FH Design

Where to find us....

2010-09-29T19:20:00.006-06:00

We've both moved on to new and different projects.

Find Kerry:

Type A Mom Type 1 Kid

Find Rachel:

art + food + friends

postcards, etc.

We hope you will visit us at our new locations. We still have lots to share.

It was great sharing our business, our art, our craft and our ideas with you.

Take care,

Kerry & Rachel

Changes

2010-09-28T19:25:00.002-06:00

There have been many changes for Kerry and Rachel and Milagro Jewelry in the past 12 months. We closed our business in June.

We have moved on . We haven't given up our love for art, craft or friendship.

Check back for more information about where to find us in our new endeavors.

Counting the days...

2009-08-13T08:47:00.007-06:00

One more week until the kids go back to school. Don't get me wrong, we love our kids. We love summer vacation.

Personally, I am craving the routine that school brings. The rhythm of the school year is somehow comforting. There is something nice about being in a quiet house, no quibbling, no TV, no stopping to make kid lunches. Doing housework by myself. Getting back to my own creative work, too.

I love the coming of autumn. Cool mornings and crisp air are a refreshing change after the heat of the summer. The colors of fall are warm and comforting, the foods of fall are yummy...it's just around the corner.

...It's not like we are counting the days.

Around Town

2009-08-12T15:26:00.005-06:00

What I like about Lafayette is that there continues to be new things to like about Lafayette. The city seems to be constantly changing and and adapting and adding, for the better. With various construction projects around town, it's hard to know what will pop up next. Many of the projects are city improvements, you know the ones that make our underground pipes better but make us groan at the torn up roads. Other projects this summer have been for the betterment of the community.

The windmill that popped up at the library is a perfect example. What a surprise to see a windmill installed on the front lawn of the public library. You can see the library in the background with the Lafayette Miner's Mural on the side, one of our 9 public art installations.

The city is making a big effort to go green. This is just one example of how they're doing it. And, according to the Lafayette Library's facebook page, solar panels are next. I'll keep you posted.

****************************
And to keep you posted with what's going on at the studio... While it's been a relatively quiet summer, in the little blue studio, life has been anything but quiet for Kerry and Rachel! Wow! I wouldn't know where to begin...

Now, we're ready to rev up for the fall. Our plans include a fall launch party, our 4th annual artist sale at the studio, and a new line of jewelry.

We got together to work with new materials, new designs, and a new process yesterday. We are so excited with the outcome!!! We'll share photos soon.

We've even found a "green" way to patina silver! The process uses a plastic bag and a hot hard boiled egg! I'll bet you can't wait to hear how that turned out...but for now I'll leave you guessing.

Fresh

2009-08-11T16:24:00.001-06:00

from the garden.

Art on the Street

2009-07-27T08:54:00.002-06:00

Today's Art on the Street sculpture comes from Lafayette Artist, J. Lucas Loeffler. Sky Dance is one of four installed at Festival Plaza in the heart of Old Town Lafayette.

Sky Dance measures 30" x 32" x 12", and weighs 40 pounds. This bronze piece is captivating. Loeffler says, "Years ago I was privileged enough to witness what is referred to as a Ghost Dance - a Native American Ceremony which exhibits many dancers in various forms. The dancer that most fascinated me was the Eagle Dancer. To anyone not present, it would be hard to believe what happened next. The Eagle Dancer seemed to become one with the flame, take flight and vanish into the night sky. This image was a driving inspiration to create this body of work."

J. Lucas Loeffler was born in 1972 on the east coast and moved to Boulder in 1976. At an early age, Lucas showed interest in many disciplines; however, sculpture was the one that suited him most. He began with clay and pottery at age five. He was a quick study and soon began to teach pottery and other classes through his junior and high school years. After high school, Lucas started his own company while simultaneously pursuing his sculpting career. He cast his first Bronze pieces at the age of 26. That same year he was accepted into a wonderful gallery in Santa Fe, who would sell his first sculpture to a museum in Germany. Since then, he has been in many ongoing exhibits, both private and public. Lucas has established the drive and creativity needed to pursue his dreams and still runs the company he started many years ago while consistently sculpting new pieces.

For more information about Art on the Street, to vote on your favorite, or inquire about purchasing one of the sculptures, visit the city website.

Cherry Pie

2009-07-24T08:37:00.005-06:00

Last week the girls and I went to my mother-in-law's house to pick cherries. (unfortunately I forgot my camera.) We had fun picking the cherries, and then....

We pitted the cherries.We baked the pie. We ate the pie.

Summer Fruit Pie

2 pie crust (I used frozen, just a bit easier than making your own.)

4 cups pitted fresh sour cherries

2 cups fresh blueberries

2 peaches, sliced

zest and juice from 1 lime

1 cup sugar

4 tablespoons tapioca

1/4 teaspoon almond extract

Preheat oven to 375.

Mix the cherries and blueberries with the sugar, tapioca, zest, juice and extract. Let sit for 15 minutes.Line the bottom of a deep 9 inch pie plate with first crust. Pour in berry mixture. Top with sliced peaches. Top with second crust, pinch edges together. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar. Cut 4 slits in the top crust.

Place the pie on a foil lined cookie sheet, there will be drips. Bake at 375 degrees for 55 - 65 minutes. After 20 minutes you may need to cover the outer edges of the crust with foil to prevent the crust from browning too much.

Art on the Street

2009-07-20T07:06:00.002-06:00

To continue the tour of Art on the Street, I though I would give you a little more information about the program. Modeled after other similar outdoor art programs, the city of Lafayette essentially leases these sculptures from the artists for a small stipend. In addition to the stipend, the artist receives a fair amount of publicity and has their work on display and for sale for the period of one year.

At the end of the year long period, unsold art will be returned to the artist and new sculpture will be chosen. The goal that the Public Art Committee has set is to expand the number of sculpture by four more each year for several years. This year we have 8, we hope to install 12 next summer.

Today's sculpture is Banned, by Jim Small. This piece is made of stainless steel and aluminum and measures 13.5' x 6' x 4.5', and weighs 150 lbs.

Banned is a whimsical, over-sized interpretation of the once popular game lawn darts or jarts. The dart at one time was one of the most enjoyed backyard lawn games but was banned from production in the 80’s due to injuries of the players. Banned is part of a larger than life series of objects from our past. The fins of Banned spin in windy conditions.

Banned is place on the west side of Festival Plaza, at the intersection of Chester Street and Public Road. It's bright color and enormous size draws attention. It is a fun piece for all ages.

For more information about Art on the Street, to vote on your favorite, or inquire about purchasing one of the sculptures, visit the city website.

Art on Vacation

2009-07-17T07:03:00.008-06:00

Earlier this summer Jeremy and I took the girls on a trip to Sayulita, Mexico, with his parents and brother's family to celebrate my in-law's 40th anniversary. It was a wonderful trip filled with lots of fun experiences. As we explored this beautiful, small town, with cobblestone streets, I was struck by the art I found everywhere! From shop signs, to painted menus, mosaics at the fish shop, to murals on the walls, we were surrounded by art!

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.

-Pablo Picasso

The work of the artist is to lift up people's hearts and help them endure.

-William Faulkner

Art is the signature of civilizations.

-Beverly Sills

Art on the Street

2009-07-16T07:23:00.007-06:00

One of Lafayette's largest Public Art Committee endeavours is the Art on the Street installation. This rotating public sculpture gallery on Public Road in Old Town Lafayette has been in the works for the better part of two years. With a lot of hard work, fundraising and several grants, PAC saw their dream realized with the reception for the unveiling of Art on the Street on June 19. The event was fun, food from Hanna's Catering, music from a bassoon quartet, lots of people, and wonderful sculptures!

I will take several entries to give you a look at each of the sculpture that are part of Art on the Street. For a closer look, come to Old Town Lafayette, and take a stroll up and down Public Road. Three of the eight sculptures have been installed at Festival Plaza, at the intersection of Chester Street and Public Road. The remaining five were on display at the reception, and will be installed later this month.

The first piece I will share with you is the Beanstalk Giant, by Boulder artist Bruce Campbell. This beautiful piece is installed at Festival Plaza, at the intersection of Chester Street and Public Road. It's whimsical nature attracts children and adults to its mystery. He seems to have a calm, wise presence on the lawn of the Plaza.
The Beanstalk Giant was created through a combination of painting, welding and engraving on a grain storage tank salvaged from an old farm. He is a wonderful example of "green" art, which repurposes other materials for a new and creative use. It measures 80" x 64" and weighs 300 pounds.

Through various combinations of welding, painting, carving, and engraving, Bruce Campbell combines painting and sculpture to impart an archetypal, ancient quality and a mystic energy to salvaged iron, steel, wood and stone. The unique shapes and surface patinas, sculpted by time and weather, become an integral part of his imagery, which seemingly emerges from the intricately weathered surfaces. The recycled materials speak to the past through their old world craftsmanship and timeworn surfaces, and speak to the future by sending the message that all can share the planet sustainably while continuing to build, create, and foster cultural expression.

For more information about Art on the Street, to vote on your favorite, or inquire about purchasing one of the sculptures, visit the city website.

Stay tuned for more here, I have 7 more sculpture to share with you!

Key Rings for a Cause

2009-07-15T08:12:00.000-06:00

Although business is slow in the summertime, we got an email for a big order a few weeks ago- 100 custom key chains. A company called, 4women, that sells the BeauBeau, a head scarf for women impacted by hair loss due to chemotherapy or alopecia, asked us to make a special key ring to be used in one of their upcoming products. We were thrilled.

After several emails and a phone call with Kristin, we designed a special key ring, incorporating bright colors and patterns and the special significance of Milagros.

These key rings, along with some other useful items, will be part of the Beaubag, a special tote bag for chemo patients. Susan, the 4women founder, has selected each item to be useful for women going through that difficult medical treatment. She has created a way for women and girls, who have lost their hair, to maintain their style and dignity through what is a difficulty time. We are happy to be part of this meaningful product.

We are fortunate enough to be blessed with our health, and we hope you and your loved ones are healthy, too. But, if you know someone who is experiencing medical hair loss, visit Susan at 4women. She has some wonderful products, and a great blog.

Blink

2009-07-14T08:22:00.006-06:00

Don't look now, but it's July 14. Maybe next time you blink it will be September or December. I can't believe I haven't sat down to write since May. May?! Really?! Have I been that remiss?It's not that I have nothing to say. Everyone who knows me, knows I have plenty to say. Is it that I have no time? No energy? Too many other priorities? I am not sure.

But, I am here, now. So, I will write. Perhaps you, dear reader, will forgive my transgression, will read.

Recap-

Since the last time you heard from me, Kerry and I, and our respective families (separately or together) have been busy. We held a big sale at the studio, went to Art Night Out, took one trip to Mexico, and one to Hawaii, worked on one basement finish, built and planted two garden beds, celebrated 4th of July, took a mountain trip, went to the Renaissance Festival, hiking, Cave of the Winds, swimming, roller skating, two book club meetings, took the kids to the library, took an altered book class for us, library activities for the kids, is dog sitting, working on never-ending yard work, had a visit from the in-laws and numerous dinners with friends. Exhausted, yet?

We hope you're having a good summer, too.

More photos from the sale...

2009-05-21T16:31:00.003-06:00

Headbands and pouches...

Littlest Miracles Collection, for the younger set.

Fun, summer drawstring backpacks...

Easy going tote bags.

Beautiful shoulder bags, too.

.........and much, much more!

Join us for our Private Sale

2009-05-21T06:36:00.005-06:00

Our two day sale starts today. We have been busy getting ready. The studio is filled with new, summery items.
Our summer specials and one of a kind items are all ready for the two day sale. In the background you can see our fun tote bags and purses on display, too.

Fun, summer bracelets. What a bargain!

Join us Thursday, May 21, 6:30pm – 9:00pm, for some light dessert and beverage; or on Friday, May 22, 9:00am – 1:00pm, for coffee and a treat. Bring a friend along with you.

Trivial minutia

2009-05-07T10:03:00.004-06:00

Happy Odd Day!

Strangely, having only odd numbers in the date is a rarity. It will only happen six times in a century. 5/7/09 - Do something odd today to celebrate! If you have a lot of time on your hands, you can even enter an odd contest. What will you do?

Irish Wit and Wisdom

2009-05-06T06:22:00.000-06:00

An elderly couple were driving through County Kerry, Ireland. Irene was driving when she got pulled over by the Gardai, who asks her, 'Ma'am did you know that you were speeding?'

Irene turns to her husband, Mick and enquires, 'What did he say?'

Mick yells out, 'He says you were speeding!'
The Garda said, 'May I see your license, please ma'am?'

Irene, once again, turns to Mick and says, 'What did he say?'

Once more, Mick, shouts out, 'He wants to see your license!'

Irene gives the policeman her driving license.

The Garda retorts, 'I see you are from Kerry. I spent some time there once and had the worst date I have ever had.'

For the final time, Irene turns to Mick and asks, 'What did he say?'

Mick yells very loudly, 'He thinks he knows you!'

Hummingbird Mode

2009-05-05T06:22:00.003-06:00

Spring is here. We are in extreme hummingbird mode. This means that we are flapping our wings at 12 - 90 beats per second. Per second, folks, we are not kidding around here!

We are in full swing with end of the year activities at school, how many field trips can they cram in at the last minute, book reports, poetry readings, concerts, musicals, field days, and 5th grade graduation. Oh, wait, did I mention that the dandelions and weeds are out of control, and we've had 5 weekends in a row or rain or snow! What about planting a garden? And those vegetable beds we've been meaning to put in, they're half-way done. Don't forget book club and volunteer meetings. The public art committee is gearing up for their summertime events, and oh yeah, Rachel just agreed to be their secretary. We are also coordinating, planning and working on our own home and garden renovation projects. We may even be planning a family vacation, if we're lucky. Then, there is still laundry, grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, children, husbands, and friends. Is anyone else feeling this way? It makes my head spin, just to think about it all!

And in the midst of it all, we are preparing for our Spring Sale. Just a little last fling, before we batten down the hatches for the summer. We are excited to be offering a line of less expensive, fun summer jewelry, as well as a wide variety of fabric accessories including tote bags, headbands, wristlet pouches, and bags like these.

So, we know you all are busy too. We hope this spring finds you happy and healthy in the midst of your own personal hummingbird action. Hang in there, summer is just around the corner!

Boat House and Festival Plaza

2009-05-04T06:20:00.002-06:00

Ok, so this post is just a bit of unsolicited, free advertising for the City of Lafayette. I just wanted to keep you up to date about the happenings around town. If you are a local you can come to some of these events.
I have written several times about our boathouse and the fire that destroyed it; now, I want to let you know that the new one is ready to go!

Come to the Waneka Lake Boathouse Celebration

May 9
2:00pm – 4:00pm
Waneka Lake Park and Boathouse, 1600 Caria Drive / Lafayette

There will be activities for kids, refreshments, paddle boat rides and more!

Another new addition to Lafayette will be opened on May 9. Festival Plaza is a new area on Public Road, to be used for community events, local farmers markets, and as a fun public gathering spot. Later this spring several sculptures will be installed as part of Art on the Street, Lafayette's new sculpture walk.

Festival Plaza dedication

May 9

Activities and refreshments from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Corner of S. Public Road and Chester Street

A lot is happening around town! It's exciting to be part of such a great community! Maybe we will see you at one of these fun events.

Wash your hands! PSA

2009-05-02T06:35:00.001-06:00

Just in case you forgot what your mother told you:

Just a friendly reminder...and if you want to read more, I had a lot to say about it last year, too.

Spring Art & Craft Sale

2009-05-01T06:33:00.002-06:00

Thursday, May 21; 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Friday, May 22; 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Affordable Jewelry
Summer bags and totes
Fun gifts for adults and kids
One-of-a-kind accessories
Mixed media art and collage
Unbelievable bargains!

We are located at 600 E. Simpson St. in Old Town Lafayette. The studio entrance is on Finch Street. Enter through the west gate and come on in to the back building. Feel free to bring a friend. Food and beverage will be served.

Don't pass up life's small pleasures.

Public Art at School

2009-04-30T06:25:00.002-06:00

The city of Lafayette, with the support of City Council, local businesses, and community members, has made a concerted effort to bring art into our daily lives. We have several different committees and commissions that focus on art and public art. There are art nights on Public Road. There are public art installations all around town. While the art movement in Lafayette is relatively new, I think the whole town of Lafayette is getting into the spirit of public art. Last week as we were walking up to the elementary school, we saw this lovely sculpture garden in front of the building.

I talked with one of the wonderful art teachers later in the week. She explained that the 2nd, 3rd and 4th grade classes had participated in creating this permanent sculpture garden in front of the school. The pieces were installed before the school's "Learning Fair," but are a permanent installation to enhance the school. Each piece is mounted to a steel pipe which is cemented into the ground. I asked how long the pieces would be there, and she said she has similar sculpture in her garden that are ten or fifteen years old. I hope these last at least that long. The project was made possible with the help of a grant from the Lafayette Cultural Arts Commission.

I think that using children's art as permanent public art is wonderful, especially at an elementary school. It is a lovely way to beautify our spaces, which students, teachers, parents and community memebers can enjoy. But it also serves as an historic marker, of sorts. Just think about the students who will pass by or return to their old school and can say, "I made that," in five, ten or fifteen years. What a gift that teacher has given those students, the school and our community.

Thank you.

Weekend Getaway

2009-04-29T08:02:00.004-06:00

Kerry and I took four crazy girls to Grand Lake for a weekend get away.

After dinner we sent them outside to play hide and seek.
This is what they found.

Mini - collage

2009-04-28T08:04:00.002-06:00

I guess it's because we have a bit if crafters-ADD. We are always trying new things. Here's one of the latest - mini-collage. This one is a pendant, combining words and reproduction vintage images behind glass. (measures approximately 1" x 2") This one of a kind travel pendant will be available at our sale next month.

PSA

2009-04-27T07:57:00.001-06:00

Quote of the Day-

2009-04-24T10:36:00.000-06:00

In the broad earth of ours,
Amid the measureless grossness and the slag,
Enclosed and safe within its central heart,
Nestles the seed perfection.
-Walt Whitman

(freebie image from Dover Publishing)

more collage

2009-04-23T06:42:00.000-06:00

Another collage for the collection, using canvas, paint, paper, reproduction photo and text, rub-ons, flash card and metal handle.

Happy Earth Day

2009-04-22T15:20:00.007-06:00

Walk the kids to school, walk home. (go about my daily business) Walk to the grocery store with my reuseable tote bag. Walk to school, pick up the kids. Walk home. No driving today. Too bad life isn't always so simple.

Sweet Pea and Sunflower plants from my daughter's 4th grade class.

"Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. "

-Rachel Carson

Save the date...

2009-04-22T09:06:00.006-06:00

You've been asking, so we've done it....

We've finally picked a date for our Spring Sale.

Thursday, May 21; 6:30pm - 9:00pm

Friday, May 22; 9:00am - 1:00pm

Tell your friends! Mark your calendar! We hope you can make it!

Boat House Update

2009-04-21T19:38:00.007-06:00

Do you remember when I told you about the Lafayette Boathouse that was destroyed by arson. It was a big loss for our community. The boathouse at Waneka Lake was a nice little gem in our town. Children and adults enjoyed what it had to offer, and in 2007, it was senselessly burned to the ground.

I wanted to give you an update. What was diminished to ashes has been rebuilt.

I have been meaning to take my camera with me on our walks, today I remembered it, just as I was walking out the door. I am so glad I did. As we were coming around the west end of the lake, we saw a trailer filled with bright paddle boats, ready for delivery.

The boathouse will be finished soon. The fleet will be back in the water this summer. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony and grand opening next month - details to follow.

Lafayette Art Night Out

2009-04-10T11:59:00.003-06:00

We are attending Lafayette's Art Night Out. If you are looking for something local to do, you might also be interested. What's not to love about art, wine, live music, and walking around town? You can get more information on the city's website. Lots of the restaurants and stores are having sales and promotions, too.

Easter Egg Fun

2009-04-10T06:50:00.005-06:00

I had a fun time dying Easter eggs with my girls last night. It's something I did with my mom each year, even after I was in college. Even after I was married, Jeremy and I would go to Mom's house and spend a fun evening over dinner and dying eggs. Much of it was spent laughing over who could make the most crazy or unique egg, or who could develop the most interesting method of dying the egg.

Pumpkin Egg

I think my husband had a lot of fun dying his Easter eggs, but he may have some holiday confusion.

Deviled Egg

Have a great weekend!

Quote of the Day-

2009-04-03T06:51:00.005-06:00

I have bursts of being a lady,
but it doesn’t last long.
- Shelly Winters

(freebie image from Dover Publishing.
Sign up on their website for free, weekly samples)

Book Club Collages

2009-04-02T10:00:00.002-06:00

Two from a series of book club collages that Kerry and I made this week.

a word to the wise

2009-04-01T08:56:00.004-06:00

You know I love coffee. I love all types of coffee, but my favorite is a non-fat Latte, no flavor. I occasionally order this small indulgence from a local Starbucks. I usually order "Grande Skinny Latte."
This is all wrong!
A friend recently told me, as a little trivia tidbit, "Did you know that if you order a Grande Skinny Latte instead of a Grande Non-Fat Latte, you will pay 30 cents more for your coffee?" I was horrified! Skinny, Non-Fat, what's the difference? 30 cents for a word that has been ingrained in us by all those Starbucks baristas: Skinny.

So, into the Starbucks I strolled. Knowing the secret, I ordered, "Grande, non-fat Latte, please." Sure enough, my coffee was just a bit less expensive. So, I asked the question, "Is a Skinny drink really more expensive than a non-fat drink?" The barista was stupefied. "Well, it shouldn't be....let's see." So he pushed the "Skinny" button on the register. "Yep, it sure is."

Hmmm.... So, if I have 1 Starbucks a week and order the wrong way, I am spending an extra $15.60. That's not too much, but it could buy me a few more coffees!

Just a word to the wise.

Around town

2009-03-31T07:36:00.000-06:00

I try to be observant. You know, that whole "stop and smell the roses" thing. Sometimes I miss things, sometimes I catch something.

