Something Unique Studios

Somewhere over the Rainbow

2011-08-18T19:33:00.000-07:00

As an artist I've always believed
that if I painted what I wanted I would be
perfectly happy.

When the owner of this banner

picked it up without
"disturbing me"
because she knew I was so busy
I realized just how important
the customer's opinion means to me.

I was so excited to see her expression
and so disappointed when I didn't get that joy.
Luckily she called to tell me
how much her daughter was going
to enjoy it and that it was
just what she was hoping for!
Thank you to all
who trust me to
create your dreams!

This is a 5' wide by 3' tall painted canvas
that was ordered
with multiracial fairies,
butterflies and
most importantly
a Rainbow!

The Rainbow drops drip down
to color the flowers!

The butterflies play
among the flowers.

The fairy wings are glittered.

This special fairy princess
has a beautiful glittered dress
and sparkle necklace.

There is no limit to what can be created!
Let your imagination fly!

Then contact me so I can create your dream!

Artists Against ALS at the Clubs at River City

2011-08-13T19:59:00.000-07:00

The Clubs at River City
has been nice enough to
allow me an
Artists Against ALS
display at their spa!

Since Tracy's diagnosis of ALS March 15th,2011
we have been working to reorganized our lives.

Many of the local artists have banned together
to help us during our transition.
The art for sale with
Artists Against ALS
signs
is for sale or you
can make a bid!

Here is a painting donated
by
Suzette Boulais
Gold and Light.
The metallic shine creates
an almost magical light.
30x40
Artist Andrew Odum
made the copper base
to the
Table I made.

Mike Shular
carved and painted
this beautiful
maple leaf gourd.

David Webster
painted this beautiful
Woman in the Water.
You must SEE it
to really appreciate it's beauty.Eric and Nicole Cooney
donated several photos and original paintings.

Bezales made this picture frame.

Shoot!
I even have some art there for sale!

Here are a couple paintings
by
Pam Miller.

These are just a few of the generous donations
by our local artists
that are hoping you will
help them help us.
If you have questions,
feel free to call me!
(309) 645-3913

Princess Purple

2011-08-04T08:53:00.000-07:00

Not every princess needs pink ya know...

This little princess loves purple and glitter and sparkle.
No. I didn't paint this for myself but I doooooo LOVE it!

I sewed and hand painted this
custom canvas for a sweet young princess
who has a style all her own.

So, obviously I'm not the best photog in the world
(but my daughter Rachel is and will be coming home soon!
okay- that's another blog post)
so you can't see all the letters are glittered too well
or that the gemstones on the crown are 3D or
the quality of the beautiful sheer purple ribbon
so just pretend you can see all those things.

Here is the mirror that will go above this
princess's bed.
I am going to paint on her wall
just below the edge of the mirror,
a mural
that says:
Mirror Mirror on the Wall,
Kylie is the Fairest One of All.
With cute hearts before and after it.

Again you can't see from my photo too well
that I have glittered each stripe as well
as the details on the crown....of course.
And Yep. Gems in the crown too!Use your imagination to create
ideas on how you can have
me customize this idea
for you!
Maybe you just need the crown!
Maybe you have a mirror
of your own that you would like me to
personalize for you or your princess!

Check out my ESTY for more great ideas.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/susbyme

Hypnosis For Health

2011-07-30T20:46:00.000-07:00

http://woodridgeprofessionalbuilding.com/
This is the home of my new hypnosis office

Hypnosis For Health
Suite 215
2619 West Heading Ave.
West Peoria, IL 61604
(309) 323-0362
that will open Sept. 1st.

I'm working on my website now
and you can call me to book your appointment
or Email to ask questions.
hypnosisforhealth.us@gmail.com

This beautiful old building is being refurbished
and is the
perfect peaceful place
for me to help people learn
to relax and open up their minds.
Great convenient parking and
I am on the first floor just to the right
as you come in so it's a nice short walk to my office.

Easy to get to, beautiful grounds with plants and wildlife and other
wonderful healers to share the building with.

Here are Dan and Barb Kerns,
the owners and saviors of this historic building.
I've officially signed the lease and I'm looking forward to painting and putting up art!

My name plaque will go right here above my suite number:)

Old world charm....

Paul is the handyman genius who is replastering and fixing my room
so I can get started soon.
They actually rewelded the window frames
back in instead of replacing them with new
to keep the charm of the building. I love that.

Okay- sooo....the bathroom might need a little extra attention...
But I know I can create some magic there too.
If you are a healing professional,
writer, artist...
there are still a few spots available
at such a reasonable rate!
Call Barb or Dan at
(309) 696-3618

Now, don't be concerned.
Of course I will still be painting!
Call me for your custom murals
or to create new furniture from
your old treasures.

Artist Against ALS

2011-07-30T14:38:00.000-07:00

The Arts community here in Peoria Illinois
have really come together to show their love and
support for our family since we have been diagnosed.
Artists Against ALS
is a group of wonderfully generous creative souls
who have donated their time,
talents and art work to help Tracy and I out.
To learn more than you might want to
know about Tracy's journey through ALS
go to this site
http://als-whaticantellyou.blogspot.com/
if you dare!

Clubs at River City • Peoria IL

Here are just a few of the beautiful artworks
that are available for purchase through
The Clubs at River City.

You can make a bid and hope that you win
or
you can pay full price and take it home now!
Below see Mike Shular's Maple Leaf Gourd.
Hand cut and painted this work of art is truly unique!

Okay- the eyes have it!
Woman in the Water
painted by David Webster
is absolutely incredible!

I might have to buy this for myself
for my hypnosis office!
Wouldn't it LOOK great there?
oh...wait...it's a fund raiser for us....
huh....
Well, please give this painting a good home.
I love it soooooo much.
Here is another powerful work of Art
Gold in Light
This canvas is about 30" x 40"
painted with acrylic and has metallic paint
swept through, giving it
this glow about it.
Suzette Boulais
head of Arts Partners
http://www.artspartners.net/
Contact Suzette
for her graphic designs, note cards
and custom paintings Here
http://www.suzetteboulais.com/Contact%20Suzette.htm

What a great friend and artist!
The folk art paintings here
are by
Pam Miller.
http://www.thumbtack.com/il/peoria/jewelry-making-classes/painting-jewelry-polymer-clay-lessons
I am lucky enough to have
friends who teach art classes
as well as painting charming still life!
Pam works at our local
Michael's
and teaches jewelry making,
painting and polymer clay sculpting
to name just a few.
Eric and Nicole Cooney
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1529327565
Donated all sorts of beautiful paintings and photographs
at a great price so they would sell right away!

This is just a small sample of the fantastic art
that will be available at the
Clubs at River City.
Doug Leunig, Tom Gross, Leslie Schenkel and
many more artists will have art
for you to enjoy!
A special thank you to
Julie Vonachen at Moon Dancer
and her crew
for their love and support.

So- we've had Kick ALS at Luthy Botanical Garden,
Artists Against ALS at The River Front Art Market
and
Rock ALS at the Silver Dollar in Peoria Heights so far.
Look forward to other fun creative events for
you to enjoy!

Artist Against ALS

2011-07-15T17:15:00.000-07:00

So- by now you have noticed that I have been away from my blog site a while.
March 15th, 2011,
my husband Tracy Boettcher,
was diagnosed with ALS- Lou Gehrigs Disease.

This has turned our world upside down:(
It's taken months for us to try to wash all the negativity from the doctor's death sentence
out of our heads and get back to living life and looking for new ways to heal this
terrible situation.

One of those ways is to engage the community to try to help us come up with creative healing ideas and help do research for us,
so if any of you out there have
knowledge on holistic healing we are open and waiting
to hear from you.

Since my husband is a builder
of beautiful homes
ALS has put a real crimp in our style to say the least.
I will be changing from a full time artist
who does hypnosis on the side
- to a full time hypnotist who does art on the side.
I will be putting together a website
for Hypnosis for Health
soon and maybe throw a blog in there too.

As a hypnotist for almost 20 years I have seen miracles created through the power of the mind.

I will be actively working on "changing my husband's mind" back to before it chose ALS as a path for his future. Those with knowledge or interest in Mind/Body work can contact me to discuss ideas any time.

I am lucky enough to have made many friends in the art world who want to help us, so look forward to opportunities to participate in Artists Against ALS as a way to help financially support our family during this rough time as well as learn some fun new art skills to share with the public.

Thank you all for your love and support.
Those who would like to make donations can do so through PayPal at susbyme@gmail.com.

Educational End Table

2011-02-19T15:25:00.000-08:00

Educational, Useful and Beautiful
This is the first of in a series
of educational art that
could be a wonderful addition
to a classroom, game room or
bedroom
for adults or children.

End Table or Checkerboard?
With important messages.
Words of Wisdom
Patterns, shapes and colors
to encourage creative design skills.
Improve Math and Dexterity skills.

Encourages curiosity.
Blank sides on the blocks
give your eye a rest
or
room to decorate them yourself
and
decorate your room.

Surprises inside and out and upside down.
Notice the hand painted ceramic knob.
Oh! The Rainbow Game!
with special dice.
Colors AND numbers on the dice to make the game
easy enough for the very young
or harder for older children
and even harder for adults.

Do you go farther using the number first or color first?
Two colors could come up.
Which color you choose first changes the outcome.

And just when you think you've seen it all.

Here is another game on the bottom.
The Go For It Game.
Playful painting for a relaxed playful attitude.

~Hearts~
Don't ya just LOVE a FREE turn!?
~Stars~
STARt you over.
Play with one or two dice.
Extend the game by having to reach
your pretty petal potential
by having to get the exact number.
No matter which way you look at this
It's all good.

I hope you take the time to
enjoy.

I'd love to hear what new games or
uses you come up with for this
Educational Art.
Contact me to have me design your
custom art furniture.
momboe630@aol.com

My Husband's New Love

2011-02-15T08:04:00.000-08:00

Meet my husband's NEW love.
The custom made by
Cyber Power
Super Duper Deluxe
Computer.
There are all sorts of numbers
and letters that go along with this
lightning fast
gaming computer
that you can find out all about
on my husband's new website
he is having designed
to brag about her.

I hope Boettcher Design Services
and
Chief Architect Drawing System
will be very happy together.

This gamer computer is so fast
he has time to Play-
Oh...I mean work
on 2 screens at the same time!

Now it might sound like I'm a little jealous
of this new techno babe but the truth is...

I am actually the one that encouraged this
cyber relationship.
My husband Tracy Boettcher
has been an amazing builder and draftsman
for over 30 years and is a very hands on guy.

