barn owl studio

2012

2011-12-30T20:39:00.000-08:00

This year has been not so nice. I will be sooo glad when we can turn that page on the calendar and it will say 2012. Each new year we make our commitments to be better, stronger, healthier, thinner, nicer...blah blah blah. My goal this year is to reduce stress in my life no matter what.
I turned 60 this summer. There is just something about that number that makes me feel selfish. I know God isn't finished with me, I know He has a plan, but I have some things I want to try also. I want to grow in my art.
But I can't do that if I'm stressed out all the time. And yes I've tried the anti depressants, they just aren't for me. It all has to do with balance, and boundries. That's what I have to work on to reduce stress. And pray.
I hope the best for everyone who reads this. I'm sending out positive thoughts, and good wishes, and prayers that say don't give up, make 2012 the best you can.
Happy New Year

pb.

Internal Rhythm

2011-12-30T14:48:00.000-08:00

This is an encaustic that I did last summer with a local artist Heidi Francioni with The Art Studio in Paso Robles where I live. I was hooked at once. Scroll down to see the latest

Overcoming

2011-12-30T14:18:00.000-08:00

This is encaustic on wood panel, the bird is cut from canvas and stictched zigzag on my sewing maching, wax applied over. The stems are from cherries.

encaustic

2011-12-28T15:32:00.000-08:00

This is the encaustic work I did today. I call it "Deep in the Woods"

These are my kind of colors...earthy. Working on two more, I will post when they are finished. Hope you like it Stephani...heehee

just something

2011-12-22T20:02:00.000-08:00

Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life.
I made this assemblage this summer, not too Christmasy, but it was a fun project.
Tomorrow is my last day of work for 9 days. I've signed up for an encaustic wax class online. Hope to have something to show later on.

Merry Christmas everyone out there, and a Happy and healthy New Year.

beth

I'm about to get refreshed

2011-12-18T17:03:00.000-08:00

2012 will be a fantastic year! I feel it in my bones. I'm excited already. Changes are coming, and I can't wait.
This year has been such a struggle...in many ways my own fault. But some new ideas and attitudes are starting to creep in. I'm letting go..I'm taking care of me. And doing what I feel is right for ME. Times a wastin', and I'm ready to take that leap of faith.

First thing on the agenda. Clean up my stale and messy studio, and make it more fun and functional. After this week of (the ugly word) WORK. I will have 10 glourious days off. Perfect timing.

Back soon.

paula beth

2011-09-22T20:28:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'all, hope your week is ending well. This is my assemblage. Hope you like it. Inspired by "Jack and Cat Curio". Im working on another one, but it will be quite different.

Happy Friday everyone.

2011-09-20T17:53:00.000-07:00

I'm off to choir practice, i can't really sing, but I can blend in alto. It's fun. I'm working on a new piece, hope to have it finished soon, it's assemblage. I've been wanting to do this for a while now. So many possiblities. Its hotter than heck here. The last of summer.
Speaking of summer, my granddaughter Summer got 6 A's on her report card. She is in 7th grade out there in Missouri. Great job kiddo.

2011-09-19T18:48:00.000-07:00

My #2 son Shawn is moving back home. He is first going to North Carolina with his friend to pick up some antique movie camera's for his friends dad. This summer Shawn was involved in Debbie Reynolds auction of Hollywood memoribilia. He actually got to touch Marliyn Monroes dress, you know the one where she is standing over the street grate in this white dress. So he has been working for the Hollywood types for the past year. He is ready for a change and will be moving home for a transition to Lake Tahoe and a job working construction/and or the ski lifts. Shawn has become a "jack of all trades". From chef to God knows what next. God speed son, and keep you well.

encuaustic dragonfly

2011-09-16T16:55:00.000-07:00

don't know if i ever posted this or not, it is an encaustic wax piece i did in a class i took.

2011-09-15T19:21:00.000-07:00

altered bottles, sorry the photo is so bad. This was a fun project. tissue paper and acrylic paint, found objects, metal.

No I'm not dead

2011-09-15T07:07:00.000-07:00

No I'm not dead, but bet you've wondered.

I have been working like a dog, getting no where. Getting up at 4:15 in the morning working 10 hour days. I turned 60 in June. Hoorah!

Been taking some online art classes, joined a Zumba excerise class, it makes me sweat, thats a good thing I hear.

day trippin

2010-12-30T07:09:00.000-08:00

We are going to San Francisco today. Just for a day and night. I will visit my favorite art store. Drawers and drawers of art paper, every thing I would ever dream of owning in one store. Yahoo. I can dream right? Happy New Year everyone.

there's no place like home

2010-12-27T14:26:00.000-08:00

I'm glad all the hubbub is over with. Although I did not do a darn thing this holiday. My Christmas list was very short, 3 presents. That's it. It's all I had money and energy for. I did not enjoy decorating for the holidays because it all has to be put away and cleaned up, so it was sparse to say the least. Its just my hubby and I now at home, so this was the first year I said to myself, I just dont feel like it. And I'm satisfied with that decision. I've got one more week off from work, a total of 10 days, its been very relaxing. I've been working on a few pieces for my art wall, this is one. Hope you all had an awesome Christmas, and Happy New Year.

beth

2010-10-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween everyone.

little okie

2010-10-23T07:27:00.000-07:00

This is my neice Kelsey when she was about 4. She's all grown up now, going to graduate soon from high school. She is gorgeous. I just love this girl. On the back of the photo my sister wrote, "Is Okie a part of the DNA structure? She looks spiffy"

Have a great week end.

beth

whoowhoo

2010-10-18T20:31:00.000-07:00

I know its fuzzy, but I had to share this. Early morning on Saturday. A Great Horned Owl in the oak tree in the front of our house. It's mate was on the other branch. We can hear them hooting in the mornings, he actually looked straight at me after I took the picture, he is sooo beautiful. I haven't heard them now for a couple of days, I hope I didn't frighten them away. .. a gift from God.

beth

2010-10-01T19:19:00.000-07:00

This is a picture I copied and sewed to a piece of fabric. I'm trying to transfer it onto the fabric again. Any way it is a picture of my mom on the left, my grandmother in the middle and my Aunt. The baby is my 1/2 sister Lawanha. I've never met her. But I like the picture alot. I don't have but a few of my mom when she was young, so its special. It was probably taken in the late 40's

beth

sojourner

2010-09-28T18:04:00.000-07:00

I just love this word, it is an ancient word. But it says to me that we are here only temporarily. I love you all, just want you to know it. You inspire me and comfort me, and you all are the best. Even though we have never met face to face and I have lapses of time when I don't post, and it seems I've fallen off, well, life in session and all that. Just know that I think of and pray for you.

From one sojourner to the other

beth

a new direction

2010-08-18T19:41:00.000-07:00

Ok I've always wanted to go with abstract backgrounds. I love how paint and texture mixes. It's awesome so here is one I will try to do something with. Secretly I've been practicing this concept, but I never know what to do after I get the look I want. Anyway here is my background, stay tuned for the finished piece.

beth xo

free bird

2010-07-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

My latest mixed media, it says "freedom".

She's Here

2010-07-29T08:38:00.000-07:00

Here she is, this is my granddaughter Summer. Isn't she adorable! We are having so much fun, swimming, shopping, bowling, doing art together. It's just wonderful. We get to spend two more weeks together. I'm in heaven

2010-07-16T16:38:00.000-07:00

Another of my plaster pieces. Fabric heart with the words "Open up your heart". Fun Stuff.

count down

2010-07-09T07:57:00.000-07:00

Two new pieces for this month. The nest one is made with patching plaster, the technique is in Cloth Paper Scissors July/August issue, loads of fun. I'm starting another one.

It's count down for the arrival of my Granddaughter Summer. Two more weeks. Can't wait. I'll post some pics of her visit. I get 3 whole weeks with her. She is 11. So much to catch up on.

Hope everyone is having a fun summer. It's been unseasonably cool here. I'm looking forward to some warmer weather. My tan is fading!

hugs beth

pansy

2010-06-22T17:01:00.000-07:00

I turned 59 on the 12th of this month. I didn't want to make a big deal out of it, cause next year when I turn 60 (OMG) I'm having a BIG party. Truth is I really don't feel this age. In my heart I am still a young girl. Full of spit and vinegar my grandmother used to say.
I met a neighbor the other day out by our mailboxes. Her name is Pansy, she is 81. She was the sweetest lady, I really enjoyed talking to her./when we shook hands I could feel the roughness of many gardens planted and flowerbeds tended. I want to be like Pansy, weathered and rich with the love of my fellow man.That's how she made me feel, like she loved me and didn't even know me.

Its been a whirl wind of emotion this past month. Not much art has gotten started or finished. My granddaughter Summer is coming in July, and I'm not even ready. I should be looking for fun stuff for us to do, she will be here for 3 weeks.

My dragons are not breathing fire at me this week, things have settled again. I've started a new project as of yesterday. Hope to post it by weeks end. I pray for you all, my kindred spirits.

love
beth

armor

2010-06-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

I'm slaying dragons, so I need some armor. I purchased the torso from Judy Wilkenfeld in Australia. Hope you like.

fear

2010-05-22T20:15:00.000-07:00

im scared, but 'god says don't worry about anything and pray about everything. but i'm scared.
hold my hand god, and lead me the way you would have me go
show me the path lord
the darkness scares me, and i don't know the way

It's fear of the unknown, it's fear of making mistakes, its FEAR! My friend Chris made a collage that says "imagine a world without fear." I can't imagine that. Fear is everywhere. im supposed to put one foot in front of the other, and trust my god. somedays it is sooo hard to do that.

more collage

2010-05-22T14:35:00.000-07:00

A new piece, and yes its a bird. I'm stuck on birds, they are so fasinating. This was fun, more of a traditonal collage I guess. Hope you like

3 birds and a wire.

2010-05-07T16:25:00.000-07:00

Here is my latest piece. It was slow going, I think my muse is on vacation. Anyway these are some birds I cut out of copper and then did an acid wash on them to make the metal turn different colors. It was fun. Just 3 little birds on a wire. The color I used on the canvas didn't come through here, it's much better in real.
Hope you are all well. It's warming up here finally.

I'm back

2010-04-16T16:19:00.000-07:00

It's not been a good month. But I'm hanging in there. The art show is a wash, but that's ok. Chris and I aren't ready anyway. Maybe later. Both of our lives are in turmoil. No details, I'll spare you. But suffice it to say YOU CAN'T KEEP A GOOD GIRL DOWN!
Here is my lastest project. The bird sticks out like a soar thumb, I really like the nest though, it's strips of painted metal. I LOVE METAL. Maybe I wil tone done the bird some.
Hope you are all well, and enjoying some spring weather.

hugs, beth

What to do?

2010-03-25T17:02:00.000-07:00

I've been tinkering with this composition for several days now, I can't seem to get it right. What do you think, too busy, too much going on, to predictable. I'm stuck. HELP! The flower beads and the dragonfly are already sewn down. The mahjong piece is glued also.I would appreciate any suggestions.
Hope all is well in blog land.
hugs bethe

life in session

2010-03-19T15:58:00.000-07:00

This is for my doctor Julie. She is leaving the office she has been in for the past 10 years. I will miss her.

birds

2010-02-28T07:21:00.000-08:00

I have been preparing to do an art show for the middle of March, with my friend Chris. Yesterday we decided to delay it until we check out the venue. The show is held once a month at one of the wineries in our town. Here is one of the pieces I plan to sell. I am hooked on birds.
Today hubby and I are taking our bikes down to the beach for a ride. This fits in with my last post to CONQUER my weight gain. More excersize!
Have a wonderful day everyone.

beth

food for thought

2010-02-24T19:32:00.000-08:00

Recently I went to have my cholestrol checked. It was high. 242 to be exact.(under 200 is recomended) So I went on a diet. I walked and tried to eat better, and it went down to 211... good news uh. Next check up it went up to 218. I gained 4 lbs.
I have stopped eating red meat, fish and chicken only, very little dairy, lots of fruit and veggies, . (no problem for me, cause I love them). No cake no candy, no bread, lots of grains. I gained another 2 lbs. WHAT IS UP WITH THIS CRAP! I am soo frustrated.
I talked to my chiropractor today, he lost 7 lbs in one week, eating meat. WHAT IS UP WITH THIS CRAP! I am soo frusstrated.
OK so I have to have a new plan. Ladies, I'm sorry to say, because I know many many people struggle with weight problems. But this is my first time. I am a small women, 5ft. tall. I've never had to watch my weight. I've struggled with other problems, but never with this. I will be 59 this year. I'm in pretty good shape really for my age. I have lots of energy, and I do try to eat right. If anyone has a suggestion, please let me know. I am NOT giving up. I will CONQUER this. One day at a time!

warmly beth.

dear friends

2010-02-22T20:25:00.000-08:00

Thank you one and all for the comments. You are dear to me, each of you.
I am getting some spam on my comments, so I tried changing some things to prevent it. The sign in thing with the word verification, hope I did it right.
Anyway, I'm greatful for the comments. I know it's been awhile since I've posted anything. No excuse, just haven't felt much like sharing anything.
Hope everyone is well, and I know we are all looking forward to SPRING!

love.
beth

treasure

2010-02-21T18:37:00.000-08:00

The other day I went for a walk during my lunch break at work. I found this little piece of tree wood that looked like there was bird hole in it. I thought it was cool, so I made this collage out of it. I used canvas with newsprint under white wax, I cut a hole in the canvas then filled it with some yarn that remined me of nest, I stamped a nest with eggs on a piece of cardstock then sandwiched the image between glass, and soldered them together.So now when you look through the hole you see a nest with eggs. How cool it that!?
That's why I love collage, you can make art out of anything.

Spent the weekend in Santa Cruz with my hubby. It's a beach community, a couple of hours south of San Franciso. I've mentioned before that it is one of my favorite places. It's very laid back. Lots of history, Victorian homes and such. Surfing meca.
We went to a concert to see "Country Joe", (he played at woodstock back in the 60's) Anyway his concert was just him doing a tribute to Woody Guthrie, a folk singer from Oklahoma during the depression. The concert was about Woodys life and his songs. It was pretty cool. I was raised in Oklahoma, so hearing about someone famous from there brought back memories.

Have a good week "ya all"
bethe

Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-14T13:41:00.000-08:00

Here is my Valentine effort.

an offering

2010-02-14T11:20:00.000-08:00

Hey is anyone out there in blog land? I'm thinking spring. I know it must seem like a long ways off for those of you who are still getting pounded with snow, but do not fret, click your heels and before you know it spring will decend upon us. Here is my offering to your snowed in blues. Hope it will bring cheer and hope.

bethe

Thinking of Mom

2010-01-23T12:20:00.000-08:00

This is my hell on wheels mom. The picture was taken back in the late 40's.(sorry about the quality) Mom and dad used to ride with the "Richmond Ramblers" out of Richmond California. She could ride that Indian motorcycle, but she couldn't kick start it, she only weighed about 90 lbs. I love this picture.

Flower Power

2010-01-18T17:57:00.000-08:00

This is the amaryllis I planted just before Christmas. To my surprise it has 3 more blooms on it. I think they are so pretty. Hope you enjoy it too.

I WON!

2010-01-17T16:35:00.000-08:00

Here is the darling angel I won on Stephani Gorman's blog give away. I have named her "Cynthia" She is proudly displayed in front of my one and only stained glass window. Stephani is an artist, jewelry maker, and a friend. Check out her blog of the same name. She is a very talented artist. Thank you Stephani, you are most generous. I'm hoping to take a class from Stephani sometime soon.

bethe

Friend of a friend

2010-01-16T09:44:00.000-08:00

Here is a little fabric collage inspired by Rebecca Sower.(it says, "wear your love like heaven.") My heart goes out to her and the friends that she made in Haiti. I pray that all are well. And also to the Haitian people, may Gods love surround you now. We are all children of God, and brothers and sisters of each other. Friends indeed.

beth

Haiti

2010-01-12T20:13:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,
I have been following a blogger by the name of Rebecca Sower. She, just a few days ago returned from Haiti. Please visit her blog,( just Google her name.) and learn of how we might help these poor people. There are many Americans in Haiti doing Gods work. Please keep everyone in your prayers. Just imagine how it must be, only for a second. We are so blessed my friends. Please help if you can.

beth

Living life

2010-01-09T16:00:00.000-08:00

We can't be there for everyone. I'm finding this out. So many people in need. Ones who are lonely, ones who are ill, ones that need a friend. I try to be available to all of them, but sometimes I just can't. When I have to say no, it makes me feel so bad. I wish I could clone myself.
In my family I am the most stable. Sad to say, but it's true. I've worked very hard to have a home. It's all I ever wanted out of life. Growing up we moved around alot. I went to many different schools. Being stable and nested is what I've worked for. I wish I could give everyone a home and the love I have around me. But I can't. I just do the best I can.

On a lighter note, I'm continuing to experiment, and grow in my art. Doing art is what centers me in this crazy world. I know that lots of other people out there are going threw difficult times. My prayers are with each of you. Marsha, JoAnnA, Sandy. I know I'm not alone. Thank you everyone for sharing your lives, the good and the bad.

not new attitude

2010-01-06T19:55:00.000-08:00

My attitude change is not working very well. I need more practice. I think if I didn't have to go to work everyday my attitude WOULD change. Uggg. But alas I have to eat and keep my health insurance, and don't get me wrong, I'm grateful for both. I read on a calender today that spare moments should be treated like precious diamonds. I believe that you know. Any spare time I have to myself is precious. I just need more of it. Whaa !Whaa! Whaa!
Here is my latest creation. Not very good I'm afraid. Something else is in the works.

beth

2010 Greetings

2010-01-01T09:54:00.000-08:00

Here we are at the start of a new year. I love new beginnings. Starting over. Making changes and adjustments. Giving myself a fresh start. Dusting off the old self.
My hope for the new year is to make some positive changes in my attitude. I have become rusted and cranky, and I'm tired of it. So here is to a fresh start, one day at a time. A reinventing of Bethe.
Oh yeah, also MAKE MORE ART!

Happy New Year everyone.

TO MY GRANDDAUGHTER SUMMER

2009-12-30T18:58:00.000-08:00

Hi Summer, you have come to the right place. Here I am riding my bike down at the beach. Now you will have a bike to ride when you visit.
I hope you are having fun. I love and miss you. Talk to you soon.

Santas Elf

2009-12-19T21:01:00.000-08:00

One of Santa's Elf's sent me a package in the mail. Her name is Susan her blog is "Brokenheartart." Susan is my blogging buddy. We get into some very interesting conversations. I am blessed to know her as a friend. Susan is a talented and authentic artist. She says whats on her mind, and I love that about her

The book I recieved is awesome, and I'm having so much fun with it. I have made two small projects using some of the techniques. Thank you Suz, you are the best. Here they are.

Fabric Collage

2009-12-13T14:20:00.000-08:00

This is a new fabric collage I made. Hope you like it. I didn't get started on the cousin quilt, but I worked on this yesterday on the way to Santa Cruz. Went for a 2 mile hike in the rain, from the bluff over looking the Pacific ocean down to the wharf. It was wild, thunder lightning. I had a blast.
Off to dinner at some neighbors house.
Have a great week.

bethe

Cousins quilt

2009-12-12T06:04:00.000-08:00

Several years ago my cousin Linda who lives in Okla. got the cousins together for a reunion. In my family I have 40 cousins. Not all showed up, which was sad. Some of us had not seen each other in over 30 years. It was a very special time. Anyway I made this quilt, that i promised to hand over to my cousin Linda for all her efforts, and because I love her. It has been sitting in my studio for 4+ years now. Today I'm going to finish it and send it to her for Christmas. You can't see but the cousins that attended signed their names and birthdates around the tree.,
Have a happy day

beth

courage

2009-12-10T20:40:00.000-08:00

This is called "gracefully surrender". I know some things about surrender. Most people think it is an act of defeat. To me it is an act of courage.
In my life I have had to surrender some things that were hurting me. It took courage to let go.
I am struggling to gracefully surrender my adult son. It's been many years of holding on with all my might, trying to control the outcome. Years of therapy trying to figure out why. I know why.....love. But sometimes love isn't enough, so I have to surrender.
This is to Jason. Fly son.

beth

Angel

2009-12-07T17:10:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick canvas I put together yesterday. The angel is a Christmas ornament made from bamboo, or something like it. I painted her and mounted her on the canvas.

Buttons and canvas

2009-12-06T14:52:00.000-08:00

A storm is a brewing. It could even snow. It has turned cold and grey, with chance of rain, the temps have been quite cool. So that's the weather report from Paso Robles California. Hey we get excited about the weather here, cause it hardly ever changes. Not that I'm complaining. I really do love a good storm. In fact, it is a fantasy of mine to be a tornado chaser. It's the wild in me.
Anyhoo, here is another canvas inspired by Rebecca Sower. Primitive stitch is right up my alley. Hope you all are doing well.
I heard from a dear friend Deborah today, it did my heart good. I'm sending out special and warm thoughts to you Deborah and looking forward to hearing from you soon. Deborah and I started blogging about the same time. But you Deborah have come along ways. Can't wait to see what you've been up to.
Have a good week everyone.

beth

Hey its me beth

2009-12-05T06:38:00.000-08:00

Here is my latest creation. I just love the soft colors of white and tan. Inspired by Rebecca Sowers article in Somerset Studio. I'm busy working in the studio. We are expecting some rain this week, we may even get some snow. Short lived, but oh so Christmas feeling. Don't you just love the season. I'm getting out the Christmas decorations today. I always love seeing the tree decorations from years past when my boys were small.
Sorry that I haven't blogged much lately. Busy with stuff, busy with life.

blessings to all
Hope you are all doing well.

beth

Gratitude

2009-11-26T07:10:00.000-08:00

Today is a day of graditude. Today is a day of thankfullness. Today is a day of abundance.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone. May your hearts be filled with joy and thanksgiving.

blessings,
beth

Mother Nature

2009-11-17T18:47:00.000-08:00

This is the canvas I've been working on. Its title is "Mother Earth". The torso is made of paper mache. It's not all complete, I want to add some skeleton leaves and some other nature objects. Sharon I wish I had your ability with silk ribbon, it would work well on her little bag. I hope you all enyoy it. I will post the completed work once I've finished. Just couldn't wait.

beth

Last of the vine

2009-11-12T17:01:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of pics of the vineyards near our home. I thought the contrast of color was so pretty, russet, and gold. I stopped on my way home from work and got these shots Hope you enjoy.

I've been trying to get some art finished. Here is my latest piece. It says "safe harbor". With winter on it's way we all need a safe harbor from the elements. My heart goes out to the many homeless people in this country and around the world. We are so blessed to have what we have.

Energized

2009-11-08T07:30:00.000-08:00

Thank you everyone for the comments. I am encourged by them.
I am working on a new project, it will be called "Mother Nature". My creative muse is energized. Lots of new ideas floating around in my head.

How are your Thanksgiving plans coming along? I get 5 days off from work. Yeah! Anyone want to share a favorite recipe?

Have a good week everyone.

beth

a little happy

2009-11-07T13:25:00.000-08:00

One of the great joys in life is to see your children happy. Happiness has touched my youngest son Shawn with a new girlfriend. He has been single for a few years now, waiting I think for the "right girl" to come along. He was deeply hurt by his last relationship, and has been pretty girl shy for some time. It's such a joy to me to see him happy. It makes my heart soar with gladness.
I've been keeping busy in Barnowl Studio. Here are a couple of pieces I recently finished, hope you enjoy them. Sorry about the images, they are a little dark.
I met a sweet lady in our downtown Studio. She is a working artist. We talked about collage, and tissue paper, and I shared some information about some online classes I have taken. The art community in our little town is growing.
Have a great week end all

beth

just a thought

2009-11-02T20:04:00.000-08:00

I do not consider myself to be a deep thinker. I don't have a great education, I haven't traveled very much, never out of the US. I've never taken an art class. And I know that the art that I make is immature. But I try, that's all I can do, and I enjoy the heck out of it.
Lately I've been looking as some artist that really pour themselves into their art.
Their ideas, beliefs, emotions, and love. It's awesome. One artist brought me to tears. She made a series of assemblages about the Holocaust. It was something that had touched her family. The art was both tragic and beautiful. A legacy to a horrible event in history.
My art will never reach that caliber. I'm just not that good at it, and I know it. But I praise the ones who are. They make me want to do better. They touch something inside of me. I guess thats what art is supposed to do, right.

Refreshed

2009-11-01T08:28:00.000-08:00

Good morning,
Here are two pieces I finished for Christmas. They will be sold at the local antique store where I have an "art wall" space.
Yesterday I cleaned and organized my studio. It feels good in here again. I can't stand the clutter, it makes my mind feel cluttered. Now its in order, and I feel refreshed. Maybe I'll get something started today.
Have a great week everyone.

beth

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T14:01:00.000-07:00

Guess it's getting near dark on the right coast. Hope everyone is ready for the trick or treaters. We don't get them at our house because we live out from the city proper. The first Halloween in this house we got one kid who came up on an ATV with his dad. So I'm not a big Halloween person. I might carve the pumpkin I bought, or not.
My son Shawn is going to a party tonight, dressed as Frankenstein. I get to do his make up. Then hubby and I will go to our church to help with the "Harvest Festival". Games and candy for the kids. It's always a big turnout.
Have fun everyone. Be safe.

beth

Something different from me.

2009-10-25T20:29:00.000-07:00

This is really not my style, but I had fun making it. People were so stern back then. Guess life was so difficult that they didn't have much to smile about. I'm sure glad somethings have gotten easier.

Yesterday my hubby and I went for a bike ride down by the beach. A place called Morro Bay. We rode about 10 miles. I couldn't make it up 2 hills, and had to get off and push. But we had a great time, and the weather was gorgeous.

Hope you all had a good week end.
ps please read the post below.
beth

A very lovely gift

2009-10-25T19:51:00.000-07:00

On Wed. I recieved a package in the mail from Sandy at "Bits and Pieces". Sandy
celebrated her 200th post with a give away that I was fortunate enough to win. These are the treasures she sent me.
Beautiful handmade tags, a really sweet gilded frame with the message: "Hold fast to dreams for if dreams die, life is a broken winged bird that cannot fly."
And this little gold stand that holds a postcard size picture. I've never seen one like it. A candle, an leaf dish, some Martha Steward ribbon, and some cardstock. A little birds nest and a glass flower vase.
Thank you so much Sandy. You are very generous. Keep blogging.

Many blessing
beth

I can create

2009-10-16T19:33:00.000-07:00

There is too much stress in the world. I want to retire and play in my studio ALL DAY LONG. I agree with Susan, to be able to do art "uninterrupted." How fun would that be.
But not today. Although I did manage to finish these two pieces. In between laundry grocery shopping, and therapy. This was my day off.
I know I'm not alone. I hear it in so many blogs. We are just too busy. But thank God for art. The ability to create. There is nothing so satisfying to me.

My sweet husband bought me a bicycle. It's awesome. We rode together last weekend. I haven't been on a bike in (well we won't say how many years). I was a little wobbly, but managed to finish the ride with no broken bones. I'll be out this week end as well. It's good for the spirit.

Have a good one you lovely ladies.

bethe

mixed bag

2009-10-14T19:04:00.000-07:00

Today has been a mixed bag of ups and downs. I won a blog give away from Sandy at
"Bits and Pieces". Thank you Sandy, I'm very excited about this. Sandy is a very sweet lady living in Tenn. Her blog is from the heart. A genuine person.

We have had some good rain the last couple of days, record levels to be sure. So needed here. But it's moving on, and we will be back to 80's next week. I'm sad to see it go, I so love the sound, and the smell of rain.

I have a request. I hope it's not too much to ask. My sister Renee has been diagnosed with a brain mass. She needs prayer. So if you pray, could you send one out for her, and for me. Renee is my only sister. Our hearts are heavy tonight.
I know that it's a risk sharing personal things on a blog, but I like to keep things real. That's all I will say.

