the bird & elephant

Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Clearance!

2011-11-25T07:25:00.000-08:00

Infant Bodysuit Big Wheel in Green & Gray $25

Infant Bodysuit Long sleeve Bodysuit Clearance: $8

Toddler Organic UFO in Lime $16

Infant Bodysuit Organic Cotton with Pink Redbud Tree Leaves $24

Hope you all had a wonderfully filling and thankful turkey day! I'm still stuffed, but I thought I should share some info on my sale which includes my newly clearanced items. Both of my shops are having a sale right now through midnight Monday, November 28th EST. I'm offering 10% off using coupon code: EM10OFF. This sale applies to the already, super low clearance items, so stock up! And please help spread the word about my shop!

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope to share some of my newfound delights!

~Beth

New Necklaces, Recycled Jewelry + Cuffs

2011-11-23T05:35:00.001-08:00

New Gold Tone Necklaces! Great additions to the holiday gift giving!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/86805774/necklace-sky-blue-mum-and-vintage-brass

Bayou Blonde Reclaimed Wool Sweater Cuff with Leather Scraps and a Vintage Button:
Another great item for the giving at the holidays!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/86347401/felted-cuff-bayou-blonde-wool-leather

Lilac Swirl Reclaimed Wool Sweater Cuff with Crochet-work and Recycled, Vintage Buttons
Stocking stuffer, anyone?
http://www.etsy.com/listing/86345121/felted-cuff-lavender-wool-vintage

Silver Mum Necklace with Sterling Silver Chain and Fire-Polished Czech Glass Beads
As beautiful and delicate as the flower, itself!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/86745621/necklace-silver-mum-pendant-czech-bead

This is only a taste of the new things in my shop. Be sure to stop by for more new items! From cuffs, to necklaces, to rings made from big, baubly vintage clip-ons, from Victorian inspired with a modern twist to completely urban-woodland with pendants made from sleek antler slices and topped with roses. And of course, don't forget the vintage! There's a pretty quirky variety inside the shop!

On a personal note, I'd like to say that I have been blessed with two beautiful children and I'm so grateful for the kindness of family and friends! Any my husband is pretty special, too! Happy turkey day to all!
~Beth, The Bird & Elephant

Oh, good heavens! 1 year!?! Really?

2011-11-23T04:22:00.001-08:00

Elijah & baby sister, LilaMae, March 2011

Obviously things must have gotten a bit hectic to be gone this long! My minimum of 1 post per week turned into 1 per year! So much has happened in that time and I'm surprised I am able to sit here right now. My pregnancy was long and I had several issues that left me unable to walk at times (too much of the hormone that prepared the hips for birth, ouch!). But, in March, baby girl LilaMae arrived ready to conquer the world! But I soon found that juggling 2 small babies (the oldest was 3) was harder than anticipated and I really felt homesick and missed my family. In July, I moved back to VA and my husband followed in August. Our decision was very much last minute, fortunately, luck was on our side and our house, little as it was, was in high demand. My husband enrolled in college mid-August for a dramatic career change (classical musician to carpenter to physical therapist, wow!) and we moved in with my in-laws. We're currently finishing the basement which will actually be larger than our old house. I participated in my first craft show and have actually added onto my baby items (new items coming soon, so check back for the reveal) and grew a bit more serious on the jewelry side of things in my bhpeters shop (I just need to settle on a name). Of course during this time there were the wasp attacks, the buckets of blueberries and big corn fields, and all the little things that make life so enjoyable. Hope your year went well and I'm sure I'll be back soon! Let me know how your year has been!

Summer on the Farm, 2011

Crafting Mom with 1 + 1

2010-11-08T08:13:00.000-08:00

Being a mom is an amazing thing! Before that maternal clock began ringing in my head, I always liked children from afar, but that job, was not in my cards. Now, I can't imagine living my life without them! My son has not only enriched my life, but freed my soul! I am more comfortable and confident producing the work I do, and taking the chances to pursue my dreams. My husband and I have both made tremendous sacrifices in order to provide our son with a loving environment. When we placed our son in the spotlight, all else, including finances, followed suit. We do struggle at times, but not nearly as much as we did when we both worked full-time. Strange how things work out.

Above pic: My son on Mother's Day, 2010: wearing his radio tee appliqued using recycled corduroy pants and hand-embroidered details. This is his FAVORITE t-shirt, and he always asks to wear it. He loves these peonies, mini roses and chives! Of course he loves playing in the dirt, and I think he had tried eating dirt this day (checkout the face) something I have yet to see repeated. But at least I know my dirt is organic, so I wasn't too worried. Oh, and he's telling me what the names of these flowers are; I make sure to encourage his curiosity about the things around him.

Ah, so glad my husband captured this moment! I'm usually the one snapping the pics.

So, I'm pregnant again, and I have had to slow down a bit with my work. Late nights aren't always good when you're sleeping for two while raising one. But just as I adapted to the life of a stay at home mom, I am adapting to this stay at home mom thing while pregnant and managing a crafting business. I do find it a bit difficult to model my vintage clothing these days (ahem preggo pic below with vintage ESPRIT jacket, didn't quite work). As a conceptual photographer, I often used myself as the subject, something I grew quite well at, but oh how times have changed, and all my potential models have moved away. It's hard to set-up a self-portrait shot with a toddler at foot, but it can make for some amusing pics. I had an interesting, perhaps perverted request the other day, from someone asking that I please model a vintage leather jacket in a skirt. My reply, kindly to the requester, was that my model was pregnant, but in my head I was exclaiming a reply of a different kind.

Yeah, I gave this attempt up: modeling non-maternity vintage for my online shop. But it's kind of cute, me with my big ole basketball belly! Here I'm in my outdoor studio in front of one of the two 5 foot picture windows that overlooks the 30,000+ acres of wildlife preservation. Definitely a perk for a nature-inspired artist and craftster.

Time to get back to mothering and making. I do have a baby quilt to design, cut, layout & sew; a couple pairs of crocheted mary janes to complete with matching hats and perhaps a dress or two, and since I'm having a girl, I must learn to machine sew patterns. Actually, designing patterns may be in the cards. Oh the things I envision! I hope you enjoyed this little snippet of my thoughts on my life with son and counting. Thanks for taking the time to visit The Beehive!

SAMPLE SALE!!! Clearing out & Packing in

2010-11-03T12:25:00.000-07:00

Nesting.... I always thought that was a cute expression for the habits of the mother-to-be, but it's not always as chipper as the joyful bluebird fluffing up her nest. It's a time for weeding out the debris from the fabulous to make way for new baby. To honor this stage I forever find myself in, as of late, I'm hosting a SAMPLE SALE to clear out all fabulous, brand new, lovingly created for the special child in your life, completed & ready to ship handmade infant & toddler items from my etsy shop. Now, through November 21st, you can save 40% on boutique quality, handmade kiddo gear. Perfect for gift giving (baby showers, 1st birthdays, Christmas, Hannakah, etc)!

