Remember Me

Dancing without the Stars

2012-01-28T10:24:00.005-06:00

So yesterday was my BIRTHDAY. Darling Husband took me dancing.....he sure knows how to show a girl a good time!

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

What Kind of Bird are YOU?

2012-01-19T18:26:00.003-06:00

Moonrise Kingdom
Directed by Wes Anderson
25 May 2012

National Chocolate Day

2011-12-29T08:40:00.006-06:00

Image courtesy of: paloetic

Now here is a holiday I can CELEBRATE!!!!!! Oh yum! Well...sort of.....being diabetic, I have to be careful about my sugar intake. However...I would rather have a small bite of the REAL STUFF.....organic, "Fair Trade" dark chocolate......than a bagful of the "other stuff ".

My love affair with chocolate goes back, WAY back. When I was in the 2nd or 3rd grade, a friend of mine introduced me to the candy counter at a local shop. I was hooked. So many choices! And back then, a candy bar was a NICKEL! I remember when I was older, sneaking to the drug store to buy my "stash" since chocolate & candy was forbidden in our home. Thus began my lifelong struggle & addiction to sugar. Rolos & Milky Ways had me by the throat. Their smooth creaminess tempted & seduced me. Chocolate.....my DRUG of choice. Little did I know that my guilty pleasure was most likely at the expense of children held in slavery on cocoa farms in West Africa.

It has taken me years to break that addiction. So when I do indulge in a small taste of chocolate, I make sure it is high quality, organic, "Fair Trade" chocolate...now that I have learned about the chocolate "slave trade."

Here are some resources to help you find out about it yourself:

Stop Chocolate Slavery

SlaveFreeChocolate.org

Please.....for the sake of the children.....choose "Fair Trade" chocolate.

Unlock the Door to your Dreams ~ I Dream in Purple

2011-12-07T15:29:00.008-06:00

Etsy Treasury Curated by emily
HGTV Treasury Challenge 2011~Color of the Month~Grape!

When I was a young girl, my room was decorated in PURPLE! The walls were painted a lovely medium shade of purple. My twin beds were covered in white ruffly spreads with purple roses. I loved my room ~ it was a restful, dreamy, inspiring sanctuary! I still dream in purple.....and remember those lovely hours of daydreaming in my purple room.

Plastic Pollution = ART

2011-11-06T09:15:00.022-06:00

Video from KarmaTube

Richard & Judith Lang have inspired me! I so admire their commitment to our earth & their vision of bringing BEAUTY out of mindless, thoughtless UGLY pollution.

I challenge YOU this week to go through your rubbish bin and create something BEAUTIFUL! Email me your creations & I will post them next Sunday.

"I only feel angry when I see waste. When I see people throwing away things we could use."

Mother Teresa

"But our waste problem is not the fault only of producers. It is the fault of an economy that is wasteful from top to bottom — a symbiosis of an unlimited greed at the top and a lazy, passive, and self-indulgent consumptiveness at the bottom—and all of us are involved in it."

Wendell Berry

"In our eagerness to prosper,
we have ravaged what was good.
Using more than what was needed,
taking everything we could.
We have changed the gentle order
you intended for the earth.
Now we humbly ask the wisdom
to be part of its re-birth."

Cathy Yost, Prayer For Creation, 2001

***********************************

Richard & Judith Lang's ART:

http://beachplastic.com

***********************************

Every Leaf Speaks Bliss to Me.....

2011-10-03T12:42:00.006-05:00

Image courtesy of: merwing✿little dear

"Every leaf speaks bliss to me,
Fluttering from the autumn tree."

Emily Bronte

Autumn is so spectacular! The countryside painted so gloriously! I love everything about it.....the cool, crisp days & even colder nights.....pumpkins, apples, brightly colored leaves, the smell of woodsmoke in the air.....hayrides & harvest carnivals.....oh! that it could ALWAYS be Autumn!

Join us for the Viroqua Harvest Moon Celebration & Parade this Saturday!

Starting at Noon: arts/crafts & delectable foods can be found at Eckhart Park. At 2pm: A human-powerd puppet parade down Main Street! The theme of this year’s parade is "The Common Thread". After the parade, join us back at Eckhart Park for a pageant featuring the parade puppets, a square dance sponsored by Driftless Folk School, and musical performances. Also featured will be the Infiamati Fire Circus!!!

Here is a peek at last year's parade:

"..... these are a few of my favorite things!"

2011-09-04T10:56:00.007-05:00

Etsy treasury curated by: "Remember Me"

....."these are a few of my favorite things".....found on Etsy.com

She Walks in Beauty

2011-08-28T11:12:00.009-05:00

She Walks In Beauty

by Lord Byron

She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that's best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes:
Thus mellowed to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies.

One shade the more, one ray the less,
Had half impaired the nameless grace
Which waves in every raven tress,
Or softly lightens o'er her face;
Where thoughts serenely sweet express
How pure, how dear their dwelling place.