Vacation

2009-10-07T21:11:00.000-07:00

It snowed on my summer vacation,hahhahahaha, you laugh. This was Mt. Hood. No kidding,there was at least four inches. We drove up there from Bend. We lasted 3 nights in the tent, then it turned cold and rainy. We are not as tough as we thought we were. The rest of the trip was awesome. Portland is great, went to the Japanese Garden, awesome. Saw a play, awesome. Shopped, ate, and did the tourist thing.
Hope you all are well. I see you all have stayed busy. I didn't get any painting or collaging done, but that's ok. It was a good time. It's nice to be home.

beth

Oregon or Bust!

2009-09-24T18:00:00.000-07:00

We are heading off to the "green country" Oregon. It is sooo dry and hot here, 105 today and yesterday. It will be so wonderfull to see some green, and hopefully a little rain.
We are tent camping along the Tumalo river for 6 days. Then going into Portland (my favorite city in the world). I'm looking forward to this.
I'm bringing my paints and canvas, (can't leave home without) a couple of books, and an open mind and spirit.
Hope you all stay well. I'll be thinking of you. Back on the 6th.

Love and friendship'
bethe

busy as a bee

2009-09-20T17:34:00.001-07:00

It looks like some of my hard work is starting to pay off. I mean in cash too. My art is selling at the local antique mall. Chris and I have a wall space that we are renting, and I have sold several pieces. So has Chris.
Today Chris and I painted lattice and wall space and reconfigured our display. It looks great. We are hoping to fill it up before Christmas. We have a pretty good start. We both have been working hard. In between job and home and taking care of my sister, I manage to find the time to get some art done.
I will post pictures soon. I've missed you all. Knowing you are each busy in your own ways. My prayers are with you.
Hubby and I are leaving for Oregon on Friday. I'll try to post before then.

bethe

more tissue paper

2009-09-07T17:57:00.000-07:00

I wish you could see the real canvas, its so cool. I'm amazed at what can be accomplished with plain old white tissue paper.
I am also learning how to make those little soldered glass pieces. Not a problem, since soldering is what I do for a living, but this is way more fun. The little glass piece on my canvas says "courage". We all need it.
Have a great week you all.

bethe

Tuckahoe

2009-09-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

Here is my tissue paper art. I have a hard time letting go of symmetry, its what hold me back in my art I think. But this piece was such fun to do. I loved every aspect. Painting the tissue paper, stamping, decorating, I even used coffee, and coffee grounds on the tissue. Carrie Burns Brown is the inspiration. Check her out if you get a chance. She has an online class with "Art Workshops.TV
I think this piece has sort of an American Indian feel to it, I'm calling it "Tuckahoe

Four days off from work, YEAH! Have a great Labor Day weekend everyone.

tissue paper

2009-08-31T18:52:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I'm still alive. I know it's been awhile, I just haven't felt like communicating with anyone lately. Just haven't been good company, even to myself. It's the funk, I hate it.

But I haven't given up, I have continued with my art. I took an online class with Carrie Burns Brown. She is wonderfun. I've been painting and decorating tissue paper, and am now putting it down on canvas. I love Carrie's abstract collage, so thought I'd give it a go. The first one is tissue I painted.I need better quality paints, like Golden, mine are just craft paints. I think the color would be richer.

This one excited me. It's cord sandwiched between tissue paper, then painted. You know how much I love texture.

The next one is corrogated cardboard with metallic paint.

(I couldn't get the image to move over, sorry.)

So there you have it. Just doing my thing, spending time with me.

Hope everyone is ok out there.

California has some new big fires. We are safe so far. Pray for the ones who aren't, and the fire fighters.

bethe

make art

2009-08-21T06:13:00.000-07:00

Today is a furlow day for me. A three day week-end with no agenda. I plan to make art. And do a little shopping around on the internet for a class to feed my creative soul.
I've been a little depressed since Summer has left. Knowing I won't see her again for another year or more. We do talk regularly on the phone, but its not the same as having her here. She's growing up. I'm missing it. This is a source of emotional pain in my life.

I will try to get my self in gear today and do something positive. Wish me luck. It's going to be a marvelous day in the neighborhood.

bethe

paper quilt

2009-08-13T18:52:00.001-07:00

I'm at the end of my vacation. Back to work on Monday. It seems so quiet here now with Summer gone. She made the trip without a hitch. That girl is a seasoned traveler at 10. She just strutted right up the ramp and waved goodbye, (this being her 3rd time flying), bless her. We got to spend quality

time together, it was presious to me.

Here is a paper and fabric quilt I mounted on canvas. I've ordered a book to learn this technique.

This is my own version. It needs some words, but my mind is blank, any suggestions?

There are wild fires close to us.(about 70 miles away) There is a hugh plume of smoke that can be seen from our house. I pray for the firefighters, and the people who are being evacuated. Also for the many animals that will perish. Keep them all in your prayers.

Hope everyone out there is safe tonight.

I've named my piece above "finding my way"

blessings from beth

welcome to the hood

2009-08-11T07:18:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow my granddaughter leaves to go back home to Missouri. It's been a wonderfun vacation for both of us. (have to admit, I'm a little worn out.) But she is so easily pleased. And I've had a great time spoiling her.

But back to reality, and work, and life.

I finished this piece while Summer was playing on the computer. Hope you like it. It's great to be back. Thank you Sharon, Susan, Stephani, and Deborah for your emails and post's.

beth

sunflowers

2009-08-07T19:56:00.000-07:00

I have managed to finish my sunflowers. What do you think?

Still having a great time with Summer, she is my sunflower. We went shopping today for school clothes. It was fun to see what she chose.

bethe

This is my big girl

2009-08-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

Here she is everyone! She is awesome. So sweet. We are having a blast. I will fill you in when I have some time. Hope you are all having a great summer.

bethe

party till the cows come home.

2009-07-19T07:38:00.000-07:00

Here are some highlights of our party. And yes I am the Hula-Hoop Queen.