But I thought it was time for old dogs to learn new tricks.
By now you are probably aware of my efforts
to become friendly with the Social Media World
and misery really does love company.
Being the exceptionally quick learner he is
it took him no time to learn this system.
He can create the most amazing
house plans and room additions within
days!
Even better he can build them too!
I can't tell you how many house plans he's
gotten from some big firms that look pretty but
can't be built!
With 30 years of experience in building and drawing
he knows what will actually work.

So, I will happily support this polygamist relationship
because Tracy is so so happy
creating new beautiful homes
just like I am creating my art.
I'll be posting examples of his beauties soon!
Contact Tracy at boettcherdesignservices@gmail.com
to let him know what you think of his
new love!

Magnetic Personality

2011-02-11T05:47:00.000-08:00

These could be words to live by.
What are yours?

In my endeavor for
world domination through art
I've now moved in to the
cyber world
by starting an
ETSY shop.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/susbyme
This is a way to run a hand made
arts and or crafts store
without having to get dressed or do your hair.

Now working on these new fangeled machines
has been a bit of a challange for me (surprise, gasp!),
so I haven't figured out how to put
my {SIC} Greeting Cards
in downloadable, self printable form just yet
on my SUSBYME,
sooooo,

I decided to help you all express yourselves freely
through my magnet line!

Rarely at a loss for words,
this series of magnets
allows you and me BOTH
to express ourselves freely.
Magnets can be customized to say just want you want
to express without having to say it a million times.
Great for office desks, fridges or kids magnetic boards,
these can say it all.
These make great hostess gifts
and fit in greeting cards
easily.

Now, if a picture is worth a thousand words
but the pictures have words on them
how many is that worth?
Is that like...words2 squared?

I'll be making wedding reminders and birthday party favors
in magnetic form soon,
so you have that to look forward to.
If you have ideas or suggestions for magnets sayings or designs
just let me know.
momboe630@aol.com
I give discounts for quantity orders so give me a jingle
to find out how much you can save.
I would love for you to heart or favorite me ETSY site!
http://www.etsy.com/shop/susbyme

Let's get personal

2011-02-07T07:09:00.000-08:00

Being new to the whole social media world
I have been repeatedly cautioned to
not mix my personal world with my professional world
if I want to be taken seriously.
Well, I want to be taken
joyously, enthusiastically, playfully.

I am hoping people come to my site
to get inspired!!!
This should do it.

My family really does inspire me on so many levels
that there is no way I can't share this!!

I've always taught my children to
follow their dreams.

My daughter Rachel is a professional photographer

who has spent the last 3 years in Colorado Springs, Co.
working for the photo company DenMar Services that has
a contract with the
U. S. Air Force Academy.
I KNOW!!!

She has been living the photographers dream.
She spent her days running from shoots of the
President and Vice President of the USA
to a General's retirements, to a swim meet
to a basketball game, gymnastics, volleyball, football,
forensics (yuck), parties at officials homes....
I am so proud of her:)

She moved her way up from managing the
studio for sit down/stand up formal pictures
to photog III to photog II.

But...huh...that wasn't enough for my
overachiever.
You may ask, "what did Rachel do BEFORE
coming to the U.S. Air Force Academy?"

My gypsy daughter sailed the high seas and rivers on
more than one cruise ship nationally and internationally
and river paddle boats
taking pictures and managing to make
friends all along the way.

Well, the seas have called her back and her
heart really wants to experience Europe.
Now, most people would take a vacation.
Rachel isn't most people as you are beginning to see.

She has chosen to leave the land to
take on a new adventure with
the
Norwegian Cruise Line!!

The U. S. Air Force Academy
was sad that she was leaving
but happy that she was going on
a great new adventure.

In the military the highest honor an officer can
give is their personal coin.
It is a rare and impressive feat to
"get coined"
if you are IN the military.
To have that honor bestowed upon you
when you are not and never have been
part of the US armed services
is an outstanding achievement.
Each coin is an amazingly beautiful personal
work of art
designed by each ranking official.
(You knew I would get the art connection in there of course:)
They are two sided and each is unique.
This one below even spins in the center
to show the other side!!

See this giant pile of compliments pictured below?
These coins stand for excellence in service.
Going above and beyond the call of duty.
Being inspirational personally and professionally.
These coins represent that these officials
would instantly enthusiastically endorse
someone with confidence.

Yes. Those are ALL Rachel's!
She had the honor of being
personally presented
by each and every one
of these officials
with their coin.
Many of them did so publicly,
proudly announcing
what an amazing person Rachel is.

I want to thank the entire staff at the
US Air Force Academy
for appreciating
Rachel Boettcher
for the wonderful person
she is.
You can keep up with
the
Adventures of Rachel
through her blog at
Life Sketch Photography.
Or
You know I'll be bragging
about her again soon!

Personlize it

2011-01-21T12:34:00.000-08:00

Spring is in the air...okay not really.
But it's in my art studio.

I've been painting all sorts of
bright colored personalized art
to cheer up those winter blues.

Easter will be right around the corner
before you know it.
That means new life!
These canvases make wonderful
baby gifts.
You can include that date of birth or even
have me write the "Monday's Child" verse.
Use your imagination to create
the perfect timeless gift.
These can be painted in custom
colors to coordinate with your decor.
These charming little children's stools
are just the right height to help
little ones step up to wash their
hands or help you in the kitchen.

Contact me to order yours now!
Enjoy!

Moon Dancer at Grand Prairie

2011-01-15T12:47:00.001-08:00

I've just taken in a few new things
I think will be nice, inexpensive,
unique, quality, handmade gifts at
Moon Dancer
out at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie
in Peoria, Il.

Valentine's Day

is right around the corner
and whether you need
a beautiful hand painted

mirror for your gal or
locket for your ma or

sassy card to let some one
know that
You DON'T care,
You can find it all at
Moon Dancer
along with about 1,000 other
interesting artful gifts.

Should you need custom
painting for your home, murals,
hand painted clothing or
greeting cards

you can find it all right there!

It's not my fault

2011-01-15T12:05:00.000-08:00

Here I am introducing my
{SIC}
Greeting Card Line.
These
Socially Inappropriate Cards
just had to be made!
It's not my fault!
Hallmark just doesn't cover
the real issues that need
to be addressed in day to day life.

I've been selling these cards at
Moon Dancer
at the
Shoppes at Grand Prairie

and
by personal order
for those custom situations
that just can't go by without comment.

Hopefully, soon, I will be selling them on my
ETSY site too.

Feel free to call or Email me
to share real life situations
that they just don't make cards for.
Example:
Not only do I have Get Well for Kidney Stones-
"I hope everything comes out okay",
And accidents- "Get Well Clumsy Dumbass"
but for general life and encouragement,
"So you found out your son is gay-
At least he didn't get the neighbor girl pregnant".
"Happy Unbirthday-celebrating the 364 days a year
you AREN'T getting older"
which let's face it,
is REALLY something to celebrate,
unless you've passed away...
In which case I have a card for that too.
Please communicate any ideas and situations you think
just NEED to be addressed.
Enjoy!

I Love ME

2011-01-11T19:15:00.001-08:00

With Valentine's Day right around the corner
I thought now was a good time to
show you how my mirror
for DecoArt turned out.
I'm excited to say
that you should
be seeing this on their Feb projects page.

You can order one from me painted with YOUR name
or that of a loved one, grandchild or saying
for just $25.
Let me know if you love this
as much as I do!

Happy New Year....and Valentines Day

2011-01-01T17:37:00.000-08:00

So, it's New Year's Day
and I'm doing what ever other
art addict
is doing today.
I'm lining up all the projects
that I promised myself I was going
to get done last year
and lying to myself again
about how I'm going to organize my studio
and set and stick to a schedule.
As I pack away multiple boxes of Christmas projects
that I didn't get to AGAIN this year I look forward to
what's next on my palette.

Luckily there are others that have set deadlines
for me so I WILL actually get some things painted very soon.

One of those fine businesses is DecoArt.
They were nice enough to publish my Santa Box
on their website and I got so many nice comments
and made new friends.
Well I am happy to report that I sent off
another picture to see if they were interested in
a Valentine's Day pattern and they said
They LOVED it!
Well, I won't ruin the surprise for you
but here is what it looks like now.

Check back to see how it turns out.
I'd love to hear from you about
your ideas and art or what you'd like to
see from me!
*

Bringing the outdoors in for the Winter

2010-11-07T12:58:00.000-08:00

Here is what I've been working on for my sister.
She has those ugly plastic blinds that get dusty and
broken (especially when dogs chew on them).
She was looking for a unique inexpensive way to
decorate her windows without covering them up with big curtains
the dogs would chew up and get dirty.

What do ya do?

Roller Shades

The old roller shades used to be actually made out of fabric.
Now they are plastic for the most part.
I sprayed them with a fixative to hold the paint a bit
better.
You should spray them when you are done
as well. You can use the fixative instead of
a varnish if you want.
A varnish has a shine which
I didn't want on this project.

Now she can look at her window and
enjoy the flowers all year long!

DecoArt Christmas Project

2010-10-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

T'is the season!
Yes already!

Now I used to have a very strict rule
about not selling or displaying
Christmas before Halloween.
But when you are in the design world
we work 6 months ahead usually
so actually I am way behind (as usual).

This project
Laughter and Joy Santa Box
is for DecoArt, Inc.
They sell the fabulous
Americana Paint
that I've used on the project.
If all goes well you will be able to
find it on their
Free Christmas Project
list on their website.

I've painted on an 18" wooden band box.
I just sketch a basic picture
then transfer it to the surface.
Then I begin painting using all sorts
of really complicated tips and tricks
only master artists can handle.

Okay-or maybe only really really easy techniques
anyone can do.

I made up my own little saying here.
Imagine how you could personalize yours!
My version of Holly leaves.
That's the great thing about being an artist.
You can make your world any way you want.

Santa needed a fashion break
so he hung up his hot red hat
for a cooler hip pine wreath.
Now he smells good as well as looking good.
mmmm....manly pine scent.So since I have to wear readers now too
that detail was even more important for me to add.
Santa HAD to pull out his
Bling Bling Metallic Gold ones.
I'm not sure if you can see the
actual twinkle in his eye from the pictures.
I painted the iris with
DecoArt's new Sparkle paint
and then added
Crystal Twinkle Glitter
for the highlights.

I hope this gets you in the mood
to start painting gifts
for the holidays!
Let me see what you are working on!

What I've been up to

2010-10-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

Well, by now I'm sure you have noticed
the obvious lack of postings
on this blog.
My world has exploded into a frenzy
of art activity.

No- not like always.
Like always times 100!!
There are too many wonderful
projects for me to address
in one post so
I'll just throw up a few pics and
a few hints with promises
of amazing posts to come.

Yes, I am still at Moon Dancer.
I have my Halloween Decor
on sale 50% off now!

Yes, I'm still at One World's
Lagron Miller

but it's under construction
and I'm sure you didn't expect me
to sit on my thumbs until they
were done!

To fill in my down time (ahahahaa.aa.a.)
I've been painting special orders
like this desk.

I love the old rustic shabby chic feel.
I antiqued and waxed it so it's

so smooth and comfortable to
work on.

I also painted the
old post office box shelf above last year.

Now throw in some trips to see
kids & grandkids

and a wedding

and then add
Christmas projects
for DecoArt
http://www.decoart.com/

and you've gotten to enjoy
my week with me.
Oh- except for the
REALLY Big News.....

Out on a Limb

2010-09-22T05:11:00.000-07:00

At the
Moon Dancer
you can find my new creation
Out on a Limb!

As the weather turns to fall I am inspired to set aside my

colorful palette (temporarily of course)
and go
"Out on a Limb"
and enjoy a more
subdued sophisticated ageless
color scheme and theme.

Once again I am frustrated with myself that I didn't take before
pictures of this children's dresser
that had stickers of lambs and flowers stuck to
mismatched paint
before I recreated it.
I love how this dresser inside and out!
The edges have a beautiful old world gold gild as do the knobs.
I love the combination of taupe base with the soft gray drawers and insets
against the soft black check and dot pattern.
I hand drew and cut the tree and bird stencil on temporary paper
that I could just kick myself for now!
The tree took forever to cut every little delicate branch
and now after seeing how it all came out
I would have loved to do a whole series of bird themed things
in this style,
but this one is going
to truly be an original.
The final touch was to add wheels
so you can move it from your sun porch
to your hall way with the change of seasons!
It would also be awesome in a children's room
for a boy or a girl!

The dresser has a hard varnish covered by a waxed finish
so it's durable but still has the softness of an old loved
piece.
Let me know what you think of this new color choice and if you still
recognize me in this work even without pink or purple!
I wanna hear your comments.

Donations

2010-09-21T05:41:00.000-07:00

I could paint full time just giving away donations for fundraisers and benefits.
I lecture myself over and over again about sticking to a dollar amount a year or the number of donations or the time I'll take to do donations... and I just don't listen.
I could justify my choices by creating scenarios for possible financial gain through the advertising of my work and that it's a tax write off but the truth is...
It just feels good to help someone out.
Maybe because I've been a special events coordinator for years and I've been they one begging for donations I'm more sympathetic or maybe it's that I am so glad it's NOT ME with those big woes.
Actually, I think if we would all just give a little bit more
we would all be better off and what goes around comes around.

On the subject of collaboration and cooperation,
this wooden crate was donated by Julie Vonachen of Moon Dancer,
where I sell most of my work right now.
It was a very old Cutty Sark crate with the prohibition stamp
label on the bottom of the box.
After a little discussion, Julie (of course)
decided to donate this crate to the
Peoria Art Guild Auction
for their Sept. Art Show held on Peoria's Riverfront.
We plan to fill it with beautiful hand crafted items
from the Moon Dancer to give to the Art Guild next week.
My assignment was to paint it to reflect the vibe of the store.
I just couldn't paint over the stamp!

But I am OVER THE MOON about my
Mr. Moon Man!
I'm hoping women swoon over his
metallic copper and silver features.
I tried to create a relaxed enchanting expression
that will render them helpless...
to not bid a billion bucks that is!!!
This is a treasure no matter which way you look at it!
I cut the moon and stars from Chinese pine used in
board breaking demonstrations
so they are full of good positive energy!
The box is painted on all sides
so it will look good no matter
where you display it!
I'd love for one of you to adopt
this magical piece and keep
the art world rolling!
The message here is live from your heart!
Reach for the moon and fall among the stars!
Live Inspired!

Check out my next post to see what
I've been working on for SALE!
Check out my brass jewelry here.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/susbyme

I'm here, I'm there, I'm everywhere!

2010-09-12T20:48:00.000-07:00

So, where am I? What am I doing?
I've gotten that question a lot lately.
The answer is, I'm everywhere.

The Adventures of Amy
and Her Army of Artists

This blog post is to catch you (and maybe me too)
up to date on what has been happening to my life
and business, Something Unique Studios,
since I gave up my glorious art palace in Bartonville.

~Introduction~

Right now my studio is at my home again...mostly...kind of....
Due to a wild series of events, the kind they
write soap operas and adventure films about
my studio has changed locations several times recently.

I'll try to stick to the Cliff's notes when possible
but let me warn you...
This is a novel not a short story.

~Chapter 1~
To the big city.
I'm in my quiet studio behind the
Old State Hospital Building in Bartonville.

A friend asks me to do an art show for her
out at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie,
because she has to be gone.
Thanks Leslie Schenkel of the Twisted Chicken.
(It's not like you drop everything every time
I call and ....oh...wait...never mind).

~Chapter 2~
Just for the day.
I go to fill an obligation just for the day.

Two hours into it I'm telling the owner
of Simply Everything Boutique,
Jennifer Slater,
with Scentsy Wickless Candles,
how she needs to change her whole life
because this beautiful space she is renting
is going to waste!
In no time I am
covering boxes with fabric table cloths
and making displays out of beach balls and
flower pots. People stream in!
Little did I know at the time that
Jennifer may be the only person on the planet
that takes on more projects than I do and she
makes me seem sedate!
I call a few friends and we put up art and in
a flash Jennifer changes her life to
sell retail while I push...I mean...uhhhh...
encourage Peoria to embrace the arts!
Things are beginning to really fly when-
eeer-r-r-r...... things hit a gigantic bump
in the road.

~Chapter 3~
Oh God
Seems Jennifer's son is allergic to the
midwest and they instantly have to move
to Florida
unless they enjoy the color blue on their kid's
face most of the time.
Just as I get ready to pack my paintbrushes
God answers my prayers and the phone rings.
God? I say?
No, Julie- the phone answers.
She's calling to say that Moon Dancer has to
move instantly and she is soon to be homeless!
Yyiiipppiiiieee I say.
OH, I mean, that's terrible....
Let me see what I can do to help you....I say.
(visualize me dancing the hallelujah jig singing
Oh, thank you Jesus, oh, thank you Jesus...)

~Chapter 4~
Under the Moon

Well, Bon Voyage Jennifer.
Welcome Julie Vonachen owner of Moon Dancer.
Simply Everything Under the Moon is created.
Finally. I'll be settled.

The store is coming together while
Julie masterfully mixes art with her magical retail.
The place looks magnificent.
Just as we settle in we find that
we HAVE to move again!
UGH!
Never fear! It works out for the best...sort of...

Our NEW location 205 across from Old Navy
at The Shoppes At Grand Prairie
is beautiful, with rows of great windows
allowing light to pour through the whole store!
It's glorious! Fantastic!
It....has no room for my studio...
sigh....

~Chapter 5~
One World

Well, it just so happens
that I needed to paint an 8' square canvas
and I had asked Bob from One World,
if I could use the Lagron Miller store next door, to paint it
since it's been empty for so long.
He says, there's no lights or water, floors, ceilings or walls...
I say- no problem. I just need space.
Space he has!!!
In I go! I move my studio in and paint my name on the doors.
He asks- do you think other artists
would be interested in space here?
I say sure! Things are taking off!

Now the space is under construction
and will have walls, water and more
when they are done...but in the meantime...

Yep. Can't paint during demolition.

~Chapter 6~
The Corner Stone

As I haul my displays yet again, off to a corner,
and stack my furniture to the top of my garage,
I get a call from my friends,
The Dentinos who own,
The Corner Stone Building,
downtown Peoria, Illinois.
What a magnificently beautiful building.
The Grand Hall is amazing but there
is also room after room of wonderful enchanting
space in this historical building.

They say- I'm hoping you can help us.
Do you know people who may need space, they ask?
Well, as a matter of fact....

The Dentinos LOVE this building and
the arts and music too!
They want to rent their facility out
to as many local artists and musicians
and healers and teachers as they can
as well as weddings, receptions, birthdays, etc!
I'm working with them to do just that!

~Chapter 7~
Lucky 7?

Now, some of you who know me have heard me
say on more than one occasion-
When I take over the world....
(with the appropriate accompanying hand motion).
This is just one more step
in my
world domination through art plan.
I want to remind people that I am taking over the WHOLE world...
So, the answer is-
YES- I am still working with Julie at Moon Dancer.
YES- I AM STILL selling my art there and special orders can go through Moon Dancer
or you can call me directly.

YES-I am still working with Bob at One World to see if we can get artists to rent space and consign their work there.

YES- I am working with the Dentinos at The Corner Stone Building to try to build their events business and bring arts and music and learning to that space in a creative way.

YES-I'm going out of town almost every month to visit my grandchildren!

~Book 2~
will be about my plans to work as a designer for DecoArt
http://www.decoart.com/,
my ESTY shops and plans to get my {SIC} greeting card line ON LINE!

I'd love to hear from you!

For now follow me:
Amy Boettcher
Something Unique Studios
http://www.etsy.com/shop/susbyme
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php
http://twitter.com/momboe
http://www.myspace.com/somethinguniquestudios

Collaboration at it's best!

2010-08-28T14:30:00.000-07:00

THIS is
Collaboration!

This is what happens when you throw
ego aside and work freely
with others
just to see what magic can happen!

Artist Andrew Odum
is a fabulous copper artist,
(as well as all around nice guy)
from Peoria, Illinois.
(We are designing a hero cape for him now,
but don't tell cause it's a secret. Shshshssssshhhhhh!)

Andy designed the base
and I cut and painted
a top to go on it.
Then we worked together
to design the details
around the base
(Although actually Andrew did all the actual work!)

I chose a celestial green instead of a
traditional blue background because
of the beautiful colors
found in the copper itself.
I love how Andrew wove the details
inside the larger copper spiral
so that no one would catch
toes or clothes
on the table.
Brilliant!

The table is painted with and assortment
of metallic finishes and topped
with a high gloss, durable varnish
finish that will take a lot of spills
and be easily washable.

The table is tall and was designed as
a social bar table where friends
could stand around and jaw about
their latest successes.

The subconscious messages through
subtle art images and design
are found throughout the table top.
Dream, Wish and Shine
along with the basic
necessities of life,
Eat, Drink and just BE,
are randomly mixed
together
with images of
celestial peace, growth and balance.

I'd love to hear about what you see in this art
and how you feel about
my photos of it or
composition or
choice of colors....
Express yourself and
Enjoy!

They're bbaaaaccckkkkk

2010-08-20T05:47:00.000-07:00

To a visual artist,
pictures are just about the most important thing
and when 5000 of them get accidentally trashed it can be
life changing.
When praying desperately that they would come back
I heard my mother's voice say (again)
Be careful what you wish for....
Somehow we got 10,271 pictures back!
(Am I a good pray-er or what!?)
They are not in any particular order and all
albums and sense of order is gone...
(Be specific, be specific, be specific)
so...
As I sift through the
thousands and thousands of pictures
I will randomly post art of interest
just so we will have a record of my work
and you can begin to see all the pictures
I meant to post all these months and years ago and never got around to.
They all have a story of some kind that I'm sure
you will be looking forward to:)
Here's a warm up.

I just loved these.
Here's my bird phase.
10x10 canvas over wood.

Did I mentioned that I was wanted by the FBI?
I met this gentleman at the 724 Reserve send off party while I
was painting faces.
He works for the FBI and has a non-profit organization
of his own he wanted a logo from me to use on his site.
My father was in the FBI before becoming a probation officer
here in Peoria so of course we bonded.

My step brother was sent off to Iraq last year
with unit 724 and just got back.
I was there face painting to show support for our troops
and Brian Mackoway, my step bro.

I really do ya know....
Love you all to the Moon and Back again.
Thanks for watching.
Come back soon!

Where Have I Been?

2010-08-01T12:36:00.000-07:00

Many of you have noticed that I've been MIA for a while.
There has been a LOT of A while I was gone!!!
This is a quick run down
but I promise to add
pictures and details soon!

I left the end of May
to help bring my new grandson, Isaac,
into this world
and bond with my older grandson, Alex,
who just turned 3, while I was in Texas for the month of June.
(Yes, I am a grandma and you'll just have to put up with seeing these corny pictures.)
(You can get all the glorious details on earlier blog posts).

Then back for a few days then off to
Chicago Gift Show
where we met and bought from some great designers
in the
Beckman's Handmade section of the show
as well as
some FAB designers in the permanent show rooms.
Then back for a couple days and off to
CHA Show in Rosemont
with a great designer and artist
Pam Miller who works at Michael's
here in Peoria, IL.

Now you may think that sounds like a full summer but
in the middle of all that
I was still painting orders
for Moon Dancer
where my Something Unique Studios
is located (for right now),
meeting new designers and working with new companies!
DecoArt
is an amazing art supply and painting company
that has recently invited me to participate in there
HELPING ARTISTS PROGRAM,
where I am designing
fun new projects
for creative people
to learn to use their products.

Viking Woodcrafts
has also been generous enough to
share samples of their great wood crafts
for me to create new patterns on
and I'm having so much fun.

Now throw in birthday parties, anniversaries &
wedding showers and you can see
why I haven't had time to blog lately.

Check back soon to actually
SEE the art and people
and hear about a
brand new adventure
that I am
working on
that will change the face of
Peoria
and the
entire
Art World!
(Yes! Truly, it's gonna be THAT BIG!)

It's everywhere, it's everywhere!

2010-07-15T06:18:00.000-07:00

~Opportunity~
is everywhere.

Here is a table I recreated for a new
friend and now client I met
while shopping at
Michael's in Dallas Texas.

It has a vintage feel because
of the way I layered several colors of paint,
then I sanded, antiqued, then waxed it.
I don't usually like to work with
Flat Paint
but for this project I think it gave
an earthiness, almost a stone like quality to it,
that I love.
The gold added a richness and sophistication
and the wax made the aging more honest and real
and protects the finish
without shine or chalkiness
(although I did use a matte spray varnish before
waxing because this table expects to get
a lot of use).

You will notice a lapse in time from my last post.
That would be because I have been in Texas for the last 6 weeks
playing Granny B to the most amazing grandchildren.
YES! Grand-children!
My daughter Sarah
just had our second grandboy
and he is beautiful and wonderful...
but that's another story.
While I was there getting ready for the
birth and birthday and birth Day
of these fine lads,
I of course had to get my
weekly dose of
Michael's.
While pondering over which colors from
DecoArt
www.decoart.com.

I was going to buy for my next
art adventure
(yes, another story)
a fun, beautiful woman named
Robin Gregory
asked me
if I knew anything about paints
since I had an arm full of them.
I answered...well, as a matter of fact...
One question turned into two, three, four
and pretty soon we were
discussing, lamps, patio furniture, candles
and shoes!
THIS was my kind of gal!!!
Through our discussion she found out
that I was an artist and she was
an Interior Designer!!!
Okay, Now I know what you are thinking,
because, yes,
everyone and their brother thinks
they are Interior Designers now
because they've watched a couple of
TV shows and decorated
their own livingrooms.

Since my daughter Sarah
actually has her Masters from
Drexel University
in Interior Design,
a few questions made it clear
that this gal knew what
she was doing and her home
is over the top,
breathtakingly gorgeous.

By the time we ended our conversation,
(which was interrupted by a million
phone calls from both of us)
we had exchanged info
with promises to keep in touch.
She called that next day to ask
me to faux finish this table
in time for the big soiree she
was throwing the next week.
She also took me to all of her
favorite designer haunts and introduced
me around like I was a celebrity!
What a wonderful time we had!

Now, my husband can not for the life of him,
can not understand how I can run in to pick up
a $2 paint bottle and come out an hour later
with a new friend and painting project.
I am hoping to get pictures of
Robin Gregory's
AMAZING HOME
for you all to enjoy very soon.

You'll notice the lack of pictures here.
I squeezed this table project in
the week I drove home to pick up
my husband to turn around and
drive BACK to TX that week!

The point is-
If you love what you do
and it shows
you will be a magnet
to like minded passionate people.

Enjoy!

Because they said so...

2010-05-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

I spend most of my days filling special orders my customers request in hopes that I make enough money to afford enough time to be able to spend a day or two actually painting what I imagine.

Here are some of the fun wonderful projects I've been filling my days creating for sweet wonderful inspiring families.

This plaque was designed to coordinate with the
baby announcement and other
colors, details & inspirations from the room.
The circle is cut separate and glittered to
the max to make it extra girly.
The pink and green ribbon is
cut out of wood as well to add
some fun dimension.

This canvas is also designed
from a baby announcement
that coordinates with Carson's room.
Carson was born on Earth day which
is why you see the earth in the O of his name.
This is a 16 x20 canvas with a
wooden banner.

This canvas banner is custom sewn to the perfect size
with a willow stick dowel to hang the ribbon from.
The spirals and butterflies glitter brightly
under the light.Now, I don't want you to think all I do
is baby banners!!

I faux finished the walls of this room
by washing a color over textured
walls to make the room
feel much warmer than it
originally did.
This little vintage chair had been in
her family for a long time
and she wanted it to "fit in" without
being over done.
These colors and pattern coordinate
with the rug and accessories
that will go back into the room.
Boy, I wish I would have taken
better pictures of this
cool potting table.
It's rustic and fun and the perfect
height for actually working
on projects!

I love how the flower dangles underneath
like it's suspended in air!
These words are there
to help PEOPLE grow!
It will be the display for our garden window
but it's still going to be for sale
so come check it out.

Now here is a life changing piece.
As I was agonizing over what
direction to go while creating
this mirror,
a good friend came in and asked
what I was going to do with it.
As I moaned about my indecision,
her eyes lit up!
She knew exactly what
she wanted HER mirror to say!
The saying came from her heart but
it spoke to mine.
In a twinkling of an eye...
WE KNOW.The eyes glitter with a turquoise blue/green
and have twinkle glitter highlights.
The silver stars also glitter of course.

This moon man is gentle and knowing
and watches over you as you ponder.
He started out as a broken stool seat
and the stars were wood used in
Tae Kwon Do Tournaments
so they hold the positive
energy and focus to get things done!
Anything you put your mind to...
you can do.
This vintage post office letter box was
just a plain brown stain.
I painted it to go with but
not match
the table I made that
also works with the
cabinet that the
owner already had.

The gal that brought me this wonderful
window knew just what she wanted
and even brought me the wall paint sample
chip and curtain fabric!
The wall color will come through
the glass to become part
of the art!

These are just a few of the samples that I've done recently
for my clients.
I would love to hear your ideas or see your projects!
Next maybe I'll post
what's NOT ALREADY SOLD!

ETSY

2010-05-23T06:24:00.000-07:00

So, since I am going to be a lot more mobile these days,
going to Texas for the birth
of my next Grandboy, Isaac,
I decided I needed to take my art
on the road, so to speak.
I have jumped (or been pushed)
into the cyber selling world of ETSY.

In a former life I started wholesaling by selling
my brass handmade jewelry at big industry gift markets
like Chicago Gift Market.

Now times have changed
and the way to meet
millions of potential buyers I'm told is to
Twitter and Facebook
my way into their
hearts and pocketbooks by computer.

So far-not nearly as much fun-
and
I have a feeling the opinions of the
youth and geniuses of this generation
are getting their information only from
THEIR experience or lack there of.
(It's a little like having a skinny young girl
who has never eaten a pot roast seared
in fat with hand rubbed seasoning messaged
into its soul by loving hands telling me how
easy it is to have "portion control" as they
nibble on bits of grass covered in chemicals).

BUT- I am determined to give it a try

because the billions of people using these
services tell me it's like
refusing to learn
to use a telephone
because it's a new fangled contraption.
So...
My jewelry is light weight, easy to ship,
actual vintage pieces since I've had them
myself since the early 80's and handmade by me.

Brass jewelry is back in fashion big time now,
so I am assuming the universe is making it
as easy as possible for me to jump into this world.

What am I missing?
People.
Where are you? Where are they?
I miss chatting with the person considering
adopting one of my works of art to make
sure their intentions are to enjoy and
share the love....
I am told every click on the "views" is
a little love pat.

They say it takes time.
I'm not sure.... am I going to be around
long enough to feel the love?
Do you like me? Do you really REALLY like me?

Please please follow me on Twitter,
http://twitter.com/momboe
Friend me on Facebook,
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/profile.php?id=1643277645
comment here on my blog
so I know what you think!

This is what Diggers Do

2010-05-04T15:00:00.000-07:00

Sorry to all who do not have a fascination
with construction equipment
but this one is for
Alex,
my grandson,
who totally digs diggers!
This all started with a basement
that has leaked for 26 years.
Our house, we just found out
is only 100 years old.
We thought it was built in 1903
probably because the neighbors was or something.

We were hand digging a hole for a sump pump down in our basement in hopes of slowing or stopping the water problem. That started plumbing discussions which lead to the fact that our water pressure has slowly...well, slowed down through the years.

Now we have the city and plumbers and workers and and and marching through the house to the basement to the alley to the... to get us service!
What an adventure.

Let's see if we can strike it rich with water!
The good news is...
Alex gets these great pictures.

I love my job

2010-04-10T07:01:00.000-07:00

Other artists often ask...how do you get all your painting jobs?
The answer is..
I LOVE what I do.

This recent addition to a series of murals started many years ago,
actually BEFORE these boys were even born.
and luckily enough I was hired
to paint murals in their baby rooms.
Now that family has moved in to this new home
and their children have grown

I'm still lucky enough to be part of their family.
I've watched their children grow.
I've painted presents through the years for
sisters and moms.
I've painted murals in their parents and siblings homes as well.
I get to be part of their family, their lives, their loves.

Each mural tells a story.
My goal is to convey the emotion
the family wants to feel when they look at it.

Across the hall from where I painted
the "I love you to the moon and back",
is the boys
Under Sea Bathroom.
I wish my photography skills were better
because then you could see

that the whole wall is washed with blues
to create that under water feel.
You could see the jelly fish in the corner
that glow in the dark when the lights are out
and you could see the glitter on the bubbles
that catch the light as you walk in.
You could also see how this coral bed
leads to a ship wreck hidden behind the towels
to the right so they boys find a great surprise
each time they bathe.There are little surprises everywhere to
keep the boys imaginations going while...
they are going:)

Sometimes some scary surprises too!
Dunt-da, dunt-da...

The boys are their mother's
Son shine,
represented in each
of their rooms now.

I wish I could put up pictures of
the boys original rooms
but that was before digital cameras.
Yes....that long ago.Their down stairs bathroom
is kind of a
"Thinking Room",
with positive words
seemingly randomly
painted all around.

It's amazing how much a little paint
can change the world,
people's lives
and
friendships.
I would LOVE to be part of your world.
Call me.

Connected

2010-04-02T17:29:00.001-07:00

Thank you Bill Bart
for your generous donation to my husband's
Feed your Hungry Wife Fund.
Thanks to you,
Tracy

took me to a new
and very fine restaurant,
Connected.

It's an Italian restaurant
located where
Po' Boys
used to be,
right next to the Bingo Parlor
next to Walmart on Dries Ln. in Peoria.

I loved the whole,
greet you at the door in a tux,
welcomed by every person
that worked there.
Dim lit and sophisticated,
Tracy and I felt a little out of place, at first,
in our casual attire,
but the staff was oh so professional
and even complimented, very sincerely,
my camo skirt and cowboy boots.

Since we got there a second and a half
after they opened today,
we had the place to ourselves at first,
but never felt uncomfortable.
The waiter waited on us
and even mentioned
that he knew our son,
Nick and his band
DriveTrain.
that used to play Po' Boys frequently.

The food was great as was the service.
Pollo Ai Quattro Formaggi $14.50
Ceasar Salad $7
Vitello Con Funghi Morel $23.50
House Salad $6
and then
just when you thought it couldn't get better,
the dessert!
Tiramisu for him
and
Mexican Hot Chocolate for me.
Now, anyone who knows me knows
that I like my HOT chocolate HOT!
Screaming, boiling, cup melting hot.
And chocolaty. Very, very chocolaty.
You would think that would
be an easy thing to accomplish
since we live in a cold climate,
but let me tell ya, It Ain't!
Well, I won the HOT chocolate
lottery!
YUM! YUM!
Blistering hot, dark chocolate with
a hint of cinnamon and a beautiful
little drizzle of chocolate across
the frothy cream.
A little choco work of art!
Then when you think it can't get better again,
The Owner
Chef Troy Ummel

comes out to make sure we are happy
with every little thing.
I was so impressed that
I asked for a menu,
a take home box for the rest of my meal,
which will make at least 2 more meals
AND
a picture with Mr. Ummel.
They had to go dig him out of the
back where he was working, just to make me happy.
I LOVE good customer service.
Here is a man who knows who's who.
I even got a beautiful rose
to take home.
It's not cheap but
if you are trying to
impress someone,
This is the place to go.
I'm sorry Po' Boys is gone
but I'm glad
Connected
is here!

Halloween Hugs and Mistletoe Kisses

2010-03-23T06:51:00.000-07:00

For those of you who didn't know me
~ Back in the Day ~
you might have missed my glory years
when I ran a store and taught painting
and wholesaled my art and published books.
AAhhhh...youth.
Well, I've been considering publishing
and teaching again
and realized that I don't have any copies of my book
Halloween Hugs and Mistletoe Kisses,
http://www.razzpizazz.com/si/paint47.html
so I asked my fans if they had one kicking around
they'd like to get rid of.
Several people were nice enough to send me sites
that were selling my old book.
To my surprise,
it wasn't on the "Dime Table"
(which is what we called the sell out discount table at Herr's Open House).
As a matter of fact,
I think it's going to cost me more
for the darn book now than
I sold it for retail when it was NEW!
The fact they are asking $5 plus $4 shipping
for a book that's 20 years old is amazing to me.
Now I have to decide if I'm worth spending
the big bucks on and if I can get me to
sign my own book to me!
"To Amy, My Biggest Fan"....

Magical Fairy Tea

2010-03-21T05:57:00.000-07:00

Moon Dancer and CICreative
worked together to create a magical Fairy Tea
yesterday!
We more than SOLD OUT!
Music, Tea, Fairy Cakes, Stories, Book Signings
Wonderful arts and crafts
and
lots and lots of beautiful fairy princesses!!!

Thanks to Luthy Botanical Garden
for the Lilies and other plants!
(Go check out their Lily Show going on right now)

Now, I would just love to show you all the
pictures I took but unfortunately...
those darn fairies must have played
jokes with my camera!
35 pictures of the
cutest little fairies,
for some reason,
won't download off my camera!
Here are a few pictures
of us bigger fairies that I salvaged.
This was the crew who helped make
our first fairy tea a success!
(Left to right)
Me, Sandra, Sherri, Rebecca and Ashley!
Below is
Author Sandra McCone
and
artist and interior designer Sherri Swanson.

Luckily Photog Brain Woelfe
will have professional pictures
available soon
for me to show off to you.
For now, here are just a couple
of the fairy art we had for sale.
Pam Miller had hand sculpted fairies
and
Michelle had beautiful
rhinestone T's for children
and adults!
Luckily you can still find those
at
Moon Dancer
even if you didn't go to the tea.

We had all sorts of cool treasures to buy!
Rebecca had hand made fairy huts and gnome homes
as well as beautiful fairy flower crowns
and sooooo much more!
In the corner of the picture below you'll
see the fairy dresses with
matching wings
Ashley Gifford made!

Here is Author Sandra McCone
with
Ashely Gifford.
There is so much more to show you but
you'll have to wait for
Brian Woelfe's pictures!

If you came to the fairy tea
I would love to hear your comments!

This is how we do it...St. Paddy's Day

2010-03-18T07:36:00.000-07:00

Here is our traditional spot to start St. Patrick's Day.
My father was the chief Federal Probation Officer for many years here and worked out of this building. We used to get to stand our kids at the window on the 3rd floor and watch the parade in the warmth while other's screaming freezing kids whined outside.
Our kids even got to be IN the parade one year riding in my daddy's top down St. Paddy's Caddy.Everyone had their drinking sock on...

some of which actually came from Ireland.

Oh....
Since I am allergic to alcohol ....
( I know! I couldn't believe there was such a thing either!)
I wore the non-drinking hat that actually came from Ireland instead.
I made up for the lack of drinking on my part by eating
enough for everyone.
Suza made yummy Irish cinnamon coffee cake!
(It's Irish cause we ate it at the St. Pat's Parade).

Here is where our clan comes from so I was liking this float!
Dad kept Karen from running out and
hugging her favorite float.She has rescued and is living with at least 6 Gray Hounds.
We are looking into an intervention soon.

What's a parade without friends?
Dee still works at the Fed. Building and
came out to cheer on her family in the parade.
AAAhhh...the good ole' days....
Dee, remember when they all dumped your
behind in the Current River during the
canoe trip? yea..ahhaa.a.a. good times.

Look! More friends!
They are discussing Suza's favorite float.
Yes. That's right.
The Popcorn Wagon.
If you know who owns this...
Suza will make them a deal!
Here is our lunch wagon!

By the time the parade was over around noon
we were more than ready to drink...I mean eat
our lunch!
Before we even got seated my famous dad
Gus Errion
was mobbed by his adoring fans.
We ran into Tracy and Vick Heuermann and family.
Tracy worked as a secretary for my dad
many years ago at the Fed. Building!

Food was yummy. Service was great!
Off to our next great adventure where we
had our traditional glass of
Wine and browsed and bought great books.
I never get out of there the first try.
I ALWAYS seem to HAVE to buy
more than one time
in the same visit.
Oh, you noticed a new face in there?
Yep, our parade grew.
Katie Roo!!! We missed you!
Suza and Karen still holding strong.

Off to our last stop!

We risked life and limb to get there.
There were about 10,000 people there
when we pulled up.
We worked off our lunch during the
hike from our
car to the bar.
Oh look.
How Far.
Sorry, Irish rhymes took over for a second.

We met up with more family!

Look how much Katie and Bob look alike!
They have the same smile!Jimmy's serves REAL beer.

Zach shows up to add the cool factor
to our party.

Still partying waaaayyy beyond the
Irish time of 6 o'clock.

This is what holidays are all about.
Glad to say we all had a crazy good time.

I'm Fairy Inspired

2010-03-13T14:59:00.000-08:00

Spring
is just days away!
I love the summer and any day

that is leading to that weather
and away from the cold I am all about!
We are celebrating at
Moon Dancer/ Simply Everything Boutique
by hosting a
Magical Fairy Tea
with
Sandra McCone
March 20th, Sat. 1-3pm
at CIC
just 2 doors up from our store
at Grand Prairie Mall.

This canvas is 16 x 20.
I love the glitter on the wings
and the speckles around the sun.
Spring inspired me to get
new shoes too!
Yes, again!!!!
But, here is a surprise....
I went to hand Famous Footwear
a fairy flier
and walked out with 3 new pairs
of shoes,
all on sale!
Since it was their first day open
I bought 3 pairs of shoes for about $30!
This pair was only $5 because I
got 1/2 off the SALE price!

Introducing...
my
Muse Shoes!
Aren't they inspiring?All this spring happiness made
me want to paint flowers!!

Amy Flowers
are 3-D with
hand cut wooden elements.

Oh- here is a sneak peek at
an order I created
to match the clients
towels and bathroom tiles.

What do you think?

Are you inspired now?
Let me hear from you if you are!!!
You can leave a comment
under anonymous if you'd like!
That way you don't need to have an account
with Google or anyone.

Boettcherass Band Family Jam

2010-03-13T09:53:00.000-08:00

Since my famous musician son,
Nick Boettcher
has run off to Chicago
to hit the big time
with his band
DriveTrain,
we rarely get to hear him play anymore.
We REALLY miss that.
We are trying to get him to
come home to play gigs here
more often but since he teaches at
Ave. N. Guitars or plays every day and night
we've had a hard time scheduling.
So, instead of sulking around about it

we decided to host a
jam night at our house.
The Boettcherass Band Family Jam begins!

We invited a few friends and family
to come by.
Since the entire Prescott Family
is musical we were thrilled
when they said they could stop by!
Oh, here is Dr. Robert Prescott now!

He actually was the one to
recognize Nick's extreme talent
and encouraged us to get him
REAL lessons.
Rob actually gave Nick
his first guitar lessons!

Here is Walter and Rob
working out
some Irish tunes for us.
Nick jumped in on some of the Russian tunes too.
Nick can pretty much play anything with strings.
The mandolin was fun!

Rob's daughter Eileen came by to sing and play too!

I missed the picture of the Balalaika that Rob
was strumming but it's in the background there.
We met new friends.

Eileen has a beautiful voice as well as face!
Luckily there is no sound on this picture
though....hehee.e.e
(we know what we mean, don't we...ehehee.e.e)
The kids rocked out some pop, folk and rock tunes too.
Nick even played a new song that is still in the works!
OOOhhhh!!! First ones to hear it!

Some of us just listened, tap our tambourines
and some of us sang along.

This was so much fun we HAVE to do it again!
Get your spoons, nose harps and Zizzers ready.
Next concert coming soon!

Wednesday Night Family Feast

2010-03-13T09:01:00.000-08:00

If you are wondering what I do when I am not painting and taking over the world,
here is a glimpse.

Meet Chef Tracy
as he is known in our household on Wed. nights.
(Other nights he is known as Jackass or Darling depending...)
He creates fabulous varieties of deliciousness
for my family to come together and rave over.
This pork loin was so yummy there were
NO left overs....bummer.
Yea....uuhhhmmm....not one of our diet nights
but the potatoes are worth carrying
all that extra baggage around
in my bee-hind for the next month.
The gift that just keeps on giving....
Because we are all so busy it's hard to
get together as often as we'd like.
Holidays are a big deal to my family
but we have noticed as the family has
grown we have less and less time
to chat between Santa Stockings
and Easter Egg Hunting
so this weekly family feast
has worked out pretty good.

It's also a nice way to celebrate your much MUCH
older sister's birthday.

Since Suza turned her birthday candle upside down
to make herself younger
we couldn't lite it
so we decided to sing the
the mini match.

We had to sing a really really fast version of
Hippy Barthday!!!!

Toasted old lady fingers anyone?
Can't go wrong with Wine and Chocolate!
One size fits all!Due to the outrageous over eating
that has been happening because
of my husband's feasts
he decided to buy a treadmill
to work off what we put on.

Everyone leaves happy!
I think we may have
a fitness night soon
that will include
tournament Wii play,
Karaoke treadmill race
and
musical chairs.
Stay tuned.

First Impressions

2010-03-06T18:26:00.000-08:00

Well today, March 6th was the first official Saturday
as
Moon Dancer
and what a day it was!!!!

From the minute Julie opened the doors we had customers streaming in!

Not only has Julie and her wonderful staff
been changing over
all the paper work and business details
to blend Simply Everything Boutique
and Moon Dancer together,
but they have also rearranged
EVERYTHING in the store
about 20 times
in the last 4 days!

Why you ask?
OCD you guess?
Okay, yeah, there is that but
really it's because things are just flying
out the doors!!!
I wish I could insert a picture here of my
NEW
Reach for the Stars Mirror.
Ugh!
But the good/bad news is
(yes, again)
it sold today
without getting a good picture of it.
Yes, Sarah darling.
Yes, I hear you.... I know. I know.
Okay- use your imaginations
this time and I promise to do better
(than nothing)
in the future.
Luckily, I did get a
quick pic of
some of the hottest items
we have going right now.
The Buddah Bag is awesome!

Oh!! Isn't that such a cute purple hat!?
Sorry, sold.
And that Love Peace purse there in the middle I wanted, is...
oh, wait...Sorry. Sold too.

Gesh you guys!
Come ON!
Many of these are one of a kind works of art.
Look what you are missing!!
Okay now- here are these cool new
macrame bottles
that
Julie Wiese
just brought in today.
Better hurry in if you want to see them
in person!

Yea, we have awesome stuff in the store
but what really makes Moon Dancer
special is the people!
Not only do we have the coolest grooviest
staff in the world but
we have amazing customers as well.
Here you see Debbie and Diana were
nice enough to call ahead of time
to see what our staff was wearing
AND
ask how our store was decorated
so they could come in all
color coordinated.
(You might want to click on the picture
to enlarge so you can see I'm not exaggerating).
If you do, you will also notice that these girls
were smart enough to swoop in
to get first dibs on the new jewelry
that our local artists brought in.
Some incredible pieces didn't even
get a chance to hit the sales floor before they
were adopted into loving homes.
Speaking of that~
Matthew and Lelie
were thrilled about
adopting this fun
Princess Dresser
today.
I make the crowns easy to
take off for easy transport.
The kids were so excited about their
new furniture they didn't mind
running along side the car all the way
home so their furniture could
ride in comfort.
(Hope you guys got home safely!)

We are hoping to see them both at our
first Magical Fairy Tea
March 20th!

Now this sounds like a pretty full afternoon right?
Well, it's just the tip of the iceberg.
We had family in from out of state and psychics
dropping by and artists showing off
their new treasures and 50% off sales and whew!
You'll just have to come by to see it all for yourself !!

We are so Over the Moon about this stuff!

2010-03-03T15:36:00.000-08:00

So it begins....
Julie Vonachen of Moon Dancer
officially took over
Simply Everything Boutique
as of Monday.
We literally have customers nearly in tears
with relief to find us!
Julie hasn't wasted any time
unpacking treasures for her people to discover.

We couldn't wait to see what she had
"in store"
for us and it was worth the wait.

Aren't these just the coolest bags and totes?
Here is one of my favorites below.
Julie made us promise to wait a week before buying
out her entire inventory of cute bags so
you all can have a shot at owning
a few.

Now, everyone who knows Julie
is aware of how awesome she is....
so I had to step up my game a bit.

I am proud to announce that I
encouraged (badgered)
Glass Artist
Jeremie Draper
to come join our fun art family
at
Simply Everything Under the Moon!

She enthusiastically took on the challenge and has event suggested
she may create some work especially for our store!!
We are so honored to have her fabulous smile and
art glass as part of our new store!
I wish I was a better photog
because her work is amazing!!
You just must come and ogle it
yourself!

We have a happy little vibe going and it's just going to get better and better.
Look how happy Leslie is!!!

I think those Pollyanna crystals are really working!
What do you think?

Farewell

2010-03-01T19:05:00.000-08:00

This is a farewell post for Jennifer Slater,
owner of Simply Everything Boutique.

Due to severe health issues with her son
she is having to move suddenly all the way to Florida.
Add to that she has double pneumonia
(yes, really)
and her grandmother is gravely ill.
On top of packing her entire life in a mini van today
and closing out the store's books
she had time to give me this wonderful present of a
digital camera since she read on line that mine
had crapped out on me.
This is a typical week in the life of Jennifer Slater.
I can honestly say -
I have NEVER met anyone like her!
Thanks to Jennifer over 50 artists
have been able to sell their wares for the last year.
She instantly agreed
to change her entire business plan
and life from home based business
to retail one afternoon when we met last June.
Feel free to send Jennifer you well wishes on facebook or her email
wicklessfamily@gmail.com

This says it all

2010-02-20T10:46:00.000-08:00

Calling all artists!

I am looking to be inspired!
Who would like to
Add an Art
to my paint pants?
This is an experimental project
designed to bring the best creativity
out of all of you!!!
As long as it's reasonably washable
and not too obscene
it's up to you how you would like to
add art and inspiration
to my jeans.
I intend to wear these when I am creating
to gain attention to
the fabulous artists we have here in our
community.
Who is game!?
Contact me asap!
I would love to have a dozen artists work
sewn, stitch, paint, glue, rivet....on my jeans!
Go WILD!

I created
Paint Pants
and
I just love the whole idea
of inspirational quotes
on them!
I am going to do a series of these painters pants
for artists to wear while they work.
These are high quality Dickies
that wash and wear really well
and are favored by professional painters by far.
But
-if you already have your favorites prepainted pair
and you want to upgrade a bit-
Just give me a jingle.
For $15 we will print your saying or slogan on your
used jeans!!!
Don'tcha just love it?!!!
Can't wait to hear from you!

Sweet Pea and Fairy Princesses

2010-02-20T10:13:00.001-08:00

Maybe it's the fact that I am expecting....

Another Grand Boy that is!!!
But I have suddenly been moved
to create sweet baby/children
designs!
I love the pea border on both edges
of this Burpie!

We can put the name of your
Sweet Pea across the top!
Just $9.95 as is.

Lori and I came up with
these this week.
What do ya think?
No. Really. I really want to know.
Let me know. Like...now.
Comment!!!

This fairy dress was inspired by the
Magical Fairy Tea
that
Simply Everything Boutique
and
CiCreative
are going to have
MARCH 20th.
The wings and words
are embroidered with
Glow in the DARK
Thread!!
I KNOW! Cute right?

The ruffle could have the name of your very own
Fairy Princess on it too!!
Just pick a color!
The dress is $25 as is
and
only $5 more to personalize it!
I wanna hear from ya!

Princess Dresser and more

2010-02-20T09:35:00.000-08:00

People are always asking me
what I've been working on
but I know they are thinking-
"What the heck does she do all day".
Besides helping
Simply Everything Boutique
make the world a better place and
beginning to work with
Amy Lambert of CICreative,
I occasionally get a little painting done.
Here are this week's projects.

You can't really tell from the
pictures that the crown curls
and words have beautiful glitter on them.
The sides have fun polka dots too!
(Come in to see it at SEB in person!)

Now don't give me any grief
over
the picture quality!!
I spent over an hour this morning
recharging our "good camera"
YET again because it
doesn't turn it's self off,
that weighs 10,000 lbs.
and has cool buttons all over
and things you can clip on
and take off...
Then you wait....waiiiittt...
for the perfect sunshine-
not too bright, not too dark...
to SNAP!
that perfect picture.
HUH!
The stupid camera for some
reason which is obviously
beyond me again,
wouldn't take a picture.
It sat silently, laughing, laughing
as I struggled, punched, pushed
and pleaded with it.

Now- before you get all-
Ya just have to this and you shoulda known that...
For all your fanciness...
I picked up my
Exlim Casio
with the big screen
and shot pictures instantly.
So there na!

Here are a couple other things I worked
on this week.

Great Adventure $32

Time Out Step Stool $28
Come in to SEB and say you saw
these on the blog and I'll
have them take $10% off
for ya!

More things I love

2010-02-14T12:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!
There are so many lovely things in the world
that I just couldn't stop at those few on the last post.
Here are a couple things I'm working on that
I am hoping
you love as much as I do!

I am working on a new line
with my friend Lori.
(We are still coming up with a name).
Suggestions?

She is able to print and embroider
my original designs
on
all sorts of fun things.

Here is the first in a series of bed sets!!

Love Bug Back Pack
This Monogramed Back Pack contains
a complete
Personalized, Monogrammed
twin bed set
which includes
The Flat, Fitted and Pillowcase
for only $98.
Printed on Cannon brand 300 thread count cotton sheets.

The washable nylon back pack can be carried as a pajama bag
or book bag and has a drawstring tie.
If you just want the cute back pack it's only $14.95.
How fun to take to a sleep over!!!

The pillowcase below
is printed and has an embroidered
little love bug too!
It's still soft and comfortable
for sleeping,
but you can choose to turn
your pillow over if you
are sensitive.

You can choose
to put just an initial on it or add
a trail of lovely love bugs instead
of a whole name along the edge!
I hand painted the original ladybug
and Lori was able to print it and embroider it!
These sheets are completely machine washable
and
permanent,
although bleaching isn't recommended.We were so thrilled with how the set turned out!!
We just know it's going to be a big hit because
(yes, this is for real),
a lady bug showed up on our next project
while we were dancing and celebrating
our creative awesomeness.

Now that we knew luck was on our side
we forged ahead creating our next amazing
art work!

Painters Pants!!
No- I mean- REAL painters pants.
Pants for artists!!!
If any of you have come to visit me while I'm working at
Simply Everything Boutique
or
CICreative
you will immediately agree...
I needed a wardrobe upgrade!
I think VanGogh would be
proud to have his quote
on the pants I am
going to be
creating great works of art in!
Don't you?

This is another line Lori and I
are working on together which will
include t-shirts
and
painting smocks
with all sorts of
inspirational sayings
and designs.

I have my logo on the back pocket
but(t)
you can leave it plain or
have your business name and logo
printed
(to be cool like me).
I am looking forward to
letting the natural process of
painting decorate these at will,
so soon I will be a
walking work of art
but I will be creating
more masterpieces
with hand painted designs on them
for the lucky public to buy at
CIC!
If you have clothing that you
would like us to customize
give me a jingle or
Email me at:
momboe630@aol.com

Things I Love

2010-02-13T17:37:00.000-08:00

First of all I Love my husbandand family.

This is what happens when you ask them to pose for a picture.

I love my husband's cooking!

Love Perry's Art
They will take your child's or grandchild's
drawings and make them into permanent art
on canvas or pottery.
Now my grandson and I have lunch together
every day whether I'm there or not
on his Granny B and Me Plate
that I will show in a future picture.

I also love their custom made ceramic
knobs
and buttons.

Yea...all of these things I love.
I loved my Painting class with Bobbi Takashima.

I love going out with my husband
to hear my son's band play.
Drive Train Rocks!!

I loved how this very over sized
carved flower turned out.
Dimensions are 4 ft. x 3 ft.

I love the way the colorful little houses
dot the hillside of the islands.
I love all the children of the Grenadine Islands!!
I loved teaching art classes there.
I love this picture below.
It was taken at the Bowen Building
which was the old State Hospital.
This is right behind what was my old
art studio and gallery
and I was there for this event.
They sent the picture away to experts
and they couldn't debunk it.
A lot of interesting stories there.
I love all of Twisted Chicken's work but
especially this necklace.
What a great picture of my grandson,
posing in his halloween costume 2008.
I loved working on Extreme Home Makeover.
This floor below is incredible in person!!!
Too bad most people won't get to see it
since it's in a private home.
My husband designed, cut and installed it.
I love how this mirror I painted turned out.
The color scheme was taken
from the bedsheets in their
daughter's room.

I love promoting our artists!!
And of course... I love chocolate!I love all of you too who are
nice enough to check in on my blog.
Thanks!
Happy Valentine's Day

Button, Button, whose got the button?

2010-02-06T07:15:00.000-08:00

Ya know how ya see someone else wearing something cute
and you buy it but
when ya put it on...wa, wa, wa.... disappointment:(

So it was with the little neutral sweater

that fit all my requirements.

Neutral so I could wear it with anything,
warm so I would wear it with everything,
cheap enough so I could justify buying it
and my daughter Sarah liked it
and she had one in black
that I've worn more than once.
So why don't I wear this one?
Because it's the same color as me.
Boring boring beige!!!
I think I was thinking
I would put a fun pin on
or jewelry with it
but the design around the yoke
doesn't really lend itself to that
although a fun brooch could work.
The earthiness of the sweater
didn't play well
with my sparkle pins I own though.

The solution?
Buttons!

I had Lois Perry,
world renowned (or should be)
button maker, potter and multi-media artist,
not to mention great friend,
(oooppsss! I mentioned it)
made me these fab buttons to play with!
What a difference they make don't ya think?
I LOVE them.
They are hand made ceramic
and I just tied them on with green crochet cording.
Now, I had intentions of stitching a fun playful vine pattern around the yoke and adding all sorts of other flower shaped buttons to really fill up the shoulder area but...

I kind of like it this way.
What do you think?

These boots are made for walkin'

2010-01-22T22:13:00.000-08:00

Well, we won the shoe lottery!

If you've ever looked down while talking with me you will have noticed that my shoes are generally between awful and appalling and down right embarrassing.
Yes. I am aware of this.
The problem is that from childhood I've always hated to wear shoes. Always.
They would be scattered around my neighborhood
mostly under apple trees and every evening my parents would ask...
where are your shoes?
I would then explain- you CAN'T climb trees in flip flops!
(Okay, we called them thongs back then before people wore butt crack underwear).
Beyond that, as an adult my feet are two different sizes and extra narrow, I broke one that just never healed right,
and I have
Morton's Toe
(monkey toes with a longer second toe than first
which is why toe out shoes were invented I'm sure.
You may or may not be interested to know that it's also believed
to be a sign of being the head of the family.
The longer your 2nd toe is from your first the stronger your leadership role.
Yeah- no contest. I rule.)

So, to find shoes that are comfortable or that fit or even just stay on my feet...huhhhhh...
My daughter Sarah on the other hand
will stuff her little toes into anything that is beautiful
and to her most shoes that fit her are in that category.
Shoe shopping together has been a challenge in the past
but I was determined on this trip
to go with Sarah and take her advice and
find the perfect pair of black shoes I can wear every day.
The best bug man in Dallas let us in on this secret gold mine of shoes called
Off Price Shoes.

They are regularly $9.99
but on special days they are marked down to $4.99 for shoes
and $15 for boots.
I, who generally walks out of shoes stores
crabby and disappointed
(whether I find shoes to fit or not)
hit the boot bonanza!

Sarah walked out with 9 new pairs of shoes for $48 including tax!

In less than an hour we came home with a dozen new pairs and created our own little shoe display like a work of art at home...
because according to Sarah-
"What's more beautiful than a dozen pair of new shoes".

You will notice that there is a pair missing.

Yes. The black pair of flats I originally came to Dallas to find!!!
I only bought boots!!

We are still in search for the perfect pair of black shoes!
The adventure continues...

What a Year!

2010-01-01T16:42:00.000-08:00

So, I started 2009 in my
Something Unique Studios
in Bartonville.

2,500 sq. feet of art heaven.

It's right behind the old state hospital building
now called the
Bowen Building.
I had another picture but it disappeared.....
Yeah- there was a lot of that kind of thing while I was there.
I loved my art palace. It had a front gallery.
and an upstairs where
Leann McWhorter did her
energy healing
and filled my space with joy,
healing and friendship.
Again those pictures have disappeared.

But here are friends enjoying my space.
I had a giant gift gallery.
This is where I sold many of my friends beautiful works of art too.
It seems just like yesterday
my friends where giving me gifts
for starting my new palace.
There are so many great memories.
At my Grand Opening Dec. 9th 2007
is when we found out I was going to be a
grandma for the first time.
I had fun there with friends, artists and customers.
I held classes, parties and created works of art of all sizes.

Then I met Jennifer Slater
Very shortly after....
this is what happened.

I loved my 3 years at my studio but....

there were new art challenges to take on.
You really know who your friends are
when you have to move this much stuff
and they show up anyway!

After knowing Jennifer just a few hours
we decided it was a good idea
for me to totally change our lives
and start a whole new project.
Simply Everything Boutique
Art Gallery
and
Contemporary Gifts Store
was born that July.

The start of a new business almost over night.
Having been a recluse for years the retail addiction was
back full force out at the
Shoppes at Grand Prairie
and it was contagious.
The retail bug bit Jennifer as well!
She embraced it completely.
My studio went from 2,500 sq. ft. to about 200 sq. ft.
in the back storage closet of the new store.

Jennifer's office became about 10 sq. ft.We were having a great time taking over the world with art when...
Jennifer's son became very ill:(

Luckily they have a plan.
Sadly the plan is to move to Florida.

Lord, Oh Lord I cried!
What shall I do?!
Give me a sign!
That's when
Julie Vonachen
of
Moon Dancer
called me.
She said, Lord Oh Lord!
What am I going to do?!
I am suddenly without a
home for my business!
I yelled,
Thank You Jesus!!

What a great Christmas present
for all of us!!

Jennifer meet Julie.
Julie meet Jennifer.
We instantly bonded in to a new family.
(With Jennifer, is there any other way?)
Julie has barely gotten her feet in the door
and her friends and customers are
racing in to congratulate her!

Yes, this is the famous singer, guitar player
Robin Crowe
coming in to
congratulate Julie
on our new business
Simply Everything Under the Moon.
We have plans to "marry" the two business
Feb. 13th.
There are rumors that Robin may even be there
to play her version of
the Retail Wedding March!
Invitations to the
celebration are forth coming
so keep an eye out for
your announcement.
I am really looking forward to seeing where
my next art adventure takes me!
2010 here I come!

Happy Together

2009-12-09T07:10:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to
Janet Hill of Free to Bead!!!
She came into
Simply Everything Boutique
and fell instantly, madly in love with
"Jill"!!
Jill's parents are
artists Lois and Bruce Perry of Canton, IL.
Having JUST created her they had high
hopes that some day someone would
appreciate her for the lovely inspiration she is.
Now, I hear word on the grapevine there is going
to be a very broken hearted rock hound who
was hoping to sweep Jill off her feet in the very near
future:( Don't let this happen to you!!!

Maybe if we are lucky
Bruce and Lois can work together
to create a sister or brother to
Jill in the very near future.
That's right. Dream big!!!
Now, look at the pictures below of some of
Perry's Art
to see
what else the Perry's have
at our store.
The Perry's will be featured TV
on
Postcards from Home
Dec. 11th 6 pm on WEEK 25.

These hand thrown, hand painted pots and bowls
have a special holiday price
of only $12-$15!!!