Click the link below to be taken straight to a full view of all items in the Sample Sale!

The Bird & Elephant Nesting Sample Sale

Pre-Happy Holidays!

xoxo

The Beehive

SAMPLE SALE at The Bird & Elephant Kids!

2010-10-29T11:29:00.000-07:00

That's right! Every so often I sell off my samples at discounted prices to make room for new stock. I currently have a 30% off sale on quite a few of those samples from now through 12am CST Tuesday, November 2nd. These samples were created, photo'd, then stored in ziploc bags to keep them nice & clean. These are not seconds. Checkout some of the great deals! Click the image below to be taken to the shop page, or click here for a full view of items: The Bird & Elephant.

I also have a big Vintage Decor & Vintage Wearables sale going on at The Bird & Elephant Menagerie etsy shop! Click the links to check it out!

B&E Winter Clothing Line for Babes & Tots!

2010-10-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

A little while back, I gave you a glimpse of my indoor "shop"; the place where I create my infant & toddler clothing. Today, I'm showing off some of those final creations. You can click on the images to be taken directly to the shop page. These were created for the gallery in Alaska, located near a major resort area, where snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding are some of the main attractions. So, I decided to create some winter designs with those sports in mind. I do have cuddly creatures of the area coming and will post those soon. Enoy!

Hand-Dyed Toddler Tee: Snowshoes (the back has the red & green snowshoe + tree design in the lower right corner. Both sides have an intense amount of detail & hand-embroidery), $45

(This will be listed on my shop this weekend, so the main pic will link to my shop page, only.)

Toddler Hoodie Sweatshirt: Inverted Snowboarding Gal, $50

Baby Romper: Hand-Dyed One-Piece Winter Skis, $30

Toddler Hoodie: Navy Zip-Up Sweatshirt Winter Snowscape, $65

(This, too, has an intense amount of hand-embroidered, detailed stitching.)

Toddler Pullover Hoodie Sweatshirt: Inverted Snowboarder with Snow-laden Tree on the Sleeve, $55

Let me know what you think! Take care & have a Happy Halloween!

Baby Shopping: Moon Spirit Studios on Etsy

2010-10-22T10:36:00.000-07:00

Greetings, all! On Wednesday, we found out that we are having a girl, and my thoughts are shifting from blue to pink, which requires a little "screen" shopping. I'm scouring the handmade world of etsy for some colorful ideas that go beyond the pink, and will feature some of my favorite finds/shops here. Today, I discovered the vibrant, colorful Moon Spirit Studios. Enjoy a few of my favorite things!

"Summer Flight" Bumblebees Baby Quilt by Moon Spirit Studio, $90

"Poppies Full of Sunshine" by Moon Spirit Studio, $180

"Autumn Mist" hand knit pullover sweater 3-6mo, $35

Hand knit baby sweater in white 0-3mo, $26 (ok, this kind of pink I definitely like!)

Felt: 8 inch stuffed Red Hoot Owl with Cherry Blossoms, $27

Until next time~

A glimpse into my "workspace"

2010-10-06T13:30:00.000-07:00

I originally tried to post this on Oct 6th............

Good afternoon! How was your day? Mine was pretty productive: I made Play-Doh pumpkins, Christmas trees & maple leaves with Little E, and knocked out quite a few new shirts. I can't say my upkeep with social networking, marketing, etc are as successful. Combine the ongoing issues with satellite internet, pregnancy, & a 2.5 yr old with creating a new batch/line of items for the gallery in Girdwood, AK that sells my infant & toddler clothes, oh, and add the fact that I'm dying my shirts now (yay!) and you get a missed schedule here and there. So, I have missed a Fresh Finds Friday, twice now, and decided to just add new finds as I get the chance.

Since I'm on the subject of preparing items for the gallery, I thought I'd show you how I work/create my designs. A glimpse into my in-house "workspace" may seem familiar or quite foreign. I will say my husband prefers to disappear during these times, and you'll see why. Please note: these pics were taken with my iPhone camera and not my Nikon DSLR (this is, after all, just a glimpse). Also, my workspace is a work in progress, as well. Our home is always under a new construction/renovation project; that's what happens when the family starts expanding in a less than 1000 sq/ft space. I call it my NYC loft in the middle of the woods with a 300 sq/ft art studio in the back yard (I'll save that preview for a later post). But hey, I'll always know EXACTLY where my kids are & what they're into.

This is my soon to be work station in the kitchen area. Shelving and much needed lighting are in the near future (hopefully).

My bed seems to be the most appropriate place to lay out all my fabrics and clothing. It's easier to match colors. I also trace my designs from the sketchbook onto paper-backed fusible webbing, cut out the forms, and move them around from shirt to 1Z to hoodie until I create the best design. This is by far the easiest way of working. The cramped style I use to work in limited my creativity.

This navy zip-up hoodie, pictured above, took the longest to design since I had to take the hood into consideration. The end result of this 5 day project may be my favorite, and is quite a bit different from what you see here.

Once my designs are completed (stitched or not) they hang from the handle of this antique flour bin on my kitchen Hoosier. This way, they are always in my view (and everyone else's) and it helps me decide if I'm completely happy with the design, if something needs to be added, and what color threads are needed for the final stitching.

It is now Oct 14th and my computer is far from 21st century speed, might be time to update, if only I could locate my computer genie. The good thing about not always having a great working computer & internet service provider is that I can actually devote more time to what I love the most (my family, my creativity). I'll be sure to post the new pics of the completed designs, some of which have transformed entirely!

Hope you enjoyed this little segment from my busy little hive! Until I post again.......

Beth

Fresh Finds Friday: orit dotan on etsy

2010-09-24T06:59:00.000-07:00

Orit Dotan on Etsy

http://www.etsy.com/shop/oritdotan

Buttons...my latest craze! I've been scouring the shops on etsy for some fabulous vintage buttons to use with my felted, wool cuffs. I've stumbled upon a number of new shops selling notions and vintage closures, but Orit Dotan must be the most colorful shop so far! Talk about eye candy! The creative arrangement of colors and styles is well thought out and an image of beauty! I could see these photos hanging on a wall! On my wall! Please check out Orit Dotan, and read the artist profile, all very impressive and most inspiring. Enjoy these samples of candy, below! Just click on the image(s) below to be taken directly to that shop page.

I hope you enjoyed this Fresh Find! What new finds have you stumbled upon this week?

Til next time~

Talula Gallery in E. Nashville + My Cuffs

2010-09-21T12:59:00.000-07:00

There's a new gallery in town, opening this coming weekend in East Nashville: Talula Gallery in the same building as the Pied Piper Creamery (oh so yummy). Tiffany, co-owner of Talula, contacted me last week about my wool cuffs & wood necklaces/pendants. Of course I obliged! The gallery is full of fabulous arts & crafts, from soap to photos, paintings and 3d works. The grand opening coincides with the monthly ArtEast Crawl, so if you're local, looking for hings to do in Nashville, plan to visit this weekend, please stop by and check it out! Here's a link that features more details and information:

Talula Gallery

Below are a couple examples of my work in the gallery. Of course this opportunity provided me with lots of vim & vigor to produce more.

