Welcome To Flossie Kat's Korner!

Still Time to Bid on these!!!

2012-01-21T19:39:00.000-08:00

A cute Kitty Cat Valentine's doll that can be used all year round! Made out of muslin and other fabrics and hand painted by me:

. . . And this cute hanging Tuxedo kitty cat Valentine's ornie that was hand-sculpted by me using paperclay, fabric, tulle and rusty wire for the hanger. I love the heart shaped hanger!

To see these on Ebay,
Click Here!
They would love to be welcomed in to your home!!!

Happy Birthday, Edgar Allan Poe!!!! And a commemorative ACEO on EBAY!

2012-01-17T15:39:00.000-08:00

The 19th of January will mark Edgar Allan Poe's 203rd birthday. I absolutely love Poe and his writings; even the mere mention of his name conjurs up dark and forboding feelings and black birds swooping. I will always maintain that he is one of America's greatest treasures and I give credit to my high school senior Engligh teacher, Mrs Whitt for turning me on to his works and making me see just how beautiful his stories and poetry are. His life is tainted with a history of poverty, opium abuse and the marriage to his 13 year old cousin Virginia Clemm which would be seen as a scandal by today's standards. Even still, at her death, he quoted "Deep in the earth my love is lying and I must weep alone." Is that not romantic?? Sigh, to be loved like that!
I painted this ACEO as how most people remember him with the dark sad eyes and even sadder expression:

I really like the raven in the background! To view this on Ebay, Click here!

The thing is, I really like Edgar. . . I mean I must confess that I have this really big crush on him. . . I would give anything to know what his personality and demeanor really was; Was he friendly and outgoing or withdrawn and not a people person? I bet he opened the door for you and treated you like a lady but that's just due to the era he was from (yes, there are a few chivalrous men still left!). I would just love to know that if the two of us went out to dinner, would he sit and stare and then break in to a conversation of his tormented soul or would we have a nice, friendly, and animated conversation about whatever fancies us???

But one thing in my eyes is certain:

He looks hot in this picture. . . go ahead, laugh if you want. I think he's handsome even by today's standards. And just look at that mischievious look in his eyes. . . naughty boy. But then I will never know. .

Happy Birthday anyway, Edgar. I could have given you a few things to write poetry about. . . heehee!

To see a wonderful biography on his life, click here

Snowman ACEO on Ebay!

2011-12-13T18:31:00.000-08:00

I just love snowmen. As I was listing this on Ebay, I searched other artists' paintings and it occurred to me how many ways there are to paint, sew, sculpt and design snowmen. There must be a million ways to create them and I love them all! So, here's mine:

Hope you like him.

To visit him

Click Here!

New Christmas Kitty Cat Doll on Ebay

2011-12-12T16:47:00.000-08:00

I just listed this cute Christmas Kitty on Ebay last night. Isn't she sweet?

Notice her tag reads, "Meowy Christmas. . . ."

Click here to visit!

Two New Vintage Style Ornaments On Ebay!

2011-12-08T17:51:00.000-08:00

Just listed these two cuties on Ebay tonight:

A cute Snowman and Black Kitty Cat Ornament! Sigh, alas I'm pretty sure that these and maybe one more may be all I have time to list before Christmas. I've been substitute teaching every day and the kids keep me hopping! Hope you enjoy these!

Click here to visit!

Santa Claus Ornament on Ebay!

2011-12-07T17:33:00.000-08:00

Well, here's my latest ornie on Ebay right now. He is hand sculpted out of paperclay and hand painted by me. Hope you like him!

Click here to visit!

New Snowman and Snow Woman Ornies on Ebay!

2011-11-28T16:56:00.000-08:00

Aren't they a cute couple?? I hand sculpted these out of Paperclay and added pretty purple and gold fabric along with some glass glitter. They also have a bit of sparkly tulle to catch the light of the Christmas tree!

If you would like to see more

Click Here!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Back In The Saddle With New Ebay Listing!

2011-11-15T18:48:00.000-08:00

It's been a hard year for my family. We lost our precious father to cancer among a host of so many other "things" going on in our lives. Best thing to do is brush yourself off and get right back to it, right? It's funny, I always forget how healing it can be to create things. They say laughter is the best medicine, but is it? Well, I don't know, maybe both of them are good medicine. . . and a nice glass of red wine.
I just listed this cute Harvest Cat on Ebay tonight:

Click Here to Get a good look!

Easter Bunny Rabbit on Ebay!

2011-03-29T18:28:00.000-07:00

Check out this little cutie!!!

For all the details, Click here to see!

New On Ebay - Tuxedo Kitty!!!

2011-03-02T18:32:00.000-08:00

Just look at this sweet little Mini kitty! This is #5 in my "Lil' Nugget" Series of needle felted creations. I've been doing rabbits, but at the request of my oldest son, he wanted me to do at least one or two cats in this series. So, here's this guy:

Click Here to take a look!

Needle Felted Tuxedo Kitty on Ebay!

2011-01-17T19:16:00.000-08:00

It's been a while, hasn't it? Whew. . . It's been another rough ride but I've got up, dusted myself off and am back in the saddle again! I needle felted this cutie out of Shetland and Lincoln wools. Hope you like her!

To see her,
Click Here!

Blessings,

Lori

New Angel Painting on Ebay. . .

2010-12-01T18:35:00.000-08:00

Just listed this painting on Ebay. It's been a while since I've painted an angel and I want to thank those who have asked me why I have not done so. I've been so busy with so many things (although I did list the Santa Rosy painting that you can look at below) and as ashamed as I am to admit it, I guess I kind of gave up on my faith and have been under so much stress and heartache.
I've only told my wonderful BWBA group members about my Dad who was diagnosed with cancer back in August. They have been so wonderful with their prayers and words of encouragement but I'm just so heartbroken and destroyed over this. I know that we can't be on this earth forever and I can accept the fact that we all have to pass on someday. But it's the doctors, the aggravation of our health care system that angers me so much and the bull crap of paperwork and tests and scans and rescheduled appointments and whatnot that my Dad has to be subjected to.
Most of all, I fear that he will hurt. I simply don't want my Dad to go, yet I don't want him to suffer. I know that there are so many others out there in similar situations and I feel for all of you going through this. How different it is when it's ourselves and our families facing something like this.
Then I realize that there are so many people that are suffering in so many other ways too, whether it's the economy, loss of employment, losing a home or what have you. I'm so surprised to find out how much that people I'm close to and thought I knew are hurting either financially or with some other crisis when it just seems like on the surface their lives are perfect and I'm shocked to find out otherwise. It comes down to the fact that we ALL have to face things in our lives that we don't want to and we must find the strength to endure.
So I prayed. It actually made me feel so much better and gave me the fuel to paint something that I hope inspires others in some way. I've heard it said so many times before that art is therapy and they are exactly right! But I found out too that prayer is therapy. So combining the two just seemed like a match made in heaven!

Click here to go to Ebay

Santa Rosy on Ebay!

2010-11-28T18:34:00.000-08:00

Check out my latest darling on Ebay:

That's my Rosy wearing a Santa hat and a very mischievious grin!

Click here to see!

New ACEO Tuxedo Cat Painting on Ebay. . .

2010-11-13T07:44:00.000-08:00

Just listed this ACEO on Ebay. If you remember earlier posts, you will remember my sweet Rosy kitty who is a tuxedo beauty; I caught her sitting on the window sill so I hurriedly sketched her and did this little painting! Love you Rosy!

Come visit her here!

Check out Heather's Giveaway!!!

2010-10-21T18:37:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Heather is having a giveaway on her blog and you have just GOT to see the prize!!! It has to be one of the coolest things I have ever seen! Just tell her what you're favorite part about Fall is for your chance to win!

Click here to check it out!!!

What a talented artist you are!

This is NOT a Cat. . .

2010-10-21T15:31:00.000-07:00

This is. . .

A pretzel. . .

Covered. . .

In fur. . .

I FELT like felting a Sheep!!!

2010-10-14T18:31:00.000-07:00

Just listed this sweet sheep on Ebay tonight. I made a reversible tag with one side being for Halloween and the other side for Thanksgiving. Hope EWE like it!!!

Sorry, I couldn't help myself. . .

Check it out here!

Creating the Hive Challenge - A Sweet Autumn Hat!

2010-10-10T17:12:00.000-07:00

I finally worked up the nerve to submit this hat to the Hive's Creative Autumn Challenge! It is crocheted out of easy care acrylic. My sweet Mom loved the Pansy! I spliced two vintage patterns; one was a beret pattern and the other was a cloche pattern. Hope you like it! On another note, I took this picture today in 86 degree weather. . . whew!

THE BWBA AUTUMN GIVEAWAY IS FINALLY HERE!!!!!

2010-09-17T18:26:00.000-07:00

I am honored to be a part of this wonderful giveaway that features me along with some of the best holiday artists out there! I'm NOT KIDDING! You can check out my offering along with the others by

Clicking here!!!

Two Jack-O-Lanterns on Ebay!

2010-09-14T18:38:00.000-07:00

Just listed these two very different Halloween Ornies on Ebay tonight. There is a little bit of an inside joke to these two which I shared with my BWBA friends. During the sculpting process of one of these ornies, I had made pasta for supper. My husband got us some red wine which also became dessert. Now, I am NOT someone who drinks alot, but my day had been bad, so I felt well, entitled. So, one of these ornies was made while I was under a "slight" influence (a glass and a half), the other is not. . . Can you guess???

Or:

Click Here to See the Guilty Pumpkin!!!!!

Devil Ornament on Ebay

2010-09-13T18:16:00.000-07:00

Here is my latest Halloween Ornament. . . The Baddest of the BAD!!!

Golly, he bears an uncanny resemblance to someone I know. . . Not saying who. . . and it was completely by accident!

Check him out here!

A Tale of Two Kitties on Ebay!!!

2010-09-07T18:49:00.000-07:00

Just listed these cuties on Ebay tonight:

and:

I absolutely LOVE Halloween! It's great to see all of you artists at the Hive gearing up for it too and viewing some of the wonderful creations that you all come up with! I am so thrilled with all of the new friends I have made! Check out this wonderful Artist's forum at:

http://creatingthehive.com/

And to check out the Ebay goods,

Click Here!!!

Anyone up for Silly Cat Pictures???

2010-09-02T18:05:00.000-07:00

One of these days, I may just publish a book that is nothing but pictures of my precious darlings. Here's my boy cat Rennie chilling out in the flower garden:

He looks comfy, NO???

Here he is a-chillin' out on the couch:

Silly boy! Now Here's my precious Rosy. When I took this picture, she was actually snoring:

Look at those paws!

I did tell her that this was not really a lady-like position, but what can you do? Now before you all think that I should have said something to Rennie about his ungentlemanly like position, remember, he is a guy. Men don't really have any values. . . We're lucky he wasn't scratching or licking his um, self. . .

. . . And I have told Rosy that underneath the rocking chair is not really the ideal choice for a nap. She never listens, so I have to sit elsewhere. Well, that's all for now. Plenty more where this came from!

New Tuxedo Cat Doll on Ebay

2010-08-30T18:54:00.000-07:00

I listed this Tux Cat doll on Ebay last night. Isn't she the cat's meow???

Sorry, I could not help myself.

click here to visit her!

Pear-fection!!!!!

2010-08-21T16:40:00.000-07:00

Yumm-O! We have a huge pear tree out behind our house that is just filled with sweet juicy Seckle pears. This is a variety of pear that is apparently good for straight eating, cooking, canning, etc. As you can see, my two heathen boys are all excited at picking the luscious fruits from the tree. My youngest ate six (!) pears while we picked!

Since I was dying from the heat, I had to quit and go inside to cool off. I came back outside and caught this gorgeous and most welcome visitor stealing a small taste! I don't mind a bit, beautiful butterfly!!!

I Survived!!!!

2010-08-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun in taking part of this challenge given by Brenda of Wicked Wool Gathering. She is an amazing artist and a wonderful person! Nine other artisans including myself were mailed a handful of wool to do with whatever we pleased. Check out the creations by going to her blog! Here is what I did:

She sent me this luscious gray wool that had amazing color variations. For the life of me, I could not think of what to make! Life was so busy and I was overwhelmed with family stuff, but my sister said, "you can't lose with a rose." I laughed and did not think that such plain wool could needle felt into such a pretty rose. I did add green needle felted leaves and added it to my favorite hat and voila!!! I do love earth tones!

New On Ebay

2010-08-03T18:48:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun painting this one!!! I usually always show my eight-year-old boy what I've done and ask his opinion. He said it was really good and that the cat was really looking for trouble. I asked him why he thought this and he said, "her eyes look like she's hiding something." Maybe she is. . . Hmmmm. . .

Click here to check it out!

I'm a-Jammin' AND Jellin'

2010-07-30T12:05:00.000-07:00

Yummmm. . . My sister brought back some peaches from South Carolina so I froze a few bags and made five jars of delicious jam using my Mamaw Minnie's recipe. Earlier, me and my boys had picked blackberries that grow along our driveway. I love blackberries but hate the seeds so I used my Mamaw Nell's recipe for the blackberry jelly which was passed on only to me. It is wonderful, if I may say so! Biscuits, anyone?

What's So Special About Gladiolas?

2010-07-08T19:08:00.000-07:00

I took this picture of these Gladiolas that are growing at the corner of our porch. I absolutely love these and I especially love the color! I've tried to grow these before, but I have NEVER had any luck; I've never been known for a green thumb.

But on a very sad note, my precious Great-Aunt Gladys went home to be with the Lord this week. When I saw her in the hospital, I told her that I loved her, and I kissed her little forehead; I brushed her hair back from her face and relived memories from better times. I didn't want to cry, but of course, I did. As I was leaving with my Mom, I whispered to her, "I love you, Aunt Gladiola." I don't know if anyone else but me called her this but it was a fitting nickname for her. She was a special one of a kind gal just like Gladiolas and I will miss her so much. Love you, Glad.

Let us PAWS for the moment. . .

2010-06-30T18:37:00.000-07:00

I might be the only one that thinks this is funny; I was walking to the door when I looked over to see this:

Guess who it is???

My Rosy kitty! She's a-chillin' out in the awful heat we are having. I tried to get her to come in, but she prefers it outdoors. Oh, well. Love you, Rosy girl!

It wasn't long after this that she brought a mouse on the front porch for us to see. What a good girl! Not good for the mouse. . .

New Angel on Ebay!

2010-06-07T20:52:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I have listed anything on Ebay. Hopefully, since school is out, I will have more time to "git 'er done!" Ah, not enough hours in the day. . .

Come see her here!

Shhhh. . . Little mouse is sleeping. . .

2010-04-24T10:35:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest needle felted item on Ebay. My son found the milkweek pod in our woods and made the suggestion to make something to put in it. I started off making a baby bunny; My other son let me know quickly that this was NOT a bed for a bunny but for a mouse instead! Thanks for your help, my boys!

See it here!

New Sheep on Ebay

2010-04-13T07:20:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess it's time to go on to something else besides rabbits. I love needle felting rabbits so much, but since Easter is over, I decided to make a sheep. Love how this one turned out!

check it out here!

Chocolate Easter Bunny on Ebay!

2010-03-22T17:48:00.000-07:00

I absolutely fell in love with this chocolate brown Shetland roving that I used to make my latest Easter bunny! I love the silver strands in the roving and as I was needle felting it, it dawned on me that this bunny looked as though he had been dusted with sugar! Call me silly, but now I seem to have an uncontrollable craving for chocolate! Check it Out

Another Rabbit on Ebay

2010-03-15T14:33:00.000-07:00

I guess it's just the time of year where I can only think about rabbits! I love needle felting them and I love watching them come to life. This one in particular just touched my heart; as I was finishing it, its eyes just looked so sweet! He is a handsome guy!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180481405658&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

Bath Time!

2010-03-10T14:30:00.000-08:00

Check out this handsome guy on Ebay right now!

http://cgi.ebay.com/OOAK-Needle-Felted-Tuxedo-Kitten-Cat-Artist-Bear-BWBA_W0QQitemZ180478382709QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item2a05599275

Feelin' blue so I made a rose. . .

2010-03-03T18:39:00.000-08:00

I just really want spring to get here. I want to feel the heat of the sun on my shoulders and the green grass under my bare feet. I want to get the garden ready for planting and decide what herbs I'm going to plant. I want to watch my boys run and play and not worry if they have on enough warm clothing or not. I want to take my spinning wheel on the porch and spin while I look and the mountains that are right there for me to behold. I want to be dazzled by all of the many different wildflowers that awaken at springtime.

In the meantime, I shall content myself with creating whatever it is that suits me. So, I needle felted this rose pin to remind me that spring will come. I just love roses, especially red ones. It's on Ebay waiting to be snatched up. Hope you like it!

Another Bunny on Ebay. . .

2010-02-26T07:19:00.001-08:00

Here's another sweet bunny on Ebay right now. This one is praying for patience and is based on a recent life experience where I had to really practice being patient, which I think in a wonderful virtue to have although I have very little of it sometimes! Check it out on Ebay!

On Ebay. . .

2010-02-19T17:40:00.000-08:00

Well, here's another cute and cuddly rabbit that is thinking spring. I know I am! We've had a terrible winter here in Tennessee and I'm just about to go crazy! I love snow but, gosh I'm just so over it! I'm so anxious to see spring arrive here because I love to see the wild spring flowers wake up from their winter naps; I love to see the redbuds and dogwoods put on their show and I especially love to think about the family garden. . . sigh. . . Hurry up spring!

New Needle Felted Bunny on Ebay

2010-02-10T18:14:00.000-08:00

Boy, talk about neglecting my blog!!! Sigh. . . life just gets busier and busier, doesn't it? I really don't see how other artists that are mothers and do so many other things fit it all in. I always feel like the hurrier I go, the behinder I get!

Anyhoo, I just listed this darling bunny on Ebay and I am so proud of it! As I mentioned in the Ebay description, I am part Irish and I absolutely love Saint Patrick's day because it involves green, my favorite color. I love shamrocks and the good luck they bring. And, well, the green beer ain't bad either. . . not that I would dare drink any. . . well maybe a little tiny sip. . . That's my story and I'm sticking to it!

PROUD NEW MEMBER OF BWBA!!!!

2009-11-11T18:14:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that I was invited to join the ebay art group, "BWBA." I can't tell you what an honor it is to be a part of this amazing group of artisans. Some of my favorite artists are part of this group like "Piecake Primitives," "Skeletons in My Closet" and "Gourd Queen" just to name a few. WOW! This is totally great!!!!! Go to Ebay and put BWBA in the search engine and check it out!!!

New Rabbit and Pumpkin on Ebay!

2009-11-02T14:02:00.000-08:00

This is my latest needle felted bunny and pumpkin on Ebay. I absolutely love the rustic and primitive look both items have. I did not comb the orange locks for the pumpkin; I left them in their natural state and I love the lumpy bumpy texture that it added to it. How fun! The rabbit is totally kissable too. Check it out on Ebay right now!!!

I've been out of pocket! New Angel On Ebay. . .

2009-10-11T06:37:00.000-07:00

Well, if I'm not substituting at my sons' school, I am cleaning house. If I'm not cleaning house, I'm needle felting something. If I'm not needle felting something, I'm sewing something. If I'm not sewing something, I'm painting something. If I'm not painting something, Then I'm knitting/crocheting something; if I'm not doing that, then it's something else. . . Ah, the life of a crazy-busy Mom! Just not enough hours in the day! I kept telling myself, "I'm forgetting something, I'm forgetting something. . ." and I would think about it and try to remember. . . Finally, I got it! MY BLOG!!! I've been neglecting my BLOG!!!!! sigh. . .

Anyhoo, I have this listed on Ebay right now. I got the piece of wood from a friend's yard sale. I think it turned out great and I love giving something a new purpose! Always better than throwing it in a landfill!

Hillbilly on Ebay!

2009-09-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

So, like I said in my Ebay listing, there is a story to be told. My Papaw really was a moonshine runner/maker/taster(?). If he wasn't making it in Sevierville, he was running it from Cosby to Knoxville in a Dodge truck. Well, he got caught a time or two but things were so different back then. There existed an honor among the law and poor country people who were just trying to make a living and many a time the law did turn a blind eye. Or they took a cut, not of money but of the brew.

Well, A rookie Knox County officer did catch Papaw lock, stock and barrel (No pun intended!) and instead of jail time, he was asked to snitch on other moonshiners which he refused to do. I don't know the details but the Sheriff at that time (I won't mention names) had another use for Papaw and his very fast truck.

He picked up a load from Cosby and headed to Knoxville and was given chase by the Sevier County officers on Asheville Highway. On the radio, the Knox County Sheriff's officers let the Sevier County Officers know that they were waiting on him at Carter School Road. They were waiting alright. . . to escort him and his cargo right to the Sheriff. Guess what funded the Sheriff's next campaign?

This is a story that has been handed down for years. I'm sure it has gained a little color as time has passed, but it's still fun to hear. Nobody could tell the story better than Mamaw, God rest her beautiful soul! And Papaw's too. So, this Mountain man with his jug, was made to honor Papaw, Mamaw and all the other country people who were the most self-reliant, common-sensical, clever people to ever live.

New Sheep on Ebay

2009-09-01T18:26:00.000-07:00

Ah. . . feels good to create after moving. . . Just had to needle felt a sheep. I found these locks as I was unpacking some more of my art goodies and worked on this over the weekend. I am recycling a bunch of green file folders for hang tags (waste not!) and I think it turned out pretty cute if I may say so myself!!! Check it out!

New Angel On Ebay. . .

2009-08-26T06:41:00.000-07:00

Like I said in the Ebay listing, it feels so good to paint again!!! I'm still not finished putting everything away and in its place (I don't think anybody every really gets done with that!). I rounded up all of my paints, brushes, etc. and just could not wait to create something! I'm am filled with all sorts of ideas that I want to do. Both of my boys are in school so I really want to immerse myself into the creative process.

Also, I've been asked by the John Sevier Home folks to demonstrate spinning at their upcoming festival. I am so flattered!!!

Finally Settling in the farmhouse!!!

2009-08-17T17:46:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a long process, ( I HATE moving!) but we are finally getting settled in to our new house. This is a very old (110 years to be exact) farmhouse, but isn't it GORGEOUS? You can barely see Rennie in the front yard and Rosy on the porch rail. . . darling kitties. . .

And check out the view!!! My heart soars because that's where my ancestors come from. It is simply breathtaking! I can't wait until Fall to see the colors explode.

A storm came through and I got this shot of this beautiful rainbow!

I think Rennie and Rosy are content to be farm cats!!

I can't wait to finish putting everything away and get started painting again. In an earlier post, I told of the difficult year I was having and that God does not shut doors without opening others. One of the best church signs I read recently said, "Where worry ends, faith begins." It really does seem like all of the hardships that I have faced are leading to wonderful outcomes.

New Addition to the Family!!!

2009-08-11T10:39:00.000-07:00

I need another cat like I need a hole in my head. I have Dizzy, my sixteen year old gal that I inherited from my sister when she had to move and I just could not give her back; I have Daisy, my dilute torte, that I found at a yard sale as a tiny kitten that was almost dead so how could I refuse? I have Rosy, my darling tuxedo kitty that you can see if you look at earlier posts. She was a little fuzzy kitten on her way to the pound and I just could not let that happen. Three was enough until my seven year old saw something in a bush way down in a field next to my Mom's house about two weeks ago. We went to investigate what it was and then I heard a little "mew." I called out, "kitty, kitty" and a pitiful bony kitten ran right up to me and literally jumped in my arms! He was purring so loudly, so I got him to Mom's and we treated him to sliced ham and milk. He put on a show by rubbing all of us to show his appreciation as if to say, "Thank you" and was so adorable with his playfulness. What's a cat worshipper to do? So, here he is, my darling Rennie, short for Renoir, and full of kitten mischief. May all cats be so lucky! I am once again, smitten with a kitten!!

New Angel on Ebay... Lord give me strength. . .

2009-07-17T18:01:00.000-07:00

Just listed this angel on Ebay tonight. It was painted on a cabinet door that was being thrown away. It's so fun and gratifying to make something from an item that has been discarded instead of it becoming part of a landfill.

But all fun aside, I've had to face some really grim situations and decisions lately that have caused me more stress than I could have imagined. Actually, this whole year has been trial and tribulation and yes, I've questioned God and asked "Why me?" and really lost it at times to the point where I could have just given up totally. I've cried more tears, prayed more prayers and suffered so many letdowns that it boggles my mind. I've questioned God and His existence; I have felt so alone and helpless at all that was happening and have been bitter because none of it was my doing but I suffered the effects of it all. I may get into particulars later but I just don't know if people want to hear everything that I have been through; suffice it to say, that I have really come to terms with things and I fully believe that God does not close doors without opening others.

It's funny how one can lose so much and yet be filled with a sense of peace at the coming of the future. I've asked God for strength and I really feel I'm just about out of the storm. And come what may, I can weather it because I have gained strength from the hard times I have faced. I guess what does not kill us does make us stronger.

"I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. . ."

Spinning Cotton

2009-06-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

Okay, I will admit it. I've never really like spinning cotton, but at the gentle urging of my friend at the last spinning meeting I got this beautiful cotton roving that I called "coffee, cream and blue jeans." I fell in LOVE with it! I love how the swirls of color spun up and just look at how gorgeous the finished product is! Now, what do I make with it???

May I Spin, Rosy??

2009-06-15T14:23:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been spinning some gorgeous cotton roving lately (see upcoming post) and was ready to spin some more when I noticed Rosy, my sweet kitty asleep on the treadle of my spinning wheel. Just as I thought she was going to move, all she did was adjust her position without really moving. That's okay, girl. You go ahead and sleep. I've got laundry to do anyway. . .

Nuno Felting: The First Try

2009-06-12T18:34:00.000-07:00

At the last spinning meeting I went to, there was a gal there that had brought in some samples of Nuno felting that she had done. I must say, it was beautiful! She had felted a scarf using wool laid on a piece of cotton gauze or something and wet felted it using bubble wrap. It was beautiful!

So, I just had to try. After researching, I read where some people use muslin, silk gauze, etc to felt the wool on. I had a piece of scrap cotton that I used and went through the process. (for complete instructions, go to YouTube and watch their tutorials.) Mine went well except that the wool did not seem to want to grip the cotton but it didn't matter. I decided to peel off the cotton and what I ended up with was a lovely sample piece of "cobwebby" looking stuff that was suprisingly firm and durable. Oh, the possibilities. . . I plan on making my sister a scarf for her 50th birthday and one for my Mom. Love the process!

My Latest Angel On Ebay. . .

2009-06-03T18:10:00.000-07:00

I must admit, I have not been giving my blog much attention lately! I've been so busy with substitute teaching (which is now over), house cleaning (yuck) and so many other projects that have been neglected that need to be finished. I thought that once school was out that I would be able to devote more time to painting and making dolls, but that is NOT the case. It seems like there is always something that crops up.

However, I do want to get something off my chest that has really been weighing me down lately. And to be honest, this is hard, but here goes:

It was brought to my attention recently that a certain artist is accusing other artists of copying or coming very close to her angels that she sells on Ebay. She is apparently threatening to sue or file copyright infringement suits, etc. against other "Angel Artists." I don't quite get it, and I don't understand how one certain artist thinks that only she has the right to paint angels when they have been painted by thousands of artists for thousands of years with their heads in many different positions. On my end, I need this artist and many others to know that I have been doing not just angels, but women, children, and cats since I was in third grade. Also, my sister was painting on cabinet doors and wood when it wasn't really a popular thing to do, but I have the paintings to prove it. I am shy by nature so it was a tremendous step for me to list my first painting on ebay and to be honest, I did not put my heart and soul in to it which was my first mistake; my next mistake was looking at other artists' work and determining what was selling without taking my own style into account. So, I did copy in an attemp to sell. There, I said it. Gosh, that was hard to say. But, I have since gotten back to my own style and my own way of doing things and I am all the better for it. So it is here, I offer my apologies to those artists that I took a little bit too much from. I won't give names because I don't know if that is allowed or not. All art is derivative and I will agree that sometimes we need to take a break from looking at other's work and focus on our own which has been the best thing for me and has made me realize that I want to get back to unfinished works that have been floating in my head for some time. I think it's interesting that a lot of artists have went back to their "impressionist" roots and have created some of their best work ever. I have a lot of things that I would like to do artistically and I hope to get back to those things that I have left unsaid as an artist. As I said before, I am shy by nature and I guess I will always have that fear of putting something out there that might get rejected, but that is the chance you take.

I am just a silly Mommy with two boys that I love so much; I have bills out the wazoo like everybody and I love what I do and hope that it makes others happy when they purchase anything that I have created. For those that have bought from me and have sent me special notes along with good feedback, bless you so much. You are really what makes it all worthwhile. Blessings to you and to all the artists out there that just want to create something beautiful for everyone to see!

A Wild Bunny on Ebay!

2009-05-11T19:38:00.001-07:00

Here is my latest needle felted bunny that I put on ebay just now! I have a very sweet and kind couple next door who found two orphaned wild rabbits that they are currently taking care of and I am glad to say that they are doing great! I made this rabbit to look like a wild bunny who has just found a delicious carrot for lunch. As in my ebay description, I made this one slender and lean just like a wild rabbit would be. So cute, if I may say so myself!!!

Just Another Bunny

2009-04-14T07:10:00.000-07:00

Well, okay I needle felted another bunny! This time, I used some German glass eyes that I got from a very nice seller on Ebay. I love the look of this one and I would like to give special thanks to Gerry of Gourmet Needle Felted for her advice on placement of glass eyes. Her little tutorial on her blog was a must see! Thanks, gal!

I don't have much of this black Lincoln wool left and I can't decide to make a sheep or I might be able to do one more smaller bunny with what I have. Decisions, decisions. . .

Oh, and this guy's on Ebay too!

2009-03-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

Here is my latest needle felted bunny on ebay. I absolutely loved making him! But, I want to paint too and needle felt and knit and make dolls and tat. . . AND have a perfectly clean house! I'm not asking much, am I? Lord, give me strength.

There is not enough hours in the day. . .

2009-03-16T18:55:00.000-07:00

Honestly, sometimes I really do feel like the proverbial one-legged man in a butt kicking contest. The house is a wreck, the laundry is to the sky and my boys are running around crazy. I've not had time to post my new painting, so here it is. I absolutely love this one! Hope you like it too!

2009-03-09T15:13:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I put this painting on Ebay last night. In the listing, I said that there was a funny story regarding this piece of wood and here it is.

I had this small scrap piece of wood that I had put in my "I don't know what to with this right now" pile as opposed to my "I'll get to that tomorrow or the next day pile." The next morning, I got up and this same piece of wood was laying on my "ready to go" pile. I didn't think much about it, so I put it back in the "I don't know" pile. In a little while, there it was again in the "ready to go" pile. So, I scratched my head and was looking at this piece of wood and all of a sudden it hit me quick what needed to be painted on this. So, I hurriedly sketched it out before I lost it and this angel painting was the result. I was so pleased!

I did ask my husband if he had put in in my "ready" pile and he said no. (He is not really interested in my paintings). I figured it was my youngest since he is still here with me during the day but he said he didn't do it. Turns out it was my eldest son who said, "that piece of wood just wanted to be something, that's all, Mom."

And don't we all want to be something?

New to Ebay

2009-02-26T09:34:00.000-08:00

This is my latest angel on ebay. It was painted on such a pretty piece of pine (say that three times fast; pretty piece of pine, pretty piece of pine. . .) and the texture of this piece of wood is so wonderful! I have come across several pieces of some gorgeous wood planks, one of which is being used to do a special order for a sweet dear that lost an auction on the dark haired angel that I sold recently. This particular painting was sealed in beeswax and I just let the wax do what it wanted to.

I have such a bad, bad habit of doing and redoing things over and over again sometimes. There was a time that I would have painted over something three or four times because I've changed my mind so much. I'm glad to see that I'm getting over that and actually trusting myself more. More importantly, I've been assessing the reason that I've been doing this; I truly want to create something that makes people take notice and makes them happy. And most importantly, I just want to give thanks to God for all that He has blessed me with. I really need to be more thankful for all things that I have because just when I think that times are so hard and things look really bad, I find out that there are so, so many people so much worse off than I'll ever be. And then I feel guilty for complaining. So, in the midst of bad things, I am really going to try to turn it all over to Him. This is hard for me since I've always tried to be self reliant. But I will try. . .

Sold on Ebay!

2009-02-25T15:52:00.000-08:00

Well, this beautiful angel has found a new home! The gal that won this is such a sweetheart and I hope that she enjoys it. I had such a wonderful time painting this one. I was going to add this on my blog before it sold but I've just not had a chance! Busy, busy! Again, thanks so much to to the darling gal that bought this. Many blessings to you!

New Angel on Ebay

2009-02-11T19:19:00.000-08:00

Well, here's my latest angel that I put on Ebay last night. I found this amazing frame at a flea market and I fell in love with it! It had a piece of wood that was wrapped with a crumbly picture that I think was from a very old magazine. It was in really bad shape but the wood was gorgeous and ended up being a beautiful canvas for this angel! I love the primitive look of this one. After it was done, I put it back in the frame. I did think about painting the frame and distressing it but now I'm so glad I didn't. Some things are so much better left alone!

DISASTER ON EBAY!!!! Hubby's ID used. . .

2009-01-29T16:29:00.000-08:00

Well, so here's what happened. I got up this morning, was getting my son ready for school, he was eating breakfast, and like every morning, I came upstairs to check my email and ebay stuff. Imagine my total SHOCK when I find that my ebay account has been suspended because it is linked to my husband's ebay account which had been suspended for non-payment. . . AArrrgh!!!!
I was flabbergasted and so upset. I woke up my husband frantic to find out what was happening, he got up and got on his computer, etc. I had to take my son to school and I pleaded with my husband to find out what the heck had happened. My feedback is 100% and I would NEVER NOT pay anyone for an item that I had committed to buy. As a seller, I know how important these kinds of things are. And I knew that my husband had not used his ebay account for almost two years.
Come to find out, someone WAS using his account! We were floored! But it has all been taken care of, I am reinstated on Ebay but I had to go back and relist everything I had for sale including the Valentine angel on the following blog post. What a nightmare!!!
The folks at Ebay were FANTASTIC about assisting us with this problem. I cannot say enough about how helpful and understanding they were about this. It was easy for them to discover that there was fraudulent stuff happening on my husband's account and I just happened to be an innocent victim. Sigh. . . But still, the angel I had for sale was doing so well! I just hope the person that was the high bidder is still interested.
So, lesson learned. IT CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE! We had absolute no idea that this had been going on for about four months. I don't know all of the logistics, but I am for sure going to keep a closer watch on things!!! You all do the same and God bless!

Valentine Angel Now on Ebay

2009-01-25T17:44:00.000-08:00

Well, this is my latest angel. I absolutely love red and what better time to use red paint than Valentine's!

But I must say, I had one of the strangest things happen to me while I was putting the finishing touches on this one.

I had dropped off my oldest son at school and I was feeling so depressed; We are really feeling the pain of the economy and I have been so worried about what's going to happen so I prayed to God for guidance. Did I need to just quit painting and do something else? Did I need to try to go back to my former job? What is it that I needed to do?

I asked God to lead me but to also make me more receptive to His will. I am not the best listener sometimes and I asked that if and when He spoke, to make sure that I heard Him.

So, I got home and I wrote the verse on this painting that says, "Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things," which is from I Corinthians 13:7.

Well, I got to looking at it and decided that maybe people would not like it, so I started to wipe the paint off since it was still wet. I've never had any trouble wiping off acrylic paint, but for the life of me and I kid you NOT, it would not come off! I rubbed and rubbed and had decided to paint it over with red when I heard a voice say, "Just leave it. Just leave it."

So I did; call me crazy if you want to. Maybe I needed to be reminded of Love's attributes or maybe someone out there who sees this painting needs to know about love.

I just hope someone out there gets a blessing. I know I feel blessed.

Just put on Ebay!

2009-01-06T18:32:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm back from the dead. . . I finally got over the flu and I finally finished another painting that I listed tonight. It has been years since I have had the flu and I would choose having C-sections again anytime instead. I almost caught myself on fire because I was so cold from the chills. I kept scooting closer and closer to the fireplace until I smelled fabric smoldering; but I was warm! (NOT!) Then I went to bed and my whole body ached so bad that my hair hurt. My toe nails and fingernails hurt. My teeth hurt. It hurt to move and it hurt to be still. Finally, I got enough strength to crawl in to a boiling hot bath that helped how cold I felt and helped those aches to feel better and I finally was able to keep down some hot tea. And the best thing is that I lost some weight! At lease I got a start on that New Year's Resolution to lose those few unwanted pounds. Nothing like being sick as a dog to make you slim down!!!

Just Sold on Ebay!

2008-12-25T18:15:00.000-08:00

This lovely angel just got a home tonight! This is one of my favorites and I hope the new owner is happy with it.

And another Christmas has come and gone! I have what seems like a year's worth of cleaning to do around the house. When the garbage man comes to pick up, he is going to freak since there are piles and piles of empty boxes, courtesy of two good little boys of mine!

I do hope that everyone out there has had a wonderful Christmas. I wish the best to all out there and especially those that are being hurt by this terrible economy. It's awful; I am worried so much about it too and we're feeling the effects but I want to be hopeful for the new year and expectant that things can only get better.

I sure hope so. . .

Up for grabs on Ebay. . .

2008-12-02T17:36:00.001-08:00

I felted another Santa similar to the one that a dear gal from Ohio bought. I also have this angel painting too and I really love the way she turned out. I've been sooooo busy with my son's school, getting ready for Christmas, blah, blah. . . . .Sometimes I feel overwhelmed and that's when I step back, take a deep breath and give thanks to the good Lord for all that he has given me. That includes the chaos, the worry and the tears. Because, really, in the end the greatest things that I am blessed with is my family. You can't buy a family and you get what you get and I can't thank God enough for the family I have. I guess I'm ashamed of myself for worrying so much about my house not being perfectly clean or if the economy is going to get worse or better. There's a lot worse things to be angry about rather than those ten pounds I can't seem to lose. How can I even think about those things when such terrible things are going on?

Anyway, we lost our gorgeous pet rabbit over the Thanksgiving weekend. It was hard on my son, but like I just told my dear felting friend Gerry, It is a life lesson that has to be learned. And life does go on, after all. So, let's create and bring beauty in the world in our own small way!!

Sweet Needle Felted Santa

2008-11-25T18:11:00.000-08:00

I was so pleased when a lady who was bidding on my rabbit contacted me and was so distraught that she lost it on ebay at the last minute. She emailed me and begged to know if I had anything needle felted that was finished and if she could view it and offer to buy it before I listed it on Ebay. I emailed her a picture of this Santa to see if she was interested and not only did she get the Santa, she wanted me to to needle felt her another rabbit that is to be a Christmas present for her sister. She was so sweet! I emailed her a picture of the rabbit before the ears were added (yes, I was going to send a picture of the finished product) but she went ahead and agreed to buy it too! Thanks, dear lady!!!! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas!

A NEEDLE FELTING CONTEST!!!

2008-11-15T06:27:00.000-08:00

Wow! I just woke up this morning and there was an email from the one and only GERRY of Gourmet Felts!!!!!!! She is like, the guru of needle felting and she has invited me to enter a needle felted creation in a contest she's having!!!! I. . . Am. . . Not. . . Worthy. . .

This rabbit is currently on ebay. I don't know whether to enter it, or some others I have. Anyhoo, I was so pleased to be asked to participate in a contest by someone who I have admired for a while. (Actually, I'm jealous because she's so good. . . just kidding. . .) Thanks, Gerry!

Oh, and I have this painting on ebay too! I am so pleased with how she turned out. I really enjoyed trying out this new medium my sister got for me. It gives such a wonderful texture and I can't wait to use it in other paintings.

These found good homes too!

2008-11-15T06:22:00.000-08:00

These two angels just recently found homes on ebay last week. My thanks and best wishes to the buyers! Again, it is alway such a blessing when someone makes a piece of my art work a part of their home!!!

Up for Grabs on Ebay. . .

2008-10-29T19:19:00.000-07:00

Here is my latest angel painting that is currently listed on Ebay. Yes, another redhead. . . I guess having two red-headed boys, a red-headed Mom and being a red-head myself, I guess I just naturally gravitate to what I know!

This One Found a Good Home Too!

2008-10-15T06:17:00.000-07:00

This painting just sold on Ebay and I must say, I understand now when an artist has a hard time letting go of a particular piece; I'm so glad that it has a new home but I shall miss it! A great big thank you to the gal that bought this. Again, my heart soars when someone takes the time to view my work and decide to make it a part of their home. Many blessing to you, the buyer and to everyone!!!

SOLD!

2008-10-05T19:08:00.000-07:00

This painting just sold on Ebay today. I would like to thank the sweet person who bought it from me. . . You make it all worthwhile! Hope you enjoy making it a part of your home, sweetie!

Meet A Wonderful Pair of Craftspeople!

2008-09-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, I had the honor and pleasure to demonstrate knitting, crocheting and needle felting at the Historic Ramsey House Country Market which is near where I grew up in Knoxville. This is my second year of doing this (I demonstrated spinning and wool working last year) and I absolutely had a fantastic time despite the heat. I get to meet a lot of people that come there to shop and antique dealers and other wonderful artisans.

During a break from the heat, I was walking back to my table and saw this booth with these stunning mountain dulcimers displayed and, of course, had to wander over. Was I ever salivating!!! I have never seen such beautiful and perfect craftsmanship on any musical instrument such as these! And the sound is like the voice of angels, I kid you not! The builder, Bill Rich was gracious enough to let me play one and I was amazed at the beauty and sound. See for yourself. Visit http://www.papawsdulcimers.com/ and check out his work! Thanks again to you and Mrs. Rich for letting me play! I am so glad our paths have crossed. See you at the Museum of Appalachia!

Yes, Another Red-Headed Angel!!

2008-09-04T17:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, I said I was not going to do another redheaded angel, but I could not help it! I have this painting listed and also this needle felted sheep. I guess I'm just in that mode of painting with fall colors. I especially like this angel's wings which are maple leaves! I need to show this to my sister-in-law since she is a Canadian. I think she may just appreciate it!

I will be at the Ramsey House Country Market next weekend selling stuff and demonstrating needle felting, knitting and crocheting. Last year, I spun, but somebody beat me to the punch this year! That's okay, just as long as the art of spinning is kept alive!

It's Raining!!!!!

2008-08-28T07:27:00.000-07:00

Well, I hate to say that good things can come out of bad, but hurricane Faye did bless us with much needed rain. It is so good to see things turning back green again. A few of my pumpkin vines might actually just make it!

These are my two paintings on Ebay right now. I figured I should do a blonde angel since I've done a couple of redheads. But then I got inspired by the coming of Fall and did another redheaded angel that reflects Fall's colors. It's funny, but for me, Fall is the happiest, yet saddest season that comes. It makes me happy because I adore the color scheme and I'm near the Smokies so I get a wonderful show. I love the cooler weather and the crispiness in the air. I love getting dried corn stalks ready to decorate the outside of the house with and especially thinking about how to dress my boys for Halloween. But then that familiar sadness hits and no matter how I try to keep from it, I get depressed. Even though the falling leaves are beautiful and give great fun to my boys, it symbolizes death to me. When I look out at the family garden and it's all brown, weedy and ready to be turned under because it has given its bounty, it's like an ending, even though I know that next year we'll plant it all over again. Well, actually, this is the old me thinking. From now on, this is NOT how it will be viewed. I want to see Fall as the beginning of renewal. I want to take in its beauty and be inspired by it. I really am going to spend more time in the mountains with my boys and not let the excessive crowds bother me. I am going to see Fall as the precursor of restfulness. I think I'm going to go next week and get a bunch of bulbs to plant!

Send Us Rain!!!!!

2008-08-20T12:56:00.000-07:00

It's hot. And dry. My pumpkin plants are all but dead despite our best efforts. The gourds, however, that I planted for my sister are doing very well and I hope she has a lot to do some of her gorgeous art work on.

I currently have this red-haired angel painting on Ebay. It kind of looks like my Mom, except nobody could possibly capture my Mom's beauty. . . Not me, not Raphael, not Leonardo. . .

Anyhoo, my oldest boy is in first grade and I started my four year old in a Mom's day out program that he loves. Hope this gives me time to paint and needle felt more. And clean house more. And keep it clean. . .

Sunday Dinner at Mom and Dad's

2008-08-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

One of the best days of the week is Sunday when the family gets together to stuff ourselves silly on Mom's good cooking. This last Sunday, I gathered up a basket of apples from Dad's apple trees and made us all a homemade cobbler with vanilla ice cream! There goes my diet!

Afterwards, we went out to the garden to gather veggies and to do a little weeding and plowing. Too bad that there was a CRACK in the field (say hello to my darling nephew.)

Check out the photo of the heart shaped sunflower that my sister grew! Isn't it beautiful?

Just Listed This One On Ebay!

2008-07-30T18:00:00.000-07:00

This is my latest painting that I just got through putting on Ebay. It feels so good to paint! I have felt so much creative juice flowing here lately. I guess it's been so darn hot here that it's been a good time to stay in the cool, find inspiration and create. Usually, I'm not bothered by the heat, but it's knocking me on my butt here lately. I guess I could say that I'm getting old, but. . . let's hold off on that. . .

I went up to Mom and Dad's today to help in the garden and I weeded out the pumpkins and the gourds. I hope we have a bumper crop of them! The corn got blown over in a recent bad storm, but it seems to be okay. I picked five ears of it, got some squash, tomatoes and green peppers and had a feast complete with cornbread for supper. Really need to lay off the fried food! I can't help it!

My Latest Needle Felted Bunny!

2008-07-27T18:22:00.000-07:00

I had fun creating this bunny! I got this natural gray Lincoln wool from my friend that I see at every spinning meeting (she is my wool gal) and it was wonderful to work with. It just got put on Ebay and I hope it finds a wonderful home!

Getting my feet wet. . .

2008-07-27T08:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, now let's see if I can add a photo:

Cool! This is a small needle felted bunny rabbit that I recently sold on ebay. I love needle felting rabbits, cats and sheep. I've also needle felted roses but I end up giving them away and that's alright too! This computer stuff ain't so bad, I guess. . . Let's see how it looks!

A New Beginning

2008-07-25T11:37:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my very first post! I don't have much to say right now, but this is a milestone for me to create this blog as I am NOT a techno person. But, instead of avoiding things that intimidate me and running away, I plan on learning new things and if I mess up, SO WHAT? Anyhoo, drop by for a spell and make yourself comfy.