tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81325246892700677212024-03-13T07:06:31.341-04:00June Pfaff DaleyJune Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.comBlogger264125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-43029514865445599622010-08-23T19:36:00.009-04:002010-08-23T19:56:25.215-04:00A new home<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/THMGIIy9chI/AAAAAAAAC4Y/P5SuDs6Rk9o/s1600/movinglowres.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 297px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508753506074194450" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/THMGIIy9chI/AAAAAAAAC4Y/P5SuDs6Rk9o/s400/movinglowres.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">It's official! My revamped blog (which has been neatly incorporated into my new website) is up and running. <a href="http://junepfaffdaley.com/blog/"><span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong>Visit me here</strong></span></a>. Bookmark the new place and feel free to stop by often. I'm baking cookies as we speak.</span><br /><div></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-52701139758644139872010-06-27T14:09:00.009-04:002010-06-27T14:46:01.734-04:00Signing off<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TCeUDc56lAI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/aYQ31plS9Ek/s1600/PLcontract-2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487517457993864194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TCeUDc56lAI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/aYQ31plS9Ek/s400/PLcontract-2.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">This month could go on record as the most neglected blogging month thus far, but I'd like to think I had good reason. Besides juggling a very steady workload at Daley design, I've been getting to know my new licensing agent and publisher.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TCeUCnSeb_I/AAAAAAAAC3I/R73TD0KPeZ8/s1600/PLcontract-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487517443601362930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TCeUCnSeb_I/AAAAAAAAC3I/R73TD0KPeZ8/s400/PLcontract-1.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> As of Friday, it's all official. I've placed years of work in very capable hands and have joined what feels like an extended family over at <a href="http://pennylanepublishing.com/"><span style="color:#339999;">Penny Lane</span></a>. I'm <em>so </em>excited to go forward with this partnership. It's a new beginning that I can't wait to have unfold.</span> <div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />Since my studio door has been closed more than open, I'll be taking a few days off to spend with a very patient and supportive<em> immediate</em> family. Have a great week and I'll be back here sometime after the 4th.</span></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-83797477582927597272010-06-16T17:26:00.008-04:002010-06-16T19:14:54.466-04:00Happiness is...<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TBlBycgT2tI/AAAAAAAAC3A/bvMB1JoV0rQ/s1600/icecreamhappinesslres.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483486356201265874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TBlBycgT2tI/AAAAAAAAC3A/bvMB1JoV0rQ/s400/icecreamhappinesslres.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The short list including really good ice cream on an equally delicious sugar cone; </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">night rains so there's no need to remember to water flowers during perfectly sunny days; perfectly sunny days; finishing projects that seemed endless</span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">; eating dinner outside; planning vacations; anniversaries; hanging out with old friends; time at the pool with a pile of unread magazines; painting ice cream cones; finding cute shoes in a size 11 (<em>that's <strong>not</strong> a typo</em>); smores; listening to 5-year-old sandbox banter; sleeping in; being loved; being missed when you go away; having a job that doesn't feel like a "job"; movie nights with buttered popcorn; coffee in the morning; keeping up with the laundry; blue skies; being trusted with preteen secrets; long days and ice cream. It's worth mentioning twice.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">"Happiness is..." is available as a print in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/junepfaffdaley"><span style="color:#996633;">etsy shop</span></a>. Hope you're having sunny days too.</span>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-78088089036324846432010-06-09T07:10:00.013-04:002010-06-09T08:32:00.865-04:00Crochet creations<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TA93EOQ9N8I/AAAAAAAAC2o/2F6aTMQu9Bc/s1600/wellbcardholder.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480730185965582274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TA93EOQ9N8I/AAAAAAAAC2o/2F6aTMQu9Bc/s400/wellbcardholder.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Somewhere <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">in between</span> design projects, <a href="http://www.junepfaffdaley.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">website redesign</span></a> <em>(yes, it finally <strong>is</strong> coming soon!),</em> end-of-school madness and pursuing several art opportunities, I found time to do a little shopping. <em>Imagine that.</em> My friend Robin has a completely gorgeous <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">etsy</span> shop called <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Wellofcreations"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Well of Creations</span></a>. She crochets one-of-a-kind pieces including totes, yoga mat bags, wrist cuffs, headbands and the most charming business card/coin holders like the one you see above (that's mine, but I bet Robin would make you one like it if you asked nice ; ) Many of her items feature personal touches like that hand painted flower patch.</span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480730176711700530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TA93DryqMDI/AAAAAAAAC2g/aiu_ZnGc3Ik/s400/wellbcard-2.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Check out Robin's <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Wellofcreations"><span style="color:#ff0000;">shop</span></a> and tell me she doesn't have an eye for rich and unique color combinations. I'm ready to purchase a yoga mat and carry it to my pretend yoga class, just so I can buy <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/48985082/yoga-mat-bagserenitygreensilver-gray"><span style="color:#ff0000;">this bag</span></a> for it. </span><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480730194350996866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TA93EtgMfYI/AAAAAAAAC2w/unx-9iLr8hk/s400/wellheadband-2.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">We're especially loving the flower <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/46956212/3-pink-posiesheadbandsimpleelegant"><span style="color:#ff0000;">headbands</span></a>. They tie in the back so one size really does fit all.</span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480730207448859394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TA93FeS-AwI/AAAAAAAAC24/DV_gySOxWpU/s400/WELLHEADBANDS.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Finding a headband that stays put and fits plus "is comfy/doesn't itch/bother my head/looks stylish and cool" is truly a challenge so these were pretty exciting finds.