whimsy for your world

Archive for ‘December, 2012’

Artist Darlene Seale

Dear Santa, please bring me a gift from Bad Bird Studio.

It’s human nature to like people like us, those who take pleasure in like similar things, and people who have complementary ideas.

So, I feel a bit narcissistic in adoring Darlene Seale’s colorful, whimsical art, but if it’s in my nature, how can I resist?

Santorini by Darlene Seale

Santorini by Darlene Seale

Santorini is my favorite, not only because of its happy colors and whimsical portraiture of the island, but also because I have always wanted to travel to Greece (sidebar: my husband promised to take me after the delivery of our second child). It has been quoted, “Beware of Santorini’s ancient spell- once you come here you’ll always want to come back!” and from the looks of Darlene Seale’s work, I believe it.

Heart Trees 2 by Artist Darlene Seale

Heart Trees 2 by Artist Darlene Seale. Wouldn’t this be a great complement to Hope from Micky?

Darlene Seale is so talented, she works with a variety of media including traditional paint, pencil and ink, digital illustration, and a mixture of all of the above. Because I tend to be an artist who tends to get set in her ways, I really admire artists like Darlene, who can mix it up. She also shares her talents through teaching local students jewelry making, art journaling and other applied art. If your’e in the San Diego area, check out her workshops.

 

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Uplifting Quotes

Like so many people, after the December 14th Sandy Hooks massacre, I have experienced so many different emotions, rotating through my brain… extreme sadness, fear, anger, disbelief, confusion, despair…

One of my favorite Pinterest boards is my own “Words that Work.” I love this board and frequent it when I need a little lift. Follow me on Pinterest.

Here are some of the best inspirational quotes:

Just Because Today is a Terrible Day doesn't mean Tomorow wn't be the Best Day of Your Life. You just gotta Get There

Just because today is a terrible day doesn’t mean tomorrow won’t be the best day of your life. You just gotta get there – http://iamthegirlanachronism.tumblr.com/

The Things You Take For Granted Someone Elise is Praying For

The things you take for granted someone else is praying for

Blessed are the curious for they shall have adventures

Blessed are the curious for they shall have adventures http://ilikegoingplaces.com/tag/travel-quotes/

Somedays you just have to create your own sunshine

Somedays you just have to create your own sunshine http://instagram.com/p/S0SMN7Dh6E/

Quit waiting for everything to be perfect. You have everything you need right now.

Quit waiting for everything to be perfect. You have everything you need right now. http://shannondarrough.com/blog/page/5

Talking about our problems is our greatest addiction. Break the habit. Talk about your joys.

Talking about our problems is our greatest addiction. Break the habit. Talk about your joys. http://galadarling.com/article/things-i-love-thursday-getting-into-the-halloween-spirit

Life does not have to be perfect to be wonderful.

Life does not have to be perfect to be wonderful. http://www.thewellbeingrevolution.com/2012/06/perfectly-imperfect/

This one is for my three daughters, two sisters, and me:

And, lest we not forget…

Don't forget to be awesome.

Don’t forget to be awesome.

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Christmas Handprint Kids’ Craft

Christmas Handprint Christmas Tree Canvas

Handprint Christmas Tree on Canvas

Handprint Christmas Tree on Canvas

I admit it, I’m a Pinterest junkie. I love that site. It’s great for inspiration, a good laugh, or a mental break. I pin all the time — and every once in a while, I actually cook something, or craft something from a pin.

I love all crafts involving handprints and footprints. I repinned the Christmas Tree handprint kids’ craft idea many months ago, and as it kept re-appearing on Pinterest, decided to finally get crafty.

My five-year-old and three-year-old were totally thrilled to be told to get paint all over their hands and then put it on a canvas “just like Mommy uses.” My five-month-old wasn’t exactly cool with having goo on her hands and not being allowed to shove them in her mouth, but her tiny red handprint at the top is incredibly precious, so her protests were worth it.

Did I get to paint my own canvas that day? Not unless you could the tree trunk, whimsical snowflakes and star. But, we made three heirloom canvases, and will cherish them for years to come.

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Covered Bridge

Covered Bridge

Progress #1

"Red Covered Bridge" by Melissa Fassel Dunn

“Red Covered Bridge” by Melissa Fassel Dunn

I had a whole 30 minutes to myself tonight, so I decided to begin a small 8×8″ painting of a covered bridge. There are many a covered bridge in New England and there is something so romantic about them… they say you must kiss while under the covered bridge. Maybe for good luck? I don’t know, but my husband and I always oblige the covered bridge fairies…!

Stay tuned for the progression of this painting!

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First Snow!

First Snow

Violet watching the snowfall. Photo by Melissa Fassel Dunn

Watching the snowfall. Photo by Melissa Fassel Dunn

I was in the living room this morning having some Mommy time with my youngest when I heard my three-year-old toddle out of her room and into my husband and mine, in search of cuddle time. Her footsteps stopped at the top of the stairs and suddenly, she exclaimed, “Mom! Dere’s snow out dere! It’s Pristmas!”

First snow is always so magical. Hope you enjoy this photo of her checking it out.

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