25 YEARS!

2009-07-18T05:42:00.000-07:00

My husband Don and I have been marrired 25 years. The anniversary was on the 14th. Today we are having an anniversary party to celebrate. Friends and family will come. Each will bring the spirit of love and friendship. It is very special to me to be able to share this time together.
My sister Renee will be here, she was my maid of honor. Both of her children were at our wedding,, Billy was 12 and Nikki was 7. They remember. Their children will be here. They will have memories of this day too. In a world where nothing seems to be too permanant, here today, gone tomorrow. Instant this and instant that. Today we can show the children that some things are permanant. Committment means something. Love conquers all adversity.
Have a wonderfull day everyone.

bethe

explore

2009-07-10T09:18:00.000-07:00

Here is another bright collage I did. It says "we are not lost we are exploring". Inspiration from Traci Bautista. Tommorow is the art show and lavender festival. Hope you all have a great weekend.

color and wisdom

2009-07-07T19:59:00.000-07:00

This is something that I'm working on. It's a panel board that I glued strips of this molding tape that I painted. The center is part of a quilt that I started awhile back. There is a strip of film that I also painted and glued on. I loooove texture, it's my favorite thing in the world. I think I will do some writting on this and maybe add more embellishments.

I recieved an email from a fellow blogger, she said, "whatever you do, let it come from within". A very wise women. And someone I admire, for her wisdom and her talent.

I'm really enjoying these bright colors.

calm

2009-07-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

this is my very first painting. I know it's not much, but I did it myself. I like the soft colors and the quietness of it.

art day with the little darlings

2009-07-02T17:13:00.000-07:00

These two darlings are my grand nieces.
Zoe on the left and Maddison on the right.
They came to visit last week end. We made art for their cousin (my grandaughter) Summer. Summer will be here on July 29th. I think we have aspiring artist. It's so fun to watch them create. They are so unin-hibitated. Free. Oh to be child like, and not worry about what the rest of the world around me is doing. Just had to share them with you.

dandelions

2009-07-02T16:57:00.000-07:00

This is a collage of a dandelion plant. I love dandelion's, they remind me of my childhood. I know most gardeners hate them, but remember the wishes you would make when you blew off the feathery parts. I grew up in Oklahoma, we had dandelions, and fire flys, and wild onions, honeysuckle, and wild berry bushes.
Marsha from "Tumble Fish Studio" is traveling with her family across the US to Missouri, from California. It's so great to do that stuff when you're a kid.(I still like traveling) Our family would travel from Oklahoma, to Pennsylvania in the summer. Great memories. Summertime, I love every minute of it.

FREEDOM!

2009-07-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, just a note to wish you all a great INDEPENDENCE DAY! What ever you are holding onto that doesn't make you happy.....let it go, free yourself. Get your freedom on! We are so blessed to live in this USA. We are so blessed to be connecting with one another. We are so FREE to be happy if we choose to be.
Pass it on.

Glory Days

2009-06-27T08:43:00.000-07:00

I awoke to birds singing, sunshine, cool breeze and the knowledge of Gods love and goodness. We are all His children, He loves us unconditionally. His forgivesness is forever.
Thank you all for your emails and posts. My loved one is safe. Your prayers and thoughts of encourgement have reached the heavens. You are all precious to me. Susan,Deborah,Sharon,Marsha, thank you so much.

This is a canvas I painted, and made flowers from yarn and used tea bags. Have a glorious day everyone.

beth

Home

2009-06-24T21:49:00.000-07:00

I made this out of an old curtain I found. It says "journey home" at the top. Sometimes we stray away from the ones we love. Sometimes it's to grow, sometimes it's to run away from problems. But home is where we are understood. It's where people know and love us. Home is safe hopefully. Someone in my life has strayed. Some one is missing, and being missed.

beth

Its not the BIG ONE!

2009-06-20T06:19:00.000-07:00

EARTHQUAKE! Laying in bed at 5:30 this morning, I'm awake cause its the normal time I wake up for work, and the bed starts to move, and I hear cracking in the walls. I don't know yet what the magnitude was, it wasn't real big, but I haven't felt one in a long time. Reminds a person how temporary things can be. I think I'm safe and protected in my home, but it could come crashing down any time. The last one we had sent the TV in my bedroom catapulting across the room.
Oh well, life in California. By the way, my husband snored right through it. Big help.
I'm going to play today in the studio. Do some cleaning and such, and make some art. The piece I'm showing is my attempt at stamping on tissue paper glued to canvas.
Have a great week end everyone.
Oh yeah, Susan at Brokn Heart Art is having a 200th post give away. Check it out.
She's a very clever artist. Susan and I traded art, this is an ATC she sent me. I love it! She bleached the paper to give it that affect. She also sent me lots of ephemera, stamps, transparencies, paper, and images. Awesome Susan. You are very generous.
(Sorry about the blurriness. My camera needs adjusting.)

clutter free

2009-06-11T06:14:00.000-07:00

Here is a collage I did after my artist melt down. I guess having a melt down is something we artist go through from time to time. Artistically I haven't been able to do much lately. Lot's of things going on in and around me. But this too shall pass. I'm trying to be patient, and wait it out.
This collage is much more calm for me. I like the calmness, and the quiet. There is too much noise and chaos in life.
My friend is having a garage sale this weekend and I'm taking some things over to sale, getting rid of some of the clutter, psychically and mentally.
Tomorrow is my 58th birthday.
Have a good weekend everyone.

art rampage

2009-06-03T16:40:00.000-07:00

Does this look like art to you? ART is in me, it's all around me, its chaotic, and intense, it color and rhythm, its joy and pain. I'm in a little bit of a funk, can you tell? I keep trying to imitate the art that I love, and it's not working. I love Ann Baldwin's collage. It looks so easy on the video. I followed step by step, but it sure doesn't look the same. Mine's really a mess, compared to her's. I tried again to do another piece, following the steps she gave, but ended up ripping it to shreds. (see picture) Oh the pain of failure, or what feels like failure. Anyway, I guess I just need to take from it what I can and leave the rest behind. Can anyone relate? Maybe I'll use the discared pieces in something else.

