Smilin' Moon Studio

Please join me!!!

2009-08-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

over at my new blog!

please be patient...i'm still learning and working!

feel free to leave comments/follow me...
(i'm not convinced this is really going to work!:))

thanks, friends!
xxoo,
jody

little boy

2009-08-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday little Charlie!
(August 1st)
Four years has gone by too quickly!
You keep us laughing and also remind us of how tender you are.
You live with gusto but also thoughtfulness...
May you continue to SOAR!
xxxooo,
the whole family

recap

2009-07-30T19:33:00.000-07:00

Our anniversary night out was perfect!
My parents stayed at the hotel with the kids (the 3 older ones).
Edie tagged along with us so I could nurse her when needed...
she mostly slept peacefully as usual, though.

After walking, shopping and stopping by old haunts,
we came across a little French restaurant...

The wine list was lovely!!!

Great champagne...

Perfect company...
even after 15 years we always have so much to talk about and
laugh about---

Seems like yesterday I interviewed for that teaching job in Chicago...
was only committing for a year because then I was off to Seattle with a friend.
I didn't intend to marry or even think about it until I was at least 30.

Why do we make those plans?
Instead I was married at age 24...only a year after we met!
Instead of moving to Seattle, I ended up a newlywed, teaching inner city Chicago and
then suddenly my new husband's job took us to Boston.

A great adventure...we were so young and naive!

After our anniversary celebration and outings to the aquarium and zoo,
I was lucky enough to tour the studio that begins with H
and see where SHE, the one who's name begins with O
creates her talk show.

All of this with friends from my old Kappa Alpha Theta house
at U of Iowa...
So cool how we all got together for a little "reunion"
and after nearly 18 years, it was so easy to hang out again!

Now we're back home...I've got some new pieces in the works and some birthday parties to pull off...

How was your week?
Oh, and did I tell you I'm soon moving my blog to typepad?
Still working on it...

xxooo
jody

chi-town

2009-07-22T23:35:00.000-07:00

We are gone...got to Chicago tonight!
I bragged to everyone that we got such a deal on Priceline---staying at the Hilton on
Michigan Avenue. I thought it would be amazing...Here we are, all SIX of us, in a
tiny, old room, some are on the floor, and the AC just kicked in.
Luckily, we get to move to a junior suite tomorrow.
But it's nearly 2am and I'm just so excited to be AWAY...
being tourists (we met here in Chi-town, but the kids will be big time tourists),
seeing old friends (my college sorority friends are having a reunion),
visiting family (my nephew turns 3),
BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY,
it's our 15 year anniversary!!!!
We met here, fell in love, and were married just a year after meeting.
Bring on the champagne...
we are living it up for the next week!
xxoo
jody

introducing...

2009-07-20T21:05:00.000-07:00

my sister,
amy!
(she's the beautiful woman with my children in the photo below)

She launched her etsy shop and blog just recently! Check them out!!!

Amy is a multi-talented, vintage-loving gal with an easy laugh, piercing green eyes
and a heart of gold. You will love her style!!!

i love

2009-07-15T21:26:00.001-07:00

gardens ,

my baby discovering the sights and sounds and scents and textures
of her first summer...

that my son dressed up to see the new Harry Potter movie...

running a race with my son,

little Charlie in his race cape,

Lucy's art...

painting outside...

loving summertime!
xxoo
jody

simple

2009-07-08T06:42:00.000-07:00

simple things

flower,
sweet baby,
brothers,
sisters, daughter,
family

grateful

xxoo
jody

my sister gets married!

2009-07-01T22:03:00.000-07:00

We just returned from a week-long adventure
in the Colorado mountains!

My little sister married her sweetheart & soulmate
in Breckenridge last weekend!

She was the most beautiful bride...
the wedding was fabulous!
We are still talking about it...one of those really special, life-inspiring
times with family and friends.

You can check out some really AMAZING pictures here!

xxooo
jody

sweet gift & big win!

2009-06-21T16:03:00.000-07:00

I've been intending to post this since Edie's birth...
This was the gift my husband gave me after she was born!
He's given me some type of jewelry each time I've had a baby...really simple
since I'm not a flashy jewelry wearer....and this time I emailed him hints---
some of my favorites from etsy.
He got me this sweet, sweet charm bracelet called Amethyst (my birthstone)
from bebeandyaya.
She also has an amazing blog, sweet sweet life.

