Good Morning Friday

At last! All week I have been feverishly waiting for this beloved day of the week. HELLLOOOOOO Friday! Okay I know just another Friday in the vast sea of Fridays but… oh the suspense… This Friday I am heading back to Jersey (the home land) and taking the bus into NYC for the weekend. That is right folks a whole weekend. Not being a stranger to the city it always amazed me that I never thought to spend the night. I assume it is because I never had to travel far to get back to NJ. My brother (whom I am very close with) and his fiancé had the idea of doing a Broadway show and a night in the city and let's just assume they didn't have to twist my arm out of its socket.

No matter how many times I venture into the big grey asphalt jungle I fall in love with it every time. Please don't misconstrue, I would never want to take up permanent residency there but for a weekend outing is cannot be beat. You can keep your LA, Chicago, Miami, Vegas, etc… Just please give me my Big Apple.
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I almost feel compelled to bring this up. Tiredness. I know I don't have to ask for a show of hands. What is our deal! Give me a pillow and a blanket and right now I can curl up and conk out. To add insult I went to bed at 9:30 last night! I said 9:30 folks. I better start upping my doses of youth because I am starting to feel OLD! Needless to say I am a whole day behind … ON EVERYTHING… I am thanking my lucky stars that I was in overdrive the beginning of the week knowing I wouldn't get anything done this weekend.
So here is a new piece. Who was suppose to go up for sale last night but lets just say sleep got the better of me.

I hope you all stay fancy. Enjoy your weekends and I will be in bright and early Monday morning with some pictures I hope!

Weekend Smooches!

Who ME!

Oh so in my haste of running around like a headless chicken I forgot to mention some cool news! For those who follow my blog you know that I was recently at my brothers engagement party in NJ. We decided to go to Atlantic City. Not being a gambler you could only imagine my whateverness.

I walked into the smoke ridden temple of sin.. AKA Casino, and admired all the well groomed men and barely clad women. Admits the roars of machines, winners, and losers, I heard a familiar voice. From the distance I heard some one who I knew. My head darted to the right and there he stood the king of creepy, the sultan of anxiety, Mr. Alfred Hitchcock. Okay okay it was a slot machine with Alfred Hitchcock. I just thought I would draw it out. Being the horror lover that I am I was very happy to put in my money to blow it, as I pondered how the Casino knew how to pray on my weakness for the macabre. I took my first spin.... nothing (or nothing that I could tell.. for those who do play slot machines they aren't the easiest to follow). I spun again and nothing still....But then on my third spin my adored Alfred disappeared and a movie like feature appeared. "The Birds" of course the birds one of my favorites he is the man who made me fall in love with them. And fall in love I did.. my eyes grew wider with every jingle the machine made. For minutes the machines howled as the lights strobbed like a UFO ready for take off. A lady behind me said, " YOU WON!" "Who ME," I said with shock and excitement. I said to the lady, "but this is only a penny machine why did I win so much?" "I guess you are lucky," she replied. And lucky I was, I cashed out $100 dollars richer, a real winner knows when to walk away. Well that is what Kenny Rogers told me.

Oh my dear Fannie you always make me feel like a winner. Fannie from Imagine, Create, Inspire has humbled me by giving me these two beautiful awards.

Fannie in a nut shell is sheer poetry. Her work speak volumes and her mannerisms are contagious. Want to talk about a woman with some soul she will take you under her wing, and to coin her phrase, she will help you fly. And soar you will, you heart can't help take flight knowing that Fannie is your friend. THANK YOU for your continued inspiration and your charitable donations to a wonderful cause.

Alright my lovelies.. I am going to take off. I do have some new work that I would like to show you but I think I will leave it for tomorrow. This weekend I will be scarce, going back into the city (NYC) for Broadway.

Smooches my dears!

Coffee Dreams while Reality Screams

I think we have reached our last day of luke warm weather. The leaves are tumbling from the trees and just as soon as Autumn arrived she is now saying goodbye. Alsa, winter is creeping upon us. Majestically beautiful but so unforgiving.