They make great ring dishes,
dip bowls, dishwasher safe
and oooh so beautiful!
They also put on a SUPER SALE
for our open house until
the end of the month on
some of their fun work.
These are HALF off their original price!!!

Now, don't be left broken hearted by waiting
too long!
Come buy these one of a kind works
of art NOW!!!

The Cookie Shack

2009-11-29T03:25:00.000-08:00

Since I'm taking over the world and filling it with art and fun people I am compelled to let you know how wonderful the Cookie Shack is for our city.

Please please consider buying your Christmas gifts from them this year for all those teachers, neighbors and holiday parties.

http://www.cookieshackbakery.com/index.php

Due to their Landlords ill health they are in peril of losing their business unless they can earn $55,000 to buy it ASAP!!

See what you can do to make this world a better place by buying your Christmas gifts.
I mean really, who doesn't love a good home made cookie or cake??
Check them out!
Happy Merry Holidays!

Texas Road Trip or Thelma and Louise on Holiday

2009-11-18T19:14:00.000-08:00

Sooooo....
Ya know how you were
taught never go on a road trip
without your bail money.....
Good advice!

Well, here is the short version of the story.
Jennifer Slater
boss woman of
Simply Everything Boutique
and
kick butt queen of
Scentsy Wickless Candles
was going to Texas to receive
awards and chat up the top dogs
of that company.
The event was held in the beautiful
Texas Gaylord Spa and Resort
in Dallas
which just happens to be where my
grandson Alex
and his parents live.

As it turns out
Jen's husband got sick at the last minute
and she threatened and bribed me to go with her
so she didn't have to drive 28 hours alone.
(Actually she mentioned a free visit
to see my grandson and after assuring her
I couldn't possibly change ALL my plans
to go, I called back in a matter of hours to
say I was packing my bags!)
With a days notice we hit the road with everything we needed.
Well, almost.
Oh look! There is Jen with her driver's license!!

Too bad she left it HERE
on the way down to Texas.
Jen being Jen
had no interest in
having me choke the life
out of the employees who
stood picking their teeth
instead of calling our room
to let us know she had left it
on the counter.

No problem Jen says.
We'll just pick it up on the way back home.
Then Jen's wonderful plague ridden husband
called to say that
Jen forgot to put her
license renewal sticker
on before she left....
two months ago.
No problem says Jen.
They probably only care
about that in Illinoisssss... (Texan pronunciation) anyway.
I drop her off at her event where
she buys at least 6 of every single thing
they offered.
Everyone needs a purple Scentsy water bottle!!!

I head to the Evans house where we played puzzles and trains and read books and ate and ate and ate...
Then the call came:(
Jen had to rush us home because her son was having
a hospital size asthma attack.
We hit the road the next morning.
Now, I thought I was busy until
I got around Jennifer.
This gal honestly, really, actually, always
is doing at least three things
at a time.
Below you see Jen putting on make up....and talking business with me and...
Yes! That is her on the DRIVER'S side of the car.
See the ground blurring and the highway road outside her window?
I have yet to pry St. Christopher's white knuckles
off her dashboard.
Shortly after this picture the truck two cars ahead of us
sends a 4x8 sheet of plywood flying across
the highway. Cars scattered to avoid taking
it in their windshields, people honking, dust flying...
all while Jen continues talking on the phone
to the owners of Scentsy about
a crisis with crazy consultants.
We continue on, solving SEB issues
and juggling texts and calls every 32 seconds.
About midnight we are just 40 min. from our hotel
where they are holding Jen's ID hostage when....
Officer Friendly pulls us over in
Podunksville.
HHHmmmmm.....
53 in a 35. No license. Expired plates.
We start digging out our bail money.
Luckily, Jen knew her number because
the officer came back to the car saying
they couldn't find her in their system.
After a very long wait O. F. politely
gives her a ticket for only 10 over the limit
so her insurance won't go up.
Thanks...I think.
Jen PollyAnna says,
We're almost to the hotel. We'll check
on Andrew just a couple (50) more times
to make sure he's doing okay and we'll
get a good nights sleep and it will all
be better in the morning.
We pull into the parking lot

and look forward to getting a good nights sleep.
It just so happens that they are full up. Cowboy convention in town.
Seriously. That's what they told us.
They must have all ridden their horses in
because as you can see there were about 6 cars in the lot.
PollyAnna STILL wouldn't let me
kick the stuffing out of
those dim wits!
We are forced to head down the road another 4o minutes
to find another hotel.
In what seemed like an episode of
The Twilight Zone
we come to a bunch of hotels all blocked
by road construction.
The labyrinth lead us to a stop light
that must have been timed by the hour
and we pulled up just as it had changed!!!
Eventually we found our place and crashed until the AM.
We made it home safe and sound and Andrew is
doing better for now, thank God!
Reminder...this IS the Short Version!

CICREATIVE SPACE and super secrets

2009-11-18T18:34:00.000-08:00

Thanks so much to Amy Lambert of CI CREATIVE
for sharing her wonderful space with me this week.
Her place is just two doors from
our store
Simply Everything Boutique
out at the
Shoppes at
Grand Prairie.

Now you are probably wondering why I am painting and creative there when I have a perfectly beautiful store of my own that now houses my
Something Unique Studios.
Well, you can see by the size of this project
there just ain't no way, no how,
that I was going to fit a 7 foot canvas banner
in my studio.
Lucky for me the Other Amy created a place for
artists of all types
to create our wonderful works.

It's wonderful to have the room to wonder
around in circles and look at it from every angle.
OH! NO!
You are getting to see my
super secret
techniques!
That broken picture frame works
as a square when I am too lazy
to go find mine.
Then there is my fancy circle maker
and my make shift drop cloth is
flooring paper
builders use to protect hardwood floors.
I often use chalk to sketch on canvas
in a color that will blend in the
painting if it doesn't all wipe off.
File folders can be used
in a pinch to cut simple
stencils for a one use project.
Contact Amy Lambert if
you need a space to create!

We rocked Rocco with Art Works

2009-11-08T16:52:00.000-08:00

Here's how it all started.
My gals Zetter and Chit called me and said,
"Yo, Amio'".
We need your army of artists
at this kick butt event we are hostin'
~ Art Works~
to show Rocco what's what.
I said, "Hey gals! Count me in"!
That's when I called my first crew.

I said, HEY Kiddos!
Wanna show'em who's boss with the paint brush?
They said- You know it!
At this point
(just hours before the actual painting begins,
minutes after Tom Gross gets the call)
my artists are chomping at the bit
to make magic on the windows in the lobby
of Eastlight Theatre at East Peoria High School.
If you follow my
Army of Artists
you'll notice a few new faces.
Suzette Boulais of Arts Parnters
and Kathy Chitwood of Eastlight Theatre
didn't throw any paint
but they were there cheering us on at every brush stroke.
Pam Miller from Michael's
and Phoebe Johnson,
sister to potter Jake Johnson
both rose up to meet the challenge
even though they weren't sure
what the challenge was until they got there!

We all worked together
adding ideas and details to
each others paintings!

Hi Carol!!! Isn't she so dog gone cute?

It isn't easy to catch a photog on camera!
Go me!
The Peoria Camera Club was there
recording this historical, hysterical event.
The painting wasn't the only thing to
get colorful as
creative language concepts
were freely explored.
I can't wait to see what THEY got on film!
(Yes, I realize that no one actually uses film any more
and that CD's aren't records
even though they still call them albums.)

Now this was painted on Sunday
before the Rent Event
so those coming in and out of the lobby
could enjoy a small sample of our art Friday.
Ding, Ding,...Round one goes to our amazing artists!

Now for Round Two!
The Round Table Discussions.

No seriously folks.
Here is the real crew.
8 am our artist begin to make their way to the 4th floor of the Civic Center outside room 405 where the Round Table discussions were held.

Ross Stovall and James Flanigan
and Tom Warren
of the amazingly successful,
"See Change" adventure
came back for more with
Art Works
with
Rocco Landesman.

New additions
Morgan Elser of Delavan
Phoebe Johnson
and Pam Millercame along to inspire us with their unique styles of art as well.
Luckily I had my fan club there helping me make artistic decisions.

At the civic center where the round table discussions were held we produced art so those coming and going could see artists at work, creating works of art right there!
Oh! And boy did we work!
Here we are working on lunch!

Yeah.... Go ahead. Eat your hearts out!
The food was really really great.
Here was our camera crew before the paparazzi frenzy started!
Thanks Peoria Camera Club.Then Rocco and crew came out to admire our work and wow!!As the excitement died down we cleaned up,
raced to WTVP where we all voiced our
ideas and concerns to Mr. Landesman.
It was actually a very entertaining interesting hour!

Then off to Eastlight to set our fabulous art we had created that day!
The reception started at 5:30 and for those of us who had only eaten the end of our paint brush since our morning snack...it looked pretty good to us.
What do you think?
Now how cute is this?
No! We know Phoebe is a doll!!!
I meant the tuxedo chocolate strawberry!

Rent was incredible!
The whole day was a hit.
Mr. Landesman seemed very sincere
giving hugs and telling everyone
he has a big crush on the gals!

Now, you would think that would be just about all anyone could ask for in the art world wouldn't ya. But no! Dream bigger!
Ross was asked to display his painting of the ballerinas
by Erich Yetter at the Peoria Ballet
and maybe even the next two in the series as well!
James Flanigan called to say he has been asked
to teach sculpture classes because of it.
Tom Warren got national attention and in the Peoria Journal Star!
Phoebe, Pam and I all got wonderful comments and made new fans with our art.
I've had new artists now
wanting to join my art army!
I'm working on the logo for our shirts already.
What a glorious day for art and Peoria!
Whew! Okay, these were only the highlights.
So much more happened.
Make sure you don't miss the next one!
Let's keep it rolling!

Ef You Don't Watch Out

2009-10-31T12:21:00.000-07:00

Ef You Don't Watch Out
by
James Whitcomb Riley

My mother passed away
back in '83 and ever year we honor her
by reading this book
that was given to her by her parents
on her 5th birthday in 1932.
I LOVE this book for so so many reasons.
The art work, the stories, the verbiage, the memories...
It's about the stories Little Orphan Annie
would tell the children that she
helped care for after her chores were done.
The refrain that everyone chimes in on together is:
An' the Gobble-uns 'at gits you
Ef you
Don't
Watch
Out!
Every year- no matter where the kids are
we try to get as many on the phone at the
same time to sit together and read this
book and remember my mom
who loved Halloween
and was known as the
Candy Lady
cause she gave candy
out all year long if you came and
said something nice to her.
I now get to read it to
my grandson Alex
who cried when it was over
and wanted me to read it again!!
What a great gift.

Mommo lives on!!
We love you Mommo!
Happy Halloween