Last week I received an amazing painting in the mail...
I won this in Julie's giveaway!
Her work is beautiful and thoughtful....
and you need to check out her blog and her shop---she's always got the most
amazing paintings in the works!
Thanks again, Julie!!!

On Sunday we celebrated Edith's baptism...

She shined...no tears, just her sweet & pure eyes taking it all in!

After church we headed to brunch/lunch with friends and family...
Edie was passed around and cuddled by many.
All the kids ate, talked way too loudly and got downright silly---no one seemed to mind!
A wonderful day...

and special times with my dad, my husband & other dads with us today---
very fitting for all of us to celebrate
Father's Day as well.

xxooo
jody

short and sweet

2009-06-17T21:01:00.000-07:00

Life has been quite busy lately.
We are on the go-go-go...why did I think summer would be slower?

I am so excited to share a special giveaway I won, as well as some great pieces from Etsy.
I just need the time, so stay tuned. More to come soon!

In the meantime, here is Lucy, drawing her dinner...(notice the broccoli on her plate!)
Wouldn't it be lovely if I could just draw out the dinner in crayons and it would appear on our plates?xxooo
jody

Done!

2009-06-07T19:55:00.000-07:00

School is finally done! It finished last week (yes, it took me a week to get a post on my blog!) with a talent show.
And a few lazy days followed.

(Henry performing "The Lion Sleeps")

(Lucy performing Irish Dance)

We spent a lovely afternoon at some local gardens which are featuring an amazing dinosaur exhibit....Don't they look real?

I was feeling pretty good about myself after taking all four kids to the
gardens by myself. There's not much I can't do these days as long as baby Edie is
strapped to my chest in her little Baby Bjorn.
So I treated myself...and we celebrated the end of school with
Meg's amazing rainbow cake & frosting!

(It's not perfect, it's leaning and falling all over the place, but so
tasty! Haven't heard so many "oohs & ahhhs" (as I cut into the cake)
since the July 4th fireworks!

I will be posting again soon...really!!
xxx0000
jody

time flies

2009-05-28T20:12:00.000-07:00

Long time no post...(sorry!)
the days fly by---
I can't wait for summer break...or at least the first week of it.
Sleeping in, letting the kids be lazy and maybe I'll get
something creative done. ???
More blogging I hope!

This week our little Charlie had his last day of 3 year old preschool.
Yes, that's my boy covering his ears and sitting down while all
the other children stood and sang and smiled.

He was trying so hard to irritate me....
I had to laugh.
His older brother pulled these things in preschool
and he's just fine now.
(I admit, it did bug me...especially the looks from a few other parents.)

Last weekend should have been relaxing...
A three day weekend to garden and
catch up on projects...
What was I thinking letting Henry (age 9)
have 4 boys over for a sleep over??

Thankfully Lucy helped with breakfast...

There was a special request for Monkey Bread!

And now little Edie is 2 months old!
I just blinked and she's 2 months old!

I can't wait to share some special treats
from some amazing Etsians!
I will post about them soon!
And thank you so much for stopping by, for your comments
and encouragement!

xxxooo
jody

chaos & peace

2009-05-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hi! This is picture shows the tail end of a big smile I just gave my big brother!
from little Edith.

(Piano Recital last weekend)

(Gazing up into oldest brother's eyes)

(Big brother Charlie snuggles in his baby blanket and wishes he could be a baby again)

May is the busiest month
for this family...
Soccer games
Track meets
Dance recital practices
Field trips
Graduation open houses (for high school friends/babysitters)
Wedding showers (for my sister & her fiance)
Boy Scouts
Sleep overs
Piano recitals
and so much more!

Sat Nam!
Last Friday night I attended a Yoga Group Lesson
at a friend's house...
We had a group yoga (kundalini) lesson...it was amazing. Challenging and invigorating
and so peaceful.
Good friends
drinking Yogi tea
afterwards
and then
good red wine
and great snacks!

Here is a look at the "goodie bags"
the host gave everyone.
(homemade foot rub, home aroma, yoga CD, horoscope card, reusable gift bag)

I have been so busy
but also peaceful.
Having baby #4 at almost 40 years old
has brought about more calm than I realized
despite the chaos.
I have become wiser over the years
and am learning to slow down and enjoy
this time.
Being late is OK.
Letting things go is OK.
Taking longer to reach my goals is OK.

I long to have more time to paint and create,
but I know that will come soon.
I find joy in our children
and the joy I experience running again.
The rhythmic striking the ground as I go to that meditative place
feeling grateful for health, for nature, for the sunshine
and for time.

Wishing you peace amidst the chaos!
xxooo
jody

recap

2009-05-12T17:49:00.000-07:00

A quick re-cap of our Mom's Day weekend...

Lucy and I visited our favorite vintage shop and found this gorgeous Sears hat!

The kids had some you tube entertainment....

and on Saturday evening I made a Mexican feast of guacamole and chicken enchiladas for my parents, brothers (who were in town sans their wives/families) and our family...but really it was for me! I rarely cooked a decent meal while I was pregnant, so cooking and baking again has been a treat for me...it was part of my mom's day gift to myself---I had been craving guac for the last 2 weeks!

On Sunday (after a morning of fights, yelling and whining from the older 3), we headed to the Science Center and here we are at the "weather station", checking ourselves out on the TV!
The fighting stopped and my headache subsided...
all ended well!

*And now, on an unrelated note, I have a question....
Am I completely out of the loop, or is there a way to make your blog 3 columns? Or is this something for professionals to do? As I've said before, I am a techno-novice...I really don't have a clue what I'm doing! If anyone wants to chime in, feel free!:)

Wishing you a great week!
xxoo
jody

It's Friday!

2009-05-08T11:17:00.001-07:00

Yipee!!!!

enjoy!
xxoo
jody

the royal ball and so much more!

2009-05-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, little Lucy planned a "Royal Ball" for the family.

I kept saying, "yeah, we'll do that soon..sounds fun...sounds fancy, etc" but I really wasn't
paying attention. I was busy nursing, changing diapers and floating in my dreamy
state after just bringing home a newborn!

Then the invite arrived...
and it was written in cursive
and it was sweet enough to wake me up to say
"Sure! Let's do it!"

So Lucy and Charlie set the table with all my vintage tea cups
and Henry (the oldest) decided to be a good sport
and put on his medieval wear...

I made dinner and the kids picked out our clothes...

We ate and laughed and called each other "sir" and "me lady".

It was one of the most memorable times we've had!

(Nice pic, huh?)
It was the most surprising and sweet evening ever!

Lucy put on some music and wanted me and Darryl, my husband, to dance.
So sweet!
Then all the kids danced!
And it ended with a sword battle between the brothers.

Something else from a few weeks ago...
Lucy dressed Charlie up in her old nightgown...
He loved all the attention and willingly
followed her lead for a good half hour!

Here's a cute pic from late March---love the freckles!
it was COLD then, and we brought out
the winter coats again for soccer practice!
(makes me appreciate May!)

Here's Charlie last week...
My mom and I took him to a Thomas the Tank Live show...

And then visited my 93 year old grandma...
She's so sweet and got to hold
little Edie...named after her mom, Edith Callaghan.

Lastly, I have to share a photo of my husband
who just received an award from the
local community arts council...
He was honored for his committment and enthusiasm in supporting the arts in the media--
he published a local community guide (he recently sold it)...
I was so proud of him---and the awards evening was our
first night out since baby!

Off to try and get a few things in my shop!

thanks for stopping by,
jody

Four weeks!

2009-04-27T15:54:00.000-07:00

(Little Edith Rose at 4 weeks old)

Where has the time gone?

Pregnancy NEVER went this fast....
The fastest 4 weeks ever---

but possibly the sweetest!

Thanks for stopping by!
xxoo
jody

peeks...

2009-04-26T20:40:00.000-07:00

I have some *heart girls* ready to put in the shop...

Heart Girl hearts birdie
&
Heart Girl open arms

I found some sweet little Italian terra cotta
tiles in a hidden spot in our basement.
We live in an old house (old for the midwest--1920)

These tiles must have been left over from a project done in the early 1960's...
so I've started prepping them and painting them.

I am starting with a series focused on women---
mothers, daughters, friends, sisters...
funky and playful and all a bit different.

This beauty has gorgeous grayish hair and is proud
of her wisdom and the woman
she's become.

I have yet to name her or the tile series...
but I will keep you posted!

Watch for a shop update later this week and more posts.

I'm still a bit slow checking blogs, art, leaving comments to all of you and
juggling everything with little Edith, her sister and two brothers!
It's quite a ride!

xxoo,
jody

here they are!

2009-04-19T18:24:00.000-07:00

The Etsy artists who created such sweet pieces
for our home!

enjoy!!

The pillows in our living room are from rubystella

The funky fabric block is from iloveplum

The We are Shaped print is from vol25

The Ignore the Rain print is from dazeychic

The heart ring and adorable painted box are from noodleandlou

The vintage linen banner in our baby's room is from jumpupanddown

xxoo
jody

P.S. I forgot to mention...I found some of these treasures through The Etsy Addict !

A few of my favorite things...

2009-04-16T19:58:00.000-07:00

Here are some wonderful Etsy finds
that I recently added
to our home.

Can you guess any of the artists?

I will let you know this weekend!

In the meantime, I'm busy staring into
these eyes...

and smooching these toes!

love,
jody

***Really, I will share my art pieces SOON &
do a SHOP update!:)

delicious...

2009-04-12T16:32:00.000-07:00

are these baby days...of snuggling, nursing, holding and watching her grow!

Everyone wants their daily dose of "Edie" time!

Big sister and big brothers savor their time with her!

And little Edith seems to love every second of it!

It's been a while since I posted last...
but we're starting to find our way.
After hunting for Easter eggs

and relaxing with family
this weekend,
I hope to be around more this week!

I have some heart girl paintings almost finished
and some other little pieces in progress.

Thank you, everyone, for your well-wishes and congrats comments!

They are so treasured!!

love,
jody

She's here!!!!!

2009-04-02T16:30:00.000-07:00

Edith Rose
arrived on Sunday, March 29th!
She was a tiny 6 pounds, 11 ounces (my smallest!)
19 1/2 inches long

We are so happy and so thankful...
she is already spoiled rotten!:)

We're still trying to get our bearings...
it will take a while,
but what a joyful, crazy adventure!

love,
jody

happy thursday!

2009-03-26T08:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Lucy did a painting on a re-purposed old wooden panel...
She did a "heart girl",

flowers,

a bunny...and some "antiquing"!
She created for almost 2 hours while listening to "Indigo Girls" on the ipod.
She was lost in her own little whimsical world---so much fun to watch!

Some pictures of a little bird I am making for my sister---
I've seen lots of little clay or paper mache birds out there on etsy and by other artists (they are all so adorable and unique!),
but I thought I'd try my own...
so this little one will be heading out to Denver very soon!

I have "heart girl" paintings in progress and little villages...
still lots of layers of paint to add!

I would love to have a "shop update" soon, but we'll have to take it day by day until I know more about when this baby girl will be here!
I'll keep you posted!

I couldn't resist taking some close ups of little Charlie...his last days of being the "baby"
of the family!
He got a fresh, new haircut and threw on one of my maternity sweaters yesterday while waiting
outside for his brother and sister to get home from school....pretty cute!

thanks for stopping by!!!
jody

Still Nesting...and lots to share!

2009-03-23T18:36:00.001-07:00

Finally it seems like Spring has arrived! Mild weather, rain, thunderstorms and little sprouts of green poking up through the dirt...and no winter coats!

We are still waiting for this little baby!!
After a terrible stomach virus last weekend (not fun at all during the 9th month of pregnancy!) and contractions coming every 4 minutes, things slowed down and we still anxiously anticipate baby's arrival.

I continue deep cleaning the house, re-finishing vintage furniture, washing baby clothes, and making endless lists of all the organizing I can do...It's truly nesting---and seems like I have waited until the last minute for so many tasks...

kind of like cramming for college finals---waiting until the last minute and staying up all night to pull off the much needed good grade. I am really pushing my luck!!
(we only just bought diapers and wipes last night!)

(A darling vintage nest and antique doily I found last weekend at my favorite "shabby" shop!)

Today I received the sweetest painting in the mail---all the way from the U.K.!!!

It's by the amazing artist, Micki, of The Art Hermit!
This piece was meant for me...the sweet pregnant woman with "Cherish the Moment" on it...It's truly much more striking in person than I even imagined!
Thanks again, Micki...and look at the sweet extras she sent...

and even these little booties---so thoughtful and touching!!!
Thank you, thank you, again, Micki!!!
(Here is Micki's etsy shop)

Something else to share!!!!
A couple of weeks ago I ordered this unique, perfectly crafted little onesie for our baby from Pam at I Love Plum!

It's the sweetest, one of a kind little treat...and look at the little tail on the back!!!
So cute and so well-made!

I have had many friends recently have new babies, and decided that from now on I am treating them to I Love Plum onesies for their new arrivals!!

