. Spritz

If you've been wondering what the difference is between the new Shimmerz Vibez and Shimmerz Spritz. Wonder no more! This video should clear everything up.

Enjoy!



Here are the finished tags from the video.

To create the tag on the left, I used Shimmerz Spritz in Ruby (pink) and Shimmerz Vibez in Jeni B. Bleu (blue).

To create the card on the right, I used Shimmerz Vibez in RazzleDazzle Berry.

You can purchase Shimmerz products here.

Happy Creating!

xoxo
Bethany

Happy Valentine's Day

 

For it was not in my ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul.

Judy Garland

Surrounded

When you are surrounded by amazing creative talent, it is hard not to be creative. A few days ago, I got a very exciting phone call from my now-very-famous mother, Joan. She appeared here! I can't tell you how excited I was for her!

As if that isn't enough, check out this amazing diorama of Hour of the Olympics by Mary Pope Osborn that a certain 3rd grader made for class.

 

Can you see how proud she is by that wonderful smile? She worked really hard on this project. Take a look at these amazing details! The treehouse is made of toothpicks.

Pegasus is made of paperclay, pipe cleaners and embossed paper for the wings. (Heidi Swapp wing stamp)

 

 Yeah, I'm a proud momma and daughter. Way to go girls!

Splash Hearts

I've been having so much fun playing around with my new Shimmerz Vibez. I made these Splash Hearts for Valentine's day using Vibez, muslin, watercolor paper and cardstock. I'm really pleased with the way they turned out.

 

  

  

  

I made a two part video if you are interested in making a Splash Heart for your sweetie this Valentine's Day.

I hope that you enjoy it! (I apologize for the doorbell and dogs barking. Oh and the crying baby. Sometimes life happens while I'm trying to be all professional. Darn it.)

Happy Creating!

xoxo
Bethany

Lovey

I did this layout with the new Shimmerz Pearlz and with My Little Shoebox papers. I love how the new Teresa Collins colors of Pearlz coordinate so well with My Little Shoebox papers!

I took these pics almost a year ago when Okie Dokie Grandma came to visit. The kids had a blast baking cookies and painting aprons with her.

Here are a few close-ups so you can see how beautiful the Pearlz are.

Materials: My Little Shoebox papers, overlays, chipboard letters; Shimmerz Pearlz, Spritz; Encore pad; Judikins embossing powder; sequin waste; Nikki Sivils brads; vintage buttons; Sharpie pen; Basic Grey chipboard shapes

I Will Protect You Forever

As a mother, I find it incredibly gratifying to observe the sweet relationships between my children. I'm always moved when I see them protecting and caring for each other.

The pics that I took for Protect are absolutely precious to me. I know that I'll be using them again because I love them so much.

I did this layout with Shimmerz Spritz and My Little Shoebox papers.

Materials: My Little Shoebox papers, overlays, letter stickers, chipboard letters; Bazzil cardstock; Shimmerz Spritz; rick rack; Prima bling; Sharpie pen; sequin waste

Here is a close-up so you can see the shimmer. It is gorgeous.

This layout initially was very different. I was planning on using the striped MLS paper as my background, but is just wasn't working so I simply tore out what I had done and adhered it to black cardstock. I've done this before and have been happy with the results. So, if you're struggling with your design, try tearing it out and putting it on a new background, it might just work better.

Happy Creating!

xoxo
Bethany

Shimmerz Vibez Winner

Thank you to everyone who left comments for the Shimmerz Vibez giveaway. It was so fun to have so many new faces on my blog! I wish I could send everyone a bottle of Vibez, but I had to choose just one.

Without further ado...

Congratulations Jessica Wekenman!

Jessica just started on her blogging adventure. (Yeah! You're in for a treat! I've met some of my greatest friends via my blog!) I'm sure that she would love for you to visit her and leave her a comment. (Lately, she's been experimenting with her new Cricut. What fun!)

Anyway, email me Jessica with your addy and fave color so I can have Shimmerz send it to you!

Heart Sessions with Rebecca Sower

Rebecca Sower is hosting heart sessions on her blog. In order to participate, you need to post a handcrafted heart along with lovely words. I love this idea and immediately wanted to participate. Imagine hundreds of blogs all linked up with hearts. Isn't it wonderful?

Here are a some heart projects that I've completed over the past few months. I hadn't realized how much I use hearts in my work until now! It's funny how you don't even know your own work until you see it as a body.

Directions to make this piece can be found at The Next Step.

 

Directions to make this piece can be found at The Next Step.

 

Directions for this layout can be found here.

 

These tags are part of my Home album.

You can read more about this layout here.

 

To close, I'd like to leave you with a few quotes that I find inspirational. I hope you do too.

To love someone is to see a miracle invisible to others. 

(Francois Mauriac)

Be strong, go with your heart, and believe in miracles because anything...anything can happen. 

(Marlo Javidando)

Have a wonderful day!

xoxo

Bethany

Shimmerz Vibez Giveaway

Hello! Are you as excited as I am about Shimmerz Vibez? I seriously love them! I've been working on multiple projects over the last few weeks that I can't wait to show you!

Vibez are a shot of intense color that will have you amazed. Because they are water-based and non-toxic, they won't stain your hands and they clean-up with a quick wipe of water. Watch this fun video to learn more. (See if you recognize any of the projects in there...giggle.)

Shimmerz will send one lucky winner a bottle of Vibez. All you have to do is leave a comment today on my blog along with your favorite color of Vibez. You can see all the colors right here.

Moreover, if you purchase Vibez from the Shimmerz Shop, you will be entered to win the entire set of 16 gorgeous colors! Awesome!

Good luck! I hope you win!

Interesting Philosophy

Last Sunday, while I was cutting a pan of brownies a certain young man asked me the following question...

 

Mom, are brownies just dirt that tastes good?

 

I love how his brain works. By the way, this superhero pose while standing on a slide was entirely his concoction. He is such a daredevil...(giggle.)