Kerry and I frequently take walks to Waneka Lake. It's a nice, long walk that provides a fair amount of exercise. The lake is pretty and not too far away. On one of our walks this winter, I noticed this in a vacant store front:

Ok, look a little more closely....

The store front is available to rent. Perhaps the owners believe that a little St. Joseph, so often used for good luck in home sales will also provide good luck in rentals. Snopes.com even has an article devoted to St. Joseph with complete instructions for how to use St. Joseph to your advantage. While home sellers and Realtors advice varies, many trust the good fortune this little plastic statue can bring.

But, in this time of down turned markets and slow real estate, what's the harm in believing in a little extra good luck?

and another...

2009-02-05T07:38:00.000-07:00

This is an 8 x 8 collage. Again with a word. I used a vintage postcard from Bryn Mawr a vintage letter, paint, a flashcard, paper, and a metal hinge.

Better than a thousand hollow words is one word that brings peace. - Buddah

another collage...

2009-02-04T06:43:00.002-07:00

This one is on on a 4 x 7 canvas. I used paint, rub-decals from 7 gypsies, a vintage train ticket, reprodution images, and metal hardware.

Make some mistakes...

2009-02-03T14:08:00.005-07:00

Kerry and I are always looking for new art adventures. In addition to launching our new webstore (see below) are are venturing deeper into the world of collage. Who knows, we may even put some of our new collage items up on our store. For now, I'd just like to give you a quick sneak-peek. This is one of my mixed media collages.

It is on a 8 x 8 canvas. I used a vintage letter, reproduction images, antique buttons, paint, mod podge, handmade and other papers as well. As always, I like to incorporate words into my work. I used the quotation "Those who don't do anything, never make mistakes." I like the sentiment. It challenges me to take some chances, maybe I will make some mistakes. Hopefully, the chances I take will lead me to more creativity and fulfillment.

Although I sometime find it hard to know when to stop, I am calling this piece complete. I think I like the final result.

fh handmade

2009-01-15T12:37:00.006-07:00

Kerry and I have opened another store!

fh handmade is the online storefront for the Helen Parker Art Studio, a Lafayette, Colorado destination. Partner designers Rachel and Kerry founded Milagro Jewelry and have sold their art and run classes out of the studio now for five years. The studio offers fine sterling silver and semi-precious jewelry, a wide assortment of fabric art and everyday fabric items as well as a growing line of mixed media collage. The fh line continues to grow with expanded lines and new art forms. You can see and be the first to own our new creations as well be introduced to up and coming artists in rotating showings. Visit often to see our changing inventory and to catch those one of a kind items before they are gone.
fh handmade is the place to go if you want that unique art accessory for yourself or your home. We hope you enjoy!

things are changing...

2009-01-12T19:24:00.001-07:00

"None of us knows what the next change is going to be, what unexpected opportunity is just around the corner, waiting a few months or a few years to change all the tenor of our lives."

Kathleen Norris

Movies Sell More Books

2009-01-05T07:39:00.003-07:00

Kerry and I are members of a book club. Currently we're reading Well Behaved Women Seldom Make History, by Laurel Thatcher Ulrich. It is a non-fiction, women's studies book, that while interesting, takes me straight back to that basement classroom where I my first women's studies course. Not that it's a bad thing, I loved my college women's studies and women's literature courses. The book makes a good refresher utilizing that oft-used motto as a framework of women in history.

Yesterday, I went to the bookstore to pick up the next two books on our list. The February book, Trailerpark, by Russell Banks looks interesting. It is a series of short stories about the lives of people in a New England trailer park.

I am looking forward to reading our March book, as well, The Road, by Cormac McCarthy. McCarthy won the 2007 Pulitzer Prize for literature for this book. I had to search a bit around the book store to find this one, as it had been moved off its regular spot on the literature/fiction shelves to create a display that capitalized on the books' upcoming movie release.

Purposefully, I selected a copy of The Road that did not look like the movie poster. I generally appreciate books as books, not movies. After I bought my book, I noticed a large gold seal proclaiming "Now A Major Motion Picture." No worries about that, I would just peel it off. Which I did. Underneath the Motion Picture sticker were the remnants of the Winner of the Pulitzer Prize sticker. How sad. What does it say that book sellers would peel off the sticker proclaiming the book had won one of the top prizes in literature and replace it with one that advertised a not yet released movie? What does it say about us? Sad, but true, movies sell more books.

Toast to the New Year

2009-01-03T09:07:00.002-07:00

May you have warm words on a cold evening, a full moon on a dark night, and a smooth road all the way to your door.

-Traditional Irish Toast

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T14:22:00.005-07:00

We hope you all had a wonderful holiday season.

We've taken a little blog holiday. We have been busy with the hustle and the bustle of the season. And now, we are ready for the New Year! Are you?

The wind has been horrible here. It keeps everyone up at night. A few days ago we had hurricane force winds all along the front range area. We had gusts up to 90 miles an hour. It was crazy!

There was lots of damage around all the local towns. The town of Superior had flying trampolines, Louisville lost street signs, Goldie's (a store in Lafayette) lost part of the front of its building. And, a few blocks from the studio, this is what you could see:

Can you find the car in these pictures?

And, no, it was not a convertible.

The tree sliced the car in half.

So, we are wishing for calmer winds and a peaceful year.

Happy New Year to you all!

It's almost here...

2008-12-19T15:38:00.004-07:00

Are you ready? Are the gifts sent? Has the list been checked? Twice? Are the stockings hung? With care?
Are you enjoying the hustle and bustle of the season?

Happy Holidays to you and yours.

(Image from Dover Publishing.)

Stress

2008-12-16T16:38:00.004-07:00

At this busy time of year....

Stress: The confusion created when one's mind overrides the body's basic desire to choke the living daylights out of some jerk who desperately deserves it.

In times of great stress or adversity, it's always best to keep busy, to plow your anger and your energy into something positive.

....how do you deal with stress?

For the love of cranberries, part 2

2008-12-15T09:15:00.012-07:00

I still love cranberries! I love to make cranberry bread, cranberry sauce, cranberry salsa, frozen cranberry martinis, and sugared cranberries. Here are two of my favorite cranberry recipes. I hope you enjoy them!

Sugared Cranberries (from Cooking Light December 2003)
2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups water
2 cups fresh cranberries, washed and picked
3/4 cup superfine sugar

Combine granulated sugar and water in a saucepan over low heat, stir until sugar dissolves. Simmer (do not boil), and remove from heat, let cool slightly. You do not want the cranberries to pop. Stir in cranberries, pour into a bowl. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Drain cranberries in a colander over a bowl. . Place the superfine sugar in a shallow dish. Add the cranberries, roll to coat with sugar. Spread the sugared cranberries in a single layer on a baking sheet; let stand at room temperature until dry. Store in an air tight container in a cool place for up to 1 week.
They look so pretty in a holiday bowl. They pop in your mouth, and are a surprising sweet treat. The contrast between the sweet, candy like shell and the tart, juicy berry is nice. These are great to put out when entertaining, to use as a unique gift, or serve at a cocktail party.

Cranberry Salsa
1 bag cranberries, washed and chopped
3 green onions, chopped
½ cup (or more) cilantro leaves, chopped
2 limes, juiced
½ - ¾ cup sugar
1 jalapeno, seeded and diced

Mix together gently. Serve with corn chips, crackers, or tortilla rolls. Also works well with roast turkey or pork tenderloin.

To make spicier, add more jalapeno
Let sit in refrigerator 1 – 2 hours.
Can be made a day ahead, add cilantro before serving.

I hope you enjoy these recipes. What are your favorite holiday recipes?

Winter Working

2008-12-11T15:10:00.004-07:00

If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.
-- Josh Billings

Winter is here, and I said that we are usually closed when the weather is too cold. So, I was wrong. We do sometimes have to be open on some of the colder days. Tomorrow may be chilly, but Kerry and I will be there. Our strategy is that we will crank up our little space heaters, and wear our warmest sweaters. Thankfully, the orders are still coming in, and we do need to put in a few hours.

So, we will do our best to warm up the little place. You should stop by, too. We are running a special on non-jewelry items, 15% off. What a deal! We also have our drop in to make art time tomorrow. Come in and make a gift of your own. Drop-in workshops. Make your own gift each Tuesday and Friday from 9:00 - 11:30, December projects include Gypsy bracelets, large journals, Gypsy journals or glass ornaments.

Brave the cold, we promise it won't be too bad! Also, we are the perfect place to look for that special gift you still need.

See you tomorrow!

Inexpensive gifts

2008-12-08T08:25:00.005-07:00

At this time of year, in this economy, we are all looking for an affordable gift. Our studio can help you out with that quest. One of our many affordable gifts are these beautiful keyrings. We love them so much; the colors and textures are fun. They also make life a little bit easier, they slip over the wrist so you can keep your keys handy when you have your hands full!

Key Fob - $5

What's more, they are handmade. Stop by the studio Tuesday or Thursday to pick one up.

Rules of the studio...

2008-12-05T08:46:00.005-07:00

When it's 32 degrees (or below) we generally don't have the studio open. This little building doesn't have enough heat to keep us (or you) warm.

This morning the temperature is 14, with windchill 3 degrees. Brrrr!

Next week looks good, though.

See you then!

Why Buy Handmade?

2008-12-02T06:32:00.003-07:00

You may ask, why buy handmade for the holidays? Why buy handmade for gifts? Why buy handmade for yourself?

The website buyhandmade.org addresses those questions. This is what they say:

"Buying Handmade makes for better gift-giving.
The giver of a handmade gift has avoided the parking lots and long lines of the big chain stores in favor of something more meaningful. If the giver has purchased the gift, s/he feels the satisfaction of supporting an artist or crafter directly. The recipient of the handmade gift receives something that is one-of-a-kind, and made with care and attention that can be seen and touched. It is the result of skill and craftsmanship that is absent in the world of large-scale manufacturing.

Buying handmade is better for people.
The ascendancy of chain store culture and global manufacturing has left us dressing, furnishing, and decorating alike. We are encouraged to be consumers, not producers, of our own culture. Our ties to the local and human sources of our goods have been lost. Buying handmade helps us reconnect.

Buying handmade is better for the environment.
The accumulating environmental effects of mass production are a major cause of global warming and the poisoning of our air, water and soil. Every item you make or purchase from a small-scale independent artist or crafter strikes a small blow to the forces of mass production."

Conveniently, Kerry and I make homemade. We have lots of artisan friends who make homemade, too. We also have links to lots of other blog and Internet friends that make and sell homemade. If you want to buy homemade, too, come to the studio on one of our open studio days. Or check out our website or our Amazon store. Or look further and find your own local artisans to support. Even if you can't buy entirely homemade this season, try to find just one special gift that's handcrafted. Maybe you will be lucky and receive handmade.

Enjoy your holidays!

December Studio Events

2008-12-01T08:33:00.004-07:00

Amid the hustle and bustle of the season, with company coming, and special dinners and parties to host, with shopping to do and baking, too, we have both been so busy. You have too, I'd bet. We can help you out, we hope. With affordable, handcrafted gifts, check out the specials at the studio. And if you want to make your own handcrafted gift, we can help you do that, too.

We've planned a special sale item every week. (Purchases must be made at the studio for special prices to apply.) This week:

Stone pendants on a leather necklace, only $10. Mix and match to create your own combination.

Do you want to make a gift to give? Join us for Drop-in workshops.Come to the studio to make a gift for someone special. We are open on December 2, 5, 9, 12, 16 and 19; 9:00 – 11:30am. Come make Gypsy Bracelets, Collage Journals, Glass Ornaments, or Gypsy Journals. Other projects may be available, just ask.

Quote of the Day-

2008-11-22T08:26:00.001-07:00

During times of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary
act.
- George Orwell

Be true to your work, your word, and your friend.
-Henry David Thoreau

Do you tell the truth?

November Earring Sale

2008-11-20T13:32:00.003-07:00

Come to the studio Friday, November 21 and Tuesday November 25; 9:00 am - 11:30 am for our November Earring Sale. All earrings on sale for $12 a pair. Great deal!

Looking for more affordable, unique gifts? We have tons of gifts under $20! Key rings, Wristlets, Pouches, Candles, Mini-Journals, Kids Drawstring Backpacks, Headbands, and jewelry, too. Don’t miss our Holiday One of a Kind jewelry line for your Holiday parties and our Littlest Miracles Collection for the younger ladies in your life.
Shop with us: December 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, and 19; from 9:00am – 11:30

Display ideas

2008-10-22T06:30:00.005-06:00

As we were getting ready for our art sale, Kerry and I spent some time working on displaying our jewelry. It is always a challenge for us, as we have a functional studio, where we not only make jewelry, store jewelry, but also display it in a fashion that is appealing to visitors. Our old stand-by is a converted drawing table. When we renovated the studio three years ago, we had my mom's old drawing table. We covered it with batting and then a solid material. We then used upholstery tacks and satin ribbon to make loops. We hang our necklaces and bracelets from the loops. Last year we removed the base of the table and mounted the table top on the wall, it now is a handy display place, as well as an attractive piece of wall decor. Looking for some new display techniques, we came up with some creative ideas that gave our pieces a fresh look. Our next idea was to use mini clothespins and clips to hang carded earrings from yarn strung on our bakers rack.

We used the clip idea several times around the studio. Here is another shot where we used the clips to hang earrings from a wire frame.

Some of our ideas would even work with your jewelry at home. Here we used an old photo display stand to hold earring cards, but you could hang bracelets and necklaces from the rings, or hang french hook earrings over the wires.

This earring display is a favorite of mine because our friend Lisa gave us this...

She found a wooden frame, distressed it and then inserted a piece of metal radiator sheeting. the cut-outs in the metal are perfect for hanging earrings. You could also hang small s-hooks from the holes and use those to hang your necklaces and earrings.

Our last jewelry display was a gift from Kerry's dad. He made several wooden display stand for us, using a wooden base with dowels, and beautifuly stained, this stand is perfect for displaying our pendants.

It is always a challenge for us. We want to display items in an attractive way, but also have to maintain the functionality of our studio. What unique jewelry display ideas do you have?

Sale Shots

2008-10-21T13:01:00.007-06:00

We're sorry if you missed the sale last weekend. We had a great time. Kerry and I were so impressed with the quality of everyone's work. We are lucky to know so many talented artisans. Our photographer friend, Elizabeth, snapped these shots as everyone was straightening out their spaces on Saturday morning. The weather was perfect, crisp and clear. I love how the sun is shining through the trees.

Art & Fine Craft Sale - Today

2008-10-17T06:00:00.008-06:00

What are you doing for National Arts and Humanities Month? Have you visited a gallery recently? Do you have tickets to see a play or a concert? Have you supported your local artisan?

Now is the time! Come and support your local artisans - Today and tomorrow at the Helen Parker Art Studio, you have the opportunity to view and purchase a wide range of quality art and fine craft items, ranging from textiles to jewelry, lamps to pottery, children's clothing to photography. Don't miss out!

Friday, October 17 9:00am – 1:00 pm and

Saturday, October 18 10:00 am – 2:00 pm.

We are proud to announce the following artist will be participating:

Christiane Robinson of Aspengold Artisan Jewelry
Elizabeth Hagen of Elizabeth Hagen Photography
Tiffany Shively of Bebe Sniklefritz
Hope Swenson of Mod Dot Textiles
Linda Brookover of The Light Idea & Boutique Unique Handbags
Sandy Robinson of Sandyland Pottery

Kerry Feiman & Rachel Hanson of Milagro Jewelry

more artist news...

2008-10-16T13:56:00.005-06:00

Look for our friend Christiane Robinson in the Friday's Boulder Daily Camera. Her beautiful pendants, Aspengold Artisan Jewelry, will be featured in the fashion column.
Congratulations Christiane!

Artist Profile - Linda Brookover

2008-10-16T07:00:00.001-06:00

Today, I would like you to introduce you to Linda Brookover. Linda is a repeat artist at our annual fall art sale. She does double duty as the artisan of The Light Idea, offering delightful lamps, and Boutique Unique, with her high quality fabric handbags.
With The Light Idea, Linda makes beautiful lampshades! She finds adorable lamps and matches them with the perfect shade which she embellishes with fringe, ribbons, tassles and beads. These creations are quite the focal point in a bedroom or on an end table. Her eye for combining texture and color is fantastic. These lamps evoke a sense of softness, femininity, and style. This year she will also offer us a line of fabulous nightlights. These are mineature, wall versions of her elaborate lamps. Each embellished with rich looking fringes and beads, the perfect accessory for your bedroom or bathroom.

Linda is also the maker of high quality fabric handbags and purses which she offers under the name Boutique Unique. She uses interesting yet durable materials. She has an eye for combining fabrics, buttons, and ribbons to make these fantastic creations. Her bags also have lots of detail, with lots of pocket, magnetic snap closures, and even a hook inside to snap onto your keys.

Linda says this about coming into creativity:
"My love for arts and crafts started at a very young age, while taking art classes at the McNay Art Institute and all the way to college. I love many forms of art from painting, stain glass, pottery, but there is not enough time to do them all. Along the way I became a flight attendant and was able to experience the world and many different cultures. With that came new forms of art and color combinations I had never seen before. Unfortunately I was in an accident and I am not able to fly again, but now focus on my art and bring to you some of the experiences of the world through the art that I create. I live a few miles from the Flatirons range near Boulder Colorado with my husband and two kids."
We love Linda's attention to detail and her lovely color combinations. Her work is high quality and first rate! We know you would agree.

Join us at the studio on Friday from 9 - 1 and Saturday from 10 - 2 to meet some fabulous local artist, find some unique handmade creations and to get a head start on your holiday shopping.

Artist Profile - Sandy Robinson

2008-10-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

Sandy Robinson of Sandyland Pottery is today's featured artist. Sandy is also a repeat artist at our annual event. We were charmed by Sandy's whimsical work from the moment we saw it. When asked about her craft, she says, "I call it functional eco-art! It's hand-painted pottery with a unique twist." She finds the pieces of white and light colored pottery at antique shops and thrift stores, she then gives them new life by painting her magic on them with special paint, then re-firing them so the colors are permanent and dishwasher safe.

As to the inspiration for her work, Sandy says, "Inspiration is everywhere! I often feel like I live in a cartoon world and see the funny in most things. Many snippets of what I hear and see spark images that turn up in my work. Life is so rich... and inspiring!"

Being a painter is just one facet of Sandy's artistic life. Her early artistic experiences includes ceramics (hand-building and greenware molds), finger paints, decoupage, wood carving, leather designs, candle making, dried pasta art, scratchboards, macrame, watercolors, acrylics as well as photography, film and animation. She is also caterer and chef, and a practitioner of the healing arts, including reiki and aromatherapy.

One of her current goals is to open a community cafe, with a zero-waste kitchen and a pay it forward style of payment. Find out more on her website, Sandyland.

Sandy says, "My deep love for our precious Earth continues to encourage me to look for ways to reduce waste on our planet. Painting on existing pottery that might otherwise end up in a landfill is a way to blend my need for creative expression and love for the environment. The Sandyland "catch-phrase" is: RECYCLED, REUSED, RENEWED, REBORN. What does that mean to you?"

Come to see more of Sandy's art at our fall art sale this Friday and Saturday.

Artist Profile - Hope Swenson

2008-10-14T08:07:00.014-06:00

Hope Swenson, owner of Mod Dot Textiles, is another local artist we found on Etsy. She creates fashion accessories, children's clothes, and home goods using designer fabric and trims. She uses bold colors and patterns in stunning combinations. From her full sized women's purses (left) and wallets, to her little cell phone bags (see green bag below right) to her adorable girls dresses, we love her work!

Also a Colorado native, Hope was inspired to sew by her "two very patient grandmothers and mother." She and her sister, Tiffany (see yesterday's post), started their textile careers in Barbie fashion, but have grown since those days!

Hope has a wide range of talents including sketching, painting, embroidery, knitting and crochet. She also has experience in metal smithing and jewelry making as well as home renovation. She and her father worked together to restore an old ranch house and a 1900's Bank building.

Even with that wide range of talent and skill, Hope is focusing on design and creation of children's clothes and other textile creations. She describes her artistic process as an explosion! She says, "I throw fabrics together on the floor or tack them to the wall, stand back and contemplate, decide what looks good together, cut and sew. I usually develop a pattern from something that I have already sewn and want to recreate. My best time to design is right before I go to sleep and when I am driving."

Her business, Mod Dot Textiles, grew out of necessity. After their father suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury, Hope and Tiffany made the decision to care for him themselves. Hope says, "I was required to find a way to create income while being able to have a flexible schedule so that I could participate in my Father’s care and rehabilitation to the fullest extent possible." While difficult, this transformative experience has helped Hope follow her "Bliss" by choosing to, "concentrate on my priorities of family and simplicity, and continue along my creative path." Both Hope and Tiffany contribute a portion of their proceeds to the Colorado Brain Injury Foundation and Boulder County Hospice.

Their story is inspiring and their work is inspired. We hope that you will enjoy Hope's bright, fun, and well crafted textile creations as much as we do!

Artist Profile - Tiffany Shively

2008-10-13T07:45:00.005-06:00

We found the textile art of Tiffany Shively and her sister (tomorrow's post) while looking for local artists on Etsy. Looking to add a variety of mediums to our fall art sale, we were drawn to Tiffany's use of bright colors and patterns as well as her eye for combination. Plus, she has something for everyone, as she says she offers, "accessories for everyone from birth to 102!" For the little ones she offers baby boutique items like blankets, bibs, burp cloths and onesies and for the rest of us she has beautifully crafted and stylish headbands.
Her love for sewing and the name of her business came from her German grandmother, a quilter, who called Tiffany "sniklefritz," and thus bebe Sniklefritz was born. A true Colorado native, Tiffany has been sewing and designing since she was a little girl, making stylish clothes for her barbies. Her craft has come a long way! Now her craft is all about expressing yourself with modern and chic textiles using original and unique designs. She makes hip accessories for the little ones and their moms.
Tiffany tells us she is inspired by bold and modern prints, and looks for unique ways to mix and match prints and bright colors. She strives to create a unique product that is different from the run of the mill baby gift. With her attention to detail and quality crafted items, we think that she has done just that!In addition to being an talented textile artist, Tiffany is also a full time mom and part time attorney. And, after their father suffered a brain injury in 2006, Tiffany and her sister are committed to spreading awareness and supporting Brain Injury survivors by donating a portion of their net proceeds to Hospice of Boulder County and the Colorado Traumatic Brain Injury Trust Fund.
We hope you enjoy Tiffany's beautiful craft. You can view her work on her etsy site and see it in person at our sale this weekend.