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Robin is also sponsoring a fundraiser. All proceeds from her wrist cuffs go to educating impoverished girls in India. She's been featured on the <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37212228//portal.zoomtown.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">msnbc</span> news feed here</span></a>. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Just in case you needed another excuse to shop. </span></p>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-60120566065154310482010-05-29T15:21:00.001-04:002010-05-29T16:04:05.159-04:00Picking time well spent<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476759680775966434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TAFb6ZzVTuI/AAAAAAAAC14/bOrMvMLYh_8/s400/strawberry-3.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">These days I'm <em>really</em> busy. Busy with more work and projects and ventures than I've had for awhile. And that's saying a lot. I could easily let myself drown if I'm not careful. But today I woke up and stubbornly decided that work or no work, I was <em>not</em> going to miss strawberry season. So the girls and I took off for the pick-it-yourself field right after they rubbed the sleep from their eyes.<br /></span><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476759657460039362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TAFb5C8YfsI/AAAAAAAAC1g/Jmbb9iVLEh4/s400/strawberry5.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I'm thinking it's important every once-in-awhile to get the behind-the-scenes tour...</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476760487839369010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TAFcpYWPhzI/AAAAAAAAC2I/dojjBkrmPE8/s400/strawberry-5.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">and keep in touch with where food really comes from...the beginnings, the inbetweens and the delicious endings.</span><br /><div><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476759666729147506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TAFb5leT3HI/AAAAAAAAC1o/63s5i21Ro-U/s400/strawberry6.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Nora stayed close while Cara wandered the field in search of the <em>very</em> best berries (but we won't go into my sweet picker perfectionist : ) While I was busy filling our strawberry bin, Nora took my camera to snap a few of her own strawberry photos. Here's what I saw her carefully arranging and photographing when I turned around...</span><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476759670241265970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TAFb5yjqiTI/AAAAAAAAC1w/1mvRS3tPadE/s400/strawberry-2.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span> <div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Tell me that girl isn't <em>really</em> funny. Her 5-year-old creativity amazes me. seriously.<br /><br /></span></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476760506172719250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TAFcqcpQQJI/AAAAAAAAC2Y/nxQYYZ6POIA/s400/strawberrypick.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">We managed to pick nearly 15 lbs of berries in under an hour. Strawberry shortcake is on the menu tonight and tomorrow and maybe the next night.</span></div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476760496869997346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/TAFcp5_T-yI/AAAAAAAAC2Q/J2DRD5orLe4/s400/strawberryducklings.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Back at the strawberry weigh-and-pay, we met some fuzzy duckling friends that amused us and yes I'll admit to having a sudden urge to paint ducks.<br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Today's morning was certainly more memorable and inspiring than where I'm sitting now. I'm reminding myself that I need to <em>make</em> time for random outings. Because who wants to read a post about the lady behind her computer all day anyway? Enough said.</span></div></div></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-9266030695264951022010-05-20T08:02:00.009-04:002010-05-20T08:45:53.222-04:00Learning to drive in NYC<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473321872124018386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S_UlPmlT_tI/AAAAAAAAC1I/w_fiOQOTdTA/s400/surtex.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Don't take that title literally. I would eat worms before I ever personally drove through the heart of New York City. I'm talking about learning to drive with an art license. <a href="http://surtex.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Surtex</span></a> has been forever on my radar as the place to go to figure out the business and put my big foot in the door. While I didn't feel ready to exhibit/invest in a $4000 booth, I did think that it was time to see the show and take in the entire <a href="http://surtex.com/TheShow/ConferenceProgram/tabid/103/Default.aspx"><span style="color:#ff0000;">conference program</span></a> to better educate myself. So I made the plunge and spent the past three days learning everything I could. Art licensing was a hazy, intimidating subject to me only months ago. Now that world is suddenly becoming clear. I made several excellent contacts and I can say with some certainty that my career is ready to take some exciting turns (not without hard work, but I'm feeling ready.)</span><br /><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473321881643852914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S_UlQKDBJHI/AAAAAAAAC1Q/hmjyGeSyxZ8/s400/surtex-2.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">While I was mainly focused on Surtex, I did have a sliver of time to catch some New York sights. Sights mainly geared to places where I could pick up surprises for my well-behaving...ahem...kids back at home with their Dad.</span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473321891239406722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S_UlQtyxrII/AAAAAAAAC1Y/ls94_CfAKVk/s400/surtex-3.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">This impostor had to suffice for the real thing. I'm sure I'll be back some day to properly see New York. In the meantime, I'll keep you posted on what develops. I do believe that the first step to pursuing anything you might want to do is learning everything possible about it. Education brings comfort. Maybe not enough to ride in a NYC taxi without several seat belts strapped around yourself, but enough to hail the next ride with confidence.</span></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-60387354051007656772010-05-14T20:28:00.007-04:002010-05-14T21:15:34.127-04:00The right equipment for Illustration Friday<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S-3rDEfqAWI/AAAAAAAAC04/kw9OsWxHvuk/s1600/AllINeedlowres.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471287560303673698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S-3rDEfqAWI/AAAAAAAAC04/kw9OsWxHvuk/s400/AllINeedlowres.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">To be honest, when the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/"><span style="color:#6600cc;">Illustration Friday</span></a> prompt came this morning I wasn't exactly running for my brushes filled with inspired bliss. "Equipment" brought images of tractors, backhoes and other heavy machinery...technical, mechanical kind of stuff that didn't speak to me. However, I was determined to participate. So I looked "equipment" up in the dictionary rather than settle for my preconceived, stifling notions. Definition #2 felt more comfortable: </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><strong>2,</strong> that which equips; supplies; gear. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">After finding a way to relate, I illustrated my type of <em>equipment</em> as seen above.</span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471287565842367714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S-3rDZILxOI/AAAAAAAAC1A/WLfottBJeu4/s400/AllINeeddetail.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">That's what I love about <a href="http://illustrationfriday.com/index.php"><span style="color:#6600cc;">Illustration Friday</span></a>. A common word is able to produce a wide range of inspiration and images.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em>And yes, if you're wondering, I do think heavy construction equipment would be happier with more color and of course glitter. Just my thoughts.</em></span>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-37149905088792706872010-05-09T12:14:00.003-04:002010-05-09T12:27:19.985-04:00What I really wanted for Mother's Day (cough)...<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S-bfpdXnQCI/AAAAAAAAC0s/LHo1bgLPKgY/s1600/Mothersdaystarwars.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469304700839346210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S-bfpdXnQCI/AAAAAAAAC0s/LHo1bgLPKgY/s400/Mothersdaystarwars.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">This carefully chosen gift made me laugh out loud. All I had asked for today was a little peace and quiet...<em>but</em> I'll take humor too. And whom do you suppose will be making pancakes this week?!</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Happy Mother's Day to all you Moms and may the force be with you.</span>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-80035157192337873592010-05-03T10:57:00.014-04:002010-05-03T19:02:04.223-04:00Rack refurbishment<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467058836223096802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S97lC7s89-I/AAAAAAAAC0E/ffDpitSUY-U/s400/luggagerack.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">An antique luggage rack has been on my rummage/yard sale radar for a <em><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">loooong</span></em> time. When I spied this one two weeks ago (priced at $4), I grabbed it immediately. Luckily, there were no injuries. I had plans for this rack to live in our guest bedroom so suitcases would also have a nice place to rest.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S97lE9wDM0I/AAAAAAAAC0c/5_0Y6S8Agug/s1600/luggagerack-4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467058871132697410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S97lE9wDM0I/AAAAAAAAC0c/5_0Y6S8Agug/s400/luggagerack-4.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I didn't even think twice about those worn ribbons.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S97lEUlh2bI/AAAAAAAAC0U/PTMDZohT574/s1600/luggagerack-3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467058860082715058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S97lEUlh2bI/AAAAAAAAC0U/PTMDZohT574/s400/luggagerack-3.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Instead, I saw a beautiful and functional piece of furniture that was perfect for an easy makeover project.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S97lD6gpNvI/AAAAAAAAC0M/n7hIUP2dmzE/s1600/luggagerack-2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467058853082904306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S97lD6gpNvI/AAAAAAAAC0M/n7hIUP2dmzE/s400/luggagerack-2.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> I happened to have this ribbon in my stash (also purchased at a rummage sale in a box like <a href="http://junepfaffdaley.blogspot.com/2010/04/box-under-rummage-sale-table.html"><span style="color:#339999;">that one</span></a>.) It was exactly the right width and had the same charm of the original luggage rack ribbon. I knew it was meant to be.</span><br /><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467058873454763698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S97lFGZrHrI/AAAAAAAAC0k/7YLBz7Pv1K0/s400/luggagerack-5.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">It took about 30 minutes to transform my find including the ribbon replacement and a good polish. A project that was finished up just in time for our guests over the past weekend. Suitcases are now within arms reach at this hotel. And we don't even charge extra.</span></div></div></div></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-66008709774222651082010-04-27T09:56:00.011-04:002010-04-27T14:45:26.004-04:00The box under the rummage sale table<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464491688837583970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S9XGPSc9FGI/AAAAAAAACzU/-uRC3GqxBNM/s400/box.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Over the past weekend, I managed to find time to squeeze in a couple of rummage sales. This is my absolute favorite way to find materials for mixed media paintings and sewing projects. Supplies purchased like this are a mere fraction of the retail price. Besides you can't find trim from the 1940s at your local Michael's. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">While wandering the second sale of the morning, I spied a box under the table in the "craft/sewing section." (ALWAYS LOOK UNDER THE TABLE. This is where the really good stuff hides...trust me.) I didn't need to spend much time weeding through to know I had struck gold. I added a few other things to the box and then asked the nice lady if she could give me a price for the whole lot. She looked through my stash and consulted with her coworker. Then she turned back to me, smiled and said, "How's $2.50?" I told her that was <em>more</em> than fair. So are you curious as to what's in that box?! Here's a sampling...</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464491711540116178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S9XGQnBqOtI/AAAAAAAACzk/eM1X0DKfUNU/s400/boxfabric.jpg" border="0" /></span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Yards of fabric...</span><br /><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464491957364507250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S9XGe6ywwnI/AAAAAAAACz8/yDtGuaR_OUs/s400/boxtrim2.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Lace and trims.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464491697602872146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S9XGPzGww1I/AAAAAAAACzc/0sJyRVYQDDY/s400/boxbuttons.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Hundreds of buttons...</span><br /><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464491724373237474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S9XGRW1UHuI/AAAAAAAACz0/zspq8Jo_VL4/s400/boxtrim.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">A rainbow of rick rack, seam binding, bias trim, elastic (most unopened)...</span><br /><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464491720993786498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S9XGRKPlyoI/AAAAAAAACzs/uVSrcWtX4Og/s400/boxthreadmisc.