I painted another Lucy and Mabel painting last night. My inspiration is Coffee. I guess in a way this piece represents me and my dreams. I so badly want to open a gallery/store/studio/coffee shop that I can taste it. And I sit and dream about it, sometimes dream so hard I can see myself sitting in it. I want it more and more everyday. I can see the decorations I can hear the acoustic guitar, I can smell the coffee brewing. Sometimes I have to ask if my dreams are dreams or if I am really there. My imagination has become so keen that my reality has become warped. All in good time I tell myself... but time... I think Hootie says "time why do you punish me" , or something like that. But still I wait and I will continue to do so until the time is just right.

AHHHH and on a lighter note of enjoying dreams during reality, I will be spending the next several days making my HALLOWEEN costume.. And no I am not telling you right now what it is .. Now you too will also have to wait *wink wink*

P.S. If any of you folks happen to own or know some one who owns a coffee/art shop I would love to speak to you or them about it. I really need to do some interviewing.... I would greatly appreciate it!

Smooches for the day my loves,

Steph

And The Survey Says....

I GOT THE TEACHING POSITION!

The pitch went well. Now all I have to do is hope people sign up! I will keep my fingers crossed! This is what I will be teaching

A little snowman on wood. I am doing this with water-color pencil, acrylic paint, scrapbook paper, and scrapbook elements. This makes a wonderful door hang for kids to make and gift to their parents or grandparents. I left out a lot of the technical cutting and such ... I didn't want to get into using exact-o knives.

Also, I did my FIRST ATC with a lovely lady from the UK! Here are my ACT's

Her trade off were just WONDERFUL. With the nicest fall colors. AHHHH.... Alas, I can see that the most beautiful season is coming to an end. I guess all good things do.

SEARCHING

For those who didn't get my email last night... I know spur of the moment. Lately, I have been really diving into my innerself and asking ... What do I really want to do with my life? I guess there is never a definitive answer but I have an answer right now. A while back came across a blog of two women who opened a little folk art country store in what I think was Virginia. Well, being a daughter of two parents who own a MOM and POP store I loved with artsy twist that these fine ladies gave it. They sold their art and home baked goods. HOW SWEET! (no pun intended). Anywho... although I thought I saved the blog I did not .... (wa wa waaaaaa) And now I am on the hunt for them. I don't know their names I don't know the name of their store. All I know is that they blog in this circuit. I feel like I am on unsolved mysteries! HEHE.. If you may know whom I speak of please leave me a message.

The engagements party went really well and we all had a very nice time. Went too fast if you ask me! I won at Atlantic City. I am not a gambler but I threw in $20 and pulled out $100!!!!!!!!!!!! Art supply store here I come! I am sick .. HAHA..

Smooches All..

Steph

When You Have a Moment

As my scanner was fritzing out last night I don't have a new piece to show (I do but it is only a prototype) I have been very busy getting my pitch ready for the class I trying to teach. I am sure you will forgive me.

In the stead of tangible art work I will give you art in words. When You have a moment I would like to to read some of my favorite poems. The Bridge of Sighs by Thomas Hood is my ultimate favorite. Of course, with most great work it has to be read more than once but when you feel that true depth of emotion it is paralyzing!

The Bridge of Sighs (Thomas Hood)

ONE more Unfortunate,

Weary of breath, Rashly importunate,

Gone to her death!

Take her up tenderly,

Lift her with care; Fashion'd so slenderly

Young, and so fair!

Look at her garments Clinging like cerements;

Whilst the wave constantly

Drips from her clothing;

Take her up instantly,

Loving, not loathing.

Touch her not scornfully;

Think of her mournfully,

Gently and humanly;

Not of the stains of her,

All that remains of her

Now is pure womanly.

Make no deep scrutiny Into her mutiny

Rash and undutiful:

Past all dishonour,

Death has left on her

Only the beautiful.

Still, for all slips of hers,

One of Eve's family--

Wipe those poor lips of hers

Oozing so clammily.

Loop up her tresses

Escaped from the comb,

Her fair auburn tresses;

Whilst wonderment guesses

Where was her home?

Who was her father?

Who was her mother?

Had she a sister?

Had she a brother?

Or was there a dearer one

Still, and a nearer one

Yet, than all other?

