HAPPY NEW YEAR

I will see you all in the New Year!

I hope everyone has a fabulous and safe holiday with lots of fun and love. I can't wait hear about everyones resolutions!

I have a few so please stay tuned!

Big Holiday Hugs,

Smooches

Steph

AND THE MOMENT WE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR!

It was sooo hard to keep this secret for so long but the time to unveil is finally here… and I am sure by the painting you can figure it out!




I AM ENGAGED.

If you have been following my blog for any time I am sure you have heard and even seen Adam a time of two. We started dating 9 years ago when we were both employed as life guards by the same amusement park. From there it just blossomed. We both went to high school and college and stayed committed to each other. Never took a break although there were plenty of chances, but we were bound to make it work. We fought against the odds we crushed the doubters and held onto our supporters. And finally on December 14th 2008 Adam asked me to be with him forever (not that there was any doubt.) The moment was beautiful the timing a little off since a few days later I was in the hospital, but the magic was there. This has been 9 years in the making, through thick and thin we persevered and made it to the end. And believe me some real thin times haha… especially the last few weeks of me being sick. My butt isn't my best side. I am sooo happy to share this moment with all of you and I can't wait for this part of my life to begin!



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Well folks I knew it is bound to happen. My first interview!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yes I am soooooo excited. The very talented and wonderfully frank Amariah of Amariah Rauscher asked some questions and I was ecstatic to give some answers! Please enjoy!


1. If you could have one super power what would it be, what would you do with it, and why?

Well I could be greedy and pick a fun super power, but like most great things they can be abused. Would I love to be able to read people's minds… yes, but I also don't like temptation. So I will be modest and go with the super power of being positive. Having an optimistic outlook is so difficult for me at times. I think if I was more positive I would have more confidence in my artwork and be able to take more chances and be more apt to turn my work into a fulltime endeavor.

2. Please describe a typical day in the life of Stephanie Mannuci.

Hey who put typical and my name in the same sentence! Haha just joking.
I would like to say that on a normal day I sit and smell the roses and consume over life's little treasures, but alas, not so much. Instead like many of my fellow artists I have a fulltime job that allows very little time for my true passions.
(Isn't that everyone's story, although I have a nice job.)
I get up around 7am, shower, dress, hair & make-up. By 8:30 I am at work
I work all morning and take my lunch at Noon. I go home for an hour and eat lunch with Adam. I am back to work by 1 and work until 5:30 and then walk home (I walk to and from work).
At 6pm the fun begins. My world turns into a fun fantasy full of wonders and whimsical touches. I feel alive by 7pm and engrossed in some form of art or another. In between this time I normally find some scraps to eat and turn on my nightly dose of House to keep me company in a mad mad mad mad mad mad world. I normally craft until 12 when I go to bed and start a whole new day that isn't much different from the last.

3. If you could give a piece of advice to a random person, what would it be?

Live. I play things wayyyy to safe ALLL the time. I rarely take a plunge into things I might not be able to control. Live and enjoy spontaneity. Recently being as sick as I was I realized that in my short 23 years of time I rarely 'live'. I don't take chances, I don't live for the moment, and I certainly don't carpe diem. I would like to think it my New Years resolution to change this mundane pattern but this is years of conditioning that will take years to break. But I am going to be redeveloping things in the New Year (and by things I mean art things!)
Subjecting oneself to change is an invitation to self growth. When we close this door we are holding our self back from so many wonderful possibilities. I am not saying that you should do something ridiculous, but instead take a sensible leap. Since this is an art blog we will use art as an example. Think about a plain white virgin canvas. Stark and even intimidating. You walk by this canvas a thousand times and never touch brush to linen. You are afraid to ruin the canvas or even worse ruin this ideal picture you have already painted in your mind. You finally make the resolve to paint a bunch of roses instead of this new fun and exciting picture you had in your thoughts. So you are left with a pretty painting of a bunch of roses, but what you could have had if you only took the leap was a masterpiece of modern marvel. But looking back you can't count the coulda, shoulda, wouldas. Take the chance now!

4. What are you are most passionate about?

My art. As with many of you I am sure that it has become a part of you, an all too real extension of self. While I was unable to create I didn't feel like myself there was no joy or happiness. I then knew that a part of me was dying and then I realized that art was in direct correlation with my life and my overall well being. Take what you will from me but don't get my ability to do art and thus lose purpose. This all makes perfect sense. Think of Matisse. He towards the end of his life painted with his paint brush in his mouth… not because he wanted to, but rather because he had to. I don't paint or create because I want to, I do it because I have.
I am also very passionate about happiness. If you couldn't already tell since I have mentioned it in every questions.
I come from the parents of baby-boomers who as a result of their parents had an all to sobering up brining. Every way you want to walk is uphill both ways. The point I am getting at is. We are in a time of a generational shift. I being part of the X generation have view points that tend to differ greatly from my parents. In the time you were born, you got married, had kids, settled, had the same job for 30 years and you get the jest. Well I am not like that. I am on a journey to not reach the end and die, but on a journey to find happiness and live. I haven't found it yet but when I do I will let you all know.

5. Please describe the one thing that you are most afraid of.

Ah… this is to the heart of it. Great sequence of questioning. What am I most afraid of. On a personal level I am afraid of never making a mark. That if I were to leave this world tomorrow life would resume as if I was never hear to begin with. Growing up as young as I could remember I thought in some capacity that I was destined for something. Please don't think I have an entitlement to anything but I just always thought that there is something within me that will make me be remembered. I want to leave a mark whether it be on one person or a million.
Of course a second runner up would be the death of a direct family member (mother, father, brother). I am not afraid of death, I am afraid of loss.
And on the most superficial level I am petrified of spiders. I can't look at one on TV I can't see them dead I can't function if there is a spider around. I know there are many that share in this so I will end it there.

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I hope you all enjoyed! I know I loved doing the interview. I hope everyone is doing well and I hope to have some big changes in in my art life coming real soon. Nothing huge but a big step for me. I will be around to visit all of you very very very soon!

Smooches to all,

Steph

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL/ FEELING BETTER

Okay first and foremost I am blessed. I have had so many wonderful get well responses that it would take me FOREVER to respond too all of them. But know that I read each one and with that I get a little better everyday! I am feeling so much better and my spirit can't help but fly for a few reasons.

First I have a BIG announcement to make but I want to do a painting that goes along with it and seeing how I still have some sitting issues it will have a wait a week or so.

Second IT IS CHRISTMAS. Big hugs, smooches, and a very merry Christmas to you and yours. How could you not feel well on Christmas! Beleive me a day or two ago I was struggling and wasn't in the Christmas mood. The wind from my sails were gone and with this special day being shadowed by me and many of my loved ones falling ill it was hard for me to embrace that not every year can be the best, but it is all in how you make it.

It is 6am here in NY and I just had to get up. On this most joyous of day I still wake up like a bright eyed child staring at a tree loaded with goodies. This year is different for me. First off I already recieved my biggest and greatest gift (which goes alone with my BIG annoucement....coming soon) But this is my first year with very few monetary gifts. Since I and my mother were sick (the two who do all the shopping) There will be very little packages adorning our very little tree. But I am very okay with this. Christmas isn't about the gifts and being as sick as I have been I have learned it is who is around you on this day that ultimately counts. A day to be spent with those you love. To share a laugh and a hug. Christmas is the magic of believeing that this days means to you whatever you would like it to mean. And on this day I couldn't feel anymore love in the world.

And as an extension of my family thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your support, your magic, your inspiration, your kindness, your wisdom, and you love. May this Christmas be magical for you and your loved ones.

OH AND IT IS MY 100TH POST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I know kind of ironic that it falls on Christmas. Almost like it is a gift in itself. Thank you all for sticking with me and following/reading my blog. Your comments keep me going and give me the inspiration I need to continue.

Love with big Christmas Smooches,
Steph

Alive

Hello everyone,
Unfortunately again I am going to make this short. I am still alive.. I have been in the hospital since last Wed. I will explain everything more in depth later .. there is so much to tell and so much that has gone on that I will not be able to write about all of it until I am mentally ready.

For the two who won the giveaway please hang on I will mail out the winnings but I am still unable to sit or drive and I have a lot a 'life'work to catch up on.

I just wanted to take the time to thank everyone for all the well wishes and support. I have a lot of hurdles which I will share with you all later. Please don't leave me now your support helps me with this everyday. If I don't talk to you before Christmas PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE have the most Merry Christmas, healthy New Year and best tidings to you and all your loved one. I hope to be around but I am still very sore and very out of commission.

Big Smooches,
Steph

emergency surgery

Sorry folks tomorrow I am going in for emergency surgery for a very large infection that resulted from a different infection. Wonderful. Please hang around I will be with you all in thought . And i hope to talk to you all soon

Smooches and warmest wishes

Steph

AND THE WINNERs ARE!!

So as I stated in my post earlier today I was going to give two people a giveaway instead of just one. I appreciate all those who participated but in the end there could only be 2. (and yes I remembered to add those who posted the badge in twice.)

How I did the drawing. There were 27 participants in total. I gave everyone a number giving the first poster number 1 and so on until the last poster was named number 27. (Those who added the badge had their number put in twice). Then Adam picked from the magic Christmas hat and came out with two winners. (This was just easier than writing out everyone's name)

The first person receives two 5X7" prints of their choice

The second person receives one 5X7" print of their choice

without further delay

#10= 1st place winner= Cris from Mommy's Midwest Mountain Folk Art

#2= 2nd place winner= Jenn from Pease Porridge

Again thank you all for participating. I am coming up on my 100th post so stay tuned for MAYBE another giveaway!

CHECK OUT MY ETSY!

I have two short term paintings on ebay (going off in three days) incase you wanted to do as a Christmas gift. (will send out as 2 to 3 day shipment, unfortunately I can't be held responsible for delaying with the post office)

SMOOCHES,
Steph

HAPPY SUNDAY

Hello everyone. This is a little number I did before I fell ill and forgot to post... It is a 9"X12" so it has a hard time getting on the scanner. But you get the idea.

Well I got outside yesterday. The day I had the first procedure done we had a huge ice and sleet storm so I knew at the point I wasn't going to be able to be outside for a couple of days. I FINALLY GOT outside yesterday! BURRRR when did the temperature drop that cold. Really I didn't car, to breath fresh air was a HUGE relief. And more awesome yet was that all the tree looked like crystals from the ice storm. If you touched one it looked like it would shatter in a million pieces! I wish I had my camera on me but I didn't. I am going to go out again today and see if I can get any pictures... crossing my fingers.

I want to get some quality time outside today because I am back to the surgeons tomorrow so he can look into the crystal ball and read my future. Speaking of future ADAM IS ALL DONE WITH SCHOOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YAYAYAYYAY I think I feel as liberated as he does. Time to start real life. I am a little nervous but I think it will all be fine.

We stayed up until 2am last night playing online jeopardy. We are a good team:) We always bet it all at the end, not becuase we are risk takers but becuase we trust in that the other will know the answer. In high school I was a member of what we called the Post Star Bowl team. It was high school jeopardy and I loved it. At the begining of the year you had to try out against tons of classmakes and students in higher and lesser grades than you and the team would consist of 5 players with one sub. I have always had a love for information I was actually invited to try out for the real Jeopardy teen edition when I was a Sophmore in highschool. It was at the Waldorf Historia and NYC. Unfortunately the tryouts fell on New York State testing days and well there goes a one in a will shot. My luck I would have gotten all spelling questions.

Alright well I have to shower and get my day started. I am sooo behind on a million different things that it will take me DAYS! to catch up.

The drawing for the winner of the giveaway will be pulled btwn 5-7pm eastern time! So I will be sending out an email to the winner. Also I decided to give away one more print to a second winner and that name will be drawn at the same time! GOOD LUCK EVERYONE. and thank you for entering!

smooches,
Steph

Award

Sorry I forgot to post this award I received from two of my most beloved blog ladies who are always here to spread love and great cheer all over my little blog.

Gina from Cap Nap Inn Primitives what a domestic goddess! She always has love to spread and makes you feel right at home. I am so lucky to have her around.

