Time Well Spent

2010-11-14T14:56:00.002-05:00

life is hectic

teaching wears me thin

my hand find little time to move, but i make sure they do.

work is coming along slowly, but the pay off will be great.

i cannot wait for january, i miss my friends.

i want to see all your shining faces soon!!!

Things I Know

2010-09-22T22:07:00.003-04:00

I know student teaching wears me out

I know I spend way too much time awake and on homework

I know the bags under my eyes are getting bigger and darker

I know I wish I had one day to myself, to do whatever I pleased

I know I miss these books I wish I was reading

I know I miss the afghan I wish I was crocheting

I know I miss this quilt and working on it every morning

One month down, three to go, it only gets easier from here, right?

negative space escape

2010-09-22T21:37:00.002-04:00

Today was the first day I taught one of my lessons on my own!

The students love stitching so much more than negative space drawings. It's much less restricting to them, and miraculously even the students (so far anyway) who had gross motor skills have not had to use the needle threaders, they've all been able to do it!

We did only start with the straight stitch, but they became so inventive and expressive with it. I hope this has something to do with the presentation I put together for them.

I started with the Seven Unicorn and Bayeux Tapestries, to show how needlework has been used to show narrative, and done such large scale (the unicorns to keep drafts out of the castle walls, etc.) and moved into how needlework is now being used by contemporary artists. We had a few good discussions on why an artist would choose this medium over much more traditional painting, drawing, or illustration (all of which of these I consider are possible with needle and thread). It was really refreshing to hear these students start thinking about the contemporary art world and relating to works being made now.

I think it was especially helpful for the young men (especially the football players) to see the work of Bren Ahearn.

Any way I haven't seen the student so calm and focused on their work since I've started, which was quiet refreshing.

Preservice Performance Assesment

2010-09-03T00:26:00.004-04:00

School is in session!
...well for us teachers anyway!

Despite having second, third, and fourth thoughts about going through with this semester after everything, I am happy to be doing it.

I feel so honored to be part of a school system that invests so much in there students, making sure they prepare them to succeed once they take the steps out of Newton North High forever.

So far everyone has been so welcoming and supportive.
The downside: the school is so large I tend to get lost a ton.
The plusside: EVERYTHING any resource I wish I had, we have! Eno Boards in EVERY classroom, thorough training on them. DID YOU KNOW YOU CAN DRIVE OVER IT WITH YOUR CAR AND WRITE ON IT WITH PERMANENT MARKER AND IT WILL ALL CLEAN OFF!
How amazing!

I can only imagine what it must be like to be interested in the arts and have so many wonderful options to choose from while still in HIGH SCHOOL!

Right now I am getting a head start on paperwork thanks to some fantastic advice from the faculty member at NNH in charge of all the student teachers throughout the school.

I think this year will be a good one!

Also I think the most important part...I knew NNH was a match made in heaven when I walked into the auditorium for the principal's address and Leonard Cohen's So Long Maryann was playing.

I'm not DJ Tanner!!!!

2010-09-02T23:23:00.002-04:00

I had this dream which I feel like was a mixture of Full House episodes all rolled into one- but with me and my 'dads' instead.

I got stood up at a dance
(much like the episode "All Stood Up" where Stephanie Tanner gets stood up by a boy and Danny confronts him about hurting his daughter)

No boys would dance with me
(backwards dance that DJ and Kimmy are in charge of- band backs out, Jesse plays with marching band, Kevin won't hang out with DJ because she won't drink a beer)

So my Dad, and both Scotts (my godfather and family friend) came in to dance with me
(much like how Danny, Joey, and Jesse would sing Michelle to sleep at night)

Any who- in the dream I started screaming "I'M NOT DJ TANNER!!!" and eventually woke up to myself doing so.

Strange, I know. At first I thought this entire scene happeend in one episode but after much research this evening I have come to the educated desicion that it is indeed a mixture of all of them.

The sad truth being I am not DJ Tanner: I have no swanky room to my own, I have no sisters, I don't have a best friend that lives next door, I don't have twin cousins, nor do I have Steve, Viper or Nelson.

However I do have a tiny little comfy (when it isn't 110 degrees) apartment, I have a strange very different from me brother- but very similar, I've got friends at the most 20 mins away via public transit, I have some of the best cousins around, and I wouldn't want Steve, Viper, or Nelson anyway!

all these things i have done

2010-08-31T14:52:00.001-04:00

wrote three lessons

waited

laundry

grocery shopped

drew

sewed

cleaned

found a lucky penny and put it in my pocket where it will stay

these are the days

2010-08-31T14:13:00.002-04:00

these are the days when our true character and true selves are most visible.

i think it is only in the realization and acceptance of that, we can move foreword.

despite the pain i may be feeling, i know in order to survive i most forge this path.

eh.

2010-08-26T15:41:00.001-04:00

2010-07-29T04:09:00.003-04:00

4 am is definitely the darkest hour.

all i want to do is sleep and wake up and be normal.

sleep

i just have to make it to 7

then make it to south station...and get on the bus.

nap

drive back, find parking.

pretend I'm on vacation and sleep in a clubhouse room, or at least the staff couch

sleep such sweet release, how i want you to take me over.

then working again.........fahk

cmck

2010-07-07T23:17:00.003-04:00

I am fianlly starting to get my little business chugging along.

In my three days off this week I have figured out the logo design, products to create, blog for store, and a small inventory.

In three weeks I hope to have my etsy store up and running...let's say by August 1st cmck should be operating through etsy...check it out.

I'm still working out kinks, please feel free to give me as much guidance and feedback as you like, but check out the begining and look around, maybe you'll like something!

Practical Deamonkeeping

2010-06-26T23:18:00.003-04:00

Relaxing on the roof deck, sunning my skin with Christopher Moore before work.

Raise A Glass to Ole' St. Bot !!

2010-06-19T19:57:00.002-04:00

This is where I will be spending my overnight.

On the agenda:
Practical Demonkeeping, Christopher Moore
The Second Sex, Simone deBeauvoir
Embroidery
Pandora
Expresso
Lattes
Chicken and Dumplings

baggy buggy eyes

2010-06-12T15:48:00.001-04:00

playing catch up

2010-06-09T15:22:00.001-04:00

installation shot one...

...and two

On The Left
needle felt

The Size of A Grapefruit
crochet wool, needle felt

A Womb The Size of Me

hand woven, double weave pick up, cotton, wood

This was not as successful as I would have liked, I ended up running out of warp and having to end the weaving prematurely. Which created the abrupt ending at the top of the piece.

Cut From The Same Cloth

hand woven, double weave pick up, cotton, wood

A Womb Is A Womb Is A Womb

hand embroidery on linen

C-Scar

hand embroidery on linen

Malignant Blood

drafted pattern, hand dyed, hand woven, rayon, hand embroidery on linen

The drafted pattern here is a repeat of lungs in the fabric that is created by the darker(blue/gray) weft threads.

Detail

The top embroidery has a special surprise in it, there is an image embroidered underneath the pink rings of a set of lungs.

Hurrah The Show is Almost Here!!!

2010-06-09T15:12:00.002-04:00

Nick's opening at The Fourth Wall Project is rapidly approaching. We went over the other day to start the installation. Childs Gallery, Mary McFadden, and MassArt's Education Department have all greatly prepared me to be able to do measuring math in my head and know what appropriate center heights are. I am so glad I have that understanding and practice, it comes in handy. This wall we got up rather quickly, after the lengthy plotting. All in all I think this wall already looks great, and the next will be even better!

Hope to see you all there Saturday!!!

So many things...updates.

2010-06-08T10:44:00.007-04:00

Hello!
I have been so wrapped up in post-graduation activities, I haven't had a long enough time to sit still to get back to this. So here is an annotated list.

Graduation(kinda) 3 weeks ago I participated in graduation(I have a semester of student teaching left in the ArtED program, but finished with my Fibers degree) at Massachusetts College of Art and Design. It was a beautiful sunny day, I ended up getting a weird tan, starting at the top of my knees and going up about four inches to the hem of my dress from sitting in the shining sun. I'm so wonderful I was able to participate in this day with all of my wonderful friends. Then Nick and I's families came back home and spent the rest of the day together. Nick's dad, BD took these photos of Nick and I and me and my dad.

Student Teaching After a few disappointment I finally found Newton North High School, and found my teaching placement! Hurray! The students the day I was there were amazing, their dark room is comparable to the one at MassArt, and they have one giant art studio split into different areas where students can do their work. The school is moving to a new location, so it will be great to help set up the design of the new room. Oh! and my supervisor is changing her curriculum so I can do 3-D lessons with the students too! I am so excited and grateful to be able to work with this school.

Work I have been so busy with the St. Botolph Club, in the summer I become their seamstress and Jill of all trades for the summer, on top of my normal responsibilities. And I just started working at the Regale Beagle in Brookline. I love it, it has been so great, the whole staff is amazing and it is a great place to work, and go out to eat at!

Louise Bourgeois As most of you know, my favorite artist and biggest inspiration. Passed away last Monday at the age of 98. This is a great loss to the art community and her work, attitude, and presence will be missed. Here is the NYTimes article.

I promise

2010-05-01T15:28:00.003-04:00

That tonight I will post images of my three newest weavings.

I woke to an email that my postcards are being shipped!!!!
I can't wait to give them to my favorite people.

Today I spent the sunny morning before work catching up with a dear friend. I cannot wait for the summer, when I will not feel as guilty for not being in the studio or working everyday.

I am grateful for my two jobs during this slump of our country. And on top of that hopefully my etsy store will be launched by July- little things just for you-that's what I will be making.

Ok, now I have to get back to my thesis, and womanning the front desk.

new workings

2010-04-13T21:06:00.004-04:00

here some scans of the newest editions to my recent body of work

all cotton floss on linen napkins

Hopings

2010-04-10T16:11:00.001-04:00

I remembered I had something to write, but I forgot what it was.

sketches, plans, etc.

2010-04-06T19:18:00.004-04:00

I should be sleeping....

2010-04-04T00:03:00.002-04:00

I have to be at work in seven hours....

BUT!

I have completed the sculpture of a curtain, it is double sided and has my best seaming work to date.

Started an embroidery, and now pretending I am Mrs. Claus Oldenburg and sewing a suit onto Nick's newest sculpture.

Soon I will be in bed, and soon after that I will be making Mimosas and Bloody
Marys all day long.

PS.

I bought some new dishes, don't they look full of springtime!!!

250 word statement

2010-04-01T14:47:00.000-04:00

All of a sudden I felt an incredibly sharp pain, completely unrecognizable. I sat in a crowded emergency room for 4 hours, in extreme pain not knowing what was going on inside me. Then they let me in and gave me drugs that made my pain go away and then I threw up, more drugs. After physical exams, 2 ultrasounds, a catscan, and 5 more hours they figured out what was wrong with me. They fed me snacks and let me leave with a ruptured hemorrhaging ovarian cyst and a prescription for more drugs to hinder the pain. Basically, my insides were bursting.

As soon as I was not in a comatose state I began looking at what our interiors look like. I mean, I knew, but I looked for images of different diseases. I found out that the blood vessel patterning of hemorrhagic cysts looks very similar to round lace or crochet patterns. Lace grows exponentially outward, covering more and more area every time a round is completed. While many diseases grow through mitosis, there seems to be a similarity between the two processes.

My recent work focuses on making us aware of what is inside of us. By embroidering images of our insides on collected linens allows us to form a consciousness relationship with our insides. This awareness would remind us of the delicate systems we have working insides us. How we share this experience yet never seem to remember except in times of trauma and disease.

25 word statement

2010-04-01T14:43:00.000-04:00

needles punching through fabric weaving trails of thread as they meet and go their separate ways a story is told that is only for you

2010-03-31T14:15:00.001-04:00

i had some brand new shoes they were all red but they gave me the blues...
blues..
and blues..

i desperately want a nap.

2010-02-25T22:18:00.000-05:00

there is twist in my neck from being hunched over dye pots all day

16 harness dreams....

2010-02-18T22:26:00.002-05:00

One day, and hopefully not too far away I will own a gorgeous piece of 16 harnessing, 18 treaddling, mechanically winding, tension saving, order keeping, weaving machine. Or loom, whichever you prefer.
Until then I will set in front of the broken compu-dabbi with a broken heart, making weave drafts and playing with my hair.

Claddagh Bing!!!!

2010-02-15T13:32:00.004-05:00

Seriously, this was the best thing ever!! We may have been the youngest people there, but we definitely had the most fun!
They also have a similar interactive play of an 80s prom, I think I just might need to go to that too!

Red Sweatshirt Red Food Pyrex

2010-02-15T12:26:00.003-05:00

I love RED!

Miss D. Spurge, gave me two great new pieces of clothing

a great sweatshirt ( i also love those)

and a sheep heart tee-shirt!! ...seriously I am squealing with excitement.

I made Nick's favorite red food last night, I don't know what to call it, but it is super easy.

16oz condensed tomato soup (with respective water)

1/2 c, cream or milk (if using milk I'd go with 1c.)

1lb cooked chicken in 1in chunks

12 8inch flour tortillas cut into 1in chunks

16oz picante sauce or salsa

and the rest to taste:

chili powder

jalapenos

cheddar cheese

pepper flakes

then put it together and in t he oven at 375 until cheese is melted and everything is hot (I think this was 20 minutes if I remember correctly)

I had to make it in the crock-pot this time, since our oven is broken. I was a little worried it wouldn't be as good but it definitely was!

I'm eating it for lunch right now!

from Lungs we go inside

2010-02-15T12:09:00.003-05:00

This pair of embroidered cancerous lungs(still in progress here) are from the Richardson Street Collection.

After spending so much time focusing on the outside of the body, and the aspects of individuals, I think I may have found my segway to the insides, where I would like to stay for a little while, so I can figure out my thoughts about it.

So I decided I would weave lung fabric (see a few posts back for the pattern) and my instructor suggested I complete a sample of a different pattern before even starting on the lungs.
This is a Rosepath weave structure (which I forgot the tabby thread throughout most of the weaving, which is the reason for the large floats in the warp towards the bottom of this image.

And here is the first sample of the lungs, it is woven wrong side up with the lungs horizontal. I died the warp and the tabby threads for this with fiber reactive dyes on a cream rayon. -The dyed sections are the different pinks that do not draw out the lungs.

I have decided that my weft for this piece will be between the first and last blue/grays. I think this speaks to the body more.

Hemorrhagic cysts, have a distinct patterning in the blood vessels giving the appearance of lace. This napkin is embroidered with a drawing of what I think that might look like inside me.

This is the scar of a c-section. There is only a slight change in color of the scar and skin, but a difference in textures, I decided to make this look like a scar of the napkin.

Right now I am thinking more and more about the coalition between disease and lace. Both lace and cancer grow exponentially and outward. The reference to lace in cysts is unbelievably intriguing, especially since they keep popping up inside me.

I still don't completly understand what it all means, and is about but if I keep making I hope to find out!!!

Richardson Street

2010-02-15T11:19:00.006-05:00

So I have finally collected images of this installation. I unfortunately do not have one good entire shot. I'm ok with that, for now, this way you can focus on the individual pieces that make up the 'apartment'. There is one aspect that can'tbe sensed through the computer-that is the smell of stale cigarettes.

Cigarette filters, residual tobacco, and papers were used in almost every instance, creating this overwhelming stench of death, smoke, and an odd comfort.

Starting from the walls and working our way down:

"If you keep them in order." enamel paint, fabric, tobacco, spoons, shelf

"You're ruining my poker game!" wool, cigarette filters

"Winston 100s" wool, cigarette filters

"56 Rings" fabric, cigarette filters, thread

you taste just like glitter mixed with rock and roh-ole!!!

2010-02-15T11:07:00.004-05:00

I am not typically crazy about Gaga unless she's got True Blood sheriffs in her video, or singing with Elton John, but Boys Boys Boys has got me hooked...perhaps it's because I can actually hear her, and not the machines for once???

Iced Coffee, Embroidery, The Shangri-Las and Jens Lenkman

2010-02-09T22:09:00.003-05:00

This is my night.
AMAZING
I just finished watching Handmade Nation, it is all about the indie DIY movement. The rebellion against mass produced objects in a material culture, slowing down, being conscious about what materials and waste you are saving and creating. Their is also a book that was the first part of this endeavor, which breaks the country down by area and focuses on the leaders in the respective places. Most of the artists are in their mid thirties. It was so amazing to see really the first generation of this rebellion against the mass produced material culture we are currently living in. I felt so hopeful and excited throughout the whole thing!

Now I am back at my apartment with my tunes, needle, and thread!!!! Ready to go.

Edit

2010-01-28T13:35:00.002-05:00

This is closer to the final design. The one before is too thick, does that make sense?

Gosh drafting is so interesting there are so many things to do!!!!

This is for you Ashley

2010-01-28T10:50:00.003-05:00

I even did a draft by hand of this first, then tweaked the shape of the lungs a bit more but, I think I have come to a fitting conclusion.

This is my draft....
My first sample is going to be made of 100% rayon, so see how lovely it will drape. The warp and weft will be dyed 3 shades of this body rose color. The reason the weft is getting dyed is because of the large floats in this pattern, I need a tabby thread, so essentially this is a form of an overshot pattern. I'll then test of colors of the lungs in the weft (these will be dyes a multitude of colors).

Then my second sample, is going to be with thicker yarn to see what the different weights will do.

And after all that is finished I will weave the final piece of this fabric!!!

EXCITING!!!!

Sun Shine

2010-01-26T22:09:00.004-05:00

Jonah

Tiki

I made a bight and sunny quilt this past weekend to get us through the winter drab. The pattern was from thepurlbee.com and is called Sunny Tied Quilt. It went super quick and is so cheery.

the best part is.....Jonah and Tiki love it!

Right Now and Not Later

2010-01-21T00:34:00.003-05:00

After 4 readjusting-ments, I am pretty sure this will work. My legs will definitely get a workout. Any who, all you weavers please let me know what you think. The threading would be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, repeating from right to left.

Ok here is the latest draft.

Weedding Veil!!

2010-01-17T11:15:00.003-05:00

These are the sites I have found most helpful.

theveilblog.blogspot.com
These are 2 sisters, who make more head pieces but it is still beautiful and offers tons of inspiration. So much to look at for every part of a wedding. They also have an etsy account you can find the link on their blog.

isntshelovely.org/2008/05/wedding-veil-guide.html
You might have to search through the archives of May 2008 to find this, if the link doesn't work. But she seriously breaks down everything you need to know.

Thanks to these ladies for doing the hardest part for me!

Now to get Patty's approval and on the the construction!

Past Present and Future

2010-01-05T19:47:00.004-05:00

My resolution is to be more active, to include time with people that I love. I get so stressed out and bogged down during school time, it is so easy to slip back into a hermit status, which already happens so easily despite my best efforts. But this time I will work against seductive temptation.

And to be more out going.

Yesterday was my friend Katie's birthday. She and I have gone through so many things together it is nice to have a friend that will stick around anyway. This year we got to teach our first class together. It was a fashion and fibers course that lasted 8 week this fall. Our student's ranged in grade level from 7th-12th, with their skills being just as diverse. It proved to be a challenge at first, but we recovered almost immediately surpassing our initial expectations. It was a great experience and I couldn't imagine trying to complete such a task with anyone else.

Happy Birthday to the Girl who can touch her elbows together.

...and fold her tongue three ways!

The Sweet Sounds of Summer - Camping Out

2010-01-04T17:31:00.000-05:00

I recently purchased the Shangri-Las Complete Collection, their songs and titles are so amazing. I have decided to try and use the titles of their songs as much as I can. The Sweet Sounds of Summer seemed appropriate for this.

Camping Out, our favorite thing to do. No, not out in the woods, at least not now...in the living

room.

There is something about sleeping and relaxing on the pull out couch that is so fun. It's a free adventure! It also allows for easier late night movie watching and snacking, which it what it's all about.

ASHLEY!!!

2010-01-04T17:22:00.000-05:00

My darling friend Ashley has left us in exchange for wonderful adventures in Scotland at the Glassgow School of the Arts.

We love weaving, silk blends, eggnog lattes, peppermint mochas, iced green tee, reese's peanut butter trees, talking through the crack in the wall,and doing activities together.

It is my plan to send her physical letters at least once a week! Hopefully interesting things will be happening over in the states for me to fill her in with.

In the meantime- have the best time ever miss thang!

Pumpkin-Cream Cheese-Chocolate Chunk Bunt Cake

2010-01-04T17:06:00.000-05:00

WAS DELICIOUS! and easy to make.

minus the part where our oven broke and is still broken (it's been 3 or 4 weeks).

I had a beautiful image I was going to share with you-whoever you may be- but I accidentally deleted it off my memory card. Maybe my lovely friends will tell you about it instead.

Needless to say I am sad - and forced to cook, instead of bake.

On the plus, my kitchen skills will prosper. Especially with these babies! Town and Country 1963-64 Pyrex, Cinderella Mix and Pour Nesting Bowls. Nicholas is the best.

I really love the 8 pointed stars.

So far winter break has been easy going. Cleaning, reading, reorganizing, embroidering, crocheting, and job hunting have been filling my days. As well as watching Nick play 'vidja games,hardcore style'.

I may have found a great opportunity working with kids, which would be fantastic. Just waiting to here, wish me luck

wishin and hopin and thinkin

2009-12-30T18:59:00.000-05:00

The Shangri-Las on pandora if probably my favorite thing to listen to ever!

Right now:

Shangri-Las radio

Choosing Craft

and

Crocheting....

not much else planned for vacation, except moving on the WACK, Sculpture Today, and By Hand.

So much reading to do.

yay!

I Won 3rd Place!!

2009-11-01T22:25:00.001-05:00

In Conway Office Products photo contest. Here I am akward and all with my picture.

clark kent

2009-10-23T18:24:00.001-04:00

lived in something like this, at one point. i forget what the superman specific name is but nick was really excited when we found this. it was in atlantis from when we were in the bahamas, i think its cute.

is this morbid?

2009-10-18T23:01:00.000-04:00

I don't think so, but a few of my friends thought otherwise...

Morphine makes me feel funny, having little control is frightening. I thought I was smiling. I haven't done anything all week, pain killers make me so useless. Once I started trying to get back in my studio, chores, etc. the pain came back. Pain is not fun. Supposedly these are in part caused from stress, which seems like it could end up as a vicious cycle...I hope not.

PS..thats not juice thats my magnesium milk shake thing....ugh

I like

2009-10-06T19:25:00.000-04:00

nicholas colen especially when he sings songs

Dick and Jackie

2009-10-05T13:48:00.000-04:00

the centerpiece matches the wall paper

Spoons, Soup, Shampoo

2009-09-27T13:23:00.000-04:00

I think I have finally collected enough spoons to narrow them down to the best 56!

I get the rest of them tomorrow, thanks to Mallory and her Momma's yard-sale skills!

The weaving is underway and I am making progress, I hope to have this done in two weeks. That way I won't have to think of them again until Christmas comes and they need to be wrapped.

Ok I need to get back to my actual work.

Pictures from the walk to SOWA and South End Open Studios to follow soon.

Cheers

The King

2009-09-12T00:11:00.000-04:00

Elvis is coming to me in the mail!

How exactly is Elvis coming to me you may ask, well I will tell you. He will be arriving in the form of spoons and a charm bracelet.

I was looking on ebay and etsy for souvenir spoons for an art project when I found this and could not resist. It was the perfect first purchase.

I cannot wait to have him wrapped around my wrist!

(the seller's image of the product, from etsy)

Furniture Part 2

2009-08-23T18:13:00.000-04:00

Here is the complete reupholstering of my old chair-

Here is Jonah, he was a cranky pants this day and did not want to participate in the photoshoot.

Night Life with Kittens

2009-08-23T17:33:00.000-04:00

Night looks different in the Bahamas, it feels different too..and it's not just the temperature.

We had special friends come the evening who were gone during the day...THEY WERE KITTENS-6 OF THEM- AND THEIR MOM!!!!!! We looooooove kitties, the mom was super lovable and some of the babies...one thought he was tough but he was really just cute....I turn into Elmira from the looney tunes when cute animals are near. I just want to hug 'em and squeeze 'em and love 'em!

The Momma

Some more

2009-08-23T17:21:00.000-04:00

Our hotel had a casino, beaches, lagoons, a pool, a jacuzzi, a waterslide and swim up bar!!! We spent a lot of time in the ocean because it was so clear and clean and salty and WARM there was no excuse not to. About halfway through the week we found goggles and snorkels for sale and investigated the coral reefs and watched out for lion fish! Everyone was so friendly and nice, the food was amazing and the colors that all of the buildings and homes are were fantastic.

Returned

2009-08-23T17:05:00.001-04:00

We have now been back for a week and I have just finished putting everything away--where would you think to put snorkeling equipment? We had so many adventures while we were there like the aquarium at Atlantis which was beautiful and Nick thought it looked like a real life Mike Mignola drawing- I just kept expecting to see Abe swimming around. There was also a HUGE manray and a bunch of electric green eels that Ursula would have loved, and sea horses!

Don't they look like they're singing Poor Unfortunate Souls?? I think so....

There was also this scary one!!

my first

2009-08-06T16:07:00.000-04:00

I made it during the summer of 2006, finished just in time to bring it to Gathering of the Vibes that year. It kept my dry from the rain on the second day, now it is the bed and getting used. It is pretty rough, but for my first time I still love it...

Furniture

2009-08-06T15:38:00.000-04:00

The hunt and successful findings of previously owned furniture is thrilling. Oh what sort of lives these pieces have led!

