Linda G. Jones Blog

Betty Boop in Full Costume!

2011-11-19T13:41:00.000-06:00

Here is my Betty Boop head in full costume at Ramona's shop in Old Town Spring, TX!

Ying and Yang and Betty Boop art pieces!

2011-11-01T14:52:00.000-05:00

Here are some recent art pieces I finished. The Ying and Yang was commissioned and I decided to put some friendly dragons painted in. My Betty Boop is a large head for someone to wear! It's a little over 201" by 17' made by paper mache. Whew, it was difficult to make!!! Happy November!!!

Sad News for Monet but a New Birthday in Heaven!

2011-08-19T15:46:00.000-05:00

Monet started to decline rapidly the last few days. To make a long story short, the only way he could live just a few weeks would be on a life support in a small cage. It was time to let him go live with God and run free from pain he was starting to suffer. I let him go before the worst happened. Problem is, I fell deeply in love with him but I could not let him suffer and now he is the hands of God. I truly believe I will see him again, along with my other pet angels, friends and family. I gave him a very good home for a couple of months and tons of love so at least he had that in his short time on earth. God Bless this sweetest ever little soul kitten named Monet.

Update on my Problem Child

2011-07-17T12:35:00.000-05:00

This is my 3rd entry about my Problem Child, Monet. Well....I have accepted the fact that for now for him to drink water, I have to put water in his food to make sure he drinks water. The pee and poop problem persists as I have tried everything that has been suggested to me, except for the diapers. I had a 3 ft by 3 ft gated area for him to romp in and he kept going on the plastic. So I got 3 boxes, filled with 3 different types of litter. One was the pine stuff, then middle one was the scoopable kind that everyone told me not to use, then the 3rd was the clay kind. Then I enclosed the gated extra area and that left him his fairly large black gated cage fit for a big dog. I left the bottom clean and left his food in there and no toys yesterday. The outside of the cage left only the 3 boxes of litter. He actually chose the pine litter to poop in and the scoopable to pee in!!!!! I gave him tons of praise. Then in the evening I left the tv on, added a few balls he loves to play with, his food, and put a towel in there for him to sleep on. Well he peed in the scoopable and pooped on the towel, so no towel for tonight. Am I making progress here? Only time will tell. I left yall a new a bit grown more of my precious Monet for yall to see. You can almost see that his nose hairs have grown back and if you look closely you can see that it looks like someone painted a black outline around his little nose. Kenzie is still freaked out though, but Kenzie and I have a special relationship and he is definately being cuddly with me again, just can't stand this little new addition to his apartment!!! Will Monet be a new addition in a forever home by the end of August when LeAnne gets back. Only time will tell.

Hope yall have a wonderful Sunday! Now off to take a drawing class from one of my favorite artists!!! I added 3 favs of my watercolors that she has done. Awhile back when I was writing for Indiesmiles, there should be a link to her article on the right hand side of my wall to read more about her...............It's called A Ray of Sunshine Joy and you will see the doxy pic.

PS: By the way....

2011-07-10T16:42:00.002-05:00

I forgot to say that I have fallen in love with Monet. He may be an awful lot of trouble to take care of for the rest of her life. No one wanted to take care of him, not even foster parents.....vets wanted to put her to sleep....what will happen to him if I don't take care of her?

My Foster Child, Monet

2011-07-10T16:29:00.000-05:00

I haven't been around for quite some time and thought it was probably too late now to get noticed again, but I have to try at some point, right? I've recently been a cat sitter for a friend that is a cat rescuer and will be away until the end of August. I've been doing it now for a couple of months. Well, she found this little kitten that had been run over by a car and his head was smashed as well. A very long recoup. and now is 4 months old, but looks 4 weeks old. The sweetest thing in the world. He's been in my lap all day and loves to play and just give and take as much love as he possibly can. His name was Precious, but I didn't like that for a boy cat and thought his markings looked like an impressionist painting, plus if you look at his tail, it has rings around it and the tip looks like it's been dipped into white paint, so it looks like a paintbrush. I went over all the impressionist painters I like and Monet seemed to fit, alas that is where his name came from. I also have a grown cat, Kenzie that hisses at Monet or wants nothing to do with him. I have Monet in a 3 yard by 3 yard fenced in area in my living room. But I will let him free a lot to run and jump around. He follows me where ever I go. I was just wondering if he will ever be able to be potty trained? Or have any of yall heard of a mentally challenged cat that never learns how to be potty trained & yes I have done all what the books say about potty training, but have any of yall heard of a kitty like Monet?

Oh, Here's a picture yall have all seen of beautiful white female kitty named Kenzie:

Happy Spring!

2011-03-31T15:11:00.007-05:00

I just wanted to say hi and wish everybody a Happy Spring! I love this time of year and wish it would last! It still isn't too hot and the flowers are blooming. It's so beautiful now. I call this new piece, Spring Breeze Forever.

IT FROZE IN TEXAS!!!!!

2011-02-04T15:11:00.011-06:00

TEXAS SNOWMAN

with it's Artist

HUGE NEWS!!!

IT FROZE IN TEXAS!!!!

YUP!!! They even kept turning off the electricity all over the city because of the added heat. Businesses were closed. Freezing!!! Ok, I'm not sure, but supposedly last night there were snow flurries and ice on the roads. I don't know because I was asleep and didn't watch the news. Although I do know it was 30 degrees during the day. Well, my friend sent me a few pictures of the snow in San Antonio which is a 3 hour or so drive from Houston and I thought this one was so cute, I had to share it. I know, people up North and where ever it really snows are laughing at us.

This snow biz got me to at least post after a very long time. Maybe I'll catch up with yall later and tell yall what's been going on in my life.

Hugs to yall peeps and to those with pets, hugs for them too!!!

Linda :)

MY ART, my love...

2010-10-18T03:03:00.004-05:00

I have found another outstanding artist on Etsy from Thailand. He has so many subject matters and styles with his watercolors, acrylics, and oil.... I am overwhelmed. Now yall try to pick out one print to buy! I dare ya :) The more you look into these paintings a deep soul seems to grab out at you and you want to know more about the artist behind this art. Please visit http://www.indiesmiles.com/art-my-love/#comments for more information and please leave a comment there under the article! You won't be disappointed! View this slide show full screened too!

Junebugs

2010-10-05T12:50:00.005-05:00

The artist: Linda Silverthorne

The article: Http://www.indiesmiles.com/junebugs/

Please leave comments there too!

The shop: http://lindasilverthorne.etsy.com/

THE ART YALL MUST SEE!!!

A Luscious Splash of Autumn's Rainbow!

2010-09-20T22:27:00.003-05:00

Hi yall!
I just published a new article on Indiesmiles! It's all about Autumn's luscious colors. The slide show of Etsy Artists are breathtaking! Some are photos and some are paintings! Yet some of the paintings look like photographs. You'll have to visit their shops in case you just aren't sure! I really would love comments! Tell your friends to check it out and leave comments that love Autumn! If you love Autumn's colors, you will love this slide show! It's so... beautiful! Also remember to view it full screen! I'd even play some nice music while you watch it. I wish I was allowed to put music to my slide shows. I think music adds so much! Don't yall?
Here's the link:
http://www.indiesmiles.com/a-luscious-splash-of-autumns-rainbow/

Man Built a Sanctuary for Homeless Cats!

2010-09-06T15:37:00.040-05:00

I found this e-mail so endearing and wonderful, I wanted to share it with yall!

Craig Grant bought a tree farm far away from the city and turned it into a sanctuary for all the cats he has rescued.
He lives there with the cats and provides lots of love, care and companionship. It’s hard to imagine that once he was not a cat lover and did not want cats until he met his son’s cat Pepper. He also got to experience what it is like raising a litter of kittens.
“Over that time I learned that every cat had its own unique personality and it wasn’t long before the kittens were swinging from my curtains. I didn’t care. Something had changed… I didn’t want to give them up.”
The condo life was not easy for the kitties, so Craig found a tree farm and settled down there for his fur babies.
Over the next several months, he rescued more and more homeless and abandoned cats. The number of new residents kept going up, so Craig expanded the sanctuary to make more room for the animals.

The farm was named Caboodle Ranch and is now a permanent home for all the homeless, rescued cats. Each of them has a sad story of their past, but now they are living in heaven.
“Cats should be able to roam free, and at Caboodle Ranch, that’s what they do.”
Craig has built many beautiful cat houses and decorated the place with vibrant colors and tons of liveliness. All the cats are spayed and neutered.

Isn't this every cat lover's dream!

And as far as I know, he is located in Florida on 30 acres with 500 cats!

God Bless this Man!
Here's a website to see much more!
www.caboodleranch.com

Fall in Love With Autumn Wreaths!

2010-09-05T20:54:00.007-05:00

Hi yall! Indiesmiles just published my Fall Wreath article! Yall should go see it!I learned a lot just researching history about Wreaths that I found quite fascinating. But I could only choose a small part of history about them. The Fall wreaths I picked for my slide video show are awesome wreaths that not only hang on the wall or door, but there are also gorgeous wreaths worn in your hair!
The more comments I get the better on the article's comment page. As yall know, I am so...anxious for at least one cool breeze here in the heat of Houston, and besides Fall starts on the 23th of September, that is if my calendar is correct!
I hope to see your comments there!!! Link: http://www.indiesmiles.com/fall-in-love-with-autumn-wreaths/#comments

Also remember the ASPCA contest! http://lindagjones.blogspot.com/2010/09/contest-andor-charity-birthday-bash.html#comments

I suppose yall will have to copy and paste these links to your main search on the top left.

I truly wish I had the time to visit yall's wonderful blogs!
I started to produce art again, but I am so busy with other things as well, that I'm not making great progress!
I hope yall are having fun on this Labor Day Weekend!

Linda :)

Contest and/or Charity Birthday Bash!

2010-09-02T13:23:00.019-05:00

http://www.indiesmiles.com/charity-birthday-bash/ This link will lead you to the right page for all the information.
This is just one item I plan on entering into the handmade art contest for 5.00! I'm so proud to say that Indiesmiles is have a 0ne year Birthday Bash and by celebrating we are having a fundraiser of all the money going towards the ASPCA!!!
The Handmade Contest
http://www.indiesmiles.com/charity-birthday-bash/best-handmade-pic/This link will only lead you to the Art Contest, but is also on the main link at the top that I added.
You may enter $5.00 alone, and or enter a picture of your pet for the Pet contest to win prizes, or you could chose to enter a photo of your handmade item in the Art contest. Each 5.00 will give you the chance to enter as many pictures you would like and I just noticed you may also leave your shop or blogsite in, and when a person clicks on your picture it will show all your details! Here is another art item I will be entering: I am working on changing my Kenzie photo to a better size when enlarged, because I made it too small and so when it's enlarged it looks too grainy, plus I would like to edit my comments. So please make sure you are totally satisfied before entering as I have a way in, since I am a columnist there. Hey, by the way to vote is for free!!! I want to also add my belated kitty Peanut that lived to be 20 years old because I actually got her at the ASPCA.The Pet Contest http://www.indiesmiles.com/charity-birthday-bash/best-pet-pic/ (This link will only lead you to the Pet Contest but is also listed on the main link I added at the top.) I know for a fact that they are a great place although they have too many animals and are in desperate need of help and adoptions. I got Peanut and her brother that passed away when he was 11 yrs old. I miss them both terribly, but you pet lovers know about that. Kenzie was brought into my life and we fell in love as yall know.
So, this is a great way to give to a wonderful cause, and also, if you want to add your pic or pics to the Pet and/or Handmade pic for fabulous prizes if you get the most votes.
If you are strapped for 5.00, at least come vote for one or all of my pics!!!

Hope yall's summer is not ending like mine, where it's still in the 90's!!! I sure am looking forward to a cool breeze....at least one!That may take some time though. I hear we may be having a cool front this weekend. Uppers in the 90's and at night in the 70's. Ummm....ok..?
Linda :)

What a Doll!

2010-08-17T17:07:00.012-05:00

I just wrote a new article with fabulous handmade dolls and patterns of a lot of different creations in doll land on www.Indiesmiles.com I sure would love for yall to visit it and since we are having a contest with whoever gets the most comments wins the prize!
This is the link:
http://www.indiesmiles.com/what-a-doll/

It sure has been awhile since I have the time to visit my own blog as well as others. Has been a strange couple of months with everything breaking down including ...it seems that my computer needs a new hard drive! Geesh. When it rains, it pours it seems. Even my toilet overflowed today. I used every single towel I own to sop it up .............................. and now I don't have time to wash them as I need to go to a Houston Artisan Team meeting shortly! Ok, this is getting a little out of "money in my pocket" hand. I will wait until it is absolutely necessary to get my computer fixed as it will cost another fortune!!! At least Kenzie, my precious cat daughter is doing fine
and my ballroom dance classes are doing fine, making my body better, although I do still have a lot of pain, there are days now that I don't have any pain and I still go to dance class with pain! I just force myself through it and usually my body seems to get centered and after the class I am in no pain a lot of the times. I wake up the next day and am in a normal person's muscle pain, not fibro pain. There IS a difference! I am getting stronger and LOVE IT!!!! It's way fun, although I do look kinda weird in my jazz ballet shoes while every other gal is wearing their high heels. How do they do it? I have to wear my foot and hand braces. Oh! I was at a ballroom dance the other night and they were selling dance clothes and trimms. I got a skirt to die for! It looks right out of the 40's although Scarlet Ohara from the movie "Gone With the Wind" must have worn it. It only cost me $10.00! I will fix it to fit me as it is a bit too small and I also want it a little more hip hugger. I have a thing with clothes being exactly around my waist. The dress is made out of layers of chiffon! It's divine and so.. my taste! Well, and last but not least, I sold a new piece and it is available, kinda like a customized item in my Etsy, Http://LindaGJ.Etsy.com and here it is!
Here's wishing yall a wonderful week!
Linda :)

An Artist Beach Babe!

2010-08-05T18:48:00.012-05:00

It's still in the 100's here, so it's still very much the summer, as people elsewhere are getting ready for fall and I'm still in the beach mode! Well, I was so lucky to find out about this wonderful artist and also I purchased one of her limited prints of this one, along with some other smaller print goodies that I will cherish forever. She even did a darling sketch of a gal surfing a wave on the carboard envelope that she sent the print in, that I want to frame as well! How cheerful this one is, so colorful, I adore the hats as well as the friends hanging out together at the beach! Well I approached the artist and she let me write an article about her! You will find her so fascinating and there is so much going on being her story and what she is also doing now! Please visit the article, and browse away. Please also leave a comment , since I am sending yall to the comment section link where you put your comments and you'll need to scroll up to see the article, a video slide, and a few of her links that can not be missed! *Sorry about the stupid pop up this slide video maker is now putting up..they gotta make money, but all you have to do is click on the far right top corner and click on the black x to get rid of it) I'm looking into finding another free video maker.. very frustrating! :( *

Here is the link: http://www.indiesmiles.com/an-artist-beach-babe/#respond

Thank you and hope yall are having a beautiful "beach kinda day"!

Linda :)

Another Announcement About MY Pet Swap Partner!

2010-07-29T16:32:00.004-05:00

http://earlybird454.etsy.com/
** Your pet could be the next TOP MODEL in Tammy's Etsy Boutique!!! My Kenzie is!!!**
Tammy is offering FREE SHIPPING on your NEXT purchase, for Appreciation photos sent with permission to use your pet's photo as a model in her boutique.
She lists P.I.F. (pay it forward) items randomly. That means, for ONLY the .20 listing fee (which
Etsy requires), you can sample Tammy's wares.
*PLEASE, ON THE HONOR SYSTEM, ONLY (1) PIF ITEM PER CUSTOMER*
Tammy is a member of:
*Etsy Texas Crafters (ETC) Team
* Dachshund Team
*Etsy for Animals (EFA) http://www.efaartistshelpinganimals.org/

This gal has so much much to offer us animal lovers that I feel so honored to be featuring her here on my Blog!!!

Texas Etsy Crafters Pet Gift Swap!

2010-07-28T11:01:00.018-05:00

Above are a couple of pictures that my Pet Swap Buddy got from me!

A few days ago I did a swap on on of my teams called Etsy Texas Crafters and the theme was Pets! I just had to share with you what my wonderful swap partner sent to me!!! Her shop is http://earlybird454.etsy.com/ and one of the items she makes and sells are little caps and bandanas in all sizes for all kinds of pups! Too cute! I just had to have her make me one to give to my Dear jewelry artist friend, Pam from http://serendipityrose.etsy.com/ that has a miniature dachshund named Carly who I have shown yall when she was a puppy a while ago.

TOO CUTE FOR WORDS!!!
Well Tammy, from earlybird also asked me for a picture of my cat, Kenzie!

Who knew that she would take Kenzie's face and transfer it to fabric and make me this adorable Kenzie doll along with a darling little brown mouse with a bell in it and a place to put cat nip in it!

I saw that Kenzie was tearing up the mouse, so the mouse is the doll's mouse now!
I have one more example of a dachshund that Tammy made a doll out of!!! Any pet lover would LOVE this, I think, and also it would make a fabulous gift for a friend! Please go check out this wonderful shop and see what Tammy has to offer! Yall will not be disappointed!

Day Dreamin'

2010-07-18T02:55:00.004-05:00

Hi yall,
My latest article is published and it's really fun. I think yall would really enjoy it! Please join me in my Day Dream. Here is the link: http://www.Indiesmiles.com/let-your-imagination-soar/#respond This will take you to the comment section where you will see where you make your comments and then you can scroll up to read and see the article. You will also see so many awesome artist's works!
Thanks for visiting there and making a comment!
Have a fabulous week!
Linda :)

Brutus needs a Forever Home !!!

2010-07-12T23:22:00.017-05:00

"This is a very sad, but unfortunately it happens all too often" Kelly

Brutus was rescued on July 1st, 2010. He is about 60 lbs, 10 to 20 lbs. underweight.

He's 1 1/2 yrs. old.

He was kept in a crate 24 hrs a day & fed every 2 days. He now has received all of his shots and clear of heartworm & everything looks good. We also bought him a 6 month supply of heart guard and frontline. In the last 5 days he is potty trained & on schedule. He caught on fast because he is very smart! He's not good with other animals, but he loves to lay around & hide bones in the yard. He is great on a leash and loves to walk. He loves to hang out on the back porch and he loves kisses & hugs & prefers to be around people. He is on the waiting list with Animal Friends to be neutered.

Please let me know if you have any questions at 412-580-5400

Jamie Kokales

If you know of anyone that would love to give this darling dog a forever home, please call Jamie and also let me know. Please send this to all your friends as well!

Thank you so much!

Linda :)

PS: I don't know why my comment section for this post has such a long space!

Fun With Sand Castles!

2010-07-03T10:16:00.007-05:00

It's the summer and a lot of things are going on including the Galveston, Tx. Sand Castle Competition! I went on location and wrote an article about it and would love for yall to check it out and please make a comment for me! You will see a bunch of sand castles that amateur artists made, which it makes it all that more fun! See, everyone has an artist in them!
Happy Independence Day as well!
Just follow this link: http://www.indiesmiles.com/fun-with-sand-castles/
Linda :)

Stolen Purse Victim

2010-06-25T06:34:00.010-05:00

Purse, wallet, card holder, and Coin Purse:

http://acute-accent.etsy.com/

I am the victim of my purse being stolen. I wanted to tell yall about my experience for yall to always be extra careful as you do not want this to happen to you! Yes, I am always careful with my purse. Who isn't? I keep my purse in the grocery cart usually covered with stuff and always holding onto it. I was in an area of the store that was baren of people. I took a split second to look at a shirt and took my hand and my eye watch off my grocery cart, no one was around, so time spent at all, and when I looked down, my purse was stolen. Along with another gal's purse being stolen within the same 15 minutes, at least. The store would do nothing about. It was not their responsibility. We had to call the cops. They were rude, and blamed it on us as it was our responsibility. They just took some info about us and it took about an hour for them to get there, although it seemed like an enternity. I had no idea how much this effected me as I have been through much more tragedies. As we are talking to this rude cop a security guard ran up and had found a plastic bag that had been left on the floor with our purses in it. The thieves had taken everything, but what is weird, is they carefully looked through the deepest part of my wallet, a couple of sentimental pictures, my Medicare card and QMB(medicaid) card, my keys and my meds were left. Thank God! But my cell, debit/credit card, social security card, camera, wallet, cash, and other paper work, amonst other things, were taken. I had no idea what a hassle this would be. You know you have to replace everything, call every place, change your bank account number, new drivers license, new social security number, you have to get a new cell phone, new camera, call places that take your money out of your bank account, keep an open bank account for outstanding checks, change your paypal, which takes forever. I still haven't received my new checks or debit/credit card, nor has paypal, gone through yet. I didn't even have any credit cards, but the thief did make one effort to use my debit/credit card on gasoline, and I got that reimbursed. I had just received over 100.00 worth of new checks, lost that, and am waiting for 2 boxes now that I had to pay 50.00 for. Guess I'll have to think a way of fun ways to make something out of the unused checks. Any suggestions? I felt so sorry for the other gal that had tons of credit cards. I'm just saying, you may not think this will happen to you. Even if you have to watch over your kids every split second, by all means keep your attention equality towards your purse as well. I don't care if you cover it up. It still happens. If if it happened to me, and I thought I was always extra careful, it could happen to you too. Now that I go into stores, I see most people doing exactly what I was doing. I feel it's my duty to go up to them and tell them what happened to me. They immediately respond as well. In the mean time, the day after it happened, I was coming down with the flu, which I wasn't aware of. I had 102 tempt, I found out and just thought I was stressed out and thought I had the beginning of demensia. This is first day I don't have fever for a week. But I am still coughing up a productive cough. So I guess, now I have a bad chest cold. So beware, it happens when you least expect it and I at least want yall to be safe!!! The items I am showing above is from an amazingly talented artison for making fabulous bags, wallets, business card holders, and coin purses! She will also do custom orders! Check her out! I am going to replace my items with some of her very well made wallets, business card holders, and coin purses. They are well made along with she is having a clearance sell as well!
Ordering from her is going to make my loss a bit more cheerful!
I wish yall safety.

Looking Outside the Box!

2010-06-17T09:04:00.007-05:00

Hi yall, The part 2 of Deb Hill's http://DebHillArt.Etsy.com article is up now and you will be taking a tour of her new studio. I had so much fun driving out to the 'somewhat' country and walking into this place called "The Purple Elephant". I felt like Alice and Wonderland or Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz in a way! The main picture of the box at the top was donated by http://LuckySustainables.Etsy.com and this piece is made out of wood, including the ribbon!

Please check it out and I will be giving yall the link where it will take you to the comment section and you scroll up to see the slide video and article. I think it's so inspiring!!!

Happy reading and visualizing

http://www.indiessmiles.com/think-out-the-box-part-2/#respond

Thanks so much!

Linda :)

Fairy Tales are Made of This Part 1

2010-06-14T08:56:00.004-05:00

Hi Yall,
Sorry I haven't had the time to visit yall's blog homes, but as yall know life gets very busy sometimes and you have to do them, which leaves no time to relax and visit your blog buddies! But I will find a day to do that hopefully next week! I really look forward to those days.
I have to tell yall that I just wrote a new article for Indiesmiles!!! It is so good too! Yall will love this artist as she is sooooooo.....talented and her work is so much fun and whimsical. I went on location to visit her at her new studio which Part 2 will be about because it's fabulous. Here is the link to go read it and please leave a comment, because that means so much to me! http://www.indiesmiles.com/fairy-tales-are-made-of-this-part-1/#respond
Well, I hardly have time to work on my blog as well, but wanted to put it out there, so yall will see some wonderful art and meet a really beautiful lady as well. She is soooo....nice!!!
Have a Happy Monday!!!
Linda :)

Darling Pup Needs Cataract Surgery!

2010-06-10T15:36:00.008-05:00

Remy is this precious pup's name and she is blind in one eye from a cataract. Also she has the beginning of a new cataract in her other eye. The owner, Kevin, is such an animal lover, takes in strays to help them find homes and he gets them neutered or spayed. He even has a bag of dog and cat food in his car in case he sees a stray and can't capture them. He will leave food for the strays. Remy is so darling and loving and Kevin can't afford the $3000.00 that would help his baby. I am so afraid Remy will go blind in both eyes. An operation is needed and possibly the cataract surgery will get her sight back. I just thought if I collect some money to help Remy get her surgery, one of our special angels on earth would get her site back. Please contact me by leaving a comment and I will write to you. I can take checks, but also I have paypal. This is for a good cause and the smallest donation will help!
Thank yall so much!
Linda :)
PS: Thanks for the comments on the kittens. Three have found homes!!!

Home Sweet Home

2010-05-31T11:33:00.011-05:00

This letter is from one of my best friends. If any of you know of someone, possibly yourself wanting a new little happy furball that is in desperate need of a new home, please comment! all they need from you is Love. Make this a really Happy Memorial Day!
Dear Friends of animals,
My neighbor kids rescued these adorable kittens from outside my apartment complex. They were roaming around skinny and covered in fleas.
They are now chubby, friendly, defleaed and perfectly sweet and purring lovebugs!
I took them to the vet so they are already neutered!!
These kittens desperately need forever homes and can't go to a shelter where they euthanize 75% of cats, especially black ones!!!
Please consider adopting one of these precious puffballs and
Please forward this email so all of these cuddly and well-adjusted babies will find a home soon.
Thank you so much for helping.
Sincerely,
LeAnne and kittens

***Free Delivery!!***REALLY!

PS Petting kittens lowers your blood pressure and their funny antics are sure to entertain you!!

The Beaver County Humane Society

2010-05-26T08:05:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone – The BEAVER COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY is still having an online photo contest!

What a fun way to showcase your furbabies and raise money for the homeless animals at the shelter!!!!!

You may enter your furbaby or vote for my furbaby, Kenzie, for just $1.00 per vote!!!

Please enter and Please Vote!!!!!

Here is the link for the contest:

https://www.360photocontest.com/46

Egyption Roots

2010-05-18T22:09:00.000-05:00

I've written another article on a brilliant artist named Caroline. It's called "Egyptian Roots". I would love for yall to check it out as this artist is not only a very talented, but has a very interesting background as well!!! Please follow this link and leave a short comment for me! Comments mean so much!
http://www.indiesmiles.com/egyptian-roots/#respond

Thanks yall!
Linda :)

Ruby for Women

2010-05-18T13:36:00.001-05:00

I wanted to introduce yall to a magazine that you can only buy on line, so far that is! I have entered the info. they wanted me to share with you. On the right side of my vertical column is a red X for yall to click on to see many pages of the magazine if you keep clicking on the bottom where it says older inserts. There will be an article about me and my art in the May/June issue as well as a later issue about women that have overcome some obstacles in their lives. I just bought a yrs worth for only 13.00 for 6 issues, excluding the ones I'll be in. I wouldn't tell yall about this magazine, but it's really uplifting and good for the soul!!!

Hope you are having a great Tuesday! Here at Ruby for Women, we are working diligently to get the word out about our magazine and all of the great advice and information that is available to our readers. I am including with this email the information that you can use to add to your blog or website to help us tell the world about Ruby for Women. Here are a few ways that you can help us:
1. Invite all of your Facebook friends to join the Ruby for Women FB fan page at
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ruby-for-Women/117683838247417?ref=ts&v=wall
2. Post the link to the Ruby blog on Twitter, Facebook, and your blogs and website:
www.rubyforwomen.com
3. Use the following article on your blog, along with our link, and the code for the clickable button:
"Ruby for Women is an online Christian women's magazine for women of all ages and stages of life. The current issue of Ruby for Women is filled with so many wonderful ideas for your home and family, you won't want to miss out!
If you are a gardener, you will love Aunt Dot’s article on springtime gardening. And if you like to crochet, you’ll find a sweet little headband pattern from Jaybird Designs tucked into this issue. As always, there is inspiring poetry from Keith Wallis, and devotionals from Lynn Mosher, and you will also find “Mama’s Craft Corner” from one of our newest writers, Carolyn Arnold.
Of course, there are always the paper doll and coloring pages from Rochelle Martin, but we are now also featuring one of her quilt designs, “Gardener’s Delight.” In every issue for the next eight issues, Rochelle will teach you how to make a new block for this beautiful quilted wall hanging. Don’t miss a single issue so that you can complete this lovely quilt over the next several months.
Also in this issue of Ruby for Women is “Ask Ms. Beth” where you can read Ms. Beth’s advice on teaching our children the importance of household chores; a tutorial on making your own Journal of Gratitude; and advice for building a home business from “Ask Sue of Indiesmiles.” We have started a couple of new columns with this issue, one is “Spotlight On . . . . ” where we feature a woman who has built a home-based business, and “Through Another’s Eyes” in which we will be sharing personal stories of women who have encountered struggles and heartache in life and who have triumphed through God’s amazing grace.
In this issue of Ruby for Women you will also find advice for home-school families along with hands-on projects that we can all do with our kids this summer, all from our resident Home School Mom, Heather Miller. One of our newest writers, Amanda Johnson, writes about hearing God call her into missions, and she shares with us her adventure in Balcony Gardening from her little second-floor apartment. For a bride on a budget, there is a tutorial for creating your own hand-embellished bridal shoes and handbag, and there are some great recipes for summer drinks from Jennifer Cirka of Jaybird Designs, as well as ideas for Frugal Family Fun from Lisa Moore Gee.
Vintage Mama has sent along a few old-fashioned recipes that she discovered in some vintage cookbooks, as well as a few newer recipes for creating delicious sugar-free desserts for your family. And if you are looking for a fun project to make this summer for the county fair, you’ll also find a complete eBook pattern for making a Country Girl Apron by upcycling a pair of bib overalls, from mamas*little*treasures.
Visit the Ruby for Women blog at www.rubyforwomen.com"
Here is the code for adding to your blog that will direct your readers to Ruby for Women if they would like to subscribe or purchase a single issue of the magazine:

2010-05-14T19:31:00.000-05:00

Another diary is being born from Fantasia: fantazya@videotron.ca for 2011! I chose my birthday to do this one, and hopefully more pages will open up. This diary will be in 3 different languages, and will be a half of a page, so I had to really narrow it down and as you can see, I used part of a photograph of one of my pieces. You may also draw if you desire to! It's just another way to get exposure to your blog or shop! Here is the link to the page that will take you where you need to go if you are interested!
http://www.fantazya.ca/diary2011.html
Have a great weekend you all!
Linda :)

Magical Holiday Artists and Etsy Texas Crafter's Swaps!!!

2010-05-10T18:20:00.000-05:00

I just have to show off my swaps I've recently been involved with a couple of my teams. The theme I chose with the Etsy Texas Crafters Team, was green. Check out THE gorgeous necklace I got above from http://ShastaGail.Etsy.com !!!! I just LOVE it!!!
I sent her this:

THE GREEN FISH

AND SOME PRINTS!!!

Yippee,I think she was pleased!

Then I had 2 swaps on MHA, One with Http://BucksCountyDesigns.Etsy.com I adore her work so much!!!

Thank you so much Lisa!!!

Here is what I sent to her!!!
Two Prints:

And Peanut Angel in her Pink Outfit:

And Last but not least a MHA swap with the owner http://cottagegarden.Etsy.com
Look what I got!!! I love them both as they are two of my faves!!!!
Thank you so much Sarah!

And this is what I sent to her!

Aren't swaps FUN?!!!!

Big Sale for Mom's day and Spring!!!

2010-05-09T09:26:00.000-05:00

I have a sale brewing right now!!! You can pick from the picture which is in my customized items's section! Eight cards of your choice, a print of your choice and a flat magnet of your choice! Just convo me first and I will make up a special order for you for half price. You may also half price on all my print, card and flat magnet postings. This is a steal and I am only letting my bloggers know about it! I am in the process of clearing out and making new pieces as I have sold out of a lot of my pieces. I will also honor any other piece at 20 % off. This Grand sale will last until the end of May, so take advantage!!! This is a gift for all my blog followers!!!
After my organization of all my new items as well as some oldies, I will then start to post all my newbies that haven't even been born yet!
Remember to convo me at my shop: http://LindaGJ.Etsy.com.
I love you guys!
And since it's Mom's day Happy Mother's day to all of yall that are mothers to children, older children, and children grown ups, and of course your housepets. I consider a mom to my Kenzie, my precious white cat!!! So I'm a Mom too!!!
Linda :)

Sarah Sullivan Article!!!

2010-05-06T15:24:00.000-05:00

Alot of yall may know Sarah Sullivan, and I just had the pleasure of publishing her article on Indiesmiles!!! Here is the link to go see it and please leave a comment!
The more comments the better!
http://www.indiesmiles.com/let-fly/#respond
She tells her fascinating story and also there is a slide show of some of her work!
Let's all support her as she really is such a fine lady and deserves to get attention for all that she has done!!!
Happy reading!!!
Linda :)

Eye of the Tiger

2010-04-27T17:18:00.000-05:00

I just wrote an article about a fabulous artist that I know yall will love!!! She lives in New York City and has the most cheery, happy style as well as being a wonderful gal herself. Her background is also amazing as she pretty much taught herself how to paint, which is unbelievable to me!!! There is a contest going on that I really want to win this month, so the most comments I get the closer I am to winning, so please click on this link for not only an insight to this artist as well as seeing some of her work in the slide show and a bonus picture on the bottom of the article, and visiting her shop on Etsy and website, but also please leave a short comment. Here is the link:http://www.indiesmiles.com/the-eye-of-the-tiger/#respond

Also remember the Beaver County Humane Society photo contest going on! If you can't afford to enter a photo, it only costs 1 dollar to vote for my Kenzie!If you click on the thumbnail on the site you will see an enlarged pic. Here is the link:http://www.360photocontest.com/46 I'd love to win that prize too. I have been donating to this charity and also wrote an article about Kelly who is sponsering this contest with buying her set of cards and also writing an article that you will see on the right side of my page if you scroll down.
Yall can even scroll down my blog and see her cards that she is trying to sell for her charity. Click on this link and click contact to donate with your choices: http://kellydinwiddiephotography.weebly.com/bchs-fundraiser.html
Such awesome news I love sharing with yall!!!
I will talk to yall again soon!
Linda :)

Share a Picture of your Fur Baby for Charity!

2010-04-26T09:33:00.000-05:00

The BEAVER COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY
is having an online photo contest!
What a fun way to showcase your furbabies and raise money for the homeless animals at the shelter!!!!!
Please enter and Please Vote!!!!!
Here is the link for the contest:
https://www.360photocontest.com/46
Please pass this along to your friends and family and ask them to enter their photos and vote!!!!
If you do not want to enter your fur baby, please vote for my fur baby, Kenzie Jones! Her picture may not be up yet though as she has to be approved!
Thank you!
Linda :)

Spring Contest at Thirty-Six Ten!

2010-04-25T12:28:00.000-05:00

Don't yall love SPRING? Well there is a chance to enter a contest today all about SPRING, which is the last day, so hurry and stop by:
http://thirtysixten.blogspot.com/2010/04/giveaway-no-1.html
which is the Thirty-Six-Ten blogspot. She is celebrating her birthday tomorrow and not only that, the contest is in honor of her 200th sale!!! You have to go there to find out what the gift is, as surprise, and just say what your favorite thing about spring is! You also should post this contest immediately in your blog so more people have a chance to enter & win! Also her blog is way.... cool! I am going back to check it out more after finishing this, as well as taking a look at her shop!
Good Luck to everybody and HAPPY SPRING!!!

Just a Sneak Peek

2010-04-24T05:07:00.000-05:00

Hi Yall!
I just can't stand it, so had to post a bit of what I am about to write about for Indiesmiles after I send in an article about an amazing artist that lives in NYC. That will be the next post so yall can read her article and yall art and also cat lovers will love her work so much!!!
Well, I presently live in an apartment and my jeep serves as my garage! :) I had a lot of my art work in my car......So, I ventured out one day to Cypress, Texas to interview one of my favorite artists. Wow, she is amazing and rents a studio out there in this place called "The Iron Butterfly". It's a purple house to begin with with a large land of space filled with studios, and a large studio where they teach art classes. I got very lost trying to find the place because the road I was looking for was down and there were tons of construction going on. I was driving around this beautiful area seeing gigantor homes and ranches with tons of horses. OMG!!! It was beautiful, but I kinda felt like Dorothy in "The Wizard of Oz", trying to find Oz. I finally found the place and it was if I had walked into "Alice in Wonderland's" world. I sold the majority of my left over inventory to Debra, the really cool gal, that owned the place that also had a shop full of whimsical art items. They are having a Grand Opening on May the 1st. I will go into more detail when I write my article on Deb, the artist, who I adore. You will also see her awesome work in my article as well. Just a sneak look at the half of the iron gate with half of a purple butterfly, that shows the only part of the purple house. So stay in tune!!!

Cross Creek Ranch Festival

2010-04-13T14:38:00.001-05:00

Well, the day started out by pouring rain. Hmmm...bad sign? No!!! The weather cleared up, although it was very windy for a while, and the place was gorgeous. Wow. Yall have to check out www.1stSaturdayArtMarket.com and check out the Cross Creek Ranch links as well as the video Mitch, the coordinator of these events, made. I hope I got that link right. At least yall can put in your Search those words and something for sure will come up. Yall have seen many of my posts mentioning this.
So...I had the most sales than I have ever had and sold my last cat that I displayed in my blog as well as this one that I am posting now! And they were just born!!!
Here is a pic of me there. Yeah, yall have seen me before! :) blah blah blah.... And here is my booth buddy for the 2nd time now! Her name is Caroline Marcos and her work is as fabulous as she is!!! Yall must go check out her website!!! www.carolinez.com I found out Saturday that she is Egyption and Greek! How cool is that?!!! So I guess that's about it for now. I am still BUSY!!! And now catching up on posting some things on Flickr as well as here on my blog, answering a questionaire for a write up about me for a ladies magazine, that I will show yall when that is published.
And as I continue to be too busy to visit my favorite blogs, I still am thinking about yall and can't wait for that day I will have the time to add comments to your fabulous blogs!!!
Cheers!
Linda :)

Jewelry Contest!!! Check it out for Beautiful Prizes!

2010-04-05T11:24:00.000-05:00

Hi Yall,
I just wrote an article on: http://www.indiesmiles.com/the-fire-divas-contest/
Here is a team called "The Fire Divas" and they are having a contest with gorgeous prizes. The contest will last until April 15! So don't delay and participate! Just go to the link I just gave yall to find out more info and links to follow!
Comments are also welcome on my article!
If I were a jewelry artist, I wouldn't miss out on this opportunity!

Getting ready for an Art Festival this Saturday, BTW. I'm in that panic mode, but this should be fun because it is held by Mitch, the guy that also does my very favorite Art Festival in the Heights, called First Saturday Art Market. What is special about the Fair I'm doing this weekend is that it is his very first Fest at this new location at the Cross Creek Ranch in Fulshear, Tx. I just hope I can find it!!! :) I've added a fabulous flyer image that I thought yall might enjoy. I also have the poster that I plan on framing when I get the time!

Also, Indiesmiles is still looking for new writers, and a couple of promotional peeps. Please let me know! It's such a great site and also you will get free ads for your blogs or shops on this site: www.Indiesmiles.com Easy job too. If you are a writer, you only have to write 1 or 2 articles a month. Each article gives you a 2 week add. The promotional job only requires a mention on Twitter, maybe your blog, or Facebook, or whatever you can think of, and you too will receive a free ad spot. Easy, and not time consuming. I wouldn't pass up this opportunity either! More publicity for your blog or shop!

Ok, back to work!
Have a Beautiful Day!!!
Linda :)

Hi Bloggers, love to write? Then contact me, you could be the next writer on Indiesmiles.com

2010-03-27T13:34:00.000-05:00

Job Openings
Do you enjoy posting on Twitter and Facebook, are you often found in the forums strutting your stuff? If so…we have just the place for you!
We presently need a few fun people to write articles, 1 or 2 Articles per month! We also need 2 additional people to help out our team by promoting us on Twitter, Facebook, various forums and other social networks. We’re not looking to spam, just a few posts per day is all that’s required!
You will receive an ad spot as well!
Interested? Leave me a comment for more info!

I love writing articles for Indiesmiles along with having a little slide video for my ad. I also help out the columnists and whatever Sue asks me to do that she needs help for. It's very fullfilling for me. I LOVE this Site!!! It does not hurt to just write to see what it's all about!!!

Love yall!
Linda :)

New Piece Finished

2010-03-25T15:49:00.000-05:00

Well, this is kinda Kenzie, my cat, on this 14" by 11" canvas. I'd call it a mixed media collage with paint piece. I just wanted to show it to yall!
Hope yall have a beautiful day!
Back to work now.
Linda :)

Trash into Treasure!

2010-03-24T05:03:00.001-05:00

My latest article is up on www.Indiesmiles.com! It's called Trash into Treasure and you will read about this artisan that makes gorgeous journals out of trash! She calls them "Gournals". The link is: http://www.indiesmiles.com/trash-into-treasure/
Comments are welcome!!!
Thanks!!!
Linda :)

Kelly Dinwiddie Photography for Animal Charity!!!

2010-03-21T17:21:00.000-05:00

I have written an article before about Kelly for www.Indiesmiles.com and here she is again using her talents to collect money for the Beaver County Human Society! You will receive 4 if her beautiful photo cards for only $10.00 and add on $1.00 for shipping. I own several of her cards and am here to to say, they are out of this world beautiful and not only do you get a set of her cards, but you will be giving to a wonderful animal charity. I have most of the informations here in this blog, but you may go to: http://kellydinwiddiephotography.weebly.com/bchs-fundraiser.html
to see the page on her website. You will simply find the Contact section on her main page and write to her what you want and she will give you her address to send the money to as she takes your address to send the cards to.
Here are the details below!

Beaver County Humane Society

Please help support the homeless animals at the Beaver County Humane Society.
Proceeds go to the new building fund.

I designed the cards with a loving heart!

A pack of 4 all occasion cards - $10.00.
They measure 5 x 7, and come with
a white envelope.

As shown below - the cards are packaged with four different designs in each pack -

You get: 4 Lady Daisy Border Collie Cards
or
4 Sir Wilfred Black and White Cat Cards.

They were printed at the Beaver Valley Intermediate Unit and they did a terrific job! Kudos to them!

Wilfred was adopted from the BCHS by Elise and Gordon who are huge animal lovers. They were happy to allow me to use Wilf's photos in the fundraiser. Thank you! Wilf found his way into my yard in 2006 and was lucky enough to be adopted into a loving family through the shelter.
Many thanks to those who rescue and adopt
the homeless animals who are truly the sweet souls.

Daisy's Mom, Joy, is an animal lover and was kind enough to allow me to use Daisy's photos to create cards for this fundraiser. Daisy is a sweet Border Collie who happens to be a very photogenic diva! Thanks Joy!

2010-03-16T09:41:00.000-05:00

Indiesmiles is having a wonderful sale for your ads! Please go to this link and check it out! Write to: Indiesmiles@gmail.com and make sure you put in Smiles Sales and wallah! Indiesmiles should get back to you.
Hope yall have a wonderful day!!!
Linda :)

A Ray of Sunshine Joy

2010-03-15T10:32:00.000-05:00

That is the title of my new article on Indiesmiles! It's about a local Houstonian that is a watercolorist and has had to overcome some obstacles in her life. I adore her work and own a few of her pieces. Her main subject are cats and she paints other people pets with just a photograph! But she also does other subjects as well. I'm in love with her dachshund that you will see in the slide show. This article is bound to inspire you. Please visit :http://www.indiesmiles.com/a-ray-of-sunshine-joy/
and comments are also welcome!

Also, there is another Peanut Jones in Houston, Tx. Yes....he was spotted at a jewelry show and this particular Peanut sells beads, has his very own shop, and teaches bead making! My friend spotted him at this jewelry store and he had a tip jar with the name Peanut Jones on it!!! He raised $60.00 for the charity they were sponsoring.I wrote to his mom and she wrote me back along with Peanut adding his signature. I just had to tell her that I used to have a Peanut Jones as well. If yall would like to check out his store, it's at: http://www.tinydogseedbeads.com/

And last but not least the Magical Holiday Artist Team, that I'm a member of is having a fantastic contest!!! You could win a bunch of handmade goodies in the Easter baskets! Yall must go check it out!
The link is:http://magicalholidayartists.blogspot.com/2010/03/mha-spring-easter-basket-giveaway.html

Well, I'm off to make some errands. Talk to yall later!
Linda :)

Art Festival, New Art Pieces and More!

2010-03-12T18:34:00.001-06:00

Once again I participated in the 1st Saturday Arts Market last weekend. Here are a couple of pics of me and my booth buddy!

I just wanted to also show some of my new pieces! My little canvas pieces vary each time I make them, so they are never alike but sorta similiar. I am only showing one pic of these new ones.I also think Peanut adorned in her wedding gown would really be cute as a wedding cake topper along with my Peanut dressed in the Tuxedo suit! I also think they could be cute as gifts for a bridal shower. Or a present to the bride.

Also remember to enter the Indie Birdie Contest going on now!!!
http://www.indiesmiles.com/birdiecontest/

Talk to yall again soon!!!
Linda :)

Help the Indiesmiles Birdie Contest

2010-03-02T13:31:00.001-06:00

Hi Yall,
I wanted to tell yall about the Indiesmiles Birdie Contest! All you have to do is follow the link below, too see what it's all about! You will be on your way to possibly winning some wonderful prizes!

http://www.indiesmiles.com/birdiecontest/

Good Luck!!!
Linda :)

And The Winner Is.........

2010-03-01T23:12:00.000-06:00

And the winner of the contest is....drum roll please...Tell us already Kenzie!!! Kenzie picks Beaded Tail!!!
Yay for Beaded Tail!!!
She made so many comments that Kenzie had no problem picking her out to be the winner!
Congratulations Beaded Tail!!!

For those of you that want a special price along with giving to a pet charity, please convo me at http://Lindagj.Etsy.com
All the details are in the post before this one.
Good night yall....I got my computer back but I still am having some issues, so this has been a very long day.....
Yawn..Good Night....

COMPUTER CRASH!!!

2010-02-26T17:01:00.000-06:00

I'm at Office Depot using their computer that's driving me insane, but it offered the Penguin picture. My computer is in the hospital again.
Looks like my contest will have to go on until Sunday & I should be able to ANNOUNCE THE WINNER!!! So yall have more time to make comments and also announce this contest on your blog, etc.
THANKS FOR BEING PATIENT WITH ME!
SEE YALL MONDAY!!!
Linda

Picking out the Winner of my Contest!

2010-02-23T16:46:00.000-06:00

Hi yall,
Well, picking out the winner to my contest is approaching in the next couple of days. Since all of you like the Peanut on Canvas with the eisel, which normally costs 18.00 plus a shipping fee of 3.80, I can not bare those of you that really want that piece, and you not being the winner.
I have a plan...since I only have the one in stock right now, those of you that don't win it, I will make new ones for those of you that would want to buy a similiar piece, but a tad smaller for half the price, including shipping. The total would come out to be 10.00 and 2.00 each of that payment will go to Pet Smart for charity! If yall are interested please let me know before I pick a winner, and even if you are the winner please let me know because you don't know if you are the winner! The canvases that they would be on would be 2 3/4" tall and 2" wide instead of 2 3/4" by 2 3/4". The size of the heart and Cat and Love will be the same size, just on a bit smaller canvas. Also it would not come with an eisel, unless you want an eisel and that would be 4.00 more. I won't be making much of a profit as in all my pieces, but it would be worth it, especially to be able to give some money to an Animal Charity! So let me know if yall are interested!
Hope to hear from you all, whether you would want to purchase one at a very very low cost or not.
This last post about the contest is just one more way to add to your chance of winning, as I will be putting all the comments, including the ones that wrote more than one time, in a pile and have my kitty Kenzie pick out the winner. I'll probably be sprinkling some catnip on the pile as well!!!
Have a purrrrfectly wonderful day!!!

A Couple of Articles

2010-02-20T13:45:00.000-06:00

I just wrote an article called: The Wizard Behind Indiesmiles I would love for yall to go read it and please make a comment, it can be a short comment, but our columnists are having a contest to see how many comments we get! Plus it's fun reading! Here is the link to this article!
http://www.indiesmiles.com/the-wizard-behind-indiesmiles/#respond

Photo: courtesy of http://dnauqram4zil1.Etsy.com
I also just wrote an article for an amazing artist, Becky Brocato called It's Never too Late to Learn. Yall should definately enjoy this one with a background bio of a fabulous realistic watercolorist! She mainly paints with a Texan subject matter since she lives here in Houston! You will see a small slideshow and a link to her shop on Etsy.
Below is one of her pieces! This is the link to the article: http://www.indiesmiles.com/its-never-too-late-to-learn/#respond

I hope yall visit!!!
Happy Saturday to yall!
Linda :)

Announcements and Reminders!

2010-02-17T07:02:00.001-06:00

I just wanted to put out the word again about my contest! Please read my instructions carefully. I love that yall want one of my pieces, but in order to win, I need yall to follow the steps to have a chance! I may even have 3 winners if I get enough people to participate!
Yes, I've decided to have a contest and yall can have your choice of one of 3 of my pieces! All you have to do is:
1) Tell me which one you want & why.
2) Post my contest on your blog, facebook and twitter with my shop http://LindaGJ.Etsy.com. & let me know about it, so I can see it.
3)Tell me what item you like best in my shop and leave me a comment about why!
I will pick out your name with the best comments and published posts you make. You may comment more than once as well! I will have to have at least 10 people enter for anyone to win. I'll pick the winner on the 25th of February, which is an extended date!So far I am getting the favorite as Peanut Love on canvas as a fave. I can only give one as a prize but if you don't win, I will be willing to give those of you that have followed all the rules a Peanut like that at half the very low cost, because I can make more, yet none of them will be exactly alike as they are originals. I just had to add that because I am terrible at picking one winner if all of yall pick the same piece as a fave. I may have to put yall's names in a hat or have my kitty Kenzie pick the winner!
Good Luck!!!
Indiesmiles is having a give away, or let's say it's practically a give away!
ADVERTISE NOW!
Who said Advertising had to be expensive!
You can receive one week of 150×100 ad space for only $1.00 how exciting!!
HURRY! The weekly smiles will increase to $2.00 beginning March 1st!
These ad spots will rotate.
Would you like your shop to be noticed?
Start now!!
Go to this link!
http://www.indiesmiles.com/wp-content/plugins/oiopub-direct/purchase.php?do=link&zone=3

Well, I have more news about Indiesmiles and they are going to have a contest starting March 1st and they are giving away a bunch of prizes. Yall just have to write something that the little bird is saying. I have the link on the right side of my blog in the column that takes you to a facebook page and you will need to scroll down to see it. I am going to try to find out if it's on the actual website today so yall won't miss out on a fun contest! I'm handling all the donations and so far it's looking fabulous! I need more info about this contest but I do see where people have actually figured out a way to sign up! I am trying to figure out how they figured it out!!! If yall know, please let me know!:)
Hope yall have a fantastic day!
Linda :)

Happy Valentine's Day Yall!

2010-02-14T15:49:00.000-06:00

Http://Kellydinwiddiephotography.weebly.com/

Happy Valentine's Day!
Love, Me and my Valentine kitty, Kenzie!

A Warm Content Kenzie

2010-02-13T12:52:00.000-06:00

It's amazing how content my kitty Kenzie is while she is lying on the edge of the bed getting as close to the heater as she possibly can! Sorry I woke her up,but I had to capture this pose while I could.Ok, I woke her up even more, but that did not last as she went back to her la la land very quickly. Why is she not in her comfy bed and blanket you see in the background? She is risking falling off the bed to be by that space heater!
Yall stay warm as Kenzie is!
Linda :)
PS: Go to my Give Away Contest a couple of posts below this one!

Giving Honor to Peanut Jones & Loved Ones that Have Passed on

2010-02-12T13:29:00.000-06:00

Some of yall have not seen the real Peanut that lived to be 20 yrs. old. I thought yall may want to see what inspires me to continue to portray her in my artwork and so I'm showing a picture of her again. I got a wonderful letter from the father of my fiance,Anthony that passed on in 1989 from a drive by and I was with him. He was from England and I have been keeping in touch with his father since I was with Anthony, even after his mum passed 4 years ago. Anthony loved Peanut so much and I can remember very clearly how they would relate with one another. I guess, his father's, Chris, letter today that I just now read, brought on some memories that is forcing me to write this post. Memories are grand, and loved ones last forever.
Domino

Heaven is the real "Home" to me and you may call me nuts, but that is my spiritual way of thinking. I think they all watch over us and that we never lose our loved ones, including our friends. Valentine's Day is approaching and some of us are single, or have lost our loved ones, only to be a thought away, really. I may have mentioned this before, but loved ones include everyone we love on Valentine's Day. And if you are thinking of your loved ones in Heaven, they are included, because I truly believe that they never died....they are always, maybe not in a human body anymore, but thier spirits live on forever.
I started this post to say I am going to extend my contest longer until I get more than 10 entries and then I noticed that most people are favoring the "Peanut Love" on canvas, and as my mind drifts towards Anthony's father's letter I just now read....I just wrote down my thoughts. Maybe it's a message I'm suppose to mention to those that have lost loved ones to reassure that you never ever lose loved ones. I'm very sensitive to the spiritual world in that way. Maybe I needed to talk to someone about that feeling of loosing a loved one.
Whatever the case may be, I hope that some how I may have made someone feel better if you are feeling gloomy.
I want to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day! And to tell yall that I have extended my contest for another week, being on the 25th of February!!! Please check out my main post about the contest too as I have reworded it! You never know, I may have made new special deals!

I'm having a Contest!!!

2010-02-11T07:38:00.000-06:00

Please read my instructions carefully. I love that yall want one of my pieces, but in order to win, I need yall to follow the steps to have a chance! I may even have 3 winners if I get enough people to participate!
Yes, I've decided to have a contest and yall can have your choice of one of 3 of my pieces! All you have to do is:
1) Tell me which one you want & why.
2) Post my contest on your blog, facebook and twitter with my shop http://LindaGJ.Etsy.com. & let me know about it, so I can see it.
3)Tell me what item you like best in my shop and leave me a comment about why!
I will pick out your name with the best comments and published posts you make. You may comment more than once as well! I will have to have at least 10 people enter for anyone to win. I'll pick the winner on the 25th of February, which is an extended date!So far I am getting the favorite as Peanut Love on canvas as a fave. I can only give one as a prize but if you don't win, I will be willing to give those of you that have followed all the rules a Peanut like that at half the very low cost, because I can make more, yet none of them will be exactly alike as they are originals. I just had to add that because I am terrible at picking one winner if all of yall pick the same piece as a fave. I may have to put yall's names in a hat or have my kitty Kenzie pick the winner!
Good Luck!!!
Here are my choices:

Art Festival and New Items!

2010-02-09T11:54:00.001-06:00

Well, Whew!!! My last Art Festival this past Saturday at the First Saturday's Art Festival was great! Mitch, the owner teamed me up with a perfect buddy who does beautiful detailed painting and photos do not do her justice! The weather could not have been prettier either!

Now I would like to show yall some of my pieces although some of them were sold, I do plan on making some similiar to them. As yall know my work is all One of a Kind, so I never can repeat them exactly, except for the prints of course! I think yall will get a kick out of some of these pieces and I also show more views on my Etsy Website. The little one's on canvas also comes with an eisel, either black or natural. With what I spend on the canvas and eisel, I barely make anything on my labor, and people that are not artists do not understand that part! Oh well. You just do what you love to do no matter what!
I've already shown my Tuxedo Peanut at the top of this post. Now here are some of the other new pieces:

Well, as yall can see....I've been busy!!!

First Saturday Arts Market

2010-02-04T13:43:00.000-06:00

Here I go another time! YAY! It's time for the 1st Saturday's Art Market in the Heights just in time for Valentine's Day! The advertisement shows a background abstract by Jeane Urbani, and the Valentine Heart is by non other than Linda Hardy A.K.A. www.MamaPainter.Etsy.com! I'm so proud of her! You can go to www.FirstSaturdayArtsMarket.com to see who all will be there. There is an artists section as well as live music! Oh it's so much fun and in my favorite neighborhood!
I hope the weather is nice, because it's been cloudy, cold, and rainy here lately. If the weather is sunny and nice maybe people will be in the mood to get out and go spend their money for their sweethearts, friends, family, and for themselves!!!
Talk to yall soon!
Linda :)

Twins making a difference for the Haiti Tragedy

2010-01-30T19:58:00.000-06:00

Although I have been too busy to blog, because I'm getting ready for an Art Festival next weekend, I did find time to write a little article on these amazing 7 year old twins who came up with a darling way to help the Haiti tragedy. I would love for yall to please go visit and make comments as well at: http://www.indiesmiles.com/happy-hearts-for-haiti/#respond
You will also find out more details about their sponsor who is a company that organizes fabulous creative happenings at your location! I sure wish there was a place like that here in Houston. Maybe there is and I just don't know about it.

www.Indiesmiles.com is growing so much! There are several articles on the home page from different columnists. It's kinda like reading a magazine with all kinds of how to dos, Artist's tips, and special artist's bios! Along with that you can buy advertisement at a very low cost, and the traffic is growing so much. I hope to see yall there with your comments, ads, or just enjoy reading a lot of fun articles! You can go to the columnist's page as well and click on the name of each columnist as they are shown in slow motion on a slide video. You will be able to read their bios, and also read each of their articles by clicking on their titles!

Hope yall are having a good year and getting ready for Valentines Day!!!
Don't yall just love Valentine's Day? Even if you are single, buy something for yourself. I always have done that, although I do have a boyfriend now, I've spent many a Valentine Day single. It's all about the love of your family (which I include house pets to be part of the family as well), friends, and yourself!

Very Early Wednesday Morning

2010-01-20T00:54:00.000-06:00

First of all I'd like to start off my saying that I have another article up about an artist that I adore. I am like her groupie and own a lot of her work, she gave me a lot and I bought several when she had a really good sale. She is so talented and so down to earth. She made that Gold Heart that you see above. But I also made a slide show with her work wit the article. I've mentioned her before in this blog. She is one of the gals that is helping out with the Etsy shop "Hearts for Haiti" and my Jack Russell that I donated, came to her when she posted it! Small world. I also donated a Package deal of notecards, print and flat magnet all of your choice. Anyway, I would love for yall to read about her as well as the article that is still on the same page at the bottom about Ruth. Yall see her link on the side of my page here on the right with the watercolors. Ruth painted that! I am thinking that maybe people aren't able to find the comment section, because I just got home from my Artisan of Houston mini team meeting and they all told me that they couldn't find where to put their comments. I told them it was at the very bottom of the article and even below the videos that I usually put up, and it says (Comments) in very tiny letters above the ariticle below it on the right side of the top of the next article below. A lot of you artists in mixed media and collage art know Linda(Mamapainter) so I do hope yall see this.
Also, I am having a very difficult time getting my life together. Sigh. I finally finished my last project from last year and finally got up the energy to start going through my tons of paper work and also aiming to also organize my art supplies better where I have no place to put them in this apartment... I am hoping to squeeze some shelves in at some point, but anyway, I get an e-mail from this girl that the owner of my favorite Art Fest in the world found for me to share with so we could split the cost, because I can't afford to rent a booth by myself. Well, this was the fest I was dying to do! I was really feeling depressed that I couldn't do it this year. Linda(MamaPainter) was going to be there too! So I had my head just geared to organize, which is terribly needed, and now I get to do the festival, which is good, but also I haven't worked on any new projects after the Holiday rush, and now I need to produce art work again before Feb 6. And I just got several commissions to make a variety of dogs, that are the hardest things for me to make, especially if they are dogs I do not know! So here we go again, a hurricane of art work needs to be done and fast! As my mess got a small portion organized today, here I am, about to mess up with my art work again on top of the unfinished "putting everything back in it's place" art supplies! And as of now my art supply places are tupperware bins. It is a total mess like a tornado hit it, and I am a mess, and I feel kinda sick about it because I have to be in it everyday and this now will be prolonged.........Have yall ever had times like this? When you just couldn't seem to catch up, and then you are about to get started catching up and then more work is to be done all of a sudden?

Sigh.................

Well...I am now going to go cuddle with my kitty and think about it tomorrow as Scarlet on "Gone With the Wind" would say....For tomorrow will be another day.....

A lot of New News! Read all about it!

2010-01-16T12:05:00.000-06:00

Hi Yall on Saturday!
I have several things to write about and one of them is, I am going to enjoy part of my day visiting yall's blogs and make comments! Yay!!! I'm so excited!
Kenzie is happy about that too because she can lay in my lap and watch the computer screen. Have any of your cats or house pets ever done that? The other day I was watching a short video in an e-mail a friend sent to me and Kenzie was in my lap and she was watching it very intensely because the sound was on and she was listening as well as watching, then she looked up at the speaker and then at the man talking and then she looked back at me and said quietly "Meow?" and then she looked up on the screen again, then smelled it and then patted it with her paw and then she shouted "MEEEOOOOWWWW!!!!!" and flew out of my lap! Well, of course I don't have a video of that, but it was so funny and she continues to jump on my lap to snuggle & watch the computer. Right now though she is laying on her grayish blanket that Peggy made, which is on my small couch in this room I am in.

Talking about Peggy and her blankets, well, Kenzie continues to hog both of my blankets that Peggy made and one of them is mine really, because it's really a shawl and is on my bed....above is a picture of her, I kindly wrapped it around her to help her be warm and cozy.
Hey, here's a game for yall!
Find the kitty in this picture!

I have more news about Peggy from Peggy's Place! Did yall know that she is quite the artist, yet she won't admit it! Here are 2 things she sent to me that she made! They are so fabulous too! I was attracted to these bright orange flowers that I just had to buy to put in this gorgeous vase she made!

And from time to time, I will probably change around the flowers. She suggested lilies and I think these are lilies, but they are a bright orange that looks perfect in my living room, yet next time I'm at Hobby Lobby or Michaels, where ever, I may just pick me up some white lilies. I LOVE her vase!!!! I desperately needed a vase, and who knew, it was magical.....Peggy somehow knew. I hope yall visited the article I wrote about cat blogs and if you haven't, yall must! You can find all my links on the right side of this page and each one I've got posted has a link to the particular article. I had to take out the music of the 2nd and 3rd darling cat bloggers videos,amongst others, having to do with some technical issues, but Peggy's music that she chose is still there, at least I hope so!

Now here is another treat Peggy made and sent to me! I have one of these as I think they are so beautiful, but the jeweler that made them bought it already made and she made a necklace I bought from her. They are made out of Dichroic Glass Beads and are very difficult to make as well. Peggy took a class and made this one, which is and I will defiantly proudly wear it, because I absolutely love to wear jewelry and this is one of my many tastes in jewelry wear and especially handmade!:

I adore the little pink bag it came in too. I collect them and they are displayed in my special place in my big bathroom along with my special jewelry, where, of course, Peggy's Necklace hangs.
Thank you so much Peggy! I will cherish your pieces forever!

Next on my list of things to tell yall is, I have a new article on Indiesmiles. You can also find the link on the right side of my page and it's about one of my favorite artists. She is so interesting along with being overly talented. I own one of her pieces I have mentioned before in older posts:

I have a personal meaning for loving that piece so much, but yall will have to go see the article I wrote about her and learn who she is that inspires her to do her wonderful art. You can go to this link: www.indiesmiles.com since it's on the home page right now, or just click on the picture on the top right under my followers to take you there. The comments will be there so please make a comment. They are so important to me, and who knows, someday I may approach one of yall to do an article about as well!

And on my last news, which is very disturbing to me is, someone here in Houston has stolen my identity. I got a letter from the electric company that I was a co-signer of a customer that had an outstanding bill of 400.00 and that would be applied to my next phone bill. It gave their address and Electricity account number. I was mortified and had a feeling I had been raped, which I have been ages ago, so I can say that. I called the Electric company and told them the story, and so far nothing has been changed but that they were going to be doing an investigation. I will know what happens in a matter of 5 to 10 days. I am not paying that bill what so ever, if I have to go to court or take a lie detector test, this person will not get my money, or rather, the electricity people won't get my money. Since I am innocent, let's see if the system works. Now why would I co-sign when I don't even have a credit card and I'm on disability? Good Grief!!!

On that note:
I am now going to take a wonderful journey into yall's blog worlds!
Have a wonderful Saturday to all of yall!
I know I will!
Linda :)

New Cat Lover I Found!

2010-01-14T13:38:00.000-06:00

Yes, I am very busy still...it never seems to end! But I wanted to share a photographer to yall that has also done so much for the Beaver County Humane Society and she makes the most beautiful animal and nature cards you can see on her website!
Her name is Kelly and she is a treasure, especially for us animal lovers as well as her nature photo cards are awesome! I have just written an article about her on www.Indiesmiles.com
You can also take a look at my articles on the right side to click on to get to hers! Please, any comments on the Indiesmiles Kelly article would be so much appreciated! I have already ordered 8 of her beautiful cards and she even sent me a Xmas photo card, that I can't seem to put away, along with the some of the others I have gotten from some of yall!
Will there ever be a slow motion day, where I can sit back and visit yall's blogs?
Oh how I wish!!! Maybe I'll do that today, but I have 2 articles I'm doing now...my list of chores goes on and on.
I love yall!
Linda :)

Computer Virus Victim

2010-01-08T17:00:00.000-06:00

Hi Yall,
Well, "The Computer Crash Virus Dragon" got to my computer! It took over my entire computer and I did not have access to it, even after trying to restore it several times. It wouldn't even let me get to my Documents or Pictures to try to save them. Thank goodness for the pics I have here on my Blog, Flickr, and Etsy. I had to take my PC into Office Depot and spent 150.00 and now I have it back. It still is working very slow, which I don't understand that part and that was my Christmas money all spent because of this %$%^^&&&**^$e#@#$#$%% VIRUS!!!!!

Breath, Calm Down, Visual a Beautiful Image......Happy Thoughts....
..............OK.
I found these pictures in a file that was already in my computer....hmmmm...
I wonder if the manufacturers put that file of pictures in there just for calming us "Virus Victims".
So a New Year and a whole new computer all clean, and I've got to retake pics, etc. Yall must know the drill.
:) Happy thoughts!.....

I'll be back in touch once things get back into order.
I still need to download things to my computer.
Arg.....Happy thoughts!....

By the way, if you are wanting to check out an article I've written for Indiesmiles, some of them are down now because I have to take out the music. It will all get fixed, and my many projects will get done, including taking down my Christmas decor, which is a sad part for me to do. But all in all, things could be worse and I thank God everyday for what I have.
No head down, just Happy Thoughts Yall!!!
Talk to you soon and thanks to yall that have been commenting on my posts! I'll get back to everybody again, and everything will be running smoothly!
Happy Thoughts for all of yall too!
I can't wait to have the time to check out your blogs again!!! All of you are very important to me, so if you think I'm lame for not leaving posts on your blogs, not to worry!!! I just have been way too busy, I have not left yall at all! Just having some set backs here in my little world in Houston.
BTW, Kenzie says hi!
Linda :)

Happy New Year!!!

2009-12-31T18:24:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited about the New Year because tonight a spectacular Fireworks will be displayed here in Houston, but of course I'll be watching it on tv. It was fabulous last year with every firework display choreographed and such a futuristic display with fabulous music for each display. I can't explain it, but I was very impressed.

Also I wanted to say to remember to eat your blackeyed peas and cabbage for good luck and money! I'll be fixing my peas with cornbread, and will try a new recipe for the cabbabe, with frying it all in olive oil. It will also have scallon onions and Turkey bacon. I don't eat red meat. Are yall going to stay up until midnight? I sure am going to try.

Also I wanted to tell yall that a new beautiful Christmasy video and article is up on www.Indiesmiles.com. Yall can go the the website because it's on the front page. It's really beautiful and I have it with an gorgeous Elvis song to boot! I hope yall will visit and make comments too! I love getting comments!

My Xmas money gift went to the cutest most awesome hat and scarf from
"Http://Stitches by Julie.Etsy.com! Yall must go check out her gorgeous items. The one I got is so unique!

Isn't it gorgeous!!! The scarf is to die for it' so unique and so cool! A wonderful affordable purchase! I Love it!

Kenzie and I wish yall the best New Year Ever!!!

Kenzie and my Tree!

2009-12-26T01:04:00.000-06:00

Kenzie and I want to show yall our tree!

Now isn't that a beautiful tree?

And Kenzie is being such a good girl posing! Do yall think she knows she is getting her picture taken? I truly think she does!!!
Hope yall are having the best Christmas ever and now we are all are looking forward to an even Better New Year!!!

The Cat Blog Article!!!

2009-12-22T19:22:00.000-06:00

Hi all you kittie lovers! My cat blog article is up now at http://www.Indiesmiles.com/
It's kinda confusing,but yall will know what to do if you read everything on the 1st page after you click on "read more" There are 3 videos, and I left a comment on it to explain some things. I hope yall will visit and leave a comment!

The 3 bloggers are: Peggy's Place, http;//asti009.blogspot.com/ I hope I got that right, but there is a higlighted link in the article. Yall will find it.

Then there is: http://glogirly.blogspot.com

And last but not least House of Cats, Http://House of Cats-Amy.blogspot.com

It's a little bit difficult to find some things, so if yall have any questions, just write me a comment!

I sure had a blast making this article & fell in love with each kitty that is portrayed. They are all so cute with their very own personality.

The article will only be up until Christmas, I believe, so hurry before it's taken off the main Home page, but it will always be there if you go to columnists and click on the articles I've written.

Also there is a rule that you have to also include an artist's shop as well, so since my shop has a lot of kitties, I just used mine for this one. It was a last minute rule & seemed appropriate!

Linda :)

Saturday's Art Festival!

2009-12-10T06:19:00.000-06:00

Well, I'm still scurrying around trying to catch up on things. Hey my Christmas tree is up and so are my lights, but I still have to decorate everything. There are still some fun projects to work on, some of my Christmas cards are mailed, I am still working on the Cat Blog. I had done a lot of work on that and then started over again so I could play some music on the videos. There is one kinda long video and the song plays a few times(they only allow 1 song) and 2 shorter videos covering all 3 different cat blogs, but many cats, including my cat Kenzie showing off Peggy's blankets from http://peggyskittyblankies.blogspot.com/2009/11/kitty-blankets-available-now.html
I have worked with Photostory and you can play as many songs as you want and also get your music from I Tunes or your own music, but I am finding it very difficult to find any of these kind of story slide shows you can use that will give you an URL. Oh well, you do the best with what you have I suppose!
I wanted to show yall a few pics from the 1st Saturday Art Market that I did with Ginnie again. It was freezing that day, but everyone was so festive with their decorations and carolers. Some Hot Apple Cider and cookies, a couple of great musicians. I think everyone had a great time! Even the animals that were there had fun! But boy was my fibro raring up! I felt like the tin man in the Wizard of Oz that needed to be oiled. The fun distracted me, but to tell yall the truth, I really didn't feel so good physically.
Here are just a very few pics of our tent!

Below is a wonderful display of Ginnie's jewelry work!

One of Many of our visitors below:

Ok, this doesn't have anything to do with anything, except to talk about the cold weather here, well at least it's cold for us!...Below is Kenzie on the very edge of the bed trying to get as close to the heater as she can. One move and off the bed she will go! But she is holding on for dear life! :) At this very moment she is in my lap. I guess I'm the warmest thing in my apartment! Eventually she will be cuddling inside one of Peggy's blankets.

I will try to post again sometime soon, but for now I'm off to working on the Cat blog article. I still am looking forward to settling down and relaxing and visiting yall's blogs again! I think we all are very busy at this time of year though, right?
Have a fabulous day!
Linda :)

The MAGICAL HOLIDAY ARTISTS' GIVEAWAY!

2009-12-03T12:53:00.000-06:00

The Magical Holiday Artists group is having a fabulous Giveaway contest!
Yall must go check it out by following this link! I'm a member of this group also! :)
http://magicalholidayartists.blogspot.com/2009/12/some-sweet-christmas-treats-giveaway.html
The Best of Luck to everybody!
Linda :)

Art Festival I'll be in This Saturday!!!

2009-11-30T19:16:00.000-06:00

Two Contests at Indiesmiles and Cat Article Ends Today at Midnight!

2009-11-30T10:12:00.000-06:00

ADD A C A P T I O N……
and you could win a basket full of handmade goodies!

http://www.indiesmiles.com/shoppers-cartoon-contest/
Follow this link to enter these contests to win a bunch of goodies!!! You will see all of the prizes on the page you go to including this contest below!!!

Shopper’s Cartoon Contest!
Choose a cartoon, either #1 or #2 and write a caption for your submission.

Attention Cat Bloggers!!! This is the last day of entering your kitties to my Cat Article I will be writing!!! Please scroll down my blog page to see all the details!!!

New Article about Meghann

2009-11-24T15:23:00.000-06:00

www.Indiesmiles.com has just put up my article about Meghann aka Fibro Diaries, Little Studio Photography and Jewellry, and LittleStudioJewels.Etsy.com
I started the interview with Meghann about herself and then started the article about Fibromyalgia. Please go to www.Indiesmiles.com to see and read and also make comments! It's a way to get to know Meghann better as well as getting to know about Fibro and how it affects people's lives.
Thank yall so much!

I also wanted to remind yall Cat Bloggers that I am still going to write an article about yall, so scroll down my blog to see my post about that!

And here are pieces I'd like to share with yall that I just finished! More info about them are in my shop at http://LindaGJ.Etsy.com

HAPPY DACHSHUND

GREEN TRIMMED HOUSE

PEACE BUTTERFLY

JOY BUTTERFLY

My New Brown House

2009-11-20T09:00:00.000-06:00

Here is a picture of my new brown trimmed house, that is similiar to my pink house I already made. I am finishing up the green trimmed house and then on to other projects. I have sold a lot of my butterflies, so I am going to make some more of those too, and have many more ideas that just keep coming. I also sold some older pieces, like my cats, angel ballerinas, cards, flat magnets, dogs, and fish. I continue to make more and more of those as they sell fast. Yet I sure am happy to have my newer style of artwork to do and have sold a few of those too. None of my work ever looks exactly the same, but if people like certain things I do, I will try to make more. The collage/mixed media work is more difficult to reproduce. I'm afraid December's fest may be the last one I do, as I can't afford to do it alone and most of my booth buddies are very burnt out now. So the December fest is an important one!

I am about to go revise my post about the cat article because some of yall are confused so please remember to visit that post again! I really look forward to hearing from yall so much!

The Texas Renaissance Festival

2009-11-19T08:41:00.000-06:00

Hi Yall! I need comments on my new article!
It's about the Texas Renaissance Festival and it just went up on www.Indiesmiles.com!
Please visit there and the article, as of now is on the 1st page...scroll down a bit and click on "read more" and you will see the slide video show that I had so much fun making. I would love for yall to keep scrolling down and fill out the form to leave a comment too, as long as it's positive of course! :)
Thank yall so much!!!
Linda :)

PS: And to those of you that have cat blogs, please read the post I wrote before this one! Your cats and dogs too can have an article written about them in the article I plan to write about Cat Blogs!!!
These articles don't stay on the front page but for a couple of days, but then they are always found in the website, so you can always look them up! I will continue to keep adding the symbol on the right side of my blog screen too, so yall can click on those to see them. The cat blog will be the 5th one down or so. I still have another article waiting to be published, which I'm not telling about until it's published! :) Then the Cat Blog will be out in December and I'll let yall know! Just keep following or check back and scroll down to you get to the post that announces it!

Attention Cat Bloggers!!!

2009-11-18T08:35:00.000-06:00

I am going to write my next article for www.Indiesmiles.com on all the cat bloggers I follow, and I would love for you all to participate, even if I don't follow you as I know there are so many more I don't know about and would love to! I have to turn it in by the beginning of December! This way you will get more traffic and some of you give so much to cat charities,I know Peggy with her beautiful rugs, etc. & all of you that entertain me, for one! with yall's darling pictures and comments about them. I hope this will be a way to help the kitties. All you have to do is send me a convo at: http://LindaGJ.Etsy.com with what you would like me to say about you, brag away as I will be the one that is narrating the story, give me your blogsite address and shop site, if you have one, and at least one of your most darling pictures of EACH of your cats, with thier names as well, of course. You may then take this award I have put up and post it on your blog! I will be putting all the pics I receive in video form with their names and yall's blogsites too, if you approve! This is a mission for yall but mainly for our loved ones we adore so much and that bring so much to our lives. I truly hope this will be easy enough and not take too much of your time. Once 2 of my articles that are still waiting to be published go up, this one will go up hopefully in December and I would truly love a big turn out! After the article is up, I will post about it and I'm only allowed to lead people to it, rather than copy the whole thing on my blog and yall may do the same. A great opportunity for our felines. Oh, the deadline is November 30th midnight!
Happy Thanksgiving and
Purrs to everybody!
Linda & Kenzie....(my little fur ball).