Also Jenny from Wonders of Whimsy her blog is just as contagious as her unbelievably loving demeanor.

Both ladies are a masters of their craft but more important they are wonderful caring ladies individuals with nothing but love in their hearts.

It took me some time to post this and I promise I will send it back out but it might take a day or two. I just wanted to make sure that I gave these two unreal ladies the recognition they deserve.

Thank You both your continued support is sooo unreal and much needed.

Big smooches

Steph

Thank You

Thank you everyone for sicking around. This hasn't been easy on me. Yesterday I had to go to the Surgeons and I underwent some of the wost pain of my life. The cellulitis had to be tended to so they had to lance the infection to let the bad stuff out. OUCHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.. So pretty much all last night I just knocked myself out with pain killers.

After that procedure was done they had to stuff the incision with gauze. So inside the cut was filled with gauze and this morning Adam had to rip it out. DOUBLE OUCHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH. Followed by uncontrolable crying for at least 30 mins.

I just really want to keep everyone up to date what is happening. I have another appt. on Monday I don't want anymore pain but I know that is unrealistic!

Please hang around I am just so nervous that you are all going to leave due to me not posting any art and with the holidays and all. I really need your support right now. You all mean so much to me and it is just KILLING me that I haven't been able to do any art in almost 2 weeks.

Don't forget the drawing is still going to take place and I might try to make an Etsy update sometimes today or tomorrow.

The weather here is horrible we have about 3 inches of snow over 2 inches of ice and I am a nervous wreck becuase Adam has to drive to Albany! I hate when he has to drive in these condtions.

He has been really good about me being sick (at first he didn't want anything to do with it) (I kind of understand it is really really gross, lots of blood and all that) but now he is very helpful and changes all the dressesing and is coooking (although I can't seem to eat)


I am getting a little tired now. Thank you all for you well wishes and for sicking around. Please don't leave me I hope to be back in action as soon as possible. I will keep you all posted with my health.

Big smooches to you all. I could really use some Christmas cheer

Steph

Out of comission

Howdy folks...

Well.. I am sick.. and I mean sick as a dog. With a new icky development with my cyst yesterday I decided to go see my primary for a second opinion since I developed what I thought was a cold on top of all of it. I am going to make this quick because I am extremely nauseous from the pain killers I am on but..... here is the short of it..

I guess somewhere along the line a became antibiotic immune and the infection got worse and has caused cellulitis (kinda like a staff infection) and the cyst has drained into a different area. SOOO I am scheduled for an emergency meeting tomorrow with the surgeon. So with all my white blood cells fight the infection of my cyst is wasn't able to protect me and my weekend immune system from a respiratory infection. Ya a lot of yucky stuff. I feel awful I haven't been able to create anything (but a mess).. Please bear with me during this time I will be back as soooon as possible. This Sunday is still the drawing for the giveaway!!!! I will email the winner!

Smooches,
take care,
Steph

Make-me-up

Howdy ..

Well I know I haven't done a video in a longgggg time so I thought I would do one. I didn't know what to do so I did my make-up I know I am a goone. Anywho it has music with it so turn my playlist off at the bottom of my blog.

I am working on a little somthin somethin (okay just a painting) but I really like it.. sooooo cute! I hope to get it done tonight.

Well this brain has been doing some thinking.. Ahh yes don't we all smell the unmistakable sent of burning wood. Okay now that the tacky joke is out of the way, I have been pondering this question for a long time. I am sure I am not the only one but I have yet to see it mentioned through all my days of blogging. Do we ladies and gents of the art blogspot world ever meet up? I mean not just two or three of us who live close enough, but a group of us? This might be the event coordinator in me but I almost feel that there is an injustice done if I never get to meet any of these wonderful people I have been conversing with for so long. Our own little mixed media convention. Just curious.


Then of course my mind expands on this thought and says. Due to travel costs we would have to break if down into regions so there would be 5 chapters (Northeast, Southeast, Central, Southwest, and Northwest). We would also have to have dues to cover the cost of the meeting hall, or if it is a manageable group we could always meet at a house. We could make it a yearly event (one shot deal) to bring some of our items and to showcase them and maybe swap techniques and chew over some ideas about getting the word out to the public about our little corner of the world (there are sooo many people who don't even know us and that our art work exists). Believe it or not I know people who have never heard of ETSY! (gasps from the crowd) I know dears I know….

I guess that was all a dream but then I woke up. But isn't this a place to dream and to explore. Call me Peter Pan but I'm never doing to lose the child like hope and I will never stop believing in the things I am passionate about. So just a thought to mull over for all those starving artists out there who have met special people like them on here. Something to tuck away in the back of your mind and bring it out when the timing is right. And as a very smart intelligent woman once said to me, "why not?"

Lovely Tuesday Ladies (and Gents)

Smooches,

Steph

Howdy ALL!

Well well well.. I guess today is Monday. I guess I am okay with that because there is an exciting development! ADAM is undergoing his VERY LAST week of classes (or should I say finals). I know finals aren't normally a time to celebrate but we have been waiting a long long long long time for this. For YEARS we have been working opposite schedules because he had to go to school during the day but very soon I will have some one to go home to at night. So in that sense this is the best Christmas gift ever!


I really have to thank you all for your well wishes! I am indeed feeling better. Not 100% and I still have to sit on a donut but all that positive energy took the pain away and for that I am very thankful. I have a Dr. appt the 17th so I am crossing my fingers!

I was bestowed a LOVELY (truly the graphic if beautiful) awards from THREE beautiful ladies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! From the talented and entertaining Jenny from Wonders of Whimsy . If you haven't been to see her GO.. She has some of the best dolls around and her work is immaculate and did I mention her sense of humor ;) What a fire cracker! ALL Good stuff. Ms. Gina from Cap Nap Inn Primitives Always good for a laugh and a redneck fire alarm(Go ahead ask her about it). Funny like you wouldn't believe but her heart is as big as the Grand Canyon...... okay maybe a little bigger...Check out her little store of goodies. I love her mice! Also from the ever sweet Lisa from LL Creations . Talk about some top notch work. The queen of the 'perfect' girl. Lisa's art is as enchanting as her beautiful personality. Two artists not to miss!

The rules of the game:
Add the logo to your blog.

2. Link to the person from whom you received this award

3. Nominate 7 or more blogs

4. Leave a message on their blog, letting them know they are "One Lovely Blog"!

Okay my nominations.. NEVER EASY!

1. Ms. Pease and her wicked snowman Hot Tamle Art Studio

2. The lovely Flor from Flor Larios Art

3. The wonderfuly wicked Gail and Miss. P from Gail Lackey and her magical things!

4. Sp---Spoo-Spooooky Ck from Designs by CK the man with a plan

5. Ms. Em from Creative Art Journal.. Ever need some wisdom here is the place!

6. And of the blue eye Becky from Behind Blue Eyes. Keeping it real one post at a time.

7. Stef my Italian sister from Gufobardo. Check out her gems AMAZING!

Please donnot be offended if your name is here. I love you all very much but I keep it at seven becuase this process seems to be time consuming although I would love to give it to everyone. This list is in no certain order. I love you all! And all who aren't on the list.. (I promise this isn't "that" list.. everyone will still get presents under the tree)

This weekend was the Trans Siberian Orchestra concert and yes I went and took my donut. I really have no shame. This was the best year yet and they only get sweeter with time!

I got a really bad hair cut this weekend and I am not going to lie as vein as it is I am misearable about it. I asked her to least the length and to shape and she chopped my hair off. I have curly hair it takes forever to look like my hair grew. I am very upset and hate it (I know a strong word) but I am VERY VERY VERY attached to my hair and how it looks.

I didn't get a ton of work done this weekend. Started a few Christmas gifts which REALLY need to get done.


I will leave you with this. Part of my Winter Desolation Collection. That water sure does look chilly. At again, stand back and view from a foot or two away to get full effect!


Smooches my loves. I am sooooo thankful to have you all in my life to send me 'get better' love! I needed it …

Steph

Enough is enough I need some Christmas cheer

So I am so over all the bad news as of late that I need some positive thoughts!

But before the good stuff I need to just get out of the rest of the bad, and what better a place than to all my friends here.
The Dr. Appt. I had yesterday went crappy to say the least. The darn thing is infected and oozing and everything else under the sun. I think I should come up with a name for it calling it "the cyst" is no impersonal for being in such a personal place. Unfortunately, they have to wait for the infection to go away before I see what a surgeon has to say. That will be my second surgery on the same spot. HOOO HUMMM! So I have 10 days of trying to sit on a donut. And I sit for a living!

But I had a HUGE dose of humble pie last night… Adam's grandmother informed us that she has Ovarian Cancer. So with said and all the bad news out it is time for me to stop dwelling on the bad and start sending out the good!

And what better way then Christmas cheer. So all that negative energy that I am storing I am turning into good energy for Adam's beloved Grandma and sending it her way!

Here is a little piece to get us in the mood! I did it before I got sick and I am hoping to get some more done soon and put them on Etsy. This is my Christmas Cheer collection, the LET IT SNOW snowmen are part of this collection as well.

I am going to keep this short, but all I ask is that we all take our negative energy. The hard feelings we have been storing, the angry notions we might have been harboring and just chase them off with positive happy thoughts!

Smooches,
Steph

No Joy in Mudville.

This post is by no means to depress anyone, but being a blog I think I am allowed to write to vent. So yesterday just wasn't a good day. NOT GOOD AT ALL! I am going to start from the beginning because there is where most stories begin.

Monday night I slept AWFUL. No sleep at all just a lot of tossing and turning which I dismissed to heartburn at the time. I got up before the alarm and went on my merry(or not so merry way) and did my morning routine. At the very end of this so called routine I put on my shoes and head out the door. I went to sit down and this is where the down hill spiral starts. I sat down and this shooting pain went up my spine. To the point of it knocked me over. I knew in a second what the pain was, it wasn't the first time I had it and once you have it once you will never forget. My pilonidal cyst returned. To save you the disgusting details and give you the short and not so sweet. This is a type of abscess that lives at the bottom of your spinal chord. When I was about 15 I had surgically removed, but guess what it is back with vengeance! I CAN"T SIT DOWN! So this happened yesterday morning so I immediately called the Dr. to make an appointment. I don't know what to do. I didn't even know they could grow back… but all I know now is I can't sit down without a stupid rubber doughnut! How stylish.

You would think my story ends there, but no, not at all. I get a phone call an hour after making my Dr. appt. that I have to go to the hospital and that my Mom fell on ice. So I get in my car (but mind you I can't sit down because the pain of sitting is excruciating) soooo I drove 30 mins to the hospital ON MY SIDE! I get to the hospital and my poor poor poor mother is a reck. Mind you she is 60… So there was lots of damage and a lot of pain. She beyond broke her humorous bone in her shoulder; there were other moderate injuries but no other breaks. Poor thing is locked up in a straight jacket-looking devise and just in so much uncontrollable pain!

But of course what would a story be without the conclusion. The night before we had to put to sleep our beloved Elvis.. He was our Poodle Terrier mix that happy lived with us for 16 years. He just couldn't cope with the pain anymore and we couldn't cope with seeing him in pain. My mom and dad were DEVISTATED! So that only added on to the never ending array of awful occurrence that transpired over two days!

A year down the road I might be able to chuckle at the fact that so many bad things happened in such a short span of time but right now I am bummmmmed out!
Good news is I have Dr. appt today so hopefully my spine issue will get straightened out! I am crossing my fingers. I will keep you all updated (if they do the surgery painting will be tough on my stomach!)

Now this is irony…. I started doing a black and white collection of paintings that I want to call winter desolation. The meaning is the beauty behind to dreariness, darkness, despondency. So I think it will fit this post perfect!

This is meant to be viewed from a distance. So stand back a foot or two to get the full effect!

EVERYONE stay safe and don't let my unluck rub off on you!

Smooches,
Steph

Re: SUPRISE & GIVE-AWAY

POLLS CLOSED AT 5pm eastern time. Sorry but any posts after this time will not be counted in the giveaway! 12-14-08 /5:00 pm




Good morning to you all and I hope that you have recovered from your turkey commas. I have to apologize that I have been as sparse as Charlie Brown's Christmas tree but you understand what happens when you have house guests .

BUTTTT… BUTTT... I have done work. Oh yes, I have been busy on off times. You will all be the first to see the unveiling of my very first, official, and built from the ground up, WEBSITE!!!!!!!!! Please, when you have the time stop over and check it out!

http://www.fantasticfigments.com/

The site is almost complete but I couldn't keep it a secret any longer. The purpose of this site is to be a hub, I will still be doing all of up daily updating from here my beloved blog, but now there will be one inclusive area to reach my selling shops as well as view all of my work (which is taking forever to load up). Eventually it will all be there.

To commemorate this momentous occasion I think a GIVEAWAY is in order! And the lucky winner will receive two signed and dated 5"X7" prints of my original artwork! And the greatest part is you get to pick. Please pick from two below and at the time of the drawing I will ask the winner to clue me in on which two they picked!

DRAWING WILL BE HELD
DEC 14th (sorry I forgot to state a date)

Now for the rules
For one entry: Simply comment on this post and only this post telling me you favorite Christmas Song
For Two entries: You can click and save the giveaway badge that is at the top of my sidebar and place it on your blog(tracing the link back to my blog). Then comment on this post only to tell me that you have added the badge and BAM double your chances! (and yes you can still tell me your favorite Christmas song)

Tell your friends the more the merrier! Spread the holiday cheers!

Well I hope that everyone is getting in the Christmas cheer. I am getting there. Give me another week and I will just jump right in.

I did this little number last night.

Adam and I had a wonderful day yesterday. We went to the local coffee shop had a latte and walked around the city. When we got back is started to snow! How perfect! I sat at my studio and painted in front of my HUGE picture window and watched the snow fall. Bummer not much accumulation actually by the morning it melted but it was nice to see if falling. Adam even comments on how he wised we had a fire place (oh gee Mr. Never Romantic actually broke from the shell). Must have been all the holiday cheer my painting was spreading!

Alright well this was info overload. If you have any questions about the giveaway PLEASE ask I will be more than happy to help you out.

Big smooches my lovelies and hug a loved one today!
Steph

Happy Thanksgiving

Wishing you and yours the most wonderful Thanksgiving!

I am so thankful for each of you and the wonderful comments and inspiration that you give me. I am truly blessed and I hope that at one time of another I can show you all my gratitude.

Warm wishes for all of you!

BIGGEST HUGS AND SMOOCHES,
Steph

HAPPY TURKEY EATING!

UPDATES

Howdy Folks,

UPDATES

eBAY

ETSY

Hello and good day to you all. Well, as I promised a million times I finally got a shop update going. That is right both Etsy and eBay have items so please stop over and shop a little. There will be more but I am trying to stagger the goods! Especially since my studio has been taken over with house guests.

I hope you all had a super weekend and stayed warm! I know the temperatures are dropping big time in a lot of places and it is so important to stay tostie. That is why I have been doing some knitting while my apartment is in schambles. Never too early to start Christmas gifts!

Sorry if I seem out of it…. I am… This weekend as I mentioned previously was my big Thanksgiving weekend with my friends for college. The afternoon was amazing and we all had the best time… but… as my story goes I ended up getting food poisoning and had it all night Sat, and day Sunday so NOTHING got done except well you know. I should clarify that it wasn't anyone's or foods fault and no one else got sick and the reason for that is as follows. A few years ago I was diagnosed with Salemania (sp) poisoning. I was hospitalized and had a very bad strain of it. Once you are medicated for it the virus that caused it will never go away and it stays in your liver. Well that is what happened to me, and now the littlest things will set me off. I HATE IT I TELL YOU! I really do it is awful, so thus I haven't been feeling great and I have been very slow moving. So please bear with me and I hope to be around to visit everyone as time permits.

Have a WONDERFUL day. Stay warm and VISIT my shops!

Smooches,
Steph

An old tradition

Before I get to my little diddy I was soooo excited about this last piece I did that I had to show all of you straight away.. so with no delay…



I just thought it was to die for. I finished it yesterday as I was playing Cinderella in the bathroom. Let me tell you, I might not be the tidiest person, but my biggest peeve is a dirty bathroom. So now it is spotless and I can feel comfortable having guests over.

Anyway, I love how the crackle came out I love the new snow sparkles I bought. And I am sure some of you noticed, not only are there two people in this one but one is a boy! I know right! First time for everything. Gives me the warm fuzzies!

So onto the tradition…. About 4 years ago my college roommate Jen and the boys that lived next to her Tom and Gus started this tradition on Thanksgiving. Before we would go home for break we would all get together and eat our first Thanksgiving dinner together! I know the coolest tradition ever. Well the tradition carried on long after we graduated and ever year we have our Thanksgiving feast before Thanksgiving. Of course things are different now, Tom and Jen are engaged, I'm still not engage (that stayed the same… haha) and the biggest change is that is got bigger and bigger….23 people this year! HAHA.. I know right unreal. But the more the merrier and as always it is a wonderful time to reconnect after sometimes not talking to each other for months, some of us only see one another on this very occasion and then sadly part ways the rest of the year. But without fail we always have the best time with our greatest friends. This Saturday is sure to be no exception I am looking very forward to it.

I have a lot of cleaning left to do tonight and then my brother and his fiancé will be in tomorrow so unfortunately no art… wa wa waaaaaaa.. (Unless I can't stand to be without it!) But I will make sure I post some pictures of the festivities and list some eBay items and transfer some over to Etsy. Crossing my finger on that one, you all know how I roll.

In closing, this is a perfect time to think of what you are thankful for. Turn it into positive energy and do once nice thing for someone else. Even if it is insignificant to you it could mean the world to some one else. Pay it forward loves.

Warmest hugs from NY on this extremely cold day.

Smooches

Beleive

The magic of Christmas, I swear it is true,

it lives inside everyone one of you.

It starts in your head and flows down to your toes,

it a feeling that comes with the first fallen snow.

When you are sad it brings a smile to your face,

it just seems to show up in every single place.

Your friends and your neighbors will catch it too,

and even the grumpiest grinch will smile at you.