Alas! for the rarity

Of Christian charity

Under the sun!

O, it was pitiful!

Near a whole city full,

Home she had none.

Sisterly, brotherly, Fatherly, motherly

Feelings had changed:

Love, by harsh evidence,

Thrown from its eminence;

Even God's providence

Seeming estranged.

Where the lamps quiver

So far in the river,

With many a light

From window and casement,

From garret to basement, S

he stood, with amazement,

Houseless by night.

The bleak wind of March

Made her tremble and shiver;

But not the dark arch,

Or the black flowing river:

Mad from life's history,

Glad to death's mystery,

Swift to be hurl'd--

Anywhere, anywhere

Out of the world!

In she plunged boldly--

No matter how coldly

The rough river ran--

Over the brink of it,

Picture it--

think of it,

Dissolute Man!

Lave in it,

drink of it,

Then, if you can!

Take her up tenderly,

Lift her with care;

Fashion'd so slenderly,

Young, and so fair!

Ere her limbs frigidly Stiffen too rigidly,

Decently, kindly, Smooth and compose them;

And her eyes, close them,

Staring so blindly!

Dreadfully staring

Thro' muddy impurity,

As when with the daring

Last look of despairing

Fix'd on futurity.

Perishing gloomily,

Spurr'd by contumely,

Cold inhumanity, Burning insanity,

Into her rest.--

Cross her hands humbly

As if praying dumbly,

Over her breast!

Owning her weakness,

Her evil behaviour,

And leaving, with meekness,

Her sins to her Saviour!

Okay it is most hard to just pick on from the king of macabre! (spelling). But this I thought I should share because not everyone knows the true rhythmic Majesty of The Bells... although I love all of Poe's pieces this one is very .... perfect

http://www.reelyredd.com/0107thebells.htm

This is not the best reading I have ever heard but.. they are not easy to find for free online. Really sit back and listen to the rhythm of 'the bells'....

Beautiful paranoia!

Smooches and have a TERROR-ific weekend ;)

Steph

Could I Be a Teacher!?!.....My Entourage

Howdy Folks,





I thinks (hehe Popye) people have been busy lately..... how can I tell .. no comment props! It is okay I know I am very busy too :) And in fact it is a great thing that we are all busy.





Could I be a Teacher!


Well some big news that I am very nervous about... I contacted a local art supply store about teaching mixed media and this Friday I going in to see if my art would be marketable enough... Meaning in my area are enough people going to want to learn how to do this. And not even I am sure of this! But I thought it was WELLLLLL worth the chance and it is such an amazing opportunity! Tonight I am going to try to do the showcase piece that everyone will be working on. I am of course going to start off very very simple and then maybe in classes to come get more in deapth! Also, the facility likes it when the people can bring a finished piece home, yet another reason I am keeping it simple. We will see, we will see... SUGGESTIONS NEEDED.. What would you like to learn if you took the class! I know that is a tough question becuase I blog with so many accomplished artists. Really I would love some input!





My Entourage


If you haven't noticed yet I finally got my followers sidebar gadget going. I named it My Entourage. If you really dig my blog click on it and when you become a follower I believe you get emails with my updates and all that jazz! I think. Since I am new to it too I have to get out there and follow my peeps! But I have to say that if I you aren't being followed by me then you are mistaken.. I look at about 30 blogs a day so even if you don't see your name on the list beleive me I am watching. HEHE in the wings! Tis the season I guess.








Oh and last but not least a formal introduction is in order...... Everyone this is Lucy and her trusty pup Mabel.

I guess I am inspired but knitting on Monday!

Please leave some love and ideas about the class.

Smooches,

Steph

First Frost & What's Her Name

Yes kiddies that is right here in upstate NY we had our first frost. AHHHHHHHHHHH… Okay I like it cold but not this cold in October. I guess it is the course of nature and my hands are tied.

My knitting friend and I had a very nice get together and don't worry no one got hurt, in fact, we didn't drink too much we were too busy gabbing away.

I finished my first ATCs last night! I hope they are well loved. I did my best but after all it is my first time. (He He that sounds funny) (Okay I will grow up)

Anywho I would like you to meet some one special, this is……………. Well………….. she doesn't have a name yet I am torn between (Mabel, Betty Sue, Virginia, Lucy, Leslie, Lu Lu, and Carmen). Which one do you feel best suits her? She might become one of my main characters so I think she needs a proper name!

I wish I had something new and exciting to write about but I don't and anything I might have I can't talk about right now. Maybe in a few weeks or a month when the story is all told and I can say it out loud and not have it backfire. If you know me outside the world of blogging I am extremely opinionated and never lack in the conversation zone. But admits the eyes of on lookers who I can't physically see I tend to find myself reserved. This could be because you never know who you will meet. I promise there will come a time when my words will run free on the page, but until then I will remain coy.

Stay Cozy

Smooches

My plate is full and my thoughts are racin'

I am busy busy busy! And why am I busy..

Well I am in the middle of an atc trade with a lovely lady from over the pond.

I am in the throws of making engagements and wedding invitations.

Tonight I have a knitting cocktail party. Okay I know alcohol and needles don't mix but I promise I will be responsible.

In addition, I have been commissioned for two of my mixed media pieces!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! hmmm oh and I am mass producing the earrings because a great local boutique 80 West might be picking them up. Might is the key word but I am going to be working diligently on them anyhow.

And I am sure you have noticed come interesting little block looking pieces in the picture. I am sure most know that it is epoxy and I am going to be adding it to my jewelry. I am still learning so any tips are welcomed.

Oh and I set up my Halloween Department 56 village that was so graciously given to me by my most wonderful Aunt and Uncle! I can't wait to show everyone!

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I don't know about you ladies but when I get busy my thoughts start to race. Could be the touch of ADD but I think it is an over abundance of creative juice.

I wake up every morning with the intent of having a great day. I never get up and say to myself today is going to stink. But recently as I embark on the one year ann. of my 'real life job' I grow increasingly restless. I do like my job, but a few weeks ago some one had a post up about defining a starving artist. I sat back and gave it some thought. Being 23 I am going through what I guess you can call a 1/4 life crisis. A million uncertainties and the only certainty is that there are no certainties. Ladies I am sure either you have been through this, you have children who have been through it, or you will have children who will go through it. This doesn't mean I am going to race out buy a Mustang, bleach my hair blonde, and get plastic surgery; it simply means I am at a cross roads with no path less or more traveled.
So back to the straving artist. I guess people aren't laughing when I say I dream of doing art full time, but there is the doubt. I am assured that in some form or another I will turn my one true passion into a sustainable income but that is where uncertainty rears it familiar ugly-ass head. What on earth can I do to make enough money to sustain? I can go back to school for my teaching degree, I can become certified in a form of art and teach classes, I could get on my knees and pray that my personal art will take off and I can move to some remote paradise, hire and cabana boy and sip frilly drinks to kingdom come? Okay the last one was extreme and I am not looking to make a killing I am looking to be happy. I think everyone has that right. I just want to create and live the life that suits me and not my bank account. But the flip side is who wants to be broke. Alas the uncertainty. Ladies ADVICE WELCOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you have suggestions I am 100% open to them nothing could hurt.

Smooches, my dears

Did anyone do anything fun this weekend?

Breast Cancer

On ebay right now 50% of earning will go towards research.

VIDEO OF THE MAKING OF THIS PIECE BELOW!!!!!!!!

This month is Breast Cancer Awareness month. I am a granddaughter to a breast cancer survivor and I always make sure I recognize the fighters and survivors. To do my part I have make this video and painting as a dedication. Currently the painting is for sale on eBay and 50% of the earnings will go towards breast cancer research. To the right on my blog you will notice a link. If you rather not bid you can always go over and make a donation separately. Thank you for doing your part.

Smooches & Much Love,
Steph...... Please share this video with your loved ones.

*******Turn the music off on the bottom of my page*******

HAPPY OCT 1

Yes yes yes it is here the month where all the spooky magic happens! To get everyone in the mood over lunch today I went outside (NY) and took some pictures to share my favorite foliage spots with everyone! Please enjoy!
Oh and the pumpkin pictures.. that is out of my window of my studio that is right for the last 3 weeks I have been lucky enough to have such a beautiful backdrop.. I know I know lucky girl. But this weekend they will be gone (tear tear)....