PS. Some of yall are confused with what convo means. I didn't know either until I had a shop in Etsy, but it's a term they use for contact me. If yall go to that link http://LindaGJ.Etsy.com, yall may have to register for free and then you can leave me a comment. Yall can also leave 3 photos, and if you need more room, just send me another convo! If all is too confusing, after yall convo me, I can send yall my e-mail address. Just keeping it on the safe side! Oh, and if you participate, don't forget to grab the award I made!!!

Artisans of Houston Art Festival

2009-11-15T13:11:00.000-06:00

I just finished the very first Festival of my mini team Artisans of Houston, and it just so happened to be held at the church I went to when I was a baby until I was around 11! I was even Babtized, well Christianed, there! It surely didn't look the same to me as it did when I was a kid! I remember it being so much bigger!!! :) It was a beautiful day, kinda slow, and none of us really made much money, but I did some wonderful trades and did make enough money to be happy with! By then, I was extremely exhausted. You can tell it in my face. But to share a small gym with all these extremely talented artisans, I had a blast! It was as if our little family was having a great big party to celebrate our friendship and talents! I can not tell you of one person that did not shine at the show more than another. I only got some pictures of my little section and the church, and now I wish I would have been able to have had the time to have taken more pictures of everybody else. You get so busy at these festivals, and usually you are so very tired, and when you walk around you just want to look at the other people's work and blab!

I also ended up trading and discounts with a gorgeous dark brown bag purse from Http://akatdesigns.Etsy.com The picture does not do it justice though. It's a gorgeous dark brown with a black and white checkers fabric in the inside. Yall must gp visit her shop! She has a sweater I want so bad, but a bit bigger, maybe a different color, but I LOVE it!!! It's the pink one.

I had to have these earrings too! They look like wood but are actually a bead! Gorgeous. I wish I could send yall a site to see all of her gorgeous work but she doesn't havg a shop! Her name is Andi though.

Now how cute is this winter hat?!?! I love wearing it, I get so many compliments as well and I feel like a Who from Whoville in the "Grinch that Stole Christmas" and it makes me feel like I have a long ponytail. I am so into hats! I did get her card but it appears that she doesn't have a shop to send yall too, unfortunately.

I fell in love with this little guy below! The girl that made it has an Etsy site that yall must go visit! Http://VMGCeramics.Etsy.com

Both of the below pieces are last but not least!!! I got these from http://CottonEyedJo.Etsy.com Aren't they cute?

Well,now I have a few weeks off, yet with many more projects to make, but at least I can relax a bit now.
Hope yall have a fabulous week!!!
Linda :)

In the Houston Chronicle!

2009-11-13T01:56:00.000-06:00

Here's a blip of an article about me at the First Saturday's Art Market I was in this past Saturday! My moment of fame! :)

Let's discuss: ARTS MARKET: Artist Linda Gay Jones of Visual Smiles
Nov 12 2009 6:18PM
Thomas Nguyen / For the Chronicle
ARTS MARKET: Artist Linda Gay Jones of Visual Smiles Gallery shows off her papier-mache fish creations for sale at the First Saturday Arts Market Holiday shopping at 548 W. 19th Street.

Artisans of Houston in the local Newspaper!

2009-11-10T08:28:00.000-06:00

The Artisans of Houston ad for our Festival this Saturday made it to the Houston Chronicle newspaper! Please go to www.Chron.com and click on Entertainment! Scroll slowly down looking at the right side of the page and you will see it! Click on the picture to enlarge it!!!
I'll be sure to get some pictures of our fest to show yall next week. Now I need to make more items this week! I told yall this was a very busy time of year for me! Just as long as my body keeps up. To tell yall the truth, I'm feeling kind of exhausted, but it's not too bad. I do these festivals mainly because they are so much fun!
Have a wonderful week!
Linda :)

First Satuday Arts Market

2009-11-08T11:24:00.000-06:00

Well, I had a great time at the First Sat. Art's Market yesterday with my jewelry artist friend, Ginnie....I'd put her shop name in, but she doesn't have a shop yet. I'm wearing her gorgeous Necklace that I own! and her earrings that you probably can't see.

We did ok, but it was slow, yet a beautiful day, just perfect and I was so happy to be out. My boyfriend stayed all day too. Boy was I exhausted when I got home, I started to fall asleep when I was eating dinner. That's what happens when you are working all the time with my fibro condition. I know I've overdone it, but that is the only way to get things done! I have another Festival, which I talked about too much, I suppose, with the Artisans of Houston next Saturday! How cute is that kitty praying though? :) I wanted to show yall a few pics of Ginnie and I that Rick(my boyfriend) took of us and our display.
I still have tons to do for next week's festival along with a huge Etsy order, and I hope I can get pictures for my next fest too to show yall!
Thank yall so much for those of yall that commented on my Artisans of Houston article on www://Indiesmiles.com & if you still want to comment, it is still there but it is one the write corner of the page on top of the row where yall can scroll down.
Hope yall have a wonderful lazy Sunday!
Linda :)

Please Leave Comments!!!

2009-11-07T07:21:00.000-06:00

On my article below, if you visit, please leave comments to help my article stand out more, if you get the chance that is!!!! People are visiting, which I truly appreciate but I need comments. You never know, I may be writing about one or some of yall someday! I wnat my articles to be noticed. Also, if you are an artist, please add an add if you want to. It's only 1.00 a week! Meghann just did! I'll be writing about her as soon as I finish my Texas Renaissnance one. I want to eventually write about a lot of yall. I was even thinking of a kitty theme, and dogs if yall have them, of the ones I follow. Wouldnt that be fun? Here's the link: www.Indiesmiles.com
Thank yall so very much,
Now off to do the Heights festival today!
Hope yall have a beautiful day!!!
Linda :)

Artisans of Houston Article

2009-11-06T12:15:00.000-06:00

Hi Yall!
I just wrote another article for www.IndieSmiles.com! It's about the "Artisans of Houston" who I am a member of. It's on the main page now, but if yall wait later on, it will be in the column, most likely will end up in a row on the left side of the page with vertical arrows. I just wanted yall to see it and please make comments if you'd like to! I think there are thumbs down and up for it as well. I've got a couple of adds running on top of the page, and they are only $1.00 a week! I think that may be why I've been making a lot of sales lately. Who knows? Please feel free to share this site with anyone you know that loves to read unique articles and if they are looking for inexpensive ad space. This site is growing!
My other article is the one about "Magical Holiday Artists" I will be making my next one on the Texas Renaissance Festival!
Remember to click on the little video box at the bottom to see it enlarged! Enjoy the eye candy!
Thanks yall!
Linda

New Award Given to me Twice!

2009-11-05T09:01:00.000-06:00

I already have this award, but since Sarah gave me another one, why not have 2? I adore all Sarah's blogs, one being Cottage Garden Studio but she also has a photo blog and I'm a proud member of her Magical Holiday Artists blog! I even wrote about it on www.Indies.com You'll have to scroll down there on the Home page at the top left where all the articles are stored! Her art work and blogs are all fabulous!!! And so is she!!! I even won a couple of her art illustration prints that are displayed always, but look great with my Halloween Pumpkin Patch display. You can scroll down my blog to see it!
Here are my answers which are required with this reward!!! I'm sure some have changed since we all change daily, don't yall think so?

1. Where is your cell phone? Just lost one, so just bought an upgrade yesterday,so it shouid be in my purse!
2. Your hair? Red
3. Your mother? Fiesty and loved very much, I was adopted!
4. Your father? Funny and also loved very much, also adopted! I wouldn't trade my adopted parents for anybody!
5. Your favorite food? Pizza and Pizza
6. Your dream last night? About all the art work I need to get finished!
7. Your favorite drink? Starbucks Coffee Frappachinos....YUM!
8. Your dream/goal? Happiness, To have more people be exposed to my art work, celebrating & promoting other artists,collecting other art work, Spiritual growth.
9. What room are you in? A very messy but workin' in progress Studio room.
10. Your hobby? arts, crafts, traveling, creating and promoting other artists.
11. Your fear? Anyone getting hurt or passing away, especially those I love.
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? successful & spiritually grown.
13. Where were you last night? Home
14. Something that you aren't? lazy
15. Muffins? apple
16. Wish list item? Being able to do a million things at once! :)
17. Where did you grow up? Houston, TX
18. Last thing you did? Trying to finish a few pieces for the festival this Saturday.
19. What are you wearing? Robe and Pajama bottoms.
20. Your TV? Lost, Brothers and Sisters, Desperate Housewives, Project Runway
21. Your pets? My darling white kitty, Kenzie.
22. Friends? Many and very loved.
23. Your life? Happy and busy.
24. Your mood? Motivated and Happy...a bit exhausted.
25. Missing someone? Oh yes...many.
26. Vehicle? Red Cherokee Jeep
27. Something you're not wearing? Something sexy!!! :)
28. Your favorite store? Hobby Lobby
29. Your favorite color? greens and browns, but love all depending on the shade.
30. When was the last time you laughed? This morning
31. Last time you cried? hmmmm....watching a movie last night.
32. Your best friend? Sharon
33. One place that I go to over and over? My Studio in my condo.
34. One person who emails me regularly? Sharon
35. Favorite place to eat? Still Luby's because I have a choice depending on what mood I'm in.

Next, I have to pass this award on to six other bloggers.
This is too difficult to do! I hate this part because ther are so many I follow and admire. I have to say, whoever reads this deserves this award!!! So please feel free! It sure is a cute award too!

First Saturday Art Market

2009-11-03T18:44:00.000-06:00

Saturday, November 7th from 11am - 6pm
Next weeks market artists are up on the website too!
www.FirstSaturdayArtsMarket.com

This is the Art Festival that I'll be in this Saturday! I have been swamped with work yall! But I had to take the time to post this! The video below show's a lot of art that will be there and after the words, "Whimsical Art too" yall can see my Jack Russell. But if you blink you'll miss it! :) The song on the video, will also be part of the entertainment! If only I could have gotten a few more pieces finished! Oh well, next time!

I miss the time spent with yall's posts but this is a crazy time of year!
Wonderful thoughts to yall!
Linda :)

Design Challenge

2009-10-26T10:32:00.000-05:00

Shame on me, but I just entered my Gothic Fairy on the Etsy Team Crafter's Design Challenge. I need all the help and support I can get! If yall get the chance, could yall vote for my Gothic Fairy?
Thanks yall a million!
Linda :)
http://etsytx.ning.com/page/october-design-challenge-day

Talking Cats!!!

2009-10-24T15:15:00.000-05:00

Maybe yall have seen this before, and I've watched it a million times, but I still wanted to share it with yall. The last cat has subtitles as to what he is saying and I think he must be talking to a dog!
Enjoy!
And have a great weekend!
Linda :)

Kenzie & I Found another Contest!!!

2009-10-23T18:44:00.000-05:00

Hi yall,Kenzie and I found a new contest! This one is for www.Indiesmiles.com
Yall could win a 20.00 add for free! Here's the link: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6325392&page=1
I wish yall the very best of luck!!!
Linda:)

Laser eyes and a Question

2009-10-22T08:49:00.000-05:00

Kenzie spooky laser eyes for what she must have seen on my Halloween Pumpkin Patch below this one. She should be included in my Pumpkin Patch. Don't yall think so? :)

What is the best place to make a video slide show and how do I upload it on my site and others. I can't seem to get my URL's to work on my blog, only add pics on my left side column. What am I doing wrong?
Thank you!
Linda :)

My Halloween Pumpkin Patch!

2009-10-19T21:46:00.000-05:00

Check out my darling Witch doll named Prudence! She was made by Chris Thompson and she even made me the apple and pumpkin.Also a cinnamon roll that I thought was real, but it is used to give off a wonderful cinnamon scent that is so yummy smelling! Her main shop is: www.primcountryfarms.com and she has fabulous items that yall must go check out!!!

The framed pictures you see are prizes I won in a contest on thier blogs! The left one in a glass frame was from: www.RonByrum.com
And the last 2 were from: Sarah Sullivan: Cottage Garden Studio, but I think her URL to her blog is: (http://rowenleaf.blogspot.com/ & of http://Cottage Studio.Etsy.com

I sure am in the Halloween Spirit!
Can yall tell?
I am anxious to look at all of yall's blogs and make comments, but I've been so busy. I will try to get to them tomorrow!
Linda :)

Indiesmiles!!!