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Charming wooden spools of thread, measuring tapes and old sewing notions. </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The box also contained half yards of colorful fleece (perfect for kid projects), unopened ribbon spools, crochet thread and tulle. </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em><br /><br />Never </em>underestimate a rummage sale as a source for materials. And you'll probably get a better deal if you collect a box of stuff and ask for a price on the entire lot. Have fun and let me know what treasures you find!</span></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-16776725295676488452010-04-22T19:23:00.006-04:002010-04-22T19:33:26.445-04:00Happy Earth Day to you<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5463106956922947122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S9Da1SFbhjI/AAAAAAAACzE/9m3qIpJXnHE/s400/LovetheEarthlowressquare.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Love the earth for the sake of us big peeps...</span><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5463106966135282738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S9Da10Z0nDI/AAAAAAAACzM/MzWULRflIes/s400/LovetheEarthdetail.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">...and the little ones too. What a gorgeous spring day for a celebration.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"><em>Prints of</em> Love the Earth <em>are available in </em><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/junepfaffdaley"><span style="color:#33cc00;"><em>my etsy shop</em></span></a><em>.</em> </span></p>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-69292526612674510132010-04-18T09:42:00.014-04:002010-04-18T14:10:13.395-04:00How to get unstuck<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S8sMb8Sci6I/AAAAAAAACy8/ViWK8mHiMyg/s1600/moviesign2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461472647296355234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S8sMb8Sci6I/AAAAAAAACy8/ViWK8mHiMyg/s400/moviesign2.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> Five-year-old Nora</span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> is definitely on a roll. She's learning how to communicate with words and pictures and can't get enough of documenting <em><a href="http://junepfaffdaley.blogspot.com/2010/04/friday-to-do-list.html"><span style="color:#ff6600;">everything</span></a></em>. Nora spent the better part of yesterday preparing for family movie night. She made tickets, money and the sign above. (That's MOVIE with the extra "V" corrected, 8:00pm with drinks and popcorn and a cost of $5...play money accepted.) When she asked me if she could tape the sign to the door of the movie theater/aka Mom and Dad's bedroom I said something like..."No tape on the doors. It takes off the paint and makes Daddy nuts." Admittedly, I was working at my computer and only paying half attention. I felt her disappointment about the no tape, but I repeated that she would have to find a different way to hang her sign. She thought for a moment and then skipped off as I continued to work.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S8sMbbSpwzI/AAAAAAAACy0/vgSDf8jJe6k/s1600/moviesign.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461472638438851378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S8sMbbSpwzI/AAAAAAAACy0/vgSDf8jJe6k/s400/moviesign.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> I did a double take when I went upstairs and saw Nora's creative solution to sign-hanging without tape. A great reminder from a preschooler that with a little creativity and drive there's always a way around potential roadblocks life throws our way. </span></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-48501004997657564652010-04-16T13:08:00.007-04:002010-04-16T13:41:41.815-04:00A Friday-To-Do List<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S8iZ5dA5hcI/AAAAAAAACyk/Z9upljBN9RQ/s1600/list.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460783760506717634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S8iZ5dA5hcI/AAAAAAAACyk/Z9upljBN9RQ/s400/list.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Nora seen composing our Friday-To-Do List using preschool shorthand. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">1) NORA = Clean Nora's Room (check)</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">2) M = Pick up disc at client's office for Mommy's design work (check)</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">3) L = Library (check)</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">4) BB= Clean both bathrooms</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">5) L = Lunch (check)</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">6) N = Nap</span><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460783761393498034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S8iZ5gUUt7I/AAAAAAAACys/4qsLkv1owVg/s400/list-2.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Somehow we spent too much time at the "L" and got behind with things. Friday priorities. I'm sure going to miss my little helper when she checks into kindergarten next year. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Now back to our last to-do's...<em></em></span></p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em>zzzzz.</em></span></p>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-48876594893205923192010-04-09T11:33:00.014-04:002010-04-09T12:19:14.837-04:00Things that fly<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S79KFWR_UXI/AAAAAAAACyc/vn3ekz1imHA/s1600/dalebee-3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458162729137164658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S79KFWR_UXI/AAAAAAAACyc/vn3ekz1imHA/s400/dalebee-3.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> I love having artists as friends. Not only do they challenge and inspire me, but they're generous and supportive. Did I mention creative, fun and unique? I treasure them all. I was delighted to find this package in my mail from a fellow <a href="http://www.redbullartofcan.com/#config/home.xml"><span style="color:#cc0000;">Art of Can</span></a> artist. The wax seal is a big clue as to what lurks inside... </span><br /><br /><div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S79JIyaQb5I/AAAAAAAACyM/GjeWHZw35JY/s1600/dalebee-2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458161688716013458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S79JIyaQb5I/AAAAAAAACyM/GjeWHZw35JY/s400/dalebee-2.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The amazingly talented and creative Dale <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Busta</span> (the guy who has won <a href="http://www.redbullartofcan.com/#config/home.xml"><span style="color:#cc0000;">Red Bull's Art of Can</span></a> like a zillion times) sent me one of his trademark aluminium can bees.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S79JIngEeQI/AAAAAAAACyE/iLCFEV-Zg3E/s1600/dalebee-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458161685787605250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S79JIngEeQI/AAAAAAAACyE/iLCFEV-Zg3E/s400/dalebee-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Dale burns the label off the can and welds the pieces together <em>somehow</em> (I won't even pretend to completely understand his process.) I do know that the craftsmanship and attention to detail is incredible. And if you ever have a project (or want a bee of your own) contact me and I'll put you in touch with Dale. I don't think there's much that Dale can't figure out how to make.