Although I love you all please do not take ANY of these pictures without my permission. Thank You

(Above: he was just there, perfect subject!)

(Above: From my window)

I hope you are now in the October mood.

SMOOOCHES and keep warm...

Steph

In Full Force

Well while we were talking about it I didn't even realized it happened. Walking to work today I was bombarded by leaves of every color of the sun! They cascaded in the wind and blanket the ground below. I was enveloped in such a warm feeling even though it is blistery outside.

Last night while crafting I looked out the picture window and stared at all the cute orange pumpkins that adorned the law across the street. That mixed with my little Halloween painting I was craving a pumpkin spiced latte... My fav! Yummmy.. I went to my espresso machine (that I barely understand) but my luck out of coffee. So I had to wait till this morning and ran to get a Starbucks signature spice latte and decorated it with my little knitted coffee coozy. WARM GOODNESS.

This painting below I did for my Aunt who is a 911 dispatcher in NJ. She loves telling me stories about what an awful person Bonjovi's wife is. Or should I say rude. She love our country and especially the symbol of the American Flag so when I gift her things I always try to use that element. Just like the last 6 years I have been buying my mom snowmen for Christmas.

Oh well. I am going to go and enjoy the wonderful thoughts of Autumn. This weekend I am going way up to Northern NY to visit my parents who live an hour away. (You wouldn't believe the difference a hour north will make on the color of the trees) I will bask in its glory and hope to have some amazing pictures. Also this weekend is the 'World Largest Garage Sale' At one time it was in the Guinness World Record book (although I don't think it is anymore) This sale is the turning point of when I realize it is Fall. The sale is in my home town (and yes it is HUGE) and I have been going (at 5am) since I was a little girl and my mom and dad use to set up a booth at an apartment building my parents owned in the middle of main street. Fondest memories.

Fall Like Thoughts & Smooches,
Steph

And the Winner ISSSSSSS

**Before I get to the winners. I have a quick question.. I am interested in getting into the ACEO Swaps but have never been in one. Cananyone fill me in where I can find the swaps or maybe if some one is hosting one???? Just trying to get involved, if you can help me out I would appreciate it , Thanks**



Remeber the little contest I was holding for the oh-so-cute mini ghost ornie and a second person for the 15% any one of my Etsy items???

We have our winners!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! With the help of my trusty sweetheart Adam we cut up even pieces of papers and put in all the entries. Adam is also doing the picking.*Drum Roll*

***Drawing for the Ghost Orine***

KIMMMMM HARDT Ladies and Gents! Kim Hardt is a fellow blogger who can be located on Kim Hardt Originals.

The second drawing... For some reason the photo of the next person didn't load correctly on the computer. But I am fair as the day is long so you will just have to beleive me when I say the winner of the 15% a Fantastic Figments Etsy Item is...... LAURA from Things With Wings

Thank you all who participated in the event! I really greatly appreciate it and wish you could all win. I will be holding more of these definately. Mind you I do have a 100 post coming up in the next two months I am sure!

****ETSY GRAND OPENING****

I am here to report that I am very pleased so far with the amount of views I have recieved on my items thus far. Far more than eBay ever.... I hope you all enjoy the offerings. My mom came over yesterday and was in shock. She says "That camera does those little sculpture no justice" You can imagine how happy that made me (even if it was my mom, but knowing my mom is like knowing the most unbiased person , we call her the alpha male.) So please when peeking at the little sculptures do take note that they are much cuter in person.

****LISA LAMPONELLI****

Good grashious if you are easily offened please stay away. She was hilarious but oh so crude and rude.

****Adirondack Extreme****

It was a blast. Super hard but very very fun

That is my office getting ready to be Exterem (I am bottom left: not the most flattering pic but it was also raining pretty hard)

That is me again after I lauched from the tarzan swing. Mind you this is all in the air nothing between you and the ground but 30 ft of nothing..