It is a feeling that comes around once a year,

sending tidings to all with heaps of Christmas cheer.

But magic can't work all by itself,

you must believe in magic and every Christmas elf.
You must believe in your Mom and believe in your Dad,
you must believe in the magic even when times are bad.

You must believe in the happiness and the joy that is spread,

you must believe in Santa and even his sled.

You must believe in the delight that you share with friends,
you have to hold onto the spirit even when the season ends.

Just remember what I say is true,

fore the magic is real and it comes from inside of you.

~Stephanie Mannuci

I hope you like my message and my sneek peak at my holiday decore! I will show you the full spread around Christmas time. But since I so strongly beleive in the magic I thought what a better time to start unleashing it than around the most thankful day of the year!

Please enjoy and smile at a stranger today.

Smooches

Loved

You know I never knew what I was missing all my life until I started blogging. Some things I am sure just happen for a reason and I have not doubt that blogging is one of them. I must have done something right for fate to steer me in this perfect direction. I have met the most creative, loving, caring, and wholesome people from blogging and it is simply marvelous! I hate not waking up in the morning and saying HELLO to my fellow bloggers.

The love just continues I received two WONDERFUL awards that I just have to share. First Chris the spook master, the sultan of sketch, the president of perfection, and the Sensei of falling snow from Designs by CK passed this little gem onto me:

RULES: If you follow them...

1. Please put the Marie Antoinette picture on your blog.2. Place a link to the person from whom you received the award.3. Nominate at least 7 or more blogs.4. Put the links of those blogs on your blog.5. Leave a message on their blogs to tell them

I am sending this award to hmm... (if you already have this award don't feel like you have to repost, just know I admire you)

1.Jenny from Wonders of Whimsy

2.Gina from Cap Nap Inn Primitives

3. Joyce from Enchanted Productions

4. Lisa from LL Creations

5. PEASE (just love the last name) from Hot Tamale Art Studio

6. The very talented ladies from Things With Wings

7. Flor Larios of Flor Larios Art

And the second award comes to me straight from the wonderfully crooked lab of Gail Lackey and Miss. Pennythistle! And what a special award this is. Gails's work is unreal, or maybe undead not sure! HAHA. Regardless of her creaturs pulse these pieces are to die for!

These are two artists that are all about quality and creating the most mystic master pieces of perfection! So please make sure you stop by and pay them a visit, and believe me you don't want to mess with Miss Pennythistle if you don't!


With several apartment guest coming in a very few days I am feeling clutter-phobia as normal. Although I know that my family wouldn't cast me off as the sloppy black sheep…… *crickets chirping* …. yes they would I have been hearing it for YEARS. I have to commence the attempt of cleaning! Alas cleaning my arch nemesis my ever righteous rival. I can't stand it. HAHA please don't get me wrong there is order, but my order which I see others can't appreciate. I know you all know what I am talking about. If anyone so happens to breath in the direction of my studio space and ruffle a paper I know it was ruffled. We will all survive. I and my mess welcome them with open arms and an empty fridge. HAHA no we have some food. I sound awful. Please understand that I work 9 hours a day get home at abut 5:40 and paint/craft the rest of the night. This doesn't leave me time to practice the fine art of Martha Stewarting (whom I would love to be someday). That was my long winded way of saying I will be even busier than usually and thus last art will be produced. Awful proposition isn't it?

This is number I did last night. I PRPRPRPROMISE these last few that I have created will find there way to eBay within the next few days. And as previously stated I have a few little pretties for Etsy.

Okay I won't keep you. (That last sentence reminds me of a favorite quote… If I tell you I love you can I keep you?) I know don't all cry at once I know it is beautiful. And who would have imagined if came from a familiar friendly ghost known as Casper.

I will talk to you all very very soon ;)

Please have a wonderful day and remember you are never fully dressed without a smile!

SMOOOCHES

I missed you guys!

Okay so strike me down I haven't posted in awhile I feel like I am going through withdrawals. I hope everyone had a delightful weekend. I don't know about everyone else but the weather in upstate NY was poopy! We couldn't even drive it was just pouring down in droves! I guess better rain than snow at this point. Needless to say that put a damper on the weekend we ended up staying at Adams Dads house on Saturday on account of the rain. We caught some bits and pieces of some okay horror movies (nothing I can care to remember the name of) and that was it. Cut dry boring. BLAH. Sunday we ended up going up to my parents house and that too was uneventful.

WHAT IS GOING ON WITH MY LIFE!!!!!!!!!! HAHAHA

Adam ended up getting called into work last night at about 10pm search and rescue. A hiker got lost up on Tounge Mountain in Lake George, NY and they had to dispatch the helicopters. Adam was the observer. Sorry to report but as of midnight the hiker was still missing. Makes me sick to think about it.

I have some SUPER EXCITING NEWS! My brother and his Fiance are coming up this coming weekend (from NJ)!!!! YAYAYA My drought of doing nothing is over. They are some of my favorite people to hang out with. AND they will be here all the way till Thanks Giving! EXCITING! Potentially during that time I might not get too much done in the way of art but please know it is being spent with two very important people.

So I did get a little somethin somethin done over the weekend. And here she is. I hope she will be going up on eBay tonight and if she doesn't sell there she is going on over to Etsy. I should have a few new things to list on Esty. I am sorry I keep saying it but I find listing items to be sooooo tedious! That is why there is always such a delay!

(The colors are sooo much more rich and viberant!)

( That is the side of the stretched canvas, to match the french words in English, 'Let it snow'. Her little birdy companion is saying MERRY CHRISTMAS!)

I have a few works in progress that I hope to be showing soo. I still don't feel like there is nearly enough to have a winter showcase and it is a tad overwhelming! And what is crazy is I am working every night on things. AHHHH .. I am sure it will straighten itself out. I am so amazed how FAST November flew by I can't even think about it or I will go crazy. One minute here and the next gone. On our second to last week and then December rears its jolly face.

Okay I am rambling. I feel like I haven't talk to you guys in forever! But I want to leave you with something that was just sent to me and struck a chord!

