Celebrating the 4th with a bang and miscellaneous cool stuff

Peter, Dex, and Nate clowning

As usual, my very extended family trooped out to the woods for our annual 4th of July picnic. We go out to a large wood lot owned by my stepfather Rob, he of the recent 80th birthday and kayaking fame. Above are my grandson (middle) and two step cousins once removed. I tried making a family tree for those attending who were confused about who was who, but I'm not sure it helped. Anyway, we always have a great time. The men and boys (sorry to be sexist, but it's true) always enjoy most the firing of the cannon. Rob has a miniature cannon that used to be on a steamboat on the Ohio river, and would signal when the boat was rounding a bend.

The famous cannon

Dexter and Rob as Dex ponders the offer to light the fuse. (He did light it, brave boy.)

I just sent off my article to Cloth, Paper, Scissors! This is my first art/craft magazine article, so I'm pretty excited. I don't know yet when it will appear, but of course I'll let you know! Below are a couple of new pieces I'll send them as well as several others.

Going Up and Not Falling
Mixed Media 7" x 5"

Regenerate Mixed Media 7" x 5"

Bridget and her husband, Eric, at her garage sale

I went hunting and gathering last Friday, and ended up at a cool yard sale. I was surprised and delighted to see the sale was given by my friend Bridget Hart-Schumock, artist, crafter and collector. She was de-stashing some of her wonderful items. I got a pink tutu that I know one of my young clients will love to wear, a Golden Book of the Shy Little Kitten (one of my early favorites), two small brass candelabra, an old recipe book with built in envelopes full of someone's beloved recipes, and an extremely wonderful purse.

Is this cute, or what?

OK, folks, it's time to get inspired and artsy. I'm again offering one of my most popular classes, "Altered Alchemy." If you've taken this before, feel free to join me again--especially if your altered book has been languishing in a neglected state due to the pressures of daily life. If you haven't taken this workshop before, you are in for a treat!

A bunch of altered books from a past class Altered Alchemy: Creating Your Altered Book
	July 11, 2009 12-4:30 75. The Art of Your Life Studio Bring an old book to alter. All other supplies provided. Transform an old boring book in to your own fascinating work of art! Come join us for this mind and book-altering workshop. No previous experience necessary--just a desire to experiment and have fun creating!

To register, go to my website or email me through the site. Or comment to ask questions!