</span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458161700046957906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S79JJcnw7VI/AAAAAAAACyU/-urGepws9Cs/s400/frisbee.jpg" border="0" /> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Speaking of things that fly, do you remember these? Our family went out to dinner at a place that creatively served up kid's meals on Frisbees. I'm in shock that my kids had not recently handled or played with this classic toy, but now they're hooked. We're all having a great time rediscovering the Frisbee and loving a restaurant with a worthwhile take home toy.</span><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"><br /><br />Thanks again Dale (you rock.) And thanks to the <a href="http://www.myrustybucket.com/default.aspx"><span style="color:#cc0000;">The Rusty Bucket</span></a> for thinking outside the basket, box, plate or anything else that doesn't fly so well outside.</span></div></div></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-46207329860511085452010-04-05T13:01:00.007-04:002010-04-05T13:56:33.701-04:00Not just for showers in April<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S7obqaJqKEI/AAAAAAAACx8/48GkpXwDUVo/s1600/showerflowerslowressquare.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456704313901066306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S7obqaJqKEI/AAAAAAAACx8/48GkpXwDUVo/s400/showerflowerslowressquare.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I just finished the above painting which was inspired by the spring rain and this week's prompt over at <a href="http://illustrationfriday.com/"><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Illustration Friday</span></a>. In case you're wondering about that, the theme of the week was "Dip." However, I read my weekly e-mail reminder <em>really</em> fast and saw "Drip." So all weekend, I'm thinking and painting "drip" which led to water, rain and flowers and how the very toughest moments in life prove to be the ones that reward us in the end with inspiration and valuable life lessons. </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I very sheepishly discovered my mistake when I went to submit (<em>whoops!</em>) Regardless, I'm happy with the illustration and the inspiration that came from reading an inspirational prompt incorrectly.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S7oX1FMdsiI/AAAAAAAACxs/s87D204K83Y/s1600/showerflowerslowres.jpg"></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456700111624370930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S7oX1zc0evI/AAAAAAAACx0/Z7z5htWYn7w/s400/showerflowersthumb.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I probably could have skipped the true confession paragraph above and played off "dip" with this painting<em>...(not me, ahem, but: the flowers were dipped in rain drops giving them the strength to bloom even brighter</em>) However, that wouldn't be keeping it real, now would it? And I would never lie to you. </span><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Just a self reminder to stop and smell the flowers/slow down especially when reading e-mail.</span> : )<br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"><em>Prints of "Showers often bring flowers" are now available for sale over in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/junepfaffdaley"><span style="color:#cc33cc;">my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">etsy</span> shop.</span></a></em></span>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-30260317341788639502010-04-04T15:08:00.004-04:002010-04-04T15:34:51.033-04:00Happy Easter<div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S7jkKf8Uy2I/AAAAAAAACxc/600iLciNif8/s1600/springcookies.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456361817583700834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S7jkKf8Uy2I/AAAAAAAACxc/600iLciNif8/s400/springcookies.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Sweet </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">wishes from me to you for a bright and cheerful Easter day. In between our celebrations over here and <em><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">waaay</span></em> too many chocolate eggs, I'm finishing up a new painting. Hopefully it will be ready for show tomorrow. And don't let me forget that somebody needs to eat all of those hard-boiled eggs in the next few days. We need an eat-as-many-as-you-decorate rule.</span></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-32048443669460211212010-04-02T15:57:00.006-04:002010-04-02T16:31:43.441-04:00Signs of spring<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S7ZMVsIfFKI/AAAAAAAACxE/_l3qEsCBsT0/s1600/hsuckle-2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455631934113649826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S7ZMVsIfFKI/AAAAAAAACxE/_l3qEsCBsT0/s400/hsuckle-2.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">So tell me, just how is one supposed to work with all of this going on outside? It's been taking my very best focusing skills to get just a little done. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455639805540064882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S7ZTf3eyXnI/AAAAAAAACxU/S_rjX_sr5gM/s400/purflowers.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I've also been on a major decluttering kick...I'm pretty sure there's something in the air that demands it. Six stuffed garbage bags and five very large pieces of brightly colored plastic (several with wheels) are outta here. What a feeling that is.</span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455631939576805538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S7ZMWAfAOKI/AAAAAAAACxM/vvtZEffekMo/s400/eggs.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">And we couldn't wait one second longer to decorate our eggs that happen to fit right in with the vibrant landscape. We're so happy to have our spring back. I'll be returning soon with cookies to properly celebrate.</span>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-73890024628087441232010-03-24T10:51:00.007-04:002010-03-24T11:30:30.560-04:00Just how do you do it?!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452213260089954418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 372px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 372px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S6onEq9WEHI/AAAAAAAACws/S1y1qsrDSp0/s400/amazing.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The long interval between entries over here can only mean one thing. Actually, it can mean many things, but in this case it's a combination of me sneaking out of town for a few days and then coming back and becoming completely overwhelmed. Overwhelmed with looming deadlines, kid activities and the general keeping-of-the-house in some sort of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">liveable</span> state. I'm doing everything possible to keep up including working further into the night than I like (all the way through American Idol, the evening news and then some.) </span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Which brings me to my point today at the risk of sounding cheesy...<em>I think you are amazing</em>. I really do. Whether it's being able to see over the top of your inbox, taking a walk, making dinner or updating one of the blogs I love to read: I am <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">WOWed</span>. No matter what you have going on behind the curtain, you look pretty great from where I'm sitting. And just in case you ever thought for one second that it might be, It's<em> <strong>not</strong></em> all fancy cupcakes and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">sparkley</span> glitter over here. I'm one step away from the 'pile of laundry' blog post. Now back to more of that looming work I'm talking about, that I really can't talk about, but hope I can talk about soon.