Talula Gallery

Owners: Lindsay Black & Tiffany Dyer

114B S 11th St, Nashville TN

across the hall from the Pied Piper Creamery

And, check back this Friday when I share another Fresh Finds Friday where I tell you about the new Etsy shops I find and fall in love with. (Sorry I missed last Friday: an injury caused me to forget what day it was!)

Until then~

Fresh Finds Friday: Studio 5115 Etsy Shop

2010-09-10T08:20:00.000-07:00

studio5115.etsy.com

Greetings! And happy Friday to all! Here, it's a pleasant 80 degrees with plenty of rain in the forecast; that's a good thing! It finally feels like Fall may be arriving shortly.

Today's Etsy find is all about the fabulous garden inspired jewelry from the shop of Judy Gray, called Studio 5115. I was first drawn to this shop when I spotted this amazing copper cuff. I love the warm, earthy color, but upon closer inspection I noticed the impression of real oak leaves, veins and all, pressed into the copper. This one of a kind beauty has been treated with a thin layer of wax to preserve the vibrant patina of the metal. Scroll on down to see some other examples of her work. You can click the underlined link below each item to be taken directly to the item's page within her shop.

Oak Leaves Copper Cuff Bracelet, $58

Ginkgo Leaf and Pearl Earrings, $32

Sterling Silve r Hydrange a Cuff Bracelet, $76

Sterling Silver Hydrangea and Kyanite Necklace, $39

I've just shown a few of the magnificent pieces you can find at Studio 5115. Please checkout some more of the wonderful, garden inspired jewelry. I hope you've enjoyed another Etsy find! Be sure to check back every Friday as I highlight another new shop on my radar!

Cheers!

Close of Summer 2010

2010-09-04T11:48:00.003-07:00

Summer is, hopefully, quickly coming to a close. The 92+ heat we've experienced in the area has done little for my first trimester sickness. My family and I are desperately buckling down the hatches to pay off all our debt before we move back closer to the East Coast, which meant no traveling to our favorite destination: the beaches of North Carolina, specifically the Outer Banks. I prefer to venture into the non-touristy, wildlife areas to take in the complex ecosystems and to connect with my inner thoughts. It's as if the ocean breezes and the almost barren landscapes erase the everyday, oftentimes trivial thoughts from my head so I can reflect on the importance of life, tap into my creative soul, and once again become grounded with my own being.

I'm slowly going through my catalog of images from the OBX area, editting and prepping for who knows what. I still have rolls upon rolls of film I have yet to develop. Here's my latest photograph I've just revived, shot in the summer of 2007, when I was unknowingly pregnant with my first child. Hmmm, the coincidence of timing. I can't remember exactly where this was taken, but I believe it was the secluded stretch of protected beach to the South of the big game fishing area known as Oregon Inlet. I should have it listed in my etsy shop this afternoon: bhpeters.etsy.com

I hope you enjoy this image and are perhaps as excited as I am about the changing seasons! It's only 80 here today, hooray! Maybe I should shut down the computer and get some exercise!

Cheers!

Fresh Finds Friday: PiouPiou Kids Etsy Shop

2010-09-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

I love sharing my favorite discoveries from the world of etsy. Lately, I've been perusing the shops for unique baby items and maternity wear, for myself and the new one on the way. I stumbled upon this amazing shop from New Zealand. Piou Piou is the creation of a full-time mommy, like myself, who turned her creative spirit into an enviro-friendly, eco-conscience business. All her clothes are fashioned mostly from "pre-loved" clothing and fabric remnants. Her love of birds is reflected in a lot of the pieces. Be sure to stop by and checkout her adorable wares. There's a 50% off sale going on right now. And be sure to checkout her profile for some links to other interesting sites.

Here's a couple examples I'm completely in love with.

Flying Balloons Hoodie (3yr)

$37

Newborn Merino Sleeping Gown, Custom Made from Merino Wool, $44 The design above is a silkscreen using actual feathers , in a style known as " ombre chinois." A bird lover myself, I just love this cuddly gown.

I hope you've enjoyed the first installation of Fresh Finds Friday. Let me know what you think!

Lazy Days of Summer

2010-07-30T13:50:00.000-07:00

Well, the heat of summer finally has me feeling lifeless, but there is quite a lot brewing in this household. In another month or two I should have a fabulous little bundle of an announcement to make, but for now I'm keeping all pretty hush-hush. So, here's what else I have been working on in my lazy days of summer.

Wood Nymph Pendant on Antique Brass Chain

http://www.etsy.com/listing/52194146/wood-pendant-on-antique-brass-chain

$30

Being a maker of jewelry, for personal use, never for selling, I decided to try my hand at some pieces that I would love to own myself, but will see if anyone else would like enough to buy. I always received compliments from the most random of pieces I ever made, that in no way (in my opinion) had a finished, polished, professional look. Random stray wire from my jewelry box and a piece of black rope quickly transforms a large, brown bottle end (my greatest sea glass find) into an eye catching necklace. That same black rope once held a vintage, lion's head scarf ring (I definitely love the versatillity). Living in Middle TN, surrounded by a wildlife preservation area, tree limbs are abundant. I have sliced some, sanded some, and even created a couple rings from these limbs. Above is my first completed. I have always loved the natural appearance of wood; the rings that show age; the random discolorations. Although I took a more polished approach to this one, using real chain and findings, I love the way it looks. I left a bit of bark on the edges of the pendant, sealed the wood with a few coats of satin tung oil, and used antique brass chain and findings. Let me know what you think! I handle critiques pretty darn good.

BLUEBERRY MUFFINS, YUM!

I wish I had a picture for this next tidbit, but there was none to spare. My mom mailed Elijah a package with some of his favorite treats, a new pair of shoes and some shorts and shirts. And, a little something for me, AND a half gallon of blueberries from her BB bush. YUM! On this new health kick, I searched for a recipe that did not use white flour or refined sugar. And I did, and it was amazing! I split the batch into a blueberry only muffin and a blueberry mixed with organic blackberries from a friend's berry farm. My how these were good. They aren't the usual blueberry muffins you may be use to, but very good and guilt-free. Here's the link to the recipe from Joy the Baker (blog): http://www.joythebaker.com/blog/2009/01/oatmeal-blueberry-applesauce-muffins/

And be sure to checkout her other recipes.

Well, off to grab the clothes off the line before a storm soaks them again! Hope you enjoyed this little update, and I'll be back shorlty!

Till then~

Fabric Shoppe Lovely Bundle of Giveaway!

2010-07-10T16:50:00.001-07:00

Fabric Shoppe Scrap Bag

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50878508/sale-a-surprise-in-my-mailbox-scrap-pack

Oh, the lovelies I could make with one of these fabulous scrap bags (pictured above) from the Fabric Shoppe! Scrap packs allow me to try out new fabrics, patterns, color combos for my designs before plunging into a whole quarter or yard of fabric I can't use. You, too, can become the next contestant by following the link below and completing a few simple steps! Easy as pie!

http://everydaybeautiful.typepad.com/everyday_beautiful/giveaways/

Below is the bundle of fat quarters I love from her shop! When I created my brand/company, I set out to make simple appliques with boys in mind because I didn't quite like what I found for them in the stores, but now I see why. It's kind of hard to design a boy-specific graphic that isn't typical, and if I get one designed, I'm generally left to plain, somewhat bland fabrics. There's an over-abundance of fabrics (and clothing) for girls. What I like about the bundle below is that there are some gender-specific themed prints, but they have a retro feel and the color combos are great!

Wheels Fabric by Mind's Eye for Riley Blake

http://www.etsy.com/listing/51178556/wheels-fabric-by-minds-eye-for-riley

Jody, the Fabric Shoppe owner, not only has an amazing selection of fabrics, she also carries FAT QUARTERS and half yards! LOVE it! I generally overlook all full yards, although my mouth waters for the colors! I must learn more about sewing on a machine and making clothes, etc. from patterns. Maybe when the babe gets a little older, huh?

Til next time~

DongedyFrame and Nutella, pretty much says it all

2010-07-05T19:53:00.000-07:00

Photo by: DongedyFrame http://www.etsy.com/listing/48562785/sin-of-gluttony-8x10-diorama-photo-for
Image titled: "Sin of Gluttony/Chocolate " 8x8

Please checkout the rest of the amazing miniature photographs of DongedyFrame by visiting his etsy shop: Le Minis de Dongedy. http://www.etsy.com/shop/Dongedyframe

Seeing this photo awhile ago inspired my latest addiction. Please read on.

Never ever ever, in a million years, would I have ever fathomed the thought of giving up flour (aka BREAD!), but I have, mostly. Every once in awhile I catch myself shoving my kiddo's crust in my mouth, but man, never would've thought. I was born a bread eater. I use to eat the flour out of Mom's Tupperware, not like massive amounts, but little dabs here and there while she baked her cakes or homemade breads; weird, I know. My mom is a baker: maker of wedding cakes, birthday cakes, petit fours, fruit cakes (blah!), breads, etc. Bread was a staple at every meal, and sometimes served the perfect snack. I've even been known to hull out an entire loaf of French bread in one sitting (of course it left me bloated and craving more, but priceless seeing my mother's face when she reached for that loaf to dab the sauce only to find the center was bare). But, a flour junkie I am no longer. Corn tortillas have replaced toast, muffins, pancakes (sigh) and all else. I don't crave it now, but if I happen upon a lemon blueberry scone or artisanal loaf of bread: I will devour. Actually, I lost 7lbs in just over a week which brought me back down to my pre-preggo weight of 117lbs. Pretty cool, I must say. And I actually eat less and much healthier, meaning more fruit. So, I'll continue what seems to be sounding a bit more like an ad for a weightloss gimick, but it really isn't. Anyway, here are two of my favs to quench the sweet cravings, although I should add I have revived an old addiction, hence the title of this post:

- peanut butter, sugar free strawberry jam and banana rolled up in a corn tortilla

- peanut butter, Nutella on either a plain rice cake or corn tortilla (possibly heaven)

And honestly, I don't really miss the cookies anymore; I think I've reached the top for sweetness with my Nutella and peanut butter treats (I use a natural peanut butter which is more like the inside of a Reese's).

So, just a slice of my life amidst the craziness of potty-training and my clothing business. And I guess it's like that old saying goes: You never know until you try it!

For more Nutella themes/addicts, checkout this treasury: http://www.etsy.com/treasury/b324b47bcacdc84b715c5400/nutella

Til next time!

New Items! Infant Rompers for the steamy hot days of Summer!

2010-07-04T14:13:00.000-07:00

There's a lot of buzzing going on here at my quaint little homestead. I have several new designs in the works, new garments, new designer fabrics to add to my current collection of vintage and recycled, and some new business prospects a steeping. Here's a little peek of some of my goings ons....

Inspiration for my latest little darlings comes from the sometimes wretched heat and high humidity of living in middle TN in the Summer, which leaves me longing, desperately, for the East Coast of my childhood and the beaches where I spent my youth.

New to my collection of summer gear: Ahh, rompers. The perfect way to snazz up that little cutie pie without torturing him in this heat! Made of 100% cotton, these classic t-shirt rompers are roomie, easy on & off, and just too cute with my handmade appliques attached to them!

Infant T-Shirt One-Piece Romper: White

Applique: Vintage "Woodie" Car with Surfboard, Beach Bound

Color: Aqua, Greens, Blues, Reds, Oranges (Michael Miller fabrics)

$34

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50752800/infant-romper-vintage-woodie-surf-car?ref=v1_other_1

On another note, I often toyed with the idea of retiring my little ele design, but it is, afterall, the mascot of my shop and clothing brand! So, without further ado, I present a bigger, just as cute ele fashioned out of Michael Miller Ta Dots black on gray fabric, and hand-embroidered in a very soft lilac thread. Sophisticated, classy, mod, whatever you may wish to call it, this is simply sweet.

Infant One-Piece Bodysuit Romper: White

Applique: Elephant

Color: Black Ta Dots on Gray (fabric; Michael Miller) with Soft Lilac Embroidery Thread

$16

http://www.etsy.com/listing/50755816/infant-one-piece-romper-elephant

Off to enjoy the rest of my 4th of July! Hope you are having a fun-filled day.

Til then~

Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle 1Z for Gulf Coast Fund

2010-06-13T20:05:00.000-07:00

I have always had a profound connection to the coasts of North Carolina, and over the last 7-8 years, began extensive documentation of the natural habitats of the area. As I delved deeper into the melodic rhythms of the waters, sands and yes, even the pelicans, I began to 'see' the importance of the fragile networks of organisms and natural surroundings. I always new what an estuary was, so I thought, but I began researching the topic, specific to the Outer Banks region. The beauty and calm of the area masked a destructive undercurrent of the over use of pesticides and herbicides, man-enhanced landscape changes, and livestock pollution. Slowly, in a quick sort of way, the dots connected. The trickle down effect of the human desire for perfection was altering our landscape and annihilating such delicate ecosystems that I so desire for its constant solace and serenity. And now with the Gulf....

My heart aches for the Gulf Coast, for the loss of the birds and other creatures. The brown pelican had only been removed from the endangered list 6 months prior. I saw a picture of a young sea turtle in the Gulf, and decided I had to contribute to the restoration of the area. I have created a new applique design of a baby sea turtle, modeled after the Kemp's Ridley of the Gulf. From now on, something I may adjust or refine with time, proceeds from the sales in both etsy shops will go toward a cause such as the National Wildlife Federation Gulf Coast Restoration Fund. Right now, 10% of every sale will be donated; 25% of every sale from my coastal photograph collection will be donated. Click on the link below to read more about this fund:

http://www.nwf.org/Wildlife/Wildlife-Conservation/Threats-to-Wildlife/Oil-Spill/Oil-Spill-Restoration-Fund.aspx

Babes In The Woods Gallery Cures my Creativity Woes

2010-05-31T10:40:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how things work! Two weeks ago, I was contacted by Ms. Shelbi Lynn of Babes In The Woods (http://babesinthewoodsak.com/), a fine and functional art gallery in Girdwood, AK, with a request to consign my infant 1Z's and Toddler Tees! Of course, it came at a time when my creativity was a bit under the weather and I needed a little motivation. And motivation I received! I have quite a few new designs, and more to be made, and even came up with a few new techniques, including blockprinting some designs from hand-carved (by me) blocks for stamping my kiddie wear. Plus, I finally replaced my silkscreens (will mesh soon) and plan to do some adult wear, too. Now if I can only find some extra time.

Must note: It is hard with a toddler under foot, but I picked up my art school ways of late nights, early morns, a bit of strolling and good, healthy foods to keep me going. Alright, I admit the last three things are new, but I need the added health maintenance if I'm to keep up with Mr. Elijah.

Rain, Rain, Rain

2010-05-10T09:50:00.000-07:00

Ah, rain. I love the rain, I really do, but I may have had enough for awhile, especially after last week's devastating storms that doused our area with over a foot of rain in 2 days. It's amazing how something so serene and soothing, at times, can yield such catastrophic damage. My husband, son and I were without power and water, minus 2 gal. of drinking water we purchased from the generator-powered gas station at the top of our street. Our little country getaway was quickly turned into a mountaintop island overnight. Less than 10mi. in every direction was under water. We had no communication with anyone because we had only one cellphone with just a bit of charge we reserved for emergency use only. The gossip that swept through this backwoods area ranged from bridges turned rafting rides to FEMA drops down the street; we still don't know how much validity there was in any of these things, although we do know 1 of the bridges remains. Luckily, our little slice of tanquility was unharmed; our little garden plot did not wash away; and we are even more thankful for one another, the fact we have well water (city water is contaminated), and much more prepared should another disaster/power outage strike (lots of clean bottled water stored, flashlight batteries, and a car charger--after we found a back road cut through rock and dirt to bust off the island, we returned home with power, ah the irony). I will say that mom, that's me, got a bit panicky, almost full blown panic attack because I had a 2 year old and quickly running out of clean cups and food for him to eat; sanitation and water for washing dishes, etc. was a huge concern. We didn't know what was happening outside of our island. I knew there were dams close to us and knew that they were questionable-- would they withstand the water? I sat in my car from time to time and tried to tune in to a radio station that might have something for me, but the only station not affected by the storm or that offered a word of what was happening was the ultra-conservative station.... I learned of road closures and that a dam at a nearby lake had been released into the river that was flowing in my direction, news that I'm sure reset that panic button and yes, sent water my way causing a greater rise in river levels, greater than anticipated: 61.5'. If it had been my husband and I, only, I would not have panicked, but probably joined my neighbors in luke-warm beers at 8am everyday and sat back on my porch relaxing to the hum of generators and big trucks. Kidding! Seriously, I understand the need for a generator to maybe access warm water and reboot the fridge, but non-stop was quite ridiculous. And the big trucks circled the little 10 square mile radius constantly. Did I mention we ran out of gas on the island? Hmmmmm.

Flood waters are about a 2' below the bridge. This is the same area I photographed in my Misty Morning, 2007 series. I couldn't get in close to the place where I actually took the photo in the etsy listing, but this is the place now covered in at least 10' of water.

About a month ago, a designer from NYC contacted me through etsy asking if I would be interested in donating a particular print he found in my shop to a fundraiser called Design on a Dime. Skeptical, I researched and agreed to participate once I found out the money went to build housing for the homeless suffering from HIV/AIDs. The print he Jarret Yoshida chose was one of the lake near my home which rose and transformed the landscape, sweeping the contents of homes. Here's a link to the photo: Odd Reflections: BW Holga Photograph .

Rockin' Out Baby Style

2010-04-21T14:05:00.001-07:00

Such a CUTE way to honor Daddy on Father's Day! Or, as my recent customer requested, for her son's first birthday party. Actually, she showed her husband the shirt she was ordering for their son's first birthday party and he asked if I could make one for him. Pretty cool, I thought, and so did my husband. Now I have a matching set to make for him and our son, although my little Lijee just turned two, so I guess they can have matching shirts for Pop's Day. Although, he does want me to make one for myself so we can have a family portrait made, now how cute is that! Instead of coordinating adult clothing, we rock out in baby's style!

Back when I started making appliques for Lijee's clothes, my hubs really liked them and wanted me to custom design stuff for his clothes. I was so into small clothing ("onesies," toddler tees) that I had a hard time picturing a grown man in an applique. No offense, but I couldn't see past the baby ele's and pretty pink poppies. I love the look of appliques, in every way, shape & form and think they look cool enlarged! Mhua-ha-ha-ha.... I think my business may be expanding ... adult tee's, aprons, canvas totes....have any ideas? Pass them on!

Gearin' Up for Summer! NEW Infant & Toddler Designs

2010-04-20T10:53:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to have some new designs to add to my shop! I'm an east coast gal, and the change of cold weather to warm leaves me pining for the beach! Back when I was little, and up until I moved to TN in 2000, a day trip to the warm sands of the east was as little as an hour and half drive to VA Beach, and three and a half to my beloved Outer Banks. Now that I'm FOURTEEN hours away from the coast, my heart aches to see those shores, breathe those healing salty breezes, and feel my skin and soul detoxify in the surf and sand.

In honor of those days of my youth and pre-tn move, I'm creating a summer line of infant bodysuits and toddler tees that scream of nothing but the coast: SURFING! And with my little nook of the OBX coast listed as one of the top surf spots in the US in Surfer magazine, I couldn't think of a better way to honor my sun loving free spirit. All appliques are inspired by retro imagery of sand and sun; drawn, cut & sewn by hand by me, and applied to 100% cotton infant and toddler apparel. If you like a design, but prefer a different color scheme, just contact me through my etsy or zibbet shop accounts and I will be happy to assist you!

I'm branching out of kiddie land and expanding my applications. Know a husband who thinks so highly of his young son that he matches their clothing whenever possible? I do (my own) and I just created a matching father & 1yo son shirt set with the red surfer car (see below) for a fabulous customer on etsy. Interested in a matching duo? I can do it! Want a matching design on a canvas tote bag (perfect for day trips to the beach, playground or park), I can do those, too! Just contact me with your special requests and I will do my best to fulfill such requests (within means/availability).

ETSY: thebirdandelephant.etsy.com (handmade appliques, mostly for kids)

ZIBBET: zibbet.com/thebirdandelephant (a mix of vintage and handmade)

Majolica, Wexford, Calyxware, Oh My!