These two "sock monkey" onesies just arrived!
They are adorable...and look at what's under the tutus!!!!
I am so tempted to keep these rather than package them up for my friends!!!
(Here is I Love Plum's etsy shop)

Lastly, little glimpses of Easter decorations at home...

vintage bunnies
and our Easter tree!!!

Have a great week!!!!
love,
jody

Loving the Green!

2009-03-17T14:10:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!
I'm enjoying the sunshine & reading some toasts from a turn of the century Irish Toasts book!

Shannon's flowery banks: may they bloom for ever!

The birthplace of wit, and the home of hospitality--Ireland!

The everlasting Green for me;
And we for one another!

Health to my body, wealth to my purse,
Heaven to my soul, and I wish you no worse!

To the shamrock, that never will it lose its emerald hue!

Happy Day!!
jody

i heart weekends!

2009-03-15T20:28:00.000-07:00

I finished up some little paintings...to be added to my shop tomorrow!
"heart girl hearts bunny"

"heart girl hearts Spring"!

Our dogs basked in the sunshine!
Above is Sammy our puppy...

And Duncan, our 10 and a half year old Golden Retriever---he's such a loyal, mellow sweetheart!

My husband deep-cleaned the car and we rearranged all the car seats to
make room for baby!

Little Lucy helped daddy vacuum the car...

and all "the boys" dressed in orange and black to support our local
high school basketball team play in the state tournament!

A good weekend...and now we're ready for Spring Break!

thanks for stopping by!
jody

Etsy Shop additions...

2009-03-10T19:16:00.000-07:00

I've just added a few new pieces to my etsy shop!

"Little Grace" Folk Angel...

Another sweet, vintage Easter egg...

"Whimsy Village" original painting (5 x 5 chunky canvas)...

And this tiny clay bird in a birdbath!

I have some "heart girl" paintings in the works, a series of folk angels & some more "wish stones"...I'm still working and nesting---I will keep you posted on a shop update soon!

Thanks for all the kind words about my last post...I treasure the sweet, well-wishes so much!!!!

love,
jody

room for one more!!!!

2009-03-05T17:39:00.000-08:00

(me & the kids last summer in michigan---group hug!)

I just returned from my doctor's appointment...they're coming every week now!

How amazing to hear the words,
"You're at the finish line! You made it! If labor starts now, we won't try to stop it..."
Wow...I loved the analogy to finishing a race...I do fancy myself an athlete, runner and triathlete, although my training has been altered quite a bit.
Training through this pregnancy has been more physically difficult, more tedious and mentally hard...

I can't wait to hit the pavement again...and swim without pulling a 6 pound drag---but I know I will miss this...there's something so special about sharing this time with my little one kicking and squirming about. The positive energy she gives & the hope she brings is such a gift.
I am so honored to be her mom and can't wait to meet her in a few weeks...or sooner!!!

I will check in again tomorrow...
hopefully with some more additions to my etsy shop!

Thanks for sharing in my anticipation of this amazing time!!!

jody

****Update: I will start adding to my etsy shop tomorrow! The time change threw me for a loop!
xxoo
jody

Giveaway Winner & the shop & the cake!!!

2009-03-01T15:24:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who stopped by to enter my little giveaway!

I ran out of patience with the random generator...I must not be tech-savvy enough, because I finally ended up doing it the old fashioned way!

My kids also wanted me to put the names in the bowl!

Here it is!

Oops! Blurry picture of Henry showing the winner...

Congrats, I Love Plum!! I think it's Pam---I couldn't figure out your name when I was making the little notes, so I searched your site and etsy shop...I think it's Pam!:)
Yeah!!!!

My family got me the cutest cake...round with layers of frosting and raspberry cream filling...and even our little family on the top!
If you look closely you can see mom with her belly---"stick people" style!!

(home wish stone...SOLD---many thanks!!)

I also put up some new "wish stones", funky ornaments, star houses (I am into stars lately---stars on clay, on angels, on houses & on canvas!) and a fairy folk angel in my etsy shop a couple days ago...
(dream wish stone---SOLD--many thanks again!)

This was my favorite to make---she's soulful and tiny...and her wings are covered with mica!
(fairy folk angel---SOLD--thank you!!!)

(vintage easter egg of clay---SOLD---thank you so much!!)

Here are some little "wish stones" all packaged up...

I've had so much fun creating new little clay pieces and working on some new paintings---the paintings will be up in my etsy shop soon, as will more little clay pieces!

Thanks for stopping by---I appreciate each and every one of you!!!
jody

Giveaway!!!

2009-02-25T14:05:00.001-08:00

My Birthday Giveaway!!!
Here is a little sweet, contemplative polymer clay "wishing stone"....

and some colorful labels, tiny paper sacks, Martha Stewart baker's twine, vintage postcards...

and a couple surprise extras will be added as well!

All prizes will be cutely packaged with lots of T.L.C.!!!

Please leave a comment, any comment, to enter!!!!
I would LOVE to hear from you!!!

I will use the random generator and choose the lucky winner on Sunday, March 1st!!!!

Melting...

2009-02-24T12:02:00.001-08:00

Today the sun is shining warmly and the snow melting away!
Charlie and I splashed in the puddles and explored the park---finally the tennis courts are clear---no ice!!!

I will add some little treats to my etsy shop this week...some little reflective "stones" of polymer clay, a few little houses, some "funky" wall/doorknob hangings, and a fairy folk angel.

Tomorrow I will start a "Giveaway"...in celebration of my birthday (coming this Saturday) and my last year of being in my "thirties"! I'll choose something special..and add some extras as well!

Thanks for stopping by!

a star, a little village & a belly

2009-02-18T19:12:00.000-08:00

A wish...a hope...a little "morsel"--created as a distraction between planning and preparing for baby and trying to keep everyone around here happy!

a little work in progress...there are so many others---I will get them going soon and share!

me & my 34 week belly...right before heading outside to work out!

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-13T21:41:00.000-08:00

some valentine images from home...

a vintage "teacher" valentine...as a (former) teacher, i do miss all the chocolates i used to receive from my students!

this plate was full of sweets last night...it will be refilled for tonight's family valentine dessert!

our favorite little valentine...can you see her? this was a 3-D picture taken way back at 18 weeks...but already she had her dad's chin and sister's mouth! we love you little peanut valentine...next month we can hold you!!!!

sweet valentine wishes!
xx000

The weekend in review!

2009-02-10T17:57:00.000-08:00

Since we've been working on this since last year, I thought I'd share one more post about our children's school gala that we co-chaired for the second year in a row.
It was a big job...a lot of family and personal time was given up, a lot of hours of sleeping were lost, and sometimes--- there were a lot of headaches.
But like all meaningful things in life, the sacrifice and hard work were worth it.
We raised over $200,000 which was amazing for this year's economy and the fact that we are only a pre-k through 5th grade school.
Our endowment fund is really growing, so hopefully we can keep tuition affordable and keep our special little catholic school going well into future generations.
We also raised about $35,000 for a new playground and outdoor area...
the generosity was overwhelming and such a strong sense of community and friendship grew even more than we thought possible!

Now I can begin "nesting"... only 6 and a half weeks (or less) to go!

Thanks for stopping by!

Sticks Mirror...

2009-02-09T06:36:00.000-08:00

We won this from our school's "gala" on Saturday evening--- It's a Sticks mirror...and this picture doesn't even capture the richness in color...a really neat piece! It's a great family mirror...and a cheerful welcoming sp0t in our entryway!

2009-02-05T20:24:00.000-08:00

Coming to my little etsy shop!

more soon!!!

a quick note...

2009-02-03T16:37:00.000-08:00

Hello!!!

I mentioned in my last post that I would have a "shop update" on Tuesday....I will have to postpone it until tomorrow. My husband and I are co-chairing a big school fundraiser/gala this weekend and the last minute meetings and details are endless! (You can check out our event here!) I will add a few goodies to my shop tomorrow, and each day during the rest of the week...so don't forget to check back!
(some vintage birds I found last weekend at a little vintage shop!)
Have a great evening!
xxoo
jody

"Sometimes her love of art comes out..."

2009-01-31T20:19:00.000-08:00

and she tries to fancy them up a bit, which ends up making it look messy."
This was a comment on little Lucy's report card about her handwriting. I am really so proud that Lucy has an irresistible need (and compulsion!) to put her original mark on her work...She really can't help herself and draws or creates every chance she gets. I think that's much more important than proper alphabet printing!!:)

Her teacher went on to say..."She has an inner peace that has a calming effect on others..." That is so true about Lucy---I only wish it was a trait passed on from me!

Keep it up, sweet girl!
xx00, Mommy

P.S.
More "heart girls" in the making...

and a little shop "update" coming Tuesday!

2009-01-28T06:45:00.000-08:00

(work in progress...we'll see where it ends up!)

It's already Wednesday!!
I've been working on some more Valentine-inspired pieces and can't help but want to incorporate bright, spring colors into our home, my paintings & little creations! (It's been a long winter for me!)
I'm hoping to have a little "shop update" by Friday or Saturday....
more soon!

Thanks for stopping by!

2009-01-22T19:12:00.000-08:00

Tulips in January!!!

My husband treated me to these beauties today...I usually get tulips in February---my birthday month, but I think he could tell that the winter is getting long for this sleep-deprived, mama-to-be! These little things do help...they bring so much color and cheerfulness to the house!!!---and today I can say that I have only 9 weeks to go until we can meet our fourth little person! Wow...over three-fourths of the way there....a welcomed milestone!

What about you??? What helps you get through these long winter months?

Happy Friday!!!

Loving Etsy!

2009-01-18T16:25:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!

I recently purchased some gifts for family & friends (and me!) from some wonderful Etsy sellers/artists!!!

An adorable pillow from Tascha!!!
A Frida print for my daughter's bedroom...and a little bonus bookmark included in the carefully sent package! (Again from Tascha)

Some really sweet stickers from Vanessa Valencia at A Fanciful Twist!
I will be including these in little treat packages for a Mother/Daughter Tea Party that I will be hosting this spring or summer! Also arrived in a delightful package with some Fanciful Twist postcards as little extra treats!

This "heart sprinkles cupcake hat", specially chosen for our new little niece, Lola. This is from NinisHandmade!

Also for our niece, this little bib and burpcloth from quiltish!!!

And another treat for me..this whimsical Valentine button bouquet from Jes at Kadyhope!!!!

I also was reminded of this adorable "I give you my Heart" piece from Jenn at Noodle and Lou....I got it last year but moved it to a more prominent spot in our home in honor of Valentine's Day approaching!

Have a great week!!!!

Giveaway Winner!!!

2009-01-16T14:57:00.000-08:00

Congratulations, Sara!!! (from sara's art house)

You are the lucky winner ofHeart Girl Number 8!!!!

My 9 year old son drew your name just a couple of minutes ago....He was thrilled to get into the action! Send me your contact info and I will ship this sweetie, along with a little vintage treat or two your way! Congrats...and THANK YOU for all of you who sent messages!!!!
My birthday is in February, so I will do another giveway soon!
Happy Friday evening to you all!!!!

Giveaway Today!!

2009-01-15T22:45:00.001-08:00

Good morning!!! Due to some weather-related schedule changes I will prolong my Giveaway until Friday afternoon...around 4:30 p.m. central time. I hope that's ok....school is delayed for the kids and they have been home for much of the week because of the frigid -40 temperatures--- so my schedule today is all mixed up!

Thank you, everyone, for your encouragement as I begin this art/etsy/blog adventure! I am truly so thankful for you!!!Above is an example of my little "Giveaway" package that will arrive for the lucky winner...(and Etsy purchases, too:))

Etsy Shop Coming...& Giveway!

2009-01-13T18:15:00.000-08:00

My Etsy shop is almost complete---but there are some technical difficulties uploading my pictures!!! Help!!! I think it will be another day....

update: *I FIGURED IT OUT LATE LAST NIGHT!:)))

And now...for a Giveaway!!! Please leave a comment for me (perhaps which "Heart Girl" you like the best) and on Friday afternoon (around 1pm central time) I will randomly draw a name and send one of these cuties, along with a bonus vintage treat from me, right to your doorstep!:)

Happy almost Wednesday!!!

Evolving...

2009-01-12T15:36:00.000-08:00

THANK YOU so much for you feedback!!!! I appreciate it so much!!!!!
Heart Girls are evolving...slowly developing & finding their way. I am not pleased with much of them yet, but the process is what is guiding me and teaching me, so we'll see where they go from here.
I will get some better photographs later...with names and descriptions of what I have so far.
I plan to do a GIVEWAY tomorrow...and end it on Friday.
Look for more info soon!

Lessons from Lucy...& Heart Girls!

2009-01-07T11:27:00.000-08:00

Last week my daughter sat me down for "art lessons"...and taught me all about some sweeties she creates that she calls "heart girls". She started in on them as soon as Christmas was over and she realized the next holiday is Valentine's Day. Here are some samples from our lesson:
I started thinking about "heart girls"...what a catchy little name, and how fun they are to make. I decided to experiment with sculpy clay and these "heart girls" were born:"Heart Girls" are still in the development phase, but my goal is to put some of them on Etsy very soon! I'm going to layer paint, cover some with vintage print, and see where this takes me! Before I put anything on Etsy, though, I want to do a "GIVEAWAY" (hopefully this weekend!), since my blog is slowly growing and being found! Would love input!!!!

New Year, New Bedrooms!

2009-01-02T20:42:00.000-08:00

Happy 2009! We kicked off the new year by moving bedrooms around in our home! With the new baby coming, we needed to move our two boys into a room together...So we finally finished up most of the move! Still, we need to have closet systems installed, but we are getting there!New bunk beds from Ikea!

An old dresser we had in storage...

The "toy cupboard" is now shared!

Lucy's room was tidied up...Still a work in progress, though!

Below is an idea I got from Anna Maria Horner's blog...It's perfect for Lucy, the dog-lover!I found the pink, shabby chair at a garage sale for $20 a few years ago...it even had the green cushion & the chair is incredibly sturdy! I love this chair...and how it sits on her furry Ikea rug!

Thanks for peeking...
xxooo

Christmas Memories...

2008-12-27T19:25:00.000-08:00

This year, our kids took on most of the tree decorating...I think the results were sweet and folksy!

Love my new ornament by Jenn at Noodle & Lou!

The annual "gingerbread" house...constructed with graham crackers and 'nilla wafers...made by Henry, Lucy & Charlie.A Christmas Journal I made for my parents...using a composition notebook decoupaged with scraps of paper and an antique Christmas postcard...oh, and vintage mica, too!Now we wait for the new year!

2008-12-24T18:40:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from all of us!!!!

I'm Back!

2008-11-23T20:19:00.000-08:00

Apologies for my long break! Above is a picture of my latest project!!! This was taken back in September, and now she has been with me for nearly 5 months! We expect to meet her at the end of March or beginning of April, and we can't wait! The nausea and fatigue have finally passed, and now I am bursting with creative ideas! More soon....

Objects of Summer...

2008-07-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

Beach stones from Lake Michigan!
Enjoy!

Before & After...

2008-07-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

Here is the "secretary" piece from my childhood...My parents didn't want it so we took it and decided to repaint it and use it in our living room/parlor for my "correspondence" desk and an area to display some of my favorite pieces.

Above is the before shot...
Here are the after shots....Although I plan to change the hardware soon. I have looked at Anthropologie and want to find something colorful...so I guess this isn't officially finished yet!

Here are some of my favorite things to display...

These adorable lulette houses from Noodle & Lou!
And my antique Cape Cod plate!

And here is the new workspace---set up and ready to use with the vintage chair I pull up from the corner! It's a great place to sit with the laptop...

a fondness for wine...

2008-07-08T11:56:00.000-07:00

and good friends!
This painting is actually larger, and has the words, "Come sit with me and share your life..." painted around it. I antiqued it a bit and pulled some of the paint off when adding layers. It's somewhat of an experiment!

Back from Michigan...

2008-07-06T18:15:00.000-07:00

We are back from our Lake Michigan getaway! I will begin posting some recent and not-so-recent paintings and experimenting I've done! I will also add children's art created by my children!

Smilin' Moon Studio

Please join me!!!

little boy

recap

chi-town

introducing...

i love

simple

my sister gets married!

sweet gift & big win!

short and sweet

Done!

time flies

chaos & peace

recap

It's Friday!

the royal ball and so much more!

Four weeks!

peeks...

here they are!

A few of my favorite things...

delicious...

She's here!!!!!

happy thursday!

Still Nesting...and lots to share!

Loving the Green!

i *heart* weekends!

Etsy Shop additions...

room for one more!!!!

Giveaway Winner & the shop & the cake!!!

Giveaway!!!

Melting...

a star, a little village & a belly

Happy Valentine's Day

The weekend in review!

Sticks Mirror...

a quick note...

"Sometimes her love of art comes out..."

Loving Etsy!

Giveaway Winner!!!

Giveaway Today!!

Etsy Shop Coming...& Giveway!

Evolving...

Lessons from Lucy...& Heart Girls!

New Year, New Bedrooms!

Christmas Memories...

I'm Back!

Objects of Summer...

Before & After...

a fondness for wine...

Back from Michigan...

i heart weekends!