</span>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-59385292234438137072010-03-15T12:46:00.008-04:002010-03-15T20:11:47.188-04:00Five already.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448903144443701058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S55kilQTZ0I/AAAAAAAACwE/Jl-BlvfWW74/s400/Barbiecake-2.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Today's the day. Nora officially turns five. The quickest five years <em>ever</em> I might add. Nora didn't manage to nail down <em>exactly</em> what type of cake she wanted before the cake order deadline. However, Nora's clever mom decided to attempt a <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3788164"><span style="color:#6633ff;">Barbie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Merliah</span></span></a> mermaid cake timed to the release of the new movie. Not that I didn't get helpful hints in the last few days... </span><br /><p><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Nora: "Hey Mom, did you now that <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Barbie-Mermaid-Tale-Artist-Provided/dp/B0031REQJ0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1268680176&sr=8-1"><span style="color:#6633ff;">Barbie in a Mermaid Tale</span></a> is being released on DVD this week?"</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Mom: "Really. Isn't that interesting."</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Nora: "Yeah. It's in stores now. I sure hope someone gets that movie for me for my birthday."</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Mom: "Nora. Nora. Nora."</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Nora (shrugging shoulders): "Well, I'm just saying."</span><br /><br /></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448903152987793602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S55kjFFX6MI/AAAAAAAACwM/tbI4a2sfRKM/s400/Barbiecake-1.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">When Nora saw her cake for the first time she called it, "AMAZING" and "the BEST birthday cake ever." Pretty high praise. Although catching her staring in awe at the cake was even better. I knew she meant every word. Nora didn't see the imperfections that I did. She thought the cake was perfect and so it was.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">In the end, lucky Nora did get her movie (<em>after all those not-so-subtle-hints)</em> <em>and</em> she got to eat her favorite cake too. Another perfectly happy birthday.</span></p>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-45105286321791847712010-03-14T17:00:00.012-04:002010-03-14T19:27:09.539-04:00the Crocorator<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S51jvSms7TI/AAAAAAAACv8/sfGkz9dRO_M/s1600-h/pderby-4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448620788287335730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S51jvSms7TI/AAAAAAAACv8/sfGkz9dRO_M/s400/pderby-4.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">From the very depths of our studio swamp, the Crocorator was born. And this weekend, he was finally put to the ultimate test.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448598852878624626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S51Pye1uZ3I/AAAAAAAACvs/LKtclZ6avJI/s400/pderby-3.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">We're talking the annual <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinewood_derby"><span style="color:#009900;">Cub Scout Pinewood Derby</span></a>. This is where the cub scout fashions a racing car of his choosing from a kit containing a block of wood, wheels and axles. <em>(In some cases the scout is given two kits when Dad cuts crocodile teeth too deep into the axle joints, but I digress...)<br /><br /></em></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Brendan's crocodile car design was <a href="http://junepfaffdaley.blogspot.com/2009/03/start-your-engines.html"><span style="color:#009900;">once again</span></a> inspired from the pages of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ed_Emberley"><span style="color:#009900;">Ed Emberley</span></a> (an all time favorite around here.) After Dad cut the wood to match our scout's rough sketch, Brendan and I held a creative meeting. My cub scout wanted the eyes to stick up like headlights so we used clay to fashion the eyes and nostrils. After the clay pieces were baked, Brendan attached them with adhesive. Then, I showed him how to use a few different colors of paint to create a leathery gator skin. I loved seeing that spark when Brendan noticed how the layers and different colors of paint added an interesting dimension. He was <em>sooooo</em> proud of the final piece. And while this reptile didn't end up being the fastest croc in the swamp...</span></div><div><div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S51PyFsH-jI/AAAAAAAACvk/jslIkdtMdGg/s1600-h/pderby-2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448598846127471154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S51PyFsH-jI/AAAAAAAACvk/jslIkdtMdGg/s400/pderby-2.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">...he did win a trophy for design which was carried around the rest of the day. There's absolutely <em>nothing</em> like a trophy smile : )</span></div></div></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-62430747743997421232010-03-10T13:14:00.022-05:002010-03-16T06:56:16.894-04:00Eye-catching Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5fkXt8BNAI/AAAAAAAACvE/4m8NwG9uxOE/s1600-h/ICCcupcake-5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447073370447361026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5fkXt8BNAI/AAAAAAAACvE/4m8NwG9uxOE/s400/ICCcupcake-5.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">We have another big birthday coming up around here. Miss Nora will be turning five in a couple of days. We've already sat down together for the official birthday cake consultation. Along with that important decision (that changes daily), we sorted out exactly what kind of treat she will bring to celebrate at preschool. Cupcakes were a nobrainer, but the type of cupcake was another story. It had to be different and in Nora's wiser-than-age-four voice, "It had to catch the eye" (yeah, she really said that.) This ice cream cone cupcake won in a close battle with caterpillar cupcakes. I found the basic idea for these in a Good Housekeeping article saved from several years back.</span><br /><br /><div><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447070761179339474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5fh_1qC2tI/AAAAAAAACu8/G0NNDXWZpw4/s400/ICCcupcakes-4.jpg" border="0" /> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">After baking up 24 or so vanilla cupcakes, I gathered two types of frosting, Redhots, non-pareils and vanilla wafer cookies. I cut the vanilla wafers in half and then trimmed each half into a triangle shape.</span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447070749021904818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5fh_IXfH7I/AAAAAAAACu0/UwGVMJbR32E/s400/ICCcupcakes-3.jpg" border="0" /> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Next, I frosted each cupcake with chocolate icing and added a triangular vanilla wafer for the cone.<br /></span><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447070742853876386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5fh-xY6eqI/AAAAAAAACus/D2M3SpK_0us/s400/ICCcupcakes-2.