2010-04-11T16:26:00.000-07:00

....well, just let me tell you! So, my parent's downsized into a house half the size of the old one they resided in for 20yrs, and, well, my mom is a bit of a hoarder, for real (minus the garbage and gross stuff of hoarding, no offense hoarders)! I was home for 2 weeks to sort through the things that were mine and to gather items to sell, but wading through the closets, attic and hallways was a bit of a nightmare, to say the least. When it was all said and done, I rented a 16' moving truck to bring all the goods - and the bedroom furniture for my son - back to my even smaller home. The past few weeks I have sorted, photo'd, researched and listed, all the while attempting to make a new collection of Spring/Summer infant and toddler appliqued shirts. But it's all been worthwhile, even though I'm not able to attend to a whole lot of business and marketing.

I have been surrounded by all things vintage since I was born! I noticed the quality from a very young age, and still to this day, the only things I prefer "new" are a good mattress, clothes (although I am a vintage hound in that department, too) and of course, a Mac and digital camera. As I list items in my vintage shop, I have to separate myself from loving them all. And in case you're wondering, yes, these items did come from my home: my mom, my grandmas, my great aunts, and so on. I have retained quite a few of their personal items, but things I don't feel attached to I'm offering for someone else to love. But you know, a lot of this stuff was used daily or sitting on a hutch or inside a dining room corner cabinet and I neglected to find out the history behind it all. Is this because those items were the norm for me? I'm guessing so. But oh how I wish I had more info....internet searches on some items is driving me mad!

Well, Happy Spring, all! I may not be too visible here in the coming months; I have a 2yo to potty train and a garden to establish (halfway there), as well as, half a house to unload, but I hope to bring you some more lovelies to view and share some of my favs from etsy and beyond!

Here's a few things of the things I've listed thus far:

Vintage Wexford Stemware, 12pc

$48 + S/H

bhpeters.etsy.com

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=44551402

Vinage Adams' Calyxware Micratex Hand-Painted Cups & Saucers

$75 + S/H

bhpeters.etsy.com

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=44007542

Vintage Hocking Pink Depression Glass Compote "Open Lace" Pattern

$8 + S/H

bhpeters.etsy.com

1930s Lovebirds Brooch with Pearl in Nest, Enamel Paint

$40 + S/H

bhpeters.etsy.com

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=44477442

Vintage McCoy Yellow Bamboo Centerpiece Planter

$18 + S/H

bhpeters.etsy.com

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=43474881

Vintage Majolica CornCob Dishes, Set of 6

$29 + S/H

bhpeters.etsy.com

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=43136231

etsy shop: elsita's shop

2010-02-17T07:43:00.001-08:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop/elsita

I am SO in love with the work of cuban born artist, Elsa Mora. I first stumbled upon her work back in September 2009 while creating a teasury of Handmade Highway artists and artisans. For more on the Handmade Highway, directory of artists & artisans, click here: http://handmadehighway.blogspot.com/ I didn't fully understand the extent & complexity, as well as the variety of works the world of elsa had to offer, until I visited her beautiful blogs (yes, she has 3)! Within these beautifully illustrated blogs, her work is showcased, discussed, and there's even a behind-the-scenes look into her moleskin, where her ideas are born. Her work includes 3D sculptures in porcelain, dolls, jewelry, drawings, and papercuts, and she recently published a book, titled Blossom Buddies, read more about it here: http://elsita.typepad.com/elsita/about-my-book.html. You will have to check her work out for yourself, and you shouldn't skip a single blog! I'm including some pics and links here. This artist is truly amazing! Here's just a FEW of my favorites:

Bee Miniature Paper Sculpture $99
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=40099109

The Lesson $25
print of an original illustration
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33685665

Good-Bye: Papercut Print $25
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=32331999

Meow $25
print of an original illustration
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=32134713

Cactus Girl $25
print of an original illustration
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31096483

Artworks fom the series Second Nature (2007)
http://elsita.typepad.com/photos/artworks/index.html

I hope you enjoyed this shop and will share this little world with others!

New etsy shop + one on the way!

2010-02-17T07:10:00.000-08:00

New store:
thebirdandelephant.etsy.com

The new shop is exclusively for the babes and showcases my infant & toddler tee appliques.

The original store, bhpeters.etsy.com, will house my original works, like the felt jewelry, photography, and I hope to upload some original artworks this Spring. I re-worked that shop banner and I love it! Let me know what you think.

Bird & Ele Vintage:
I've been away prepping my tiny abode for the arrival of new (very antique, including the high headboard solid oak bed I slept in as a babe) furniture, but before bringing in the new I had to excavate the dusty old boxes from the many nooks and crannies, unearth the old from under the bed, and gut the closets. I had to do this so I could create new hiding places for my more current possessions and to accommodate the influx of vintage kitchenware, trinkets, clothes, fabrics, toys, books, sewing items, and so on. I mentioned earlier that my parents are downsizing and I have to travel home to reclaim 20+ years of my youth. Living in a small house has taught me a great deal. I use to hold onto every little thing as if the soul of that person, living or deceased, might someday come back and hex or haunt me for throwing out that napkin with the icing stain from so-and-so's wedding reception. Living in larger homes, I always had space to cram boxes and bags of memorabilia. I never had the patience or time to actually sit and organize (and discard) the non-essentials. Adding a baby to my little home quickly taught me how.

So, I set off for VA on Thursday morning for two weeks where I'll sort, photograph, re-box and load. Many of the items I can't keep. Most things I collected, purchased from thrift stores, estate sales & yard sales. And I pretty much grew up attending such things as a child (small country town auctions were the best). I will be opening a third store on etsy for my vintage items, and I'll let you know when that's up & ready.

Keep warm & see you soon!

etsy shop: Star of the East Jewelry

2010-02-09T13:59:00.001-08:00

I have a weak spot when it comes to jewelry, especially unique, one of a kind finds. I first stumbled upon this etsy shop when these cufflinks landed on the front page:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36425548
Sea Urchin Collection, Cool Green Cufflinks $44
These dainty sea urchins, a calming pale sage green, whisper of age forgotten secrets.