Ann Baldwin class

2009-05-31T19:21:00.000-07:00

Today I got a chance to take an online class with collage artist Ann Baldwin. This is what I made. It was a study in abstract, using different mediums. It looks kind of a mess, maybe to some, but the idea is to let the layers show through. It was fun, and I learned some new things, so to me it was a success. I have to thank Susan at Broken Heart Art for sending me the info about the class. It was with an online site named Art Workshops.tv Thank you Susan.
This is one I made on my own, a book art piece.
Have a good week everyone.

beth

type drawer

2009-05-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

Here's what I'm doing with the type drawer. This is such a fun project. Very relaxing to me. Hope to finish today. If you have any suggestions, let me know, I'd love to hear some feedback.

making a memory

2009-05-24T07:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my oldest son Jason and I and my friend Chris went to an art show in the downtown city park. It was a wonderful day. Jason is home right now. Staying with us. For how long I don't know. But we spent the day together, he has a love for art as well as I do. I didn't take pictures of the art work, there was so much, but here are some highlights.

I don't know what these are called, artist for sure.
They were on stilts, and moving the wings of the dragonfly and head of the ostrich with levers.

Ouch!

2009-05-17T19:22:00.000-07:00

Well I opted to spend the day in the pool, now I'm sunburned, (duh), but that's ok. I'll tan. It is really hot here, yesterday was 103. Today 98.
Today I spent mostly in the house, getting summer clothes done up, and working on my assemblage with the "type drawer". It's going quite well.
I only have 4 items listed on my Etsy store, but by the 1st of next month I should have several more collages. Guess we all have to start somewhere. Any tips you can give to a newby? I totally did not know how to charge for shipping. I know there is boocoo information to read on the site, and I have read some, but who has the time. Anyway hope you all are having a relaxing weekend. More later.

beth

Up and Running

2009-05-16T08:29:00.000-07:00

BetheArt is up and running on Etsy. Thank you all for your encourgement and comments.
I need to get busy, but it's so beautiful outside. What to do...ho hum.
Well anyway. There is just not enough time. I want to create, clean my house, prune the rosebushes, swim in the pool, eat, play on the computer, well you know.
I hope you all are having a wonderful day.

beth

Here I go......

2009-05-15T05:55:00.000-07:00

I am trying to open an Etsy store. This is the banner I created. It says Betheart or "be the art"... a little play on my name. I cannot seem to get the picture centered for the banner though. Any ideas? I will work on it some more over the weekend.
Yeah it's Friday. Have a good one you all.

bethe

God is awesome

2009-05-14T20:30:00.000-07:00

Our blogger friend Ron has survived his first surgery. He needs another on to remove the rest of the tumor. He is talking and is coherent. Thanks for your prayers.

beth

Pray for Ron and Joanna

2009-05-13T20:25:00.000-07:00

Ron is having surgery for a brain tumor. They are in San Francisco. Ron has been in surgery since 2:30 this afternoon. Please pray for him. Joanna is a blogger, her blog is Joannas Art Journal, also she teaches under Mosshill Studio. Friends and family are with her. So are we.

beth

Camp Out in Santa Cruz

2009-05-11T18:05:00.000-07:00

Here is my "Hunk of Burnin Love". Don, after we got the tent set up. It was pretty warm by then, but it didn't last long. It turned damp and cold once the sun went down.We had to go into town the next day and get better sleeping bags, and a tarp for underneath the tent.
We have been a camping family for a real long time. But in the last few years, since the boys have grown up, Don and I have treated ourselves to some nice hotels on our vacations, and get aways. But now with the way business and work is going we are back to camping. I rather liked the hotels.LOL. But its fine, we have each other, and thats what its about. My husband loves the outdoors, is an avid bicyclist, and we both like to hike. It's beautiful out there people.

This is the lighthouse at Santa Cruz. Inside is the Surfing Museum. Lots of pictures of long board surfers from the 50's and 60's.
This is a preserve called Wilder Ranch. The ranch used to be a working ranch. It sets off Hyw. 1. Which is the coast Hwy. Many out buildings, and gardens. Someone was feeding the chickens when we were there. Now it is open to the public for hiking and biking.

I went into town and visited the thrift store. Got three blouses for work, a French cookbook for Shawn, some pottery, and candle holders. I also went to an antique store and found a type drawer. I want to do the project that is featured in Somerset Studios May issue.
We had a real good time. But now back to work and reality. I'm feeling better. It's nice to get away and remember that there is more to life.
Thank you all for your posts.

beth

"Chef Shawn" & HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

2009-05-07T20:31:00.000-07:00

Well I think my son is going to be a Chef. Since Don and I are leaving for the weekend, my sweet son Shawn made me Mothers Day dinner, this was the menu

Shrimp Spring Rolls w/ hoisin sauce
Grilled Halibut on bed of rice w/ mango chutney
Fruit Salad

It was delicious! Anyone need a personal Chef?
We are getting ready for the camping trip. We camp light. Throw some clothes in a bag, grab the tent and camp gear, towel, soap, we"re off. I love where we are camping, amoung the redwoods, giant, ancient trees. I am a tree hugger, and tree lover, and tree kisser. I love trees. They speak to me. One day I will do a wonderful collage with trees as the focus. I have seen a few done, but I want to wait until I can get it on canvas the way i see it in my head. Not there yet.
Happy Mothers Day everyone.

beth