Earlier this summer I made an impromptu stop at one of the many antique stores in Milford during a sale. I purchased a writing desk..perfectly sized for a child...or a low stool, which I may soon build. The thing I couldn't pass on was the color and the knobs of the drawer!

It's solid wood and a steal at $15

My next purchase was an even better deal....I paid the same for the desk for an old sewing table, chair, carrying case and Singer machine.

Some of the chords are frayed and I'm not positive if it runs. When I manually turn the wheels, everything moves as it should. My friend is an electrician and is going to experiment on it to try and see if he can get it running again.

This is the chair- post the dismantling of the existing cushion. The bottom was rotting out, exposing the horse hair it was stuffed with. This weekend I'll be finishing the reupholstering of it, and will show you the after!

Homes, spaces within homes, and what we fill them is something I am working towards understanding. I am currently reading "The Poetics of Space" to try and gain further insight into why these are the bases of my memories and why I have this yearning to recreate them at varying proportions.

It is the nature of the beast

2009-07-24T19:09:00.000-04:00

Life has been busy, filled with work, trying to save for the Bahamas, trying to plan packing arrangements...which in vain we may have to pay for checking a bag(paying for checking a bag!!!!), sewing, cooking, cleaning, crocheting and two short trips! The internet has been quiet testy for a while but having a few days off coming up may prove to be more productive for blogging-unless of course the rain holds off!

Time Outside

2009-07-07T21:09:00.000-04:00

In Milford, there is a deserted town called Monson Village. It was the first settlement in the area and it just seems as though everyone left one day. You cannot drive down into the remains, but must park to the side of the gate. Once you get through the dirt road you are immediately in a large clearing including still standing foundations, fire pits, and property lines. This past fall Nick and I got lost there for a few hours finding little wonders.

I think the patterning of this (I'm guessing some sort of fungus) is quite remarkable.

Movers and Shakers!

2009-07-06T23:40:00.000-04:00

A new(to me) pair of salt an paper shakers picked up from the Cambridge Antique Market. This is also where I have gotten all of my Pyrex to date!

More 4th of July Treats!

2009-07-06T23:24:00.001-04:00

Last 4th of July we had our first attempt at making a 'drunk' watermelon. I don't know if this is the correct name -but it makes sense. Last year we cut a hole in the top and poured vodka in. It turned into a slushy mess and ended with Nick sticking a straw into it and drinking it by himself.

My first step in improving this was purchasing a melon ball- it also came in quite handy with the fruit salad-. I cut the top off and scooped out the balls and placed aside. I also placed aside the juice from the fruit. Once it was all scooped out I used the other tip of the baller to make a zig zag edging on the fruit. I put all the balls back into the hollow shell along with the juice and vodka and let it sit.

The fruit was easy to get out, easy to share, tasted delish, and was not a gushy mess!!

mmm...Fruit Salad! One of my favorite things, this is just strawberries, clementines, grapes, blueberries, cantaloupe, watermelon, and the juice from one lemon to keep it fresh-a tip I picked up from one of my aunts!

The Pyrex is another Daisy Print Large Cinderella Bowl.

Strawberry Shortcake

2009-07-06T22:27:00.001-04:00

I think this is the best dessert I have made to date. Everyone who has tasted it told me it was delicious, so I take that as good feedback!

Yes, that is my new Pink Daisy Pyrex Baking Dish -circa 1950s

Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Biscuit:

2 c. flour 1 tbs baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 3 tbs sugar 1 stick chilled butter 2/3-3/4 c. cream

Preheat oven to 425. Combine flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. Cut butter into 8 pieces and cut into mixure. Make a well in the center of the mix and add the cream until just moist. Take dough out onto floured surface and knead a few times until it begins to hold together. Spread out to no more than 1" thick in a buttered pan. Bake for about 13 minutes or till golden brown. (I brushed extra cream and sprinkled sugar onto the pre-cooked dough for an added kick!)

Strawberries:

At least 2 pints of strawberries Sugar to taste

Whipped Cream:

I start with heavy whipping cream and added about 3/4 cup of sugar and a splash of vanilla extract for flavoring. Then whip it.

And here is the final result after you put it all together-this is not the nicest photo but it tastes much better than it looks. If you want it to be cuter, just break the biscuit dough up into smaller servings and bake on a cookie sheet.

Peach Cobbler

2009-07-06T21:54:00.000-04:00

I followed a recipe given to me for this but the topping was way more like a crisp rather than a cobbler. The executive chef at my work gave me a new recipe to try so until I perfect that you can just look at how lovely the dessert looks in my Town and Country Pyrex refrigerator dish and Pink Pie Pan.

NICK BAUGHT US A WII

2009-07-06T21:52:00.000-04:00

We are doing wii fit everyday....

..until our trip to the BAHAMAS!

Pepsi

2009-07-05T20:58:00.000-04:00

Happy Belated 4th of July!

"Drink Me"

2009-07-05T19:12:00.000-04:00

I was searching through old friends photos today from a time when we were always together and it seemed it would always be that way. Things change. I stumbled across this one, which happened on an ordinary winter day. It was the day after a snow storm, school was canceled I spent the day watching movies with friends- I think it was a Fellini- La Dolce Vita followed by another that I cannot remember the title of it but there was a cute blond with a pixie hairdo and yellow tee shirt(she was an American living in Paris) and a news paper reporter on the cover- I think it was dubbed to English and old, and Conversations with Women. Anyway we were snapped from our daze with the realization that someone was at the back door.