There was a blind girl who hated herself because she was blind. She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend. He was always there for her. She told her boyfriend, 'If I could onlysee the world, I will marry you.' One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her. When the bandages came off, she was able to see everything, including her boyfriend. He asked her, 'Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?' The girl looked at her boyfriend and saw that he was blind. The sight of his closed eyelids shocked her. She hadn't expected that. The thought of looking at them the rest of her life led her to refuse to marry him. Her boyfriend left in tears and days later wrote a note to her saying: 'Take good care of your eyes, my dear, for before they were yours, they were mine.' This is how the human brain often works when our status changes. Only a very few remember what life was like before, and who was always by their side in the most painful situations.
Life Is a Gift. Today before you say an unkind word - Think of someone who can't speak. Before you complain about the taste of your food - Think of someone who has nothing to eat. Before you complain about your husband or wife - Think of someone who's crying out to GOD for a companion. Today before you complain about life - Think of someone who went too early to heaven. Before whining about the distance you drive Think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet. And when you are tired and complain about your job - Think of the unemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had your job.And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down - Put a smile on your face and think: you're alive and still around.I PRAY THIS MOVES AROUNDTHE ENTIRE UNIVERSE...


Do on to others time old tale. Believe me I forget more than anyone but remember to count your blessings every night and be thankful for them. You never know when fate might turn.

Have a great Monday.. EVERYONE!
Smooches.

A time to simplify

When I get a song in my head I listen to it over and over until it burns a hole in my memory until I know the note before the note is played, or the lyric before it ever escapes their lips. Most inspiration that I receive is from music, two arts that waltz beautifully hand-in-hand.
Last night while I was wheeling my paint brush in no direction, I had to stop, sit back and conjure a plan. One single idea, thought, inspiration to break through and reach for my awaiting virgin canvas. Then from the distance, his fingers hit the keys in such a purposed rhythmic fashion. The chords hummed back to him confidently yet with a subdued undertone. The sheer simplistic beauty of Beethoven's overture. Simplicity at its finest moment. Like a precise writer every emotion imaginable was captured in 6 minutes. Simple maybe uncomplicated in approach …..never… Every move was deliberate this piece was no accident. For about 4 rounds of the song roughly a half hour I decided to get lost in the notes which I hoped would help my own art. And it did.
I stripped my canvas, removed the fan-fair and approached the canvas self-assured. I knew what to do. Simplicity, easy in thought difficult in execution. When a thought is simple in art the execution has to be deliberate and flawless. Just as Beethoven you have to be confident with your instrument. As a result last night I painted something totally out of my box and happened to love it. Primitive, simple, and thought out. Three things I sometimes zoom by in my haste to create. I hope you like it. Currently he is on eBay.

I like him better in person :) You can really appreciate the detail then

So… with all of this, a revelation. I have been pretty tense lately, even irritable. I know why (I SOOOOOOOOO WANT TO TELL YOU… but alas I can't…. in time). But how to cope with something you have no control over? I always have control. So in the mean time I need to simplify and it has to start with my thoughts. My mind is always racing I can't seem to stop it. At night I have to sleep with the TV on to divert me from thinking too much. I must simplify my processes. Easier said than done and I don't even know where to begin. But in order to keep sanity I have to figure it out.
I am sooooo excited for the holiday that I want to be able to mentally sit back and enjoy them. Or else they will fly by like they never came to visit. But as I said when something is simple the execution has to be flawless. So, I must think about my approach before I start, and trust in my instrument, myself.

Enjoy Kiddies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hope each and every one of your have the best Thursday ever. Just remember, it is what you want to make it.

Big smooches!

TSO TSO TSO TSO TSO TSO

Okay for those of you who don't know TSO they are the Trans-Siberian Orchestra!!!!!!!!! (screams from the gallery and panties flying on stage) Here is why the panties fly on the stage. Pictures are scarce but their music is super easy to find. Just picture a tormented rock and roller with long disheveled locks in a disheveled tuxedo wheeling a fierce electric guitar. Enough said.

INTERMISSION go take a cold shower…….I will wait.

Now a yearly custom my mother and I go to see there concert every year for almost 5 years now! I know and I never get tired of the same songs of the same routine. The light show is AMAZING and the people are just beautiful. Christmas music that appeals to all ages.

You can imagine that this is all I listen to until Christmas day. On my playlist at the bottom of the screen I have several songs you can listen too. ENJOY!

Last night while rocking out to TSO and Hugh Laurie AKA House (huge crush on the smart bad boy routine)! I did this little number. ON MY NEW STUDIO STYLE CANVAS!!!!!!!!!!!! It took a lot to get it here but it came finally and I LOVE working on it. I had a ton of fun with it and I can't wait to do more! She will be for sale on eBay soon. I took a front picture and two sides, as I painted the sides or some I say the front ran over onto to sides. A lot of fun and I love that it is ready to hang out of the box.

The Two smaller strips are the sides!

I really have to apologize. I have been soooo busy lately I feel like I haven't had time to visit any blogs. I will catch up I promise. I am a busy busy girl. Regretfully even too busy to get much art done :( I am still working on getting pictures taken of my work in progress. They will get there eventually!

Right now I am trying to figure out something fun to do this weekend. I was trapped in the house all last weekend so bored I couldn't even manage to pick up a paintbrush. Weird I know! Oh well, it happens.

Well kiddies I am off. I will talk to you all very soon.

Have a great days..

Smooches,

And the beat goes on.

Okay I was going to write about how I still feel a little down, but you know what that won't make me feel any better. Sooo I will going to try to keep it positive. Just toooo much negativity for me lately. I don't like it!

Last night Adam came home, he was sick. Tis the season L poor guy. He doesn't need to be sick. I ordered him his very very late birthday present last night. A Pea Coat. I was sitting around yesterday thinking how he is going to be going on job interviews in the winter without a proper winter coat. Granted he has sporty jackets but nothing appropriate for a fledgling engineer. The struggle is finding anything to fit him. Not only is he obscenely tall his arms are too long for his body, or should I day they are perfect but just extremely long. Okay he would be perfect for a Dr. Suess cartoon, but that is why I love him. So I am crossing my fingers that this will fit him around the board and I will have to look no further.

Last night I did this little number. Cute isn't he. I enjoyed making him. Not the really different piece I am doing but I couldn't find my camera to take a picture of that last night. I thought this was an okay consolation. This is very textured with the vintage buttons on it. I am a magic believer. I don't believe in Santa(anymore I wish I did) but I do believe in magic and that there is something so sweet and primal about Christmas and just the holiday in general. And no it isn't for just kids it is for all of us. You just have to believe in it. Many of us are hardened and believe me I am too, but it is what you want to make it. For those who have children it is easy for their angelic ways to become contagious. So let it! That is one cold you want to catch. ! I will ramble more about this later in the season. I find it an extremely important topic.

Will be moving to Etsy!

Something else that I find even more important… BRA SHOPPING. Okay I have had it. I am lets say peeved that for the 19 years I have been wearing a bra I can't find one that fits. Being a woman of considerable cup size there is nothing I love more than the yanking and tugging of gravity on two very heavy body parts. Enough is enough and it is time for a change. But where to get the change…. In the old days (I swear I was really born in the 140's) there use to be Corrsetatoriums. Yes, there is right and they would properly fit you to a 'T'! Not this fast Vicky Secret run in and run out. The lady would sit with you and get all kinds of dimensions and would make you look like Marilyn even if you old gals sagged to your knees. So I am at a lose. I can't find a place that will do such a thing. No where in site. I guess I will have to venture into the city and cross my fingers. Ladies I am done with to should indents, I am done with uncomfortable, I am done with the back fat, I am done with the sag, I am done with bra rub, I am done with it all and ready for perfection!
So ladies unite and believe that one day there will be the perfect bra for each and every one of us.

BRA POWER!

He he he
Smooches my ladies! (and gents… sorry about the bra ramble, but I am sure you understand they suck!)

HMMMMMM......

Well, I just don't know how to feel about things lately. Almost like my head is one big fog and I am shinning my high beams. Not sure what brought this on, not even sure why I am feeling some of the things that I am feeling. (probably PMS) (sorry guys who read my blog, but it happens I didn't get to pick it off a shelf) I think all the uncertainty that fills my life is getting to me. That mixed with the most mundane existence of any 23 year old on Earth. Right now there isn't a ton of happiness and definitely not a lot of stability. Most artists thrive on struggle, but I am the opposite I strive on progress and stability.

ANYWHO!

This weekend Adam and I just ended up sitting around the apartment Saturday night when he got back from my parents and Sunday ALLLLLL DAY. I am so tired of the same old! So I had some time this weekend to get some things done. Friday night I did two new pieces that I will show you in a second. Very different from my usual. I hope they do not offend they aren't meant to in anyway, and if you are offended by them I will take them off my blog immediately just let me know. Honestly if you are I am a tad shocked since it is artistic express, but hey differences is what makes this crazy world go round.

In my school day.. hehehe. I use to draw a lot of nudes. Mostly charcole figues and a use to LOVE IT! I love the way the human body shaps and molds and I love the way a body has smoothed valleys and curves. Women more so than men have the curves that are pleasing to draw and scuplt. I have done men but their is something so wonderfully mysterious about the female body.
I also started another piece which is going to be really neat. This is my first piece like this and I am really excited to see how he comes out. I will show the work in progress soon!

I wish I had something new and exciting to say. Sorry for laying my issues out there like no one else has any.

Oh Adam and I did go to see the movie Role Models! If you can stand off color seedy humor with a decent moral ending this is for you. I mean really seedy with kids swearing and such nonsense, but very very funny …… with that said, this movie is extremely offensive, but since I am not easily thrown off I loved it! Not recommended for family or the easily put off.

FOUR items listed on eBay. CHECK THEM OUT.. LUCY AND MABEL making their debut! I will be putting up the eBay ticker for easy access!

Smooches and Happy Monday to You All~

Today letter is 'F'....for 'F'riday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here it is the best day of the week. Here we are on the cusp of the weekend with so many possibilities ahead, but better still no work. I have been aching from a break from work (meaning the job that puts food on the table) I have been working straight (minus weekends) since July. But I know once I take one day off I will want more… ah yes greedy me!

No huge plans for this weekend. I think Adam is going to go up to my parents house and help my dad rebuild the roof. I know sounds stellar. My mom is in the midst of painting their backroom/den/laundry room, so in other words everyone will be working and I am afraid my mom will put me to work and I have SOOOOOO much to catch up on at my apartment! I know that sounds awful but every time I turn around there is something I have to do which is stopping me from finally getting art done. The Holidays are sneaking up and I don't feel like I have near enough. One good thing about going up my parents way is that there is a fabric store so I can go out and buy some fabric to make Christmas stockings. Also, yesterday I went to Dick Blick and FINALLY bought some studio stretched canvas, I think I got it for a decent price. But, if anyone knows a site where you can get stretched canvas on the cheap PLEASE let me know.

This is my new piece. I have REALLY been into illustrations lately. Her name is Lia and boy is she buttering up to Santa! She is on 5"/7" sturdy matte board. Done in mixed media, using mostly water color and acrylics. She will be heading over to eBay hopefully on Sunday to bring some holiday cheer!

Wow I hope everyone's Friday is a TON more eventful than mine. I will talk to everyone real soon. Etsy and eBay updates real soon.

Oh and before I leave I was TAGGGGGGGGGED I am it: by the talented Ms. Laticia at Regalo, the rules are.....

• Link to the person who tagged you.Mention the rules.
• Tell six quirky yet boring, unspectacular details about yourself.Tag six other bloggers by linking to them.
• Go to each person’s blog and leave a comment that lets them know they’ve been tagged.

1. I am obsessed with horror movies
2. I know all the presidents in chronoligical order
3. I have to fall alseep on my stomach
4. My favorite cocktail is Blueberry Shminof and Diet Pepsi
5. I lock my keys in my car all the time
6. I don't do dishes (the creep me out)

Now that you all think I am nuts.. I am going to tag.... Jenny, Connie, Veronica, (and I am leaving it up to 3 other individual who would like to take this to their blog) I always break the rules!

Have a Super Day!

Smoooches, TGIF, Yours Till Niarga falls,
Steph