Artist Profile - Christiane Robinson

2008-10-10T06:43:00.000-06:00

Kerry discovered Christiane Robinson's beautiful pendants and we couldn't resist inviting her to participate in our fall art sale. Her work is amazing!

Christiane describes her work as whimsical and colorful, we would also add beautiful and unique to describe her pendants. Under the name Aspengold Artisan Jewelry, Christiane makes pendants and earrings by applying high quality papers, including Japanese chiyogami and Florentine papers, to glass, dominoes and wooden Scrabble tiles. The papers are often accented with swarovski crystals or micro beads and sealed with a special process. Strung from a leather cord, organza ribbon, or silver necklace, the effect is stunning!

She says her inspiration often comes from the beautiful chiyogami Japanese paper she works with, or from nature, her children and travels she's made. She also has an eye for color, trends, the seasons, and art. Christiane will look for paper in the style of artists like Mondrian and Monet.

Currently a Colorado resident, Christiane's childhood was spent in Pennsylvania and Germany. She can trace her artistic tendencies to her youth; she said, "My love of arts and crafts goes all the way back to my childhood. I was born in central Pennsylvania. My father was a college professor of history and art and my mother was an artist trained at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich. As my father is European, I spent periods of my childhood growing up in Munich and Heidelberg, where I was frequently exposed to the arts and music of Southern Germany. I graduated from Salem College in 1992 with dual degrees in history and German. While attending college, I began my first foray into the arts by taking an art class on stained glass windows. For the next decade, I periodically assisted my mother in building leaded glass windows as part of her studio, Arran Art Glass. I am still a member of the International Guild of Glass Artists."

We love the whimsy of the pendant on the back of a scrabble tile or domino. Her glass pieces are equally beautiful with their clean, crisp look. We are impressed with the quality of her craft as well as her eye for color and style. Surely you will agree.

Her work has been sold across the world, from California to Australia and we are pleased she will be joining us next weekend. Come and see it for yourself; it's simply beautiful!

Artist Profile - Elizabeth Hagen

2008-10-09T08:20:00.000-06:00

Elizabeth Hagen will be offering her hand tinted, color and black and white photograps at this year's art sale. This is Elizabeth's third year with us. We introduced you to her last year in this blog. Since that time, she has expanded her horizons a bit. Kerry and I were drawn to Elizabeth's black and white photos which she brings to life with her hand painting skills. She revitalizes a skill from the days when photos were only black and white, and the only color had to be added by hand. Using photos from her worldwide travels and her local finds, she captures the essence of the landscapes and history in film. Since last year's art sale, she has expanded her repertoire to include numerous color and black and white photos of botanics, local sights and hot air balloons.

Her black and white photos are printed on canvas or matte and hand painted with oil paints, adding color and texture. She uses other photos on note cards, thus offering her work in a wide variety of formats and prices.

Elizabeth's background as an economics major with experience in the mortgage banking industry is a far cry from her artistic calling now. As she says, "Good thing I got out when I did!" She says she was always interested in black and white photography but when she took a hand tinting class 15 years ago it, "renewed my passion and inspired me to try something different with my photos."

Elizabeth says this about her artistic process, " I may decide to paint a particular photo to bring out particular characteristics of the image. For example, one of my favorite photos is of the buildings in Venice with water and gondolas in the forefront. As Venice was built on water, the buildings have been through incredible wear and yet they are beautifully built and have wonderful detail. I use the black and white photo to give the old feel of Venice and add layers of color to the buildings to bring out the detail of the worn walls. "

You can find more of Elizabeth's work at our art studio next Friday and Saturday at our annual art sale or on her website.

We hope you enjoy her work as much as we do!

Happy Fall

2008-10-08T16:15:00.002-06:00

Bittersweet October. The mellow, messy, leaf-kicking, perfect pause between the opposing miseries of summer and winter.
~Carol Bishop HippsDelicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns.
~George Eliot

Art & Fine Craft Sale

2008-10-07T12:45:00.007-06:00

October Art Sale--

We are hosting our annual Fine Craft and Art Sale
Friday, October 17 9:00am – 1:00 pm and Saturday, October 18 10:00 am – 2:00 pm.
We are proud to announce the following artist will be participating:
Christiane Robinson of Aspengold Artisan Jewelry

Elizabeth Hagen of Elizabeth Hagen Photography

Tiffany Shively of Bebe Sniklefritz

Hope Swenson of Mod Dot Textiles

Linda Brookover of The Light Idea and Boutique Unique Handbags and

Sandy Robinson or Sandyland Pottery.

This is a talented group of women. They have amazing skills in their craft. Each one will bring something unique and beautiful to share with you.

There will be a variety of items, from handbags and totes to lamps and photographs. Don’t forget the stunning jewelry! It is a perfect time to start your holiday shopping or find something unique for yourself.

Friday Freebie

2008-10-03T19:53:00.004-06:00

Oh--things are quiet around the studio. And dark. The power was out this morning. Thanks to Kerry's brother we found a very nice and reasonable electrician. The joys of living and working in a 120 year old home!

We won't stay quiet for long, we have a big show in a couple of weeks. Be sure to check it out!
Sorry for the silent week...we won't let it happen again... :)

Today's (better late than never) Friday Freebie:

Have a great weekend!

Friday Freebie - Families

2008-09-26T11:47:00.006-06:00

Again, from the vintage postcard collection, two intersting family postcards. They always make me wonder....who are these people? where are they from? what did they become? What do you think? Maybe you believe this:

Some family trees bear an enormous crop of nuts.

Or maybe you believe this:

The family, that dear octopus from whose tentacles we never quite escape, nor in our innermost hearts never quite wish to.

Enjoy your weekend!

Candle Project

2008-09-23T13:21:00.008-06:00

Here's a fun project idea:

Collaged Art Candles

1. Choose Candles - We use a pre-poured candle in clear glass. Be sure to choose a glass surface that is clean, smooth and large enough to hold the collage elements that you wish to include. You may want to find a container that has a lip or rim around it that would be used to tie ribbon, yarn or twine around.

2. Decide on background paper (you may use a background paper as a base for your collage, or let the glass show through the pieces of your collage), choose additional materials (photos, stamps, labels, torn paper, tissue paper, etc), make sure they fit
When choosing elements for your collage, keep in mind color (do you match the wax to the outside or contrast? Will the wax show?), theme (is it holiday, personal, nostalgic, cultural?), texture (will you use handmade or refined papers, will you add a yarn or ribbon at the top?), components & details (wax color, base paper, detail papers, photos, ties, tags, charms, words)

3. Apply ModPodge one section at a time, in one thin layer, apply paper or item, smooth to remove bubbles. Note about ModPodge: It is a non-toxic, non-flammable, glue and decoupage medium to be used as glue and as a top layer

4. Allow the first layer to be moderately dry before applying collage items. When you're pleased with your collage, add one or two layers of Mod Podge for durability.

5. Be sure to look at the candle for completeness
Does it need a ribbon or twine tie, should it have a charm, Milagro, tassel, or tag?

These candles are great gifts or accents for your home decor. We make them several times a year to coordinate with a holiday theme.

Enjoy your project and let us know how it goes.

food

2008-09-22T08:10:00.000-06:00

As Kerry told you last week, Catherine at Pink Asparagus tagged us in a food meme. Here are the rules and here's my list.

Here’s a chance for a little interactivity for all the bloggers out there. Below is a list of 100 things that I think every good omnivore should have tried at least once in their life. The list includes fine food, strange food, everyday food and even some pretty bad food - but a good omnivore should really try it all. Don’t worry if you haven’t, mind you; neither have I, though I’ll be sure to work on it.
1) Copy this list into your blog or journal, including these
instructions.
2) Bold all the items you’ve eaten.
3) Cross out any items that you would never consider eating.
4) Optional extra: Post a comment at Very Good Taste linking to your results.

My attempt at the VGT Omnivore’s Hundred:
1. Venison
2. Nettle tea
3. Huevos rancheros
4. Steak tartare
5. Crocodile
6. Black pudding
7. Cheese fondue
8. Carp
9. Borscht
10. Baba ghanoush
11. Calamari
12. Pho
13. PB&J sandwich
14. Aloo gobi
15. Hot dog from a street cart (only in Chicago)
16. Epoisses
17. Black truffle
18. Fruit wine made from something other than grapes
19. Steamed pork buns
20. Pistachio ice cream
21. Heirloom tomatoes
22. Fresh wild berries
23. Foie gras
24. Rice and beans
25. Brawn, or head cheese
26. Raw Scotch Bonnet pepper
27. Dulce de leche
28. Oysters
29. Baklava
30. Bagna cauda
31. Wasabi peas
32. Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl (Best if eaten in San Francisco)
33. Salted lassi
34. Sauerkraut
35. Root beer float
36. Cognac with a fat cigar
37. Clotted cream tea
38. Vodka jelly/Jell-O
39. Gumbo
40. Oxtail
41. Curried goat
42. Whole insects
43. Phaal
44. Goat’s milk (in cheese)
45. Malt whisky from a bottle worth £60/$120 or more
46. Fugu
47. Chicken tikka masala
48. Eel
49. Krispy Kreme original glazed doughnut
50. Sea urchin
51. Prickly pear
52. Umeboshi
53. Abalone
54. Paneer
55. McDonald’s Big Mac Meal
56. Spaetzle
57. Dirty gin martini (my favorite!)
58. Beer above 8% ABV
59. Poutine
60. Carob chips
61. S’mores
62. Sweetbreads
63. Kaolin
64. Currywurst
65. Durian
66. Frogs’ legs
67. Beignets, churros, elephant ears or funnel cake
68. Haggis
69. Fried plantain
70. Chitterlings, or andouillette
71. Gazpacho
72. Caviar and blini
73. Louche absinthe
74. Gjetost, or brunost
75. Roadkill
76. Baijiu
77. Hostess Fruit Pie
78. Snail
79. Lapsang souchong
80. Bellini
81. Tom yum
82. Eggs Benedict
83. Pocky
84. Tasting menu at a three-Michelin-star restaurant.
85. Kobe beef
86. Hare
87. Goulash (Hungarian)
88. Flowers
89. Horse
90. Criollo chocolate
91. Spam (not one I am proud of)
92. Soft shell crab
93. Rose harissa
94. Catfish
95. Mole poblano
96. Bagel and lox
97. Lobster Thermidor
98. Polenta
99. Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee
100. Snake (I lived in Kentucky for several years as a child, pretty sure I ate it)

I'll admit, I had to look up several, ok more than several, of the items. I was surprised to find out that I had eaten quite a few things on the list--better than 50%. I guess I am not so squeemish. I used to be known as "the kid who would try anything," not that I want to be famous for that!
We'll invite the following blog friends to try this activity. We tag: Rick, Angie (she already did it, check her's out), Ted, and MaryAnn. Anyone else is welcome to play along. Let us know when you do. We'd love to see what you eat!

You are What you eat

2008-09-19T18:42:00.000-06:00

We have been tagged by Catherine at Pink Asparagus.
We were asked to asses the list of 100 foods that every good omnivore should try at least once. Below are the complete instructions. Today I'll print my assessment and Rachel's will be seen later. This assignment was pretty easy to do except I had to look up a good portion of the foods to see what they were. It was quite embarrassing since I consider myself to be an accomplished cook and eater.

1) Copy this list into your blog or journal, including these instructions.
2) Bold all the items you’ve eaten.
3) Cross out any items that you would never consider eating.
4) Optional extra: Post a comment at Very Good Taste linking to your results.
I guess I am not much of an omnivore. Don't get me wrong I love food and love trying new things but not so much when it comes to Meat products and fish soups. Yes, I am proud to say I have never had a Big Mac and plan on keeping it that way!

Kerry's look at the VGT Omnivore’s Hundred:

1. ~~Venison~~
2. Nettle tea
3. Huevos rancheros
4. ~~Steak tartare~~
5. Crocodile
6. Black pudding
7. Cheese fondue
8. Carp
9. Borscht
10. Baba ghanoush
11. ~~Calamari~~
12. ~~Pho~~
13. ~~PB&J sandwich~~
14. Aloo gobi
15. ~~Hot dog from a street cart~~
16. Epoisses
17. Black truffle
18. Fruit wine made from something other than grapes
19. Steamed pork buns
20. Pistachio ice cream
21. Heirloom tomatoes
22. Fresh wild berries
23. Foie gras
24. Rice and beans
25. Brawn, or head cheese
26. Raw Scotch Bonnet pepper
27. Dulce de leche
28. ~~Oysters~~
29. Baklava
30. Bagna cauda
31. Wasabi peas
32. ~~Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl~~
33. Salted lassi
34. Sauerkraut
35. Root beer float
36. Cognac with a fat cigar
37. Clotted cream tea
38. Vodka jelly/Jell-O
39. Gumbo
40. ~~Oxtail~~
41. ~~Curried goat~~
42. ~~Whole insects~~
43. Phaal
44. Goat’s milk
45. Malt whisky from a bottle worth £60/$120 or more
46. ~~Fugu~~
47. Chicken tikka masala
48. Eel
49. Krispy Kreme original glazed doughnut
50. Sea urchin
51. Prickly pear
52. Umeboshi
53. ~~Abalone~~
54. Paneer
55. ~~McDonald’s Big Mac Meal~~
56. Spaetzle
57. Dirty gin martini
58. Beer above 8% ABV
59. Poutine
60. Carob chips
61. S’mores
62. Sweetbreads
63. ~~Kaolin~~
64. Currywurst
65. Durian
66. ~~Frogs’ legs~~
67. Beignets, churros, elephant ears or funnel cake
68. Haggis
69. Fried plantain
70. Chitterlings, or andouillette
71. Gazpacho
72. Caviar and blini
73. Louche absinthe
74. Gjetost, or brunost
75. Roadkill
76. Baijiu
77. Hostess Fruit Pie
78. ~~Snail~~
79. Lapsang souchong
80. Bellini
81. ~~Tom yum~~
82. Eggs Benedict
83. Pocky
84. Tasting menu at a three-Michelin-star restaurant.
85. Kobe beef
86. ~~Hare~~
87. Goulash
88. Flowers
89. Horse
90. Criollo chocolate
91. Spam
92. Soft shell crab
93. Rose harissa
94. Catfish
95. Mole poblano
96. Bagel and lox
97. Lobster Thermidor
98. Polenta
99. Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee
100. Snake

I guess I am not much of an omnivore. Don't get me wrong I love food and love trying new things but not so much when it comes to Meat products and fish soups. Yes, I am proud to say I have never had a Big Mac and plan on keeping it that way!

Quote of the Day-

2008-09-17T08:05:00.003-06:00

Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. If you have that awareness, you have good manners, no matter what fork you use. -Emily Post

Art Around Town

2008-09-16T15:15:00.006-06:00

To continue the tour of Lafayette Public Art...

Public art doesn't always follow a specific theme. But two of Lafayette's most recent public art installations are directly related to the history and culture of our town.

The first is a sculpture called towns-woman by artist Tim Upham. It was installed alongside Baseline Road, in front of our Rec Center, in the fall of 2006. While I must admit, at first glance, I didn't really "get" the sculpture, it has come to grow on me. When I first drove past the piece, I wasn't drawn to its angular, industrial look. I quickly noticed, however, the words etched into the crosspieces were more feminine in nature, "favorite niece" "girlhood home," "birthplace," "maiden name." And, when I heard the story behind the piece, I grew to like it more. Mr. Upham's inspiration for the piece is Mrs. Mary Miller, the founder of the town of Lafayette. The form of the piece is a representation of the original street plat of the town of Lafayette. The words on the piece reflect the many aspects of Mrs. Miller's life. It is a thoughtful piece of art.

The second sculpture called Toros Curiousos was installed in September of 2007. This large scale sculpture is by Christopher Weed. I think this sculpture is great! It consists of two huge, vibrant, angular bulls with lengths of industrial chain as their tails. They sit amid the prairie, over looking Highway 287. The two bright orangey-red bulls sit adjacent to the Super Wal-Mart parking lot. While it's location is not totally conducive for viewing, there are plans for a walking trail to run from nearby Anna's Farm neighborhood towards the east and past the bulls. And, it certainly is a head turner for the commuters travelling south on the road. I love that the Toros are so whimsical, and that they are a nod to Lafayette's agricultural and ranching roots. As for the Bulls being near the Wal-Mart, that is no coincidence. All commercial properties built in Lafayette contribute 1% for art as part of their building permit fees. This is one of several ways that the Public Art Committee is funded in the city.

So, on with the tour. Next time I think I will take you on a drive down Public Road, our main street and show you how we add art to our lives on the road.

Friday Freebie

2008-09-12T13:31:00.003-06:00

Fall is in the air here in Colorado. We've had several rainy cool days, and snow up in the mountains. Here's a nod to autumn.

The back of this over-sized vintage, technicolor post card says,

"FALL FESTIVAL TIME" Pretty SARAH McCRACKEN of HOG FALLS, IOWA sitting pretty after winning first prize in the annual Pumpkin Hatching Contest.

I never knew pumpkins hatched!

Happy Birthday

2008-09-11T07:32:00.009-06:00

Today we are celebrating a birthday. Our youngest turns 7. Yes, on September 11. Yes, she was born on THE day. 9/11/01.
Sadly, you may be having the reaction that most have when they say, to my daughter, "How old are you? When is your birthday?".....pause for cute child response...."Oh!" or worse, "Oh, no!" or they look at me and say, "So, you were in labor when it was happening?" or "That's sad," or worse yet, "That's too bad."
For many, that was a day where time seemed to stop. For others time was marching on. According the the census bureau, around 10,000 American families welcomed a child into the world on 9/11/01. Like me, 10,000 other moms were in labor. Like me, 10,000 moms and dads were riveted to the TV in between contractions. Like me, 10,000 families wondered what kind of world they were bringing their newborn baby into. Like me, at the end of the day, they were in love with a new life.
Having a child born on such a day of historic tragedy, of course, filled me with mixed emotions. I was sad, even devastated, for our country. But we were also overjoyed to welcome a happy little baby into our hearts and our home. How could we not be when we looked into those big blue eyes?
Perhaps this is similar to what a previous generation faced when they gave birth on June 6, 1944. D-Day. Perhaps there were babies born on that day who were pitied for their birth date, as well. I wonder how the moms of June 6, 1944 handled the negative responses. There aren't too many of those parents left to ask.
My hope for my daughter is that, by the time she is fully aware of the historic significance of her birth date, she does not regret the day. My hope is that she will embrace the day as her own. My hope is that, with appropriate respect and reverence for the tragedy that occurred and the lives that were lost, we can also acknowledge and celebrate the lives that were made that day.

Happy Birthday, Molly!

Friday Freebie

2008-09-05T12:30:00.007-06:00

In honor of the recent political festivities of the DNC and the RNC, here are some presidential Friday Freebies. You may love them, you may hate them, but here are four presidents of the past.

Enjoy your weekend!

Milagro Jewelry on the Front Page.

2008-09-04T07:36:00.002-06:00

Check it out, Rachel and I are on the cover of The Denver Post today. The Your Hub section Editor interviewed us last Friday. Enjoy!

Workshops offer creative freedom

Kerry Feiman, left, and Rachel Hanson work on jewelry pieces during open studio time Aug. 29.

Provided by: Kristin Morin

Contributed by: Kristin Morin/YourHub.com on 9/3/2008

Decades ago the house on the corner of East Simpson Street and South Finch Avenue was a center for learning. Not much has changed.

What once was the first kindergarten in Lafayette, the blue building at 600 E. Simpson St. is now The Helen Parker Art Studio, where skills are being taught to an entirely new generation through its recently reinstated open studio time twice a week.

The Helen Parker Art Studio serves as the home of Milagro Jewelry, a business run by Rachel Hanson, of Lafayette, and Kerry Feiman, of Superior.

"We work three days minimum and we're open at least two (days)," Feiman said.
What started out as just friends stopping by to see their work and doing some shopping has grown into numerous classes for students 13 and older.

"There's hardly ever classes for adults," Jacqueline, of Lafayette, said as she worked on a small pocket mirror Aug. 29. "A lot of adults, I don't think, have a chance to be kids."

Open studio time began a few years ago, and after a summer-long hiatus, recently re-opened the studio to the public.

Hanson and Feiman, both mothers, said the open studio largely follows the Boulder Valley School District schedule. After the summer break, the studio is gearing for what is usually its busiest season.

"We usually have at least a couple people in here each Friday," Feiman said. "In the fall we definitely have more, doing their holiday shopping."

Handmade pendants with family photos are often a popular gift idea at the studio.
"It's just nice to be a part of someone making something for someone else," Hanson said. "Instead of buying a gift, this has a little more purpose and intent behind it. Hopefully that trend is continuing to grow."

Drop-in open studio takes place Tuesdays and Fridays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Hanson and Feiman offer a variety of workshops like collaged candles, beaded servers, collaged journals, pocket mirrors, card making, collaged pendants and gypsy bracelets.

"People don't realize what a skill we have just using our hands," Jacqueline said. "It's an extension of your feelings."

The studio is a small workshop behind Hanson's house that the two friends renovated and decorated for their work space. Open studio participants get a cup of coffee and basic instruction from Hanson and Feiman. Then, they are given creative freedom to look through books, talk with other studio-goers and peruse the shelves of art for inspiration and conversation.

"It's a comfortable place," Hanson said. "People seem to enjoy being here."
Hanson and Feiman started Milagro Jewelry about five years ago and sell their work in the studio, at various venues and online.

A milagro is a charm that the women import from Mexico. The charms originated in Europe, each carrying a religious connotation. Hanson and Feiman have put a modern interpretation on the charms, labeling each one with a unique message of good fortune or happiness. Hanson and Feiman are often working alongside studio attendees to fill online orders that ship around the country and to Europe.

Most studio projects take only one session to finish and the studio provides all the supplies. Open studio time is free, but the material fees vary depending on the workshop. Some workshops require materials to be pre-ordered. Groups are welcome to attend open studio, but are asked to call first so Hanson and Feiman can make the necessary accommodations. Private workshops are also available.

For more information on workshops or The Helen Parker Art Studio to go www.milagrojewelry.com or call 720-840-1170.

Friday Freebie - end of summer

2008-08-29T06:00:00.006-06:00

Labor Day marks the traditional end of summer for families accross the country. Our kids went back to school two weeks ago. But, for many, this is the last day of the pool being open, the last day at the beach, the last big weekend for those big barbeques.

My friday freebie, vintage postcard offering, is a tribute to those sensational swimming pools of years gone by and the family weekend at the beach. Enjoy your long weekend. Happy Labor Day!

Every now and then go away and have a little relaxation. To remain constantly at work will diminish your judgment. Go some distance away, because work will be in perspective and a lack of harmony is more readily seen. -Leonardo daVinci

looking for reasons...

2008-08-27T12:14:00.001-06:00

Sometimes I ask myself why...

Why don't I carry my camera in the car with me? This question came up today when I saw an elderly man, in shorts, white socks pulled up high, smoking a pipe, riding a pink vespa. Why, oh why didn't I have my camera with me? Hopefully the description creates a nice visual for you.

Why should I look for that long lost friend? This summer Kerry and I joined the facebook craze. And craze it is! It is a time-sucking, I mean networking tool that allows you to find long lost acquaintances and current friends and keep in touch in yet another social-electronic way. I think I may be addicted. So, the question is, if you find that long lost friend, do you send the message? What if they don't reply? Do you take it personally? For me the answer came when I found a friend from college. We had lost touch and she had since moved to Europe. When I found her, her reply was, "I have tried to find an email address for you every now and then, but with no success. I'm really glad to hear from you." So, I am glad I did. Thank you facebook.

Kerry and I frequently ask ourselves: why should we continue writing our blog, when so few (if any) people comment? The answer came in the form of an email last week. After my first post about the public art committee, I received an email from the Mayor of Lafayette who, in her words, is a "regular reader" of our blog. Hello Mrs. Mayor!

Questions asked, and answered. I guess I shouldn't go to far to look for those reasons why, I should just give it a try.

Join us..

2008-08-26T06:47:00.003-06:00

Over second and third cups flow matters of high finance, high state, common gossip and low comedy. [Coffee] is a social binder, a warmer of tongues, a soberer of minds, a stimulant of wit, a foiler of sleep if you want it so. From roadside mugs to the classic demi-tasse, it is the perfect democrat. ~Author Unknown

Art Around Town

2008-08-25T06:25:00.000-06:00

Since I am a new member to the Lafayette Public Art Committee, I thought I should familiarize myself (and you by default) with the art around my town.

We have two public art installations at our library. The first is a tile mosaic mural that I showed you before. I love this one. It is my first personal experience with public art. To fund the project (many years ago) they (the powers that be) "sold" tiles to members of the community. My mom bought tiles for me and Jeremy as a gift. Somewhere on that mural, on the backs of the tiles are my and Jeremy's names. My mom never knew what she started with me, with that gift of tile. I appreciate this piece for its historical depiction as well as its complex medium. Imagine putting together a mural that big, using only 1 inch black and white and gray tiles.

The second library piece is a metal sculpture that sits at the driveway to the building. It is called Within your Reach. I enjoy this piece for its whimsical nature. It is a depiction of joy and childhood, as well as reading and learning.Stay tuned for more Art Around Town. There is lots to share in our little town. We love art, we embrace art, we make art public. Enjoy!

Friday Freebie

2008-08-22T06:00:00.000-06:00

A few more vintage black and white photo postcards. These ones are curious. Is she a nurse or a nun?

What happened between photo one and photo two that changed her mood so drastically?

(right click the image to save it to your computer for your own use)

Have a great weekend!

Americans for the Arts

2008-08-20T16:59:00.007-06:00

We just found out that October is National Arts & Humanities Month. It is sponsored by Americans for the Arts, the nation's leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts in America. Their website says:

National Arts and Humanities Month (NAHM) is a coast-to-coast collective celebration of culture in America. Held every October and coordinated by Americans for the Arts, it has become the largest annual celebration of the arts and humanities in the nation. From arts center open houses to mayoral proclamations to banners and media coverage, communities across the United States join together to recognize the importance of arts and culture to citizen's daily lives.

I know October seems far off, but it's not. Now is the time to plan. Buy your theater tickets, plan or attend a performance, go to a museum, go to a gallery, visit an art studio (wink, wink), buy some local art, go to a local concert or play, attend an art festival or street fair, read poetry, write poetry, the possibilities are open to your imagination. What will you do for National Arts and Humanities Month? Why wait? Why not start now?

Pencils

2008-08-19T14:47:00.004-06:00

Ah, the children are off to school today. I have one child in 4th and another in 5th grade. Before school starts, we have an extensive back to school list of supplies that we are to provide for our children. Can we afford the supplies? yes. Do I feel they are necessary to my children's education? some yes, most no. I won't even get into the need for ziploc bags (of which I completed 9 years of primary, 4 years of high school and 4 years of college without ever using one in the classroom.) Okay fine, so I did get into the ziploc bag issue.

I have a larger issue - 108 pencils. Between my 2 children we were asked to provide 72 pencils for 4th grade and 36 for 5th grade. Does this not seem like a waste? Each year my mom would buy me a 12 pack of pencils of which I was solely responsible for sharpening and taking care of them, for the year. I cherished my pencils and they were always best when they were sharpened as far as they could go and still be usable. So what is the goal of having so many pencils per child? It can't be taking responsibility for your property. It can't be environmental responsibility. What could we possibly teach our children by requiring that they provide a wasteful amount of consumable goods in the classroom? I would love to know.

I say teach your children to use goods wisely and take responsibility for your supplies. A pencil is a wonderful tool for learning, art and conversation and should be valued not wasted.

Public Art

2008-08-14T06:44:00.008-06:00

This summer I applied for, interviewed for, and joined the Lafayette Public Art Committee. As a longtime resident of Lafayette this seemed a natural fit. It has been a very interesting experience for me, so far.

I applied for several reasons. A friend of mine, who was a member of the committee, told me of the opening. As an "artist" in Lafayette, I thought it might be a good for me to get more involved in the art community in our small town. So, I filled out the application and hoped for an interview. The application forced me to think about my views on art, describe my background in art, and discuss what I thought of public art. These were actually challenging questions, to me, to define art is personal and subjective to some extent, but public art is forces us to collectively define what is "good" and what real art.

The interview was also challenging. I have not interviewed for a job for many years. I was worried my art views would be questioned. Maybe I would have to really define "good art". Instead, the panel of five really wanted to know if I had some time to volunteer and if I could "play well with others." It was, to some extent, about the nuts and bolts of working in a committee and getting things done. I guess I fit the bill. Seven people interviewed for four positions on the committee.

Last night I attended orientation and first meeting. It was a great group of people and I am excited to work with them and get to know them in the coming year. Part of our orientation, however, was to learn about the government involvement with our committee. This part was the most surprising to me. (It has been a while since I had a public sector job.) Since we are an adjunct committee reporting to the Lafayette City Council, we fall under all the public government rules, which makes sense to me. We receive public funds and our actions have to be open to the public. This also makes sense to me. Here is how this translates: more than two people from the committee cannot have a conversation, via telephone, email or in person without announcing the "meeting" and posting an agenda 24 hours in advance. This is where I was shocked. So, if I run into two other members of the committee at my favorite coffee spot, we can not discuss anything about public art, I am not sure we can even discuss art.

During the rest of the meeting, we got down to business. I am excited about their goals and the current projects. As a small town, Lafayette has made it a goal to support art and put art in public places. It is nice to be part of a community with those goals. I would like to share the art in my town with you in the coming months. You can let me know what you think about public art. Oops, am I allowed to say that? I had better check!

(The above photo is of the Mary Miller Historic Mural located at the Lafayette Public Library. The mural is a mosaic tile installation, made up of 1 inch black, white and gray tiles to create the "photographic" depiction of the city founders and local coal miners.)

Back to School Means Back to Art

2008-08-13T07:54:00.001-06:00

For the next few weeks we will be publishing copies of stories on our business that are seen on yourhub.com

Now that Boulder County schools are back in session, the Helen Parker Art Studio can resume its open hours. Partner owners, Rachel Hanson and Kerry Feiman are forced into semi shut down for the summer due to 4 kids running about. "We can usually work one day a week during the summer. The girls are pretty good but only have so much patience," says Feiman. They use their summer hours away from the studio for throwing around ideas and planning events for the Fall. They also fulfill their Amazon orders and website orders which still keep coming in even with a faltering economy.
The events for this fall are bigger and better than they have ever been. The invitation only Fall launch party for their Milagro Jewelry line is always a much anticipated event. This years party features an exclusive one of a kind line of jewelry. Guests will need to make their choices quickly or they will be gone forever. It is a great social hour with food, drinks, prizes and give-aways. This year also features an exclusive preview of October's Big Art Show. Gathering new exhibiting artists, the show will feature various jewelry artists, potters, fabric artists and home decor art pieces. The show will have twice as many booths as last years. "This year's art show features some very talented new artists and pieces. I can't wait to do my own holiday shopping there," says Hanson.
In addition to the shows the studio will expand its open studio and store hours. They will be open to the public every Tuesday and Friday from 9am-11:30am.
The studio is located at 600 E. Simpson in old town. The studio entrance is through the west gate located on Finch.

Friday Freebie - on vacation

2008-08-08T08:57:00.007-06:00

"Our happiest moments as tourists always seem to come when we stumble upon one thing while in pursuit of something else." — Lawrence Block

"I have found out that there ain't no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them." -- Mark Twain

No one realizes how beautiful it is to travel until he comes home and rests his head on his old, familiar pillow. ~Lin Yutang

(vintage travel postcards--right click to save to you computer)

Enjoy your summer travels, wherever they may take you. Soon enough we will be back to school, back to work, and back to the rhythms of the year. I can't wait!

La Bufadora

2008-08-07T06:55:00.006-06:00

The mossy area right below the blow hole

I promise this is the last day of cruise photos. We got some nice shots of an area in Ensenada known as La Bufadora. It translates as "Snorting buffalo." It is a naturally occuring blow hole in the rocks. The amount of water that it sprayed varied and surprised quite a few onlookers. There is a similar blow hole on Kauai that we are fond of called spouting horn. It does not spray as high as La Bufadroa. I enjoy these natural phenomenons and encourage you to check them out if you are ever near one.

La Bufadora as it spouts off

The swirling eddies below the blow hole

San Diego Public Art

2008-08-06T07:11:00.000-06:00

When we disembarked our cruise in the San Diego Area, there were some amazing things right outside the ship. We were able to dock right next to the boardwalk area of San Diego. There are many decommissioned Navy ships nearby which were amazing to see but there was also an unexpected public art display. All along the boardwalk there were various large sculptures. Each one was completely different and there were no signs or explanation on the art or nearby. They also made a nice distraction from all of the hobos sleeping nearby. So, here are the photos without any accompanying information.

Towel Art

2008-08-05T06:54:00.000-06:00

One evening on our cruise, we found our stateroom attendant in our room turning down our bed. We thought it would be amusing to tease him a bit and we came in behind him and started joking about him sneaking in our room. Well, we apparently surprised him quite a bit but he knew were joking around in good fun. That evening when we returned to our room, we found a surpirse waiting for us on our bed.

A towel elephant with Mike's sunglasses on

The next evening we came to our room to find ......

A towel dog with my sunglasses on.

But the next night was the best, we walked into our room to find and amazing towel animal and to find our stateroom attendant hiding outside our door to get us back with a surprise when we walked into our room. It was great fun to have all of these little touches and to have a playful relationship with the staff.

Oh, you want to see the grand finale of towel creatures, okay........

A towel monkey hanging from the ceiling. Now remember cruise rooms are quite small, so he was right there in your face when you opened the door.

Ahoy Mateys!

2008-08-04T06:58:00.002-06:00

Our Ship, The Monarch of the Seas ,as seen from Catalina Island

Well, Mike and I are back from our exciting cruise. We went from Los Angeles, to San Diego to Catalina and then to Ensenada, Mexico. We had a great time even though we had been to all of the ports before. We went on Royal Caribbean cruise lines which are absolutely huge. The boat held 2600 passengers and had two full dining rooms. There was a casino, several stores, a gym, two full bars, a night club, a buffet restaurant, pizza place, teen night club, kid's area, two swimming pools, a rock climbing wall and basketball court. PHEW! I hope I didn't leave anything out.

Mike and I enjoyed relaxing and walking around the various ports. We ate far more than we should have, with dessert being served after every meal. I'll fill in more this week on other aspects of our trip but here are some pictures to start you off.

Porting in San Diego

Scenes at the swimming pool

Perspective

2008-08-01T13:50:00.007-06:00

(The Aquamaids on Parade are from a vintage postcard. They performed four shows daily at Cypress Gardens in Florida. Feel free to save the image to your computer for personal use.)

on regaining perspective...
I have been doing too much complaining. It's hot. I have to wait for people. Some of the people I encounter seem to be, well for lack of a better word, stupid. (not an intelligent word, I know, maybe I should say unintelligent, dim, or slow )

I realize, I have been doing entirely too much complaining. Especially when I take the time to look around at others.

My 40-something, diabetic neighbor went in to the hospital to have surgery on a foot infection and had his leg amputated from the knee down. What makes it even more horrible, is his insurance was cancelled last month.

Our blog friends Kari and Kijsa are dealing with loss. Their father died unexpectedly and suddenly. They are dealing with the sadness and good-byes that shock a family when there is a sudden death.

I guess, I need to be more thankful. My life is full, my children and my husband are healthy. I am happy. I have always considered myself an optimistic person. I need to live that, complain less and be more grateful for what is good in my life.

I hope your life is full, too. Take the time to enjoy it.

Dog Blog 4

2008-08-01T13:28:00.014-06:00

Hi, it's me, Blue,

I am back at the Hanson's for the week. This time I brought one of my girls along with me. It has been so much fun hanging out with three girls for the week. They really like me. They like me so much, I wanted to do something to pay back their kindness. I can't go shopping, because I am a dog. I couldn't bring flowers. Rachel would be mad if I dug up her garden. I tried catching the squirrels, but they are too fast. I did have one up a tree for a really, really long time, once. That was fun.

I thought long and hard about what kind of gift to bring. Then I smelled it. I am not sure what it was, but I smelled it in the garden. So I sniffed. I sniffed and sniffed until I found it's exact location. I love detective work! They would be so excited when I bring them their gift. I wondered what it was that I smelled. Then, it moved! It hopped, really. So, I grabbed it! I was very gentle. I didn't want to hurt it. I gently picked it up and took it to the edge of the porch. I stood guard over it and barked until Rachel came out. She took one look and said, "Oh gross!" I guess she doesn't like toads. She just let it hop away. Too bad, I had named him Fred. He was my friend.

The rest of the time was pretty fun, too. I brought my favorite blue stuffed animal with me. I managed to remove both squeakers, one ear, and half the fluff. I still have work to do.

It's hot here. Something about the dog days, whatever that it. I heard Rachel say it would be 102. That must be something.

So, the week is nearly over. I guess I will be glad to go home. Maybe Fred will come too.

woof, woof-

-Blue (the dog)

A blast to the past...

2008-07-30T06:25:00.001-06:00

Yesterday's adventure took us to the cool air of

It was a step back in time, like an eerie Twilight Zone episode, complete with retro roller skate carpet and mushroom stools to put on those tan leather skates. Complete with the world's longest limbo line, filled with 6, 7, 8, and 9 year olds. Complete with changing, multi-colored globe lights on the ceiling and a really cool disco ball. Complete with two happy girls tossing dice for the dice game.And in the end, three happy, but tired, skaters.

Weather report

2008-07-29T07:00:00.000-06:00

HOT!!!
We are still in a heatwave. Hot! We are approaching a record number of consecutive days over 90 degrees. If Wednesday reaches 90, we will have exceeded the record of 18 days. In addition to that, we have had 15 days in July at 95 degrees or higher. The forecast is grim, to say the least; it will hit 93 today and reach 100 by Friday.

While this may not seem too bad; this is unusal for Colorado. Many houses don't have air conditioning.

So, we are busy trying to say out of the heat! Today we will step back in time to keep cool. I am taking the girls (my 2 and 1 of Kerry's) to Skate City. It's straight out of the early 80's. Hopefully there will be some good photo ops. Stay tuned.

How is it where you are?

Backyard Project

2008-07-28T13:41:00.006-06:00

Monday, and I am exhausted already. Our weekend, backyard project was a doozie. Let me share my photos to explain.

I started digging last week to add a flagstone patio to our back yard. While my husband was at work, here is the area I dug:
Here are the rocks I dug up an moved. They were remnants from an earlier attempt at a stone patio.
Here is the trailer I loaded with all the debris.

Here are the materials for construction. The upright sheets of rock are red Colorado Flagstone.
Saturday and Sunday, my husband, my in-laws and I finished preparing the area.

Here is the patio, almost done:

While I was digging, I found lots of bulbs. I will plant them in the fall.

I was looking for buried treasure. You know, maybe some old jewelry, an antique diamond ring, a bag of money. No such luck. Here's what I found. One old bouncy ball, one marble, two polished rocks, a piece of chain, 3 plastic men, a broken earring, an old, iron door knob, and 2 blue ceramic heads. Not riches, but interesting nonetheless.

Well, when we finish, the stonework will enhance the entrance to our humble little studio. I will share more photos when we're done. Any idea of what to do with the heads?

I've got a bad case of the blog blahs!

2008-07-25T06:51:00.002-06:00

We know we haven't written in awhile and we don't know why. Is it because it is summer and we are having a crazy heat wave here in Boulder? Is is because we have so much we want to accomplish before school starts again? Is is because our book club books are really good?

Yes, to all of the above. Summer is rushing past and it seems like there won't be time to do all of the things we had high hopes for in May. As we approach yet another near 100 degree day I am going to sit and dream of crisp autumn air, sweaters, football games and Halloween.

So please, bear with us until it cools down and the kids are back in school. I am off on my first ever cruise next week and promise to take lots of pictures and lots of notes for writing. And Rachel promises to watch my dog and one of my children and write witty stories about their stay at Casa Hanson.
We are currently seeking treatment for the 'blahs' and hope to be up and typing regularly soon.

Friday Freebie

2008-07-11T07:14:00.006-06:00

A couple of oddities from the black and white post card collection. These two definitely fill the "People are Strange" criteria. What's their story?

(above) Eunice and her siblings were kicked off their cross-country train for a hosting a rowdy cribbage tournament and inciting the other passengers. They now find themselves in the middle of Iowa with no place to go, no luggage, and no food, except for the fruit basket that Bertha swiped from the dining car, and is now wearing on her head.

Poor little Freddie, finds the punishment for swiping that tempting two-cent candy is baking bread in the boiler room. He'll never do that again!

(Both images come from vintage postcards. Right click the images to save them to your computer)

Facebook

2008-07-10T12:37:00.010-06:00

We discovered the wonderful world of Facebook yesterday. For me it all started when Kerry set up her account and I got the Facebook generated email that says, "Check out my Facebook Profile." From there I was stuck--Sucked into the black hole that is the Internet. I had to create my page, fill out my profile, search for friends, try to add more friends to my list...you know how it goes. By the end of the day, I still only had 7 Facebook friends, and 4 of them are immediate family. How lame is that?

On the creative front, little if anything, is being accomplished. The studio, with no air conditioning is a efficient little oven. There is only so long that Kerry and I can sit in there before it starts to feel like a sauna. Not to mention having all 4 girls home can be a hindrance to creative time for Kerry and Rachel. This works out some of the time, but the need for other playdates, swim time, lemonade stands, camps, and time apart dictates the rest of our studio time.

We are making efforts to keep the artistic ideas flowing, though. We each got an art journal. Really just a blank sketchbook to hold our ideas and plans and to do a bit of art journaling. I admire so much the art journaling done on Lia's blog, ArtJunk Girl. Who knows if I will have the nerve or inspiration to share any of my pages on this blog. We'll see.

No, the summer is not a artistically productive time for us. What a shame! So there you have it, my little rant for the day. Thanks for listening.

On a lighter, more creative note, Kerry and I have some grand plans for a little studio re-do and a great art sale in the fall. Say posted for all the details. It should be quite exciting! And, if you can't find us in the studio this summer, check on Facebook. We may be there.

Irish Wit and Wisdom

2008-07-09T06:30:00.000-06:00

Kathleen Murphy was standing vigil over her husband's death bed. As she held his hand, her warm tears ran silently down her face, splashed onto his face, and roused him from his slumber.

He looked up and his pale lips began to move slightly. "My darling Kathleen, " he whispered. "Hush, my love," she said. "Go back to sleep. Shhh, don't talk."

But he was insistent. "Kathleen," he said in his tired voice. "I have to talk. I have something I must confess to you." "There's nothing to confess," replied the weeping Kathleen. "It's all right. Everything's all right, go to sleep now."

"No, no. I must die in peace, Kathleen. I slept with your sister, your best friend, and your mother." Kathleen mustered a pained smile and stroked his hand. "Hush now Patrick, don't torment yourself. I know all about it," she said. "Why do you think I poisoned you?"

Tagged, again...

2008-07-08T07:38:00.000-06:00

So, a week or two ago we were tagged by the creative and talented Brandy. The rules of the game are: 1. Link back to the person that tagged you. 2. Post these rules on your blog. 3. Share six unimportant things about yourself. 4. Tag six people at the end of your entry.

Here are the six unimportant things about me...(in no particular order)

My favorite color is red.
My dining room walls are red.
My favorite wine is red (any varietal)
I have red lilies blooming in my garden.
I have red coffee mugs.
My prom dress was red (but I won't share that photo)

It's fun to play the game, but since we tagged people a month ago, we will pass on tagging this time. Play along if you'd like. What's your favorite color? How do you encorporate it into your life?