They had left us a present.

most of the year

2009-07-03T20:54:00.000-04:00

It is no secret that most of the year I can be found working in my studio at school or in the surrounding facilities. The best part of that time is being with people who enjoy being there as well!

It's rare when all of our schedules mesh in the summer time but here is a snapshot of one of those wonderful happenings! Here we are doing our best to hold it together with the exception of dear Danielle, who like me sometimes cannot control the muscles in her face...

Lisa is in the pink and you can see her blog here.

a review did happen

2009-07-03T20:29:00.000-04:00

My review has come and gone now but I really enjoy the way Danielle, Brianna, and I were able to transform the hallway, even if it was only for a week.

For Nichole

2009-07-03T20:13:00.000-04:00

So I have not been able to get myself to sit at the computer to update for a while now. I have been busy baking, working, sewing, and living. The computer just comes last on my list of to dos.

WAY back in May I purchased my very own first piece of Pyrex Bakeware. Its a large orange cinderlla bowl with a yellow daisy pattern. I first used it as a mixing and serving bowl for my first batch of homemade blueberry and chocolate chip muffins for my and Nick's reveiw boards. Here is a shot of it at mine-

If you look closely you can see my pink toe nail! My toes now are neon pink and smooth thanks to my ped-egg!

The polaroids to the left of the bowl are from our trip to the two farms

once there was a dolphin

2009-06-29T23:48:00.000-04:00

nights spent watching ace ventura pet detective are my ultimate fave.

the last one for now

2009-04-22T22:57:00.001-04:00

Nick is watching me, this is what he gets.....

new makings!

2009-04-22T22:52:00.001-04:00

I feel as though I've finally burst through this fortress that was slowing me down this semester...what an unfortunate time to realize that however.
But now that things are starting to come together I am begining to feel better.
That's all I can do, is try.

Four color print of Winston 100s cigarette box
-at this angle they kind ofl ook like fancy houses-

Spin Free or Dye

2009-04-22T22:29:00.000-04:00

Last Tuesday was the most wonderful day! It was sunny and warm. Driving with the windows down weather. Crammed into a car full of friends ready and willing to sing mariah carey and brittney spears. Eagerly awaiting our meetings wiht SHEEP! GOATS! YAKS! CAMELS! ALPACAS! A PIG! A LAMB! CHICKENS! DOGS! and A FRENCH DONKEY!

We went to two farms. Both very different and both so wonderful.

The second farm had so much raw fiber left over we were all allowed to take some for free!
It was amazing to see these people living the lives they want happily with animals and creating all the time!

All in all the day made me want sheep more than I already do, so I think that is successful.
The shetland sheep at the 2nd farm were so cuddly and loved getting any sort of attention they could from us.

One of the pregnant angora goat girls

I GOT TO HOLD A BABY LAMB!! He was only a week old.

14 days...

2009-04-03T22:30:00.000-04:00

May cannot come fast enough. I don't like anything I am making. Well I do, but eh. Eh, I wish that was a real word. If I had time to make work more, I'd be happy.. I just have to get through the next two weeks... and then I can breathe..

Saturday--working till 2, fabric and stitching for projects in wood, wedding at 6
Sunday---working till 2, bus ride home, food shopping for visiting artist, sketches for projects in wood. embroider for exhibitions, dye the last layer of the wood
Monday--lay down tape arrows, reading logs, embroider for exhibitions, woodshop, get food to school somehoe, visiting artist lecture and reception
Tuesday--embroider for exhibitions, field trip, reading logs, and lessons with lindsay
Wednesday--exhibitions embroider(needs to be done tonight), reading logs, SGA, another field trip
Thursday--install exhibition, class, more install
Friday--Work, bus, home
Weekend--work on studio stuff?? bake sale....
Monday--Bake sale
Tuesday--Field trip all day, to fiber farms and mueseums
Wednesday--Interview at Child's Gallery, SGA,class, opening
Thursday--Kids come, teach lesson, class
Friday--Work...
THEN BREATHING

I want to ride my bike with Nick, that's all.
and maybe lay on the sand

eh

2009-03-26T23:40:00.000-04:00

whatever

The Ties That Bind

2009-03-08T17:25:00.000-04:00

Here are the pictures from Lisa, Mallory, and I's show in February.

Everyone's comments were really wonderful- we even convinced a girl to be a fibers major!

Angie Rocket and Greener Dyes

2009-03-08T17:00:00.000-04:00

So as you may or may not know most procion and acid dyes have a metalic base, usually copper, chrome or alluminum, which can be harmful to the environment. Angie Rocket was nice enough to come to our school and lead a workshop in Green Shades! These have no heavy metals,use a citirc acid mortant, and are super easy to use!

Whitney Art Works

2009-02-17T19:15:00.001-05:00

So Nick is a featured artist in the Whitney Art Works Gallery's "The Funnies", in Portland, ME. He has 5 pieces in the show, 3 photograph prints and 2 drawings. His work really recieved the intrest and attention it deserves which is great. Everyone loved it, and he even had a crazy fan!
Here are some pictures his dad and he took at the event.

:)

Crazy Time!

2009-02-17T18:51:00.000-05:00

This semester is already spinning out of control.

Our show, "The Ties That Bind" was a huge success -thanks to everyone who came out for the opening. It was wonderful to see and share with you all.

Right now my main focus is making sure that everything goes smoothly for visiting artist Olivia Gude and the All School Show.....While maintaining my studio practice and regular homework.

We've had a dyeing workshop, Nick had an opening at the Whitney Art Works Gallery in Portlad, ME, and so many other things happening.

Soon pictures and proof of everything will be available for you to see. Until then sit tight!

♥.

Dino Jello Jigglers!

2009-01-19T19:23:00.000-05:00

Today I bought some jello to make jigglers with my new cookie cutters. It was very easy however I did manage to burn myself. And the Dino's came out perfectly jiggly and tasty!

New Specs, Dino Cookie Cutters, and Granny Squares

2009-01-09T21:22:00.000-05:00

I have had an unforeseen busy break which, despite not getting any of the rugs I wanted to create- even started, has been fine.

I finally taught myself to crochet granny squares which means I can now turn this-

into this-

This is the first row, of many needed for a blanket. It works well as a scarf while the rest is in progress!

Of course I have worked up some appetite during the break, and that is where my newest purchase comes in handy- Dinosaur Cookie Cutters!

Be on the look out for when I use them to make a batch of Deliciously-Ferocious Dinos!

And of course, hide my baby cousins, but I got new glasses. Nice big teacher frames.

Best-

Tuesday Evening

2008-12-02T22:39:00.001-05:00

So Thanksgiving is over, but it was great. Not wearing my glasses proved to be a success.

But now back to reality; the semester ending in a week, review boards in 2 weeks, trying to set up a fundraiser by the 15th, finishing pieces by our show (the 14th), trying to figure out when my second review is (yes, I have two), trying to finish pieces by then, collecting payment for a visiting artist, and putting together my teaching portfolio.
Oh and the 8 page paper by Friday.

The next two weeks are going to be hectic. I feel like no matter how long I spend working on these pieces, that nothing is going to be finished. I know it will happen but it is taking forever and stressing me out.

Here are some of the closer to being finished pieces.
I was thinking a lot in the beginning of the semester of how so many of the people closest to me smoke cigarettes. How that affects me, my relationship with them, and my feelings on smoking in general.

The actions and relationships of family are under constant investigation. The instances that caused these changes are something that is explored by the mind while the hand repeats the embroider stitches that build the work. By investigating the relationships between families, the results inform in the understanding of self.

The last two are hand dyed cotton. All three ashtrays are reverse aplique, and embroidery. The women are tee-shirt transfers, gouache, and emrboidery.

<3

Anniversary Party

2008-11-26T20:34:00.000-05:00

I threw my parents a 25th wedding anniversary party! A certain guest just barely made it there before them, what a surprise.

Nick came up early to help me decorate and set up. I had so much fun cooking, finding wedding memorabilia scattered around the house, and decorating I can't wait for another party to throw! All I need is a nice house!

Nick brought his buffalo dip for me and my mom. Brian and I ate one by ourselves. Lord help me and my dependency on buffalo sauce.

Anyway, here are some of my favorite pictures of the day!

Cheers!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

2008-11-26T13:35:00.000-05:00

This is mainly for Brianna, since she wanted this recipie of delicious cookies I fed everyone for a month.
Two giant pumpkins can go a long long way, they also made 2 pumpkin pies, and there was still some left over!
You'll dirty a few bowls but the taste of these cake-like cookies is well worth the washing.

1 cup of pumpkin- I use fresh, canned freaks me out. To do this is really simple and can be done a number of ways depending upon the amount of time you have. First you cut the top and bottom off the pumpkin. Cut it in half and scoop out the insides. After this is done you can cook the pumpkin one of three ways. Bake the halfs at 400degrees until they are soft and tender. Boil until tender, or microwave for 7 minutes per pound. After you've cooked the pumpkin, don't forget to take the skin off. Now because pumpkin has a sufficiant amount of water in it already there is no need to add more. just stick in a blender and puree.
1 cup of white sugar
1/2 cup of vegetable oil
1 egg
2 cups of flour
2 teaspoons of baking powder
2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon of nutmeg
1 teaspoon of ginger
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon of milk
1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Now mix the baking soda and milk together in a small bowl.
In another bowl combine the pumpkin, sugar, vegetable oil, and egg.
Mix all of the remaning dry ingrediants except for the chocoalte chips together in another bowl. When that is all mixed well add the baking soda and milk mixture to it. Then add this to the pumpkin mixture.
Now it is time for the vanilla and chocolate chips, mix well.

Your dough is set! Just plop spoonfuls on a greased cookie sheet and place in the oven for 12 minutes!

-tip- The chocolate chips tend to sink to the bottom of the cookies, make sure you keep you cookie sheet greased!

Happy Baking!

Hello!

2008-11-25T21:39:00.001-05:00

So I originally created this blog for a class 2 years ago.
I've been re-inspired by two friends of mine Brianna and Mallory.

I am in my fourth year at MassArt, and am a double major with art education and fibers. Someday I will graduate.

It is almost Thanksgiving, I have a wonderfully large family with whom I will be dining, after serving breakfast all morning! Still, I think resturants are weird on days like this, oh well. At least they have mashed potatoes!