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Then using a large star decorating tip, I generously piped on the lavender icing for the ice cream.</span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447070730060368818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5fh-ButC7I/AAAAAAAACuk/XN4HgYMDu4Y/s400/ICCcupcakes.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I finished each cupcake with a Redhot for the cherry and non-pareils for the sprinkles. They turned out so cute and came together way faster than <a href="http://junepfaffdaley.blogspot.com/2009/12/your-vision-is-fine-akathats-lot-of.html"><span style="color:#cc0000;">those reindeer</span></a>. I made a few extra to taste-test after which my client gave her final seal of approval. Nora is *very* excited to come to school tomorrow with her special birthday treats. Now to narrow down that cake.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"><em><br /><br />*find more recipe ideas over </em><a href="http://beautyandbedlam.com/tasty-tuesday-fun-new-twist/"><em><span style="color:#cc0000;">here</span></em></a><em> (one of my favorite blogs.)</em></span></div></div></div></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-52475350213386128622010-03-06T14:07:00.006-05:002010-03-06T14:34:23.153-05:00Brave<div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5Ktbc0qi-I/AAAAAAAACuU/t0LeZ7VjZcs/s1600-h/Bravebirdblogsquare-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445605586549509090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5Ktbc0qi-I/AAAAAAAACuU/t0LeZ7VjZcs/s400/Bravebirdblogsquare-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">This weeks topic over at <a href="http://illustrationfriday.com/"><span style="color:#ff6600;">Illustration Friday</span></a> is Brave. I've had this idea in my head for a couple weeks so that prompt finally encouraged me to get it on canvas. Here's a courageous bird sailing out to sea on the very top of the boat. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445606218111307154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5KuANkuzZI/AAAAAAAACuc/GI15XL8SVgw/s400/bravebirdsqblog.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The more I thought about 'brave" I came to the realization that putting yourself out there is one thing. However, the true test of bravery is the ability to keep your spirits and your head held high even when those unexplored waters turn rough.</span><br /><div><div><div><div><br /><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em>Prints of "Brave bird" are now available for sale in </em><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/junepfaffdaley"><span style="color:#ff6600;"><em>my etsy shop</em></span></a><em>.</em></span></div></div></div></div></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-29307092975785915762010-03-05T07:55:00.013-05:002010-03-05T09:30:39.555-05:00Adventures in print<div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445139574454959778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5EFl-fPPqI/AAAAAAAACtk/eaHUsu4alRY/s400/CPSsuperhero.jpg" border="0" /></span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I am honored once again to be included in the latest issue of one of my very favorite magazines, <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Mixed-Media/Magazines/Cloth-Paper-Scissors-March-April-2010.html"><span style="color:#339999;">Cloth Paper Scissors</span></a>.</span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445156823606705362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5EVSAlfPNI/AAAAAAAACt0/RHFFAhc6RO8/s400/10MAclothPSsquare.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">My article is about the making of a mixed media series featuring superheroes or to be more exact: Women superheroes. I had so much fun creating these pieces. They made me feel like that 7-year-old girl who...</span><br /><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445139583075474066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5EFmemh2pI/AAAAAAAACts/0ZZmL3HYErk/s400/CPSsuperhero-2.jpg" border="0" /></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">...<em>adored/idolized</em> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wonder_Woman"><span style="color:#339999;">Wonder Woman</span></a>. I recall crafting WW bracelets and tiaras out of paper and wearing them everywhere. I *believed* if I spun around really, <em>really</em> fast in a circle, I'd actually become her. Needless to say, I never could spin fast enough. However, seeing these pieces in print inspired by my idol was pretty satisfying just the same.</span></div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5EAEXkuc1I/AAAAAAAACtU/OdniaC_Ba94/s1600-h/capemagnets.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445133499515171666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S5EAEXkuc1I/AAAAAAAACtU/OdniaC_Ba94/s400/capemagnets.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> I had a limited number of magnets printed up of "I Wear my Cape." They're for sale over in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/junepfaffdaley"><span style="color:#339999;">my etsy shop</span></a>. These look especially cool on a black or stainless steel fridge. The juxtaposition of the 50's housewife in her apron and heels with a modern mixed treatment framed on a steel fridge...totally love that.<br /></span></div><div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Now getting back to my little world of capes, tiaras and a bird or two...I have to paint today. It's been over a week and my hands are starting to twitch. Time to save <em>my</em> world with dioxazine purple and quinacridone gold.</span></div></div></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-17707307080283588042010-03-04T09:38:00.005-05:002010-03-04T10:49:17.898-05:00Art & Soul in Vegas?!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444476026701026994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S46qGaelFrI/AAAAAAAACss/bRQqeouuDf4/s400/ASRopener.jpg" border="0" /> <div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I realize that retreating in Vegas (with two fabulous girlfriends) sounds slightly suspicious. If you happen to be sitting there with a smirk muttering "yeah right" (like practically ever person who listened to me try to explain VegasArtRetreat) here's posted proof that art was indeed made.</span><br /><div><div><div><div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S46lp3k8bEI/AAAAAAAACsM/b6-p72Ws0MQ/s1600-h/ASRbuffet.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444471138249632834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S46lp3k8bEI/AAAAAAAACsM/b6-p72Ws0MQ/s400/ASRbuffet.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Mind you, the art came <em>after</em> breakfast. We LOVED this particular Paris buffet so much that we dined here <em>every</em> single morning. I can't think of any breakfast favs that couldn't be found on one of the many bountiful buffet lines along with the delightful waitress and new friend, Debbie. After a delicious breakfast topped off with a made-to-order crepe we were pretty much (minus girl scout cookie breaks) set until dinner. </span><br /></div><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S46lo5jNu4I/AAAAAAAACr8/CEoG68I_yQ8/s1600-h/ASRetreatvegas.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444471121599380354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S46lo5jNu4I/AAAAAAAACr8/CEoG68I_yQ8/s400/ASRetreatvegas.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Day one class was "Perching Pixies" taught by the fabulous <a href="http://www.stephanierubiano.com/"><span style="color:#993399;">Stephanie Rubiano</span></a>. Stephanie's wry sense of humor was a good match for the three of us as she showed us the ways of a jewelers saw and bench block. I happened to be extremely skilled in securing my bench block to the table. In fact, it took all four of us to get it off the conference room table at the end of the day.</span> </div><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444805617786849282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S4_V3I88iAI/AAAAAAAACtE/lIMaDxnPbOs/s400/ASRstephanieLR.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Here we are with the freed bench block and one of my favorite instructors : )</span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444480275847012450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S46t9vx7YGI/AAAAAAAACs0/UvIQW9cbBvY/s400/ASRpixie.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I completed my little Nora pixie (now a sturdy wooden cutout) in class. Isn't she a cutie sitting in great Aunt Ev's china tea cup? <a href="http://www.heatherchevreau.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#993399;">Heather</span></a> freaked out *quite a bit* that I had the nerve to glue a pixie to one of great-Aunt-Ev's-china-teacups, but what's the point of having heirlooms all stashed away? Pointless I say. Besides I have 11 more...plenty for a proper tea. </span><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444471113030917042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S46loZoVW7I/AAAAAAAACr0/bFYgvsEsBTQ/s400/ASRgridlocked.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Day two was "Gridlocked" with<span style="color:#993399;"> </span><a href="http://www.lisakaus.com/"><span style="color:#993399;">Lisa Kaus</span></a>. I loved this class and Lisa...an organized, professional and helpful instructor. This piece, painted and built on a wooden block surface, is all about my family of five and the sweetness of home. I had so much fun attaching little bits of this and that including an original doorknob from our house.</span><br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444474833539995714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S46pA9m0mEI/AAAAAAAACsk/HATIw9JBeJg/s400/ASRloveface.jpg" border="0" /></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">On day three, we explored the feminine icon with </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><a href="http://joyouslybecoming.typepad.com/"><span style="color:#993399;">Katie Kendrick</span></a>. Katie is the warmest soul and a patient teacher. I painted this forlorn gal, who refuses to give up on love. I'm not quite sure were she came from...I kept thinking how she looked a little <a href="http://kellyraeroberts.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#993399;">KellyRaeRobertsish</span></a> (another artist whom I deeply admire.) Whatever the case, this girl doesn't feel completely mine, which isn't necessarily the point when taking classes. By repeating what's learned in a class, eventually art that's unique to the artist will surface. The whole point of classes and workshops is taking in new techniques, being open to experimentation and not stressing so much about the end result. Plenty of time for stressing back in Kansas (or Cincinnati.) </span><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444473370822779410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S46nr0j3IhI/AAAAAAAACsc/MqjqlGjbPsM/s400/ASRoven.jpg" border="0" /> </div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">On the very last retreat day, we made dolls from clay with <a href="http://purplebirdart.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#993399;">Jan Harris</span></a> (Judy Wise's stand-in.) <a href="http://judywise.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#993399;">Judy</span></a> couldn't attend due to health issues and even though she was deeply missed, Jan did a great job of instructing the class. For whatever reason, Heather and I chose to make <em>extremely</em> large dolls (see doll head in oven compared to rest of the class! yikes.) The Vegas air (bigger is better, more is more) must have been starting to rub off <em>or something</em>. Here we were, all intent on getting these girls done, so what do we do? Well...make the biggest versions possible of course. Completely logical. The right brain had clearly taken over.</span><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444473361398496338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S46nrRc7_FI/AAAAAAAACsU/9eluFq9wKEg/s400/ASRdolls.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> Here's an in progress shot...mine is the doll on the left. And as you may have guessed she did NOT get finished that day, but hopefully very soon. I'll be sure to post the end results when she's complete. This was such a fun class...kindof makes me want to get a pasta machine and toaster oven all my own to devote entirely to clay. <em>hmmmmmmmm.</em></span></div><br /><div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">So that wraps up my five incredible and inspirational days with proof that art <em>can </em>be made in this sleep deprived city. The fun part, involving stomach-hurting-laughter, was a given with Heather and Claire. I'm soooo looking forward to the next "retreat"...right after I recover from this one. ; )</span></div></div></div></div></div></div>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8132524689270067721.post-50075252140959417042010-03-01T11:21:00.010-05:002010-03-01T12:17:33.632-05:00A deal for those of us who didn't win big in Vegas<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S4vpxxsni1I/AAAAAAAACqs/ikf6PoALyVU/s1600-h/americanarebate.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443701615970716498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9QhbtuoZad4/S4vpxxsni1I/AAAAAAAACqs/ikf6PoALyVU/s400/americanarebate.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I'm finally back. My sincerest apologies for being gone so long. Sandwiched between today and valentines day, I was retreating in Vegas for 5 fantastic art-filled days. A retreat that took 5 days prior to prepare and 5 days after to recover. So I agree "retreat" is hardly the word especially when combined with "vegas", but on paper it did say <a href="http://www.artandsoulretreat.com/lv-2010-workshops.php"><span style="color:#6600cc;">Art and Soul <strong>Retreat</strong></span></a>. More on that coming soon. In the meantime, I thought I'd share this find (If you use cheapy craft paint with as much joy as me) that I stumbled upon over the weekend at <a href="http://www.michaels.com/art/online/home"><span style="color:#6600cc;">Michaels</span></a>. Americana paints (reg. $1.19) are on sale for 69 cents through March 6th. If that wasn't good enough, there's a rebate out for $5 back on ten (form found hanging on the paint shelf at my store.) This makes paint as low as <em>19 cents</em> per bottle! What a great excuse to try out some funky new shades (regardless of how the slots and the tables...<em>eh hem</em>...treated you.) </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I'm still muddling through catch up work (and unnecessary trips to craft stores), but I'll be back in a day or so *promise* with a complete retreat recap.</span>June Pfaff Daleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05581386987101526447noreply@blogger.com3