Star of the East is a mother daughter duo from Turkey by way of the Netherlands. Esther & Estella have a unique style and use of materials, which include sea urchins, seed pods and glass bubbles. Some pieces are dreamy, reflecting the calming colors of the ocean, while others are a bit more mysterious, and speak of fantasy. This particular piece immediately evokes mind-images of Alice in Wonderland or perhaps, the inspiration for a Dali painting.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=40272170
Secrets from the Heart- Romantic Steampunk Necklace $67

Here's just a few others:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=39764831
My Love is Weird- Miniature Ring $40

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=39335465
Sea Urchin Collection-Green Ring $37

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7056232
Paxiubao Necklace (seed pods) $70

Check out their etsy shop for more amazing work: http://www.etsy.com/shop/staroftheeast

etsy shop: Hunter to the Hunted

2010-02-08T11:31:00.000-08:00

I believe all artists, at some point or another, struggle with their passion to create and the necessity to survive in the modern world without endangering the integrity of the work. Amy, of Hunter to the Hunted, is one of those artists, who, in my opinion, has suceeded. I find her work, mostly brooches and some jewelry, simple yet intriguing, highly artistic and conceptual. She combines clay or wood with combinations of the following: image tranfers of dark & hazy imagery, fabric, and sometimes delicate, earthly impressions of flowers or plant stalks. Also included in her shop are fabric covered buttons. Her latest additions, envelopes and journals, are made of 100% recycled papers. Although her shop offers a variety of goods, a common theme runs throughout. Click on the link to find out more about Amy and her unique little shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/HunterToTheHunted

etsy shop: Clementiny Clothing

2010-02-07T12:30:00.000-08:00

clementinyclothing.etsy.com

I first stumbled upon the etsy shop, ClementinyClothing, a few months back and was floored by the designs & use of repurposed fabrics, as well as the fact that all were made by hand. Clementiny Clothing is doing amazingly well and even sent a couple designs to the Sundance this year. Check out the etsy shop for more fashions; for the latest news and item releases, sign up for the RSS feed and become a fan on facebook! Here's just a few of my favs:

hello 2010.......

2010-01-23T11:37:00.001-08:00

Things are really picking up around the old homestead! Baby has a new room and is now sleeping in a big, big bed...through the night. Now potty train is underway... that's a tuffy, but we'll prevail. As for the kiddo's eating, well, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. He's active and healthy, but doesn't like food.

And then there's the etsy shop. Wow, it was slow going but really picked up nicely starting in November 09. Since Christmas, I've been featured on the front page 2 times! My onesies made it! I'm so honored and proud. I finally have some new works underway, paying homage to the sounds of my youth and photography, as well as some more nature inspired, earthly pretties. Can't wait to see the finished product!

This little deer landed on the etsy front page yesterday, Friday, January 22, 2010.

http://craftcult.com/vault_list.php?list=8457&userid=&fm=2&esn=bhpeters&m=1&d=23&st=2&pagenum=1&ls=0

As for the business side of the creative life, I've taken that step and had some labels made for my onesies and toddler tees. The label features my shop name and all the pertinent info required by the CPSIA (aka the Law). And I'm now pursuing shops and boutiques to carry my "brand" (sounds so crazy).

To help finance my little endeavor, I began carrying vintage items. Vintage is nothing new for me, I've been surrounded by all things vintage, since I was born, and have acquired an extensive collection myself. And now that my parents are downsizing, well, let's just say it's time to move all my stuff out. It's kind of sad, though because my mom will have to get rid of a great deal of the items she's collected over the years, some of which have been in our family for generations. I'll store what I can, but it will be a task to come over the next few weeks. Things of little significance will most likely wind up in my shop. And I must say, anything from my mom's house is in excellent condition. So, if you're into milk glass, china, furniture, you name it, check my etsy around the middle of March.

Here's a few things sold in the last week:

I'd love to hear from you! Let me know about the fun & exciting things this new year has brought your way, share some heirloom stories, new knowledge, or whatever you like!

Good day!

the beehive

My little unicorn and felted hats....

2009-11-14T08:16:00.000-08:00

And just when I thought I was getting the hang of it..............

My satellite was damaged in a terrible storm leaving me without access for 1 mth (ouch! and all that work I did to promo my stuff). Then my son falls out of his crib and bedtime abruptly moves from 8pm to whenever he feels like it. Not good for a mommy trying to finish and begin projects, but we're coping. And then, once I think the sleeping arrangements are settled & safe, Elijah dives over the edge of my bed and lands flat on his forhead. My little unicorn is okay--just bruised, and what a knot!

So, I'm learning to adjust, which is always a good thing, huh? And I have been making new things and expanding my horizons. My latest favorite material to design with is felted wool. I'm felting old, moth eaten sweaters and turning them into little hats, cuffs, and ipod cases. I just wish I had learned a bit more from my mom and grandma about how to sew, but their instructions are like their directions for cooking...."just add some flour, oh I don't know, maybe three handfuls..." so, maybe my trials and errors would still be the same with or without their help. Here's a couple quick shots of the latest:

I'm still working on my more personal works and trying to set a deadline to have some finished, hopefully for a spring gallery showing, but I'm skeptical I can pull it off....

the cosmos

2009-09-29T20:45:00.000-07:00

I was about to list an amazing, vintage Kodak Duaflex on etsy when I realized it would be great for shooting TTV (Through the Viewfinder). I've seen TTV all over etsy and it seemed the new "thing", so I thought I'd see what it was all about. TTV, to me, is a mix between my Holga and the 4x5 pinhole I created out of foam core, but shot digitally. I love it! It's a weird, cumbersome setup, but I can get the same effect as if I shot with the previously mentioned and I don't have to pay for film processing, hunt down a darkroom, deal with chemicals (which I can no longer endure), and so on and so forth. The downside is that the actual digital image is maybe a quarter or more smaller than the size the camera (digital) shoots at, so I think I'm limited on how large I can have these printed. But I've become quite enamored with intimate print sizes. In a world of overstimulation, quiet moments with a single image, one that physically draws you in, are like those memories you wish to sail off with as you drift into a deep, tranquil, sleep.

New Discoveries, Old Haunts

2009-09-23T20:45:00.000-07:00

Rain has fallen over the area and just wants to kick back and hang for awhile. A bit of tease, it uncovers the sun and inspires hope for a fresh day, but as we acclimate to the new light and put away the golashes, pull out the camera, and take one step out the door, surprise! the heavens begin to sprinkle before the sky gives way.

Lately, I'm clearing out the rubble that condemned my studio and some lovely little reminders of sunnier days sprouted out of the darkness. Some of these are odd little images, but I was glad to see them again. All of the ones shown here were shot with a Holga and color film, and printed no more than 3" x 3". There is an intentional strangeness, I admit.

The Gourd, Messenger and Absent Hive

2009-09-09T19:08:00.000-07:00

I just completed a set of new embroidered, applique work that contains discarded pants legs from an old pair of corduroys and some amazing Japanese text from an old book I acquired off eBay. The paper is thick with fine fibers and incredibly beautiful! Loose weave linen remnants from a chair reupholstering project served as the background. One piece contains a hand-drawn image atop the Japanese text and a series of large gourd seeds. The complexity of meaning nestles deep within the simplistic elements.

Continuing the themes of my senior thesis work, this triptych, for me, evokes feelings of tradition ingrained, of nature continuing its genetic transference of habit and ritual into the normal existence of all life. Plants, animals, and people adapt to the evolution of the surroundings, some forced by technology--others propagated with love by caring hands. Yet some, the minute, are erased by careless comfort seekers to the disgrace of humankind.