Well that is all for now please please stop by my etsy store Fantastic Figments and don't forget to add me to favs...

SMOOOCHES MY LOVELIES!

GRAND OPENING DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Howdy folks today is the day. ETSY GRAND OPENING!!!!!!! I am only going to leave a shot message because I am really busy getting my ducks in a row. I can't believe how excited I am!!!!

Please note that I am still adding pieces to the shop so check back often because I will be adding throughout the day. Last night we had a storm and our internet was faulting out!!!!!!!!!!! So I am working on last minute stocking.

Remember that first five customers are getting door prizes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is right .. I would show you but I want it to be a surprise.

Please shop by and let me know how it looks. This is my first go at it so suggestions are welcomed!

Thank you all and smooches. The link the my shop is above just click on 'Etsy Grand Opening' at the beginning of the message.

Smooooches,
Steph

Happy Shopping

ETSY GRAND OPENING and other Fun Stuff

Welcome to the house of Fantastic Figments
Where I use all different colors and pigments
Everything is original and nothings what it seems
This is a world only found in dreams
A place with special sites for all to see
Made with 100% love for you from me.
Say so-long to the mundane and hello to the whimsy
And enjoy your spin around my very own Etsy.


Everyone hold your breath the moment has finally arrived. GRAND OPENING OF FANTSTIC FIGMENTS ETSY!!!!!!!!!!!!! *claps, applause* I know it was a long time coming but it is finally time.

The first five customers will receive a door prize with their purchase as well as a 10% off coupon good for one future item.


Who: Fantastic Figments owner and operator: Stephanie Mannuci
Where: Fantastic Figments Etsy Store (<---link)
When: 9/28/08

Please please please stop by on Sunday you support in this means a lot to me. My blog friends are my art family and we all need a shoulder to lean on.

~*~*~*~*~Other Fun Stuff~*~*~*~*~*~

1.Last night our work had a cocktail mixed… very nice

2.Also Last night I had my first knitting refresher class and met two WONDERFUL new ladies that I am sure I will have a blast with.

3.Today at work we are going to extreme adventure ( hanging in the tree and having an awesome time on the zip lines

4.Tonight I am going to see LISA LAMPONELLI LIVE!!!!! For those of you who are unsure of who she is… She is a comedienne who is featured a lot on comedy central during the roasts.

Needless to say I am really really excited and have had the best two days EVER!

Smooches y'all and please stop over on sunday!!!!!!

Around The Corner

(****Above is a link to the Fantastic Figments Give-A-Way, get your entry in now!****)

Finally, Fall is in the air, our should I say on the trees. Here in upstate NY the leaves are changing fast. In the blink of an eye the most beautiful time of year will be behind us as we set in for another cool winter. BUT ALAS, let us not stew in grief here I have a little cutie to cheer us all up. This is Melvin Halloween.

The wise ol'pumpkin head who sits and waits patiently year after year for fall to bestow her glorious colors on the world. He waits for fall but longs for the day where ghouls and goblins play, All Hollows Eve. He radiantly sparkles and shimmers in the light sitting, waiting, for a very special night. We only see him one time of year but when he is out we can be assured Halloween is near!


I love sitting at my studio table looking out the window. The senior citizens home across the street is hosting a Halloween Festival this years and the lawn outside is COVERED in pumpkins! They are everywhere. I could easily say about 150 pumpkins adorn the lush green lawn. And at least one of those will be mine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Another activity that I am working on is my Fall calendar. Call me a goon but during this time of year I don't let a second go where I am not enjoying it's beauty. There is apple picking, wine tasting, hiking, and the list goes on. Of course there is never enough time to do it all but I desperately try. I would love for you to tell me what your favorite Fall activity is. I would love to try something new and I am sure you all have some creative ideas!

Have a blustery day,
Smooches
Steph

Give Away, Give Away, Give Away, TIIIIMMMMEEEEE

That is right, come one come all and be part of my first give-a-way EVER! What is the prize you might ask… hmm… let me see… how about this oooohhhhh sooooo cute miniature ghoulish ghost ornament.