2009-10-18T11:35:00.000-05:00

I just wrote an article on http://indiesmiles.com
This one's theme is Halloween and I had such a difficult time just picking out 15 artist's pictures to show! I took them all from http://MagicalHolidayArtists.blogspot.com that Sarah Sullivan just started! It's such a wonderful site and the people are all so friendly and talented. I joined her site as well! I hope yall go check both of them out!
The idie's article is on the front page and is in a slide format so make sure you see all the slides and start from the beginning! The links should all be corrected now, so if you click on each one of them they will take you to the artists that are shown' sites.
I also must say that Indiesmiles is a great place to promote. Sue, the owner is such a fabulous lady and her ads are really inexpensive to put up an add and as time goes on she is getting more and more exposure! I have my Visual Smiles Gallery add up there at the top and the adds up there only cost 1 dollar a week and to get to those sites you just have to click on the adds!
I had so much fun doing this article that I will be doing more.
I also have to show off a darling witch I got from MaqicalHolidayArtists, btw, but that will have to wait until the next post!
Oh, it's a gorgeous day here in Houston!
Hope yall have one too!
Linda :)

Halloween Contest I Found!!!

2009-10-16T18:26:00.000-05:00

I found a fun give away contest I wanted to shsre with yall! The link is: http://sophismpress.blogspot.com/2009/10/headless-halloween-party-n-giveaway.html

To get your hands on these treats, see below. Don’t forget to leave a separate comment for each entry.
1 Entry – Leave a comment on this post
1 Entry - Follow this blog
1 Entry - Follow Mich’s blog
1 Entry – Visit one of Mich’s Stores, either Mich Vanetta or Koot and leave a comment with a link to your favourite item
3 Entries - Blog, tweet, facebook this giveaway and leave a link. Getting the word out gets you 3 entires! Go ahead and leave three comments. You can do this as many times as you want.
This giveaway is open worldwide and the winner will be chosen by random number generator on October 24th at 11pm etsy time.

My new Pink House!

2009-10-16T10:35:00.000-05:00

My friend, Linda Hardy(Mamapainter.Etsy.com & When one door closes another Door Opens.blogspot) gave me 6 house shaped paper mache boxes to work on. They are
6" x 8" in dimension. I wanted to make a take off on my larger house and started with pink, black and white! I want to do more colors if yall think I should, same theme but different colors. So here it is! Maybe not everybodies tastes, but what suggestions on the colors I should use and if you like the subject matter? I'm thinking of the distressed turq color I made on the bigger piece next.
Any ideas would be so appreciated!
Thanks and hope yall are are having a wonderful day! It's in the 70's here after in the 90's yesterday!
I adore this weather right now!
Linda :)

Ruth Rhadcliffe

2009-10-14T10:03:00.000-05:00

This outstanding photo was taken from Ruth Rhadcliffe, one of my very favorite artists & I own one of her watercolor prints that hangs proudly on my wall. Here is what she said about this photograph she took: "One of my favorite Halloween shots. And I carved them all. My first date with my husband was on Halloween. He wasn't sure he was getting a trick or a treat. I think he is still wondering about that." I have told yall about Ruth before, but this photo of her's caught my eye as I had never seen it before and it was just posted on her blog! Yall should definately go see my favorites of her Etsy shops which are: http://rhadcliffedesigns.Etsy.com and Elephantdreams.Etsy.com! You will not be disappointed at all!

Thanks to Sherry from http://byrumart.blogspot.com/ for this fun award!!!
Yall must go check out her fabulous blog!

Here's
what you are suppost to do:
Post the award to your blog.

Nominate 10 blogs you love. (It's hard to pick just 10 and I know not all of
you have the time to do this)
Link them to your blog include the person who gave you the award.
Let them know they got the award.
Sharing the love here is my 10:

Well, that is what you are suppose to do. I surely tried to pick out 10, then I thought, hmmmm....I love all the blogs I follow equally in a different way, so I am giving it to all of yall that I follow! This may sound like a cop out, but it really is the way I feel. Every blog I follow brings something into my life that is special in my heart! Thanks to all you bloggers, you know who you are!

And thanks again to Sherry!

A Great Opportunity!

2009-10-12T11:00:00.001-05:00

Hi Yall!
I wanted to let yall know that I have volunteered to write articles about my artist friends on a site: www.IndieSmiles.com Check their site out! It's mainly for people buying space for advertising but it's much more than that as they also promote artists. They promoted me when they first got started because the lady was a fan of my work! I have a questionaire at the bottom of this post too if yall are uncomfortable at writing.

This is what she said to me that they are looking for:
Some people ask me what they should write about, it can be almost anything handmade related. We are mainly interested in "How-to" articles, marketing and business tips, and off topic articles concerning how artisans help their communities and charities. You can also promote your own shop!!

Please don't be shy about this. Write to me about yourself mainly, then add a "How to", charities you share your proceeds to, business tips, one of all of the above, and of course send me pics of your work via attachment and your website or Etsy site, blogs, etc. I will then form your stories as if I was talking about you. I hope yall will respond to this. If I can get a load of people wanting to do this, all of yall will get a chance to be featured! And they get a lot of traffic there too! The more the merrier! Of course they will put the article up for a couple of weeks, but every single article I send I hope will be featured!
Now get yall's heads together and send me an article about yourselves! Even if yall don't have a website, but pics of your work and how they can buy from you. All of yall have something to offer. You may have an illness, like me for instance with my fibro, so tell what it takes to do your art with a disability! Any tips of how you do something? Advice about how to sell, etc?
Ok, I think yall get what I'm talking about!
Thanks yall,
I hope to hear from yall really soon!
I am going to reword it like an article, but here is a questionaire if yall would feel more comfortable doing it this way & leave the question blank if you have no answer:
1. What is your name?
2. What kind of art do you do?
3. What are your hobbies besides art?
4. Are there any special techniques or tips you can share with us?
5. Anything special that you do for charities, etc you would like to share?
6. Is there an artist you would like to share? Tell me about this artist and what is there shop or website where we can go look at their work and can you send me any pictures of this artist's work? What is special about this artist?
7. What is your shop or website or blog where we can find your work?
8. Will you send me pictures of some of your favorite art pieces and let me know which ones are yours if you are sending another artists work as well?
9.Where do you live?
10. Do you have any pets?
11. Please share anything else you would like for us to know about you.

Contact me at:
Linga713@sbcglobal.net
Linda :)

The Kenzie Tail Curl

2009-10-10T12:07:00.000-05:00

Kenzie told me it is time to show off her talent in curling her tail!
Happy Weekend!
Linda :)

Thank you Sonia!!!

2009-10-09T13:37:00.000-05:00

Sonia of Dark Ravens Nest gave me this award!
Thank you Sonia! I love these!!!

The rules are: Answer the questions with only one word, award six people the award and notify them that they won... It is that easy!!

1 Where is your cell phone? purse
2 Your hair? curly
3 Your mother? fiesty
4 Your father? funny
5 Your Favorite food? icecream
6 Your dream last night? dreamless
7 Your favorite drink? frappacino
8 Your dream/goal? sales
9 What room are you in? office
10 Your hobby? crafts
11 Your fear? unispired
12 Where do you want to be in six years? success
13 Where were you last night? home
14 Something that you aren't? healthy
15 Muffins? yes
16 Wish list item? house
17 Where did you grow up? Houston
18 Last thing you did? project
19 What are you wearing? panties
20 Your Tv? on
21 Your pets? cat
22 Friends? yes
23 Your life? fabulous
24 Your mood? great
25 Missing someone? yes
26 Vehical? jeep
27 Something your not wearing? clothes
28 Your favorite store? Hobby Lobby
29 Your favorite color? greens
30 When was the last time you laughed? today
31 Last time you cried? days
32 Your best friend? Sharon
33 One place that I go over and over? artroom
34 One person who Emails you regularly? Sharon
35 Favorite place to eat? Luby's

My 6 choices are:
Mishkat
Annette Quirke
Beaded Tail
Cotton Eyed Jo
An Angel at my Table
One of a Kind Art by Catherine

New Houston Halloween Treasury!!!

2009-10-08T11:21:00.000-05:00

Please visit my new Halloween Treasury I made for Houston! I think it's a bit spooky!
I hope yall will click on the link, comment, and click on all the pics to help my treasury step up the ladder and also help support my fellow Houston artisans!!!

Thank you so much!

Linda :)

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=86908

At the Fall Bazaar!

2009-10-04T08:50:00.000-05:00

Here are a couple of pics at the Fall Bazaar I did with Julie! There wasn't much traffic and it ended up raining and being quite windy but we stuck it out until the end! I had so much fun browsing around and literally most of the people were from Houston and I recognized them from their items because I am always doing Houston Treasuries. Come to find out the lady that held the Bazaar looked for her artists from Etsy! I also saw my friends I told yall about in my latest post!
http://jewelis2008.Etsy.com Now here is a photo of Julie and all her gorgeous jewelry. I should have taken a close up of her jewelry. I think of these things too late, but I did buy that fabulous ring I am displaying! I've had my eye out for it for a very long time! And what is cool about it is I can wear it with my hand brace that I cover with black and the ring really stands out and looks really awesome!
I did pretty well for me, considering the weather, and I find I get way more sells at the end of the day!
So...today it's raining and I am going to take the day off and relax! Hope yall have a wonderful Sunday!
Linda :)

Autumn Bazaar

2009-10-01T13:20:00.000-05:00

This is what I'll be doing Saturday, but as all of us well know that do festivals, it's not just a one day thing. It's making enough pieces to sell, loading the car, then the small amount of time they give you to set up your tent and goods and I never think they give us enough time to do that. I always need a break after setting up! I just hate that part.
I will be sharing my booth with http://Jewelis2008.Etsy.com Her work is awesome and she makes her own silver, brass, whatever...
Here is a piece of her work which was very difficult to choose! Yall must go visit her Etsy shop to see what I mean! She has very high quality jewelry at decent prices!

Also there will be 3 other ladies I know that will be there:
http://MamaPainter.Etsy.com who is known for her mixed media birds & crosses, but she has a new line of doing flowers & yall must go visit her shop!

Another person I know that will be there is http://BeckyBrocato.Etsy.com who is known for her very realistic watercolor paintings. Once again yall must go visit her shop!

And last but not least is http://dsullivancr2.Etsy.com and yall must go check out her beautiful stained glass and her husband's wooden pieces. I must say I know Diane very well and she is not showing all her items in her shop, but it's well worth the visit!

Ok, that is my show and tell of these fabulous artists that will be at the fest Saturday!
Yall already know my stuff! LOL!
Happy October and to us Houstonian's... finally getting a little break from the high temperatures. We are now getting teased with mid 70's temperatures, yet the next day will be in the 90's, but that is so much better than everyday being in the 100's!!!
Have a Fabulous Weekend Yall!
Linda :)

I Feel Like that Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland

2009-09-30T11:29:00.000-05:00

Hi yall!
I think the rabbit in Alice in Wonderland says...I'm late, I'm late, for a very important date! No time to say hello goodbye...I'm late I'm late I'm late!!!
Well that is how I feel! The flier is something I made for our mini Etsy group's
1st festival in November. Along with that, I've been trying to produce art as well as a group of artwork for a gallery in Dallas. Also I have my dr appointments and meetings with the art group, and house chores. Oh my, yall should see my mess. Laundry also needs to be done. Plus I have a fest to do this Saturday amongst many others. Also I am in a lot of pain. I missed my dr. appointment this morning. I just couldn't get up. I wanted to at least post so yall don't forget about me!
My best wishes for all of yall that follow my post!
Linda :)

Funky Little Shack

2009-09-23T10:58:00.000-05:00

These 9 picture views are my new 3d mixed media piece. It involves so many things, it would be impossible to name them all, but I'll try! You will find wooden pieces, clay and paper mache, glitter, beads, watercolor paper, fake flowers that are painted and arranged in a clay/paper mache pot, and 2 flower boxes on the sides, trees made of beads and wire, fabric....the list is endless! I narrowed my pics down to 9, but if I were to sell on Etsy I would need to narrow it down to 5 pics. I would love any suggestions!!!
Now I must go back to work. So much work...It's good to have alot to do, but my fibro is acting up and I don't have the time to be on the blogs, and I truly miss that yall!!!

New Fall Houston Treasury!

2009-09-22T14:36:00.001-05:00

I've been non stop creating so I haven't been able to get on my blog or even look on other blogs. I can't wait to show yall my newest piece once it's finished! Also I've been busy making items for a Dallas Gallery that will open Oct. 2nd! More info on that later!
I did manage to make a new Fall Houston Treasury and I would so appreciate if yall checked it out! Please click on the link, sign in, make a comment, & click on each pic to support our Fabulous Houston Artisans!
Thank you so much!
Linda :)
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=83669