I suppose the search for understanding interaction, belief systems and established ideals will always surface throughout my work as a debate between scientific fact and philosophical wonderings.

Stay at Home Moms + Time to Create =

2009-09-08T13:10:00.000-07:00

The last few months, almost year, have been amazing! Of course my son is growing up, my husband and I have adapted to this new caregiving position, and we're more optimistic AND creative than ever! I now have an etsy store: http://www.bhpeters.etsy.com/ where I'm selling hand-embroidered, appliqued infant & toddler clothing. I also have a few photographs for sale and some of the random things I've created in the past (more to come) that perhaps only I, the creator, could love.

Learning how to actually market myself/my work can be frustrating and discouraging at times; after all, my first priority is to be a mother. I'm currently learning the ins and outs of self-promotion: Facebook, Myspace, business cards (old skool), blogging, forums, chat rooms, etc. There's only so much I can do in a day! Where's the time for creating?!?

I often see topics in the forums, especially in etsy, like "How do other SAHM do it?" [Sidenote: Stay At Home Mom] I can only answer for myself, and hope that I'm not alone. I create, in my head, all day and all night, even in my sleep. My new sketchbook takes up little room, although it may be cramping the style of, oh let's say, my memory for names and dates, especially due dates! But that's beside the point. I'm still creating and storing design ideas, so when I do get a minute, I can at least jot down the basics for later.

Well, this is kind of how my day goes:
I get up when my son does and we have breakfast, then we do a little reading. I then engage him in an activity on his own, like reading more, coloring, or building with blocks (I don't think the TV is an appropriate sitter). I then get online to check my eBay store (purely used items, not my homemade creations), I print shipping labels and invoices, and then I go to my etsy site to check views/hearts (I've only had 4 sales since June). I also check the forums, make comments in the ones I find I relate with, etc. I also try to create a Treasury. By then, it's pretty much time for my son to eat lunch and take a nap (time spent online: maybe 1hr). We eat, he takes a 2-3hr nap and I either take care of things around the house, I continue online (I'm currently updating my blog) or I start new designs. Eli wakes, we go to the post office and store if necessary, we take a walk or go to the playground, and then come home. By then, it's time for dinner. My husband and I always take Eli for an evening stroll when the weather permits. We try to exercise daily to keep our energy up. Back at home, Eli goes to bed and if I can, I create some more (draw, trace, cut, sew or begin a totally new project).

I reminded my husband last night of the Hare and Tortoise: who won the race? Sometimes slow is better and may reap just as good a reward as that which is done quickly.

computers and ladders

2008-10-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

so i was attempting to enter the blog world a while back when my satellite internet connection went out (out in these here woods us country folks don't need no cable intrenet or the likes so we get stuck with a huge dish in our front yard and a large bill each month "to stay connected"). anyway, point is: my internet connection went out before i was able to do a final save on my first post and i didn't even think it saved what i had, until today when i discovered an email saying blogger thought my blog was spam. whatever. but if you read my first post, you may have seen the part where i said i was selling things on ebay, which was doing okay until i lost the connection. to make things even better, i fell about 10 feet spraining my ankle. yep, i gots smarts, let me tell ya.

my husband built me a fabulous art studio in our backyard overlooking 30+ thousand acres of a wildlife refuge (took over 2 years, but it's finally in the final stages of complete). our house is pretty small for all of our musical equipment, arts & crafts supplies and now baby gear, so we had to turn one room into a storage area (the room that's suppose to be my husbands music room), most of which stored my crap as my husband so fondly refers to my things. we also have a cubby hole over a closet that stores more of my "crap." long story short: in the process of moving into my shop, we emptied the cubby and i thought i would be heplful and fill it back up with things we didn't need at the moment. did i mention nobody was there to spot my not yet back in shape 135lb self as i lugged large boxes full of my notebooks that contain my negatives up a not intended for this sort of thing ladder? yea, i did it all right and the moment i spotted the rather large stick bug lying on the floor i realized i was about to crush him. i just remember him frantically wriggling his peculiar little body trying to flee the scene. he didn't make it. once the stars cleared my eyes i realized i had to get to my phone to call my husband to come to the rescue (we were on the verge of a divorce before this happened, by the way). but i couldn't walk to my phone or my not yet 6mo old. so i drug myself across the floor, no problem, except the mound of boxes that blocked my path. i would reach my child.

now i sit typing with my foot in a splint (severe sprained ankle and various large bruises all over my body). my husband, the breadwinner of the family, he's in the other room playing mr. mom and mommy's nurse and out of "real" work for 3 days now. "way to go slick!" (that's what i call myself in my brightest moments). as for the divorce, well, next time we're in a rut i'll just break a leg or something. solved everything! and my son: he can't understand why daddy doesn't have boobs and milk......

mommy economics

2008-10-01T08:38:00.000-07:00

independence has always been my strongpoint, until, that is, i gave birth to a fabulous baby boy. see, i live many miles and hours away from all things family and familiar. my husband and i are both struggling artists with day jobs that left us just above the poverty line. when it came time to decide work schedules and child care, well, one of us had to resign and become the stay at homer, and that person was me, the magical milk fairy. now don't get me wrong, i LOVE being able to raise my child this way, but my job was more "stable," and i had benefits. i thought it was time to let go of some of my independnce and let my husband take charge, but wouldn't you know: as soon as i turn in my resignation and better yet, a new person was hired to take my place, his new job had a crackpot boss who turned psycho, like single white female psycho, and that job quickly ended. fabulous! now i'm back to job hunting, considering the deplorable wally world experience because there's nothing much left in this rural portal i'm living in. i've always had the cool fun jobs, except that one grocery store attempt, and now i'm down to desperation, especially now with the collapse of the nyse and the outrageous gas prices, which is another reason i might have to stay local with the wals. the other choice is a dreadful move home to the parents, um, maybe not just yet, my nose is a little above the water line. i know it sounds like i'm complaining, but i'm not. i'm hitting that panic gotta get it together mode fast while maintaining a relative calm so i can continue to nurture the masterpiece my husband and i collaborated on. my son is the greatest blessing of all times, but mommy economics is turning classical with the introduction/experimentation with those white poop collectors, you know, cloth diapers, oh my! and i'm not talking the new trendy all in ones that are easier to use and clean, i'm talking old school for real! the thought of all those nasty pampers fermenting amidst the wally bags is disheartening to say the least. i just wish that i had purchased the aio diapers that are adjustable for any size. and i'm now rolling pennies and cashing them in, and i've starting an ebay store selling maternity wear, the clothes my cuddly has outgrown, and just about anything else i find that we don't need. bottom line: everything's for sale. that's right, i'm turning this house into a feminized foxx and son business. on a more positive note, this economic crunch has forced me to actually attempt to sell some of my work, something i never worked too hard at because i lacked the confidence needed. art school taught me not to make my work a commodity but if i want to be an artist don't i have to feed myself? i'm sure when all the panic subsides the wals will continue to remain FAR from my resume. back to the hive.......