(This little guy is one of several in a set of miniature Halloween ornaments that will be up for grabs at my etsy store)

Craftily hand molded by yours truly this polymer creation is sure to add a little spook to any small Halloween tree. But wait there is more!!!!!!!!!!!!! The second name that is picked will receive a 15% off coupon to put towards a purchase in my Etsy Store (Coming soooooonn).

ENTER TO WIN:
What do you have to do you might ask!?!?!?! Wellll….. besides being wonderful you ,just leave me a comment on this post telling me your favorite Autumn food or drink (recipes welcome) If you do not have a blog you can still enter by sending me an email with you favorite Autumn food or drink. If you would like to pass on the news of a give-a-way that would be greatly appreciated! Drawing will be held on Monday September 29th (have your entry in by Sunday) and winner will be announced via blog!

I wish you all good luck and I hope to hear from many of you.

Smoooches,
Steph

THANK YOU

If I could hug you all I would and if I could respond to all your sympathy emails I definitely would. I am so overwhelmed with the wonderful support of my fellow artists and bloggers that in honor of my Grandfather (Poppy) and all of you, I am going to be having a give away. Stay tuned and in the next couple of days I will post it. Again from the bottom of my heart thank you for sticking with me through this tough time and if I can help any of you please let me know.

Also there will be a big surprise coming up!!!!! A change of pace so to speak *caugh etsy cough*.. I am excited about it .. that too will be unveiled in a couple of days.

Again thanks for sticking by my side and I hope to be in touch with all of you real soon!

Smoooooches,
Steph

taking a leave

Hello...
My grandfather passed away. I will be taking a leave I will be coming back but right now I have to be with my family.

My Warmest,
Steph

Teaser

Okay all you ladies who are suckers for a little romance. I have a little teaser for you. Since I didn't get my painting done last night I thought I would write a little something for you all to enjoy to get the creative juices flowing.. Enjoy...


A New York City Autumn


Softly he brushed away the hair that was tickling her nose as he bent in and stole a soft kiss. The sweep of his lips was as gentle as the breeze that cascaded down from the tops of the autumnal leaves. She grabbed his hand tighter as they wove through the crowds of people that didn't seem to exist. The car horns squealed but all they could hear were the crackling of the leaves under foot. Finally they made their way to seclusion. She sat in the leaves as he took seat against an oak tree whose leaves were so red it looked as it was engulfed in flames. So warm she felt in his arms although the air outside was a crisp, cool. In fact, she could feel the brisk winds sting at her pores. No matter, life and limb would be sacrificed for this hour. She stared into his eyes which were piercing, full of love, kindness, and mystery. She had to divert her gaze or surely she would turn as red as the leaves that adorned the tree tops. He reached his arms out for her and she made her way above the crunching of the fallen leaves. She lay in his lap as he ran his fingers through her golden tresses. One orange leaf was entangled in her hair, clinging like it didn't want to leave. She felt the tugging but didn't mind. He wrestled the leaf free and handed it to her. "I guess it wanted to be part of something beautiful again," he whispered in her ear. She turned around and kissed him hard on the lips. She was in love.


Smooches Ladies,
Steph

And The Award goes toooo....

Please I would loveeee to send these out to everyone and this is by no means limited to my love for my fellow bloggers but rather people who have really went out of their way to inspire me. I hope I made Fannie Proud!

Now that I have had time to enjoy my lovey awards from Fannie I would like to pass them on. I am awarding the Kreative Blog Award to the girls at Things With Wings (especially Connie) who is an upbeat and energetic soul. Things With Wings never fails to send an inspirational memo with each fun and whimsy piece they offer. Please stop by and check them out. I promise you won't be disappointed.

The I Love Your Blog Award is going to a few individuals who I can't get enough of and visit their blog every day.. (Fannie if I could re-award you know I have much love)... but in no particular order this award goes toooooo... These ladies need no introduction...

1. The ever-sweet Jenn from Noodle and Lou Studio

2.Dani the master mind behind Ambitions Design

3. And the rambling lady Veronica from Art By Veronica (She is one an extended vacation... Jealous!)

Ladies thank you for your continued inspiration and kindess. Please enjoy these awards you deserve them :)

Smooches Lovelies!

Steph