And on that cheek, and o'er that brow,
So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,
The smiles that win, the tints that glow,
But tell of days in goodness spent,
A mind at peace with all below,
A heart whose love is innocent!

Lately, I have NOT been "walking in beauty"..... I feel anxious &
stressed. I cannot concentrate or focus. My creativity has flown out
the window. I have had several health issues tormenting me for quite some time and I am in chronic pain most of the time...and all of this is depressing me. ENOUGH!!!!! I am sick of being sick all of the time.

I WANT MY BEAUTY BACK!!!!!!!

I strongly believe that there is a body/mind/spirit connection. All three seem to be "out of whack" for me. Time to work on healing this!!!

First step.....the body. I have found a FABULOUS holistic nutritionist & am now taking part in a "allergy elimination cleanse" which is "an inflammation-reducing, hidden-allergy-detecting, liver-clearing, hormone-balancing, addiction-busting, mood-enhancing, extra-weight-reducing, energizing, fun and fabulous way to jump-start your health!".

I am already seeing results.....stay tuned!

Commercials that I Actually LIKE

2011-06-30T18:28:00.001-05:00

What's Bottled Up Inside?

2011-06-25T10:47:00.007-05:00

Femme Fatale Altered Art Bottles

Negative Emotions ~ Journaling Prompt

What's Bottled Up Inside?

What negative emotions are robbing you of your CREATIVITY & JOY?!? Inferiority/Inadequacy? Depression/Negativity? Anxiety/Fear? Shame/Regret? All of the above? Here is your chance to journal your thoughts ~ to get rid of those negative emotions ~ to break free & restore your CREATIVITY & JOY!

4 "altered" bottles hold 3 sheets paper each. Each bottle has a different "femme fatale" & theme. Write your thoughts about each theme & place the pages back into the bottle ~ seal those negative thoughts away & move on!

B+ = Be Positive! Work through your fears ~ spread your wings ~ and FLY!!!!!

Femme Fatale Altered Art Bottles come in a darling little decorated carrying case.

Dreadful Inelegance

2011-06-08T14:35:00.001-05:00

I have to agree with Jane Austen.....

"What dreadful hot weather we have!

It keeps me in a continual state of inelegance."

Yes it is

HOT

here in Wisconsin...nearly 100 yesterday!

Oh Honey! I am sweating.....or as we used to say in the South....."I am perspiring". My daughter was so precious when she was a little girl "Mom, I'm expiring!" she would say. (She is precious still.)

Hot weather makes me VERY inelegant. I get sweaty, smelly, cranky...bitchy. Thank the Good Lord for air conditioning!

Help is on the way. A cold front is moving in. Going to be 70 tomorrow and 62 on Friday. Aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh! That is more like it.

Momisms

2011-05-08T12:58:00.002-05:00

Things I would Love to Hear
my Mother Say to me

One More Time.....

"I don't care who started it, I said stop it!"

"Don't make me come in there!"

"Don't sit so close to the television, you'll ruin your eyes."

"How do you know you don't like it if you have never tasted it?"

"I didn't ask who put it there, I said pick it up!"

"If you are too sick to go to school, you are too sick to play outside."

"Isn't it past your bedtime?"

"I said CLOSE the door, I didn't say SLAM it!"

"Your face is going to FREEZE like that!"

"Why? Because I said so, that's why."

"You're going to put your eye out with that thing."

"Just wait until your Father gets home."

.......I miss you Mommy.

Springtime in Wisconsin

2011-04-16T17:12:00.001-05:00

Gotta love Springtime in Wisconsin! Yesterday we had freezing temperatures, very strong wind, and heavy sleet. Today it SNOWED! I give up.....I can't go out to pick flowers, so I am making my own!

Button Bouquets


Available at: RememberMeEmily.Etsy.com

Available at: RememberMeEmily.Artfire.com

Available at: RememberMeEmily.ArtFire.com

Lovely flowers for your table, They will not wilt, you don't have to water or fertilize them.....what's not to love?!?

Texture Tuesday

2011-04-05T10:32:00.004-05:00

Distressed Angel using Kim Klassen's "Warm Sun" texture.

Good Morning! Today is "Texture Tuesday"! Recently, I attended Kim Klassen's Photoshop "Skinny-Mini" eCourse. This is a FREE class!!! Kim is a FABULOUS teacher & I have learned so much about applying "textures" to my photos. I just LOVE that shabby, grungy, distressed look. Now, thanks to our dear Kim, I am finally learning how to achieve the Photoshop results I was looking for. She will be teaching this class again in May....be sure to sign up!

You can also join Kim (& friends) for "Texture Tuesdays" ~ a link up party where we can share our work with others each Tuesday. oh FUN!!! I love seeing what everyone else is working on ~ so inspiring! Here are today's offerings:

April 5, 2011 Texture Tuesday

Be sure to sign up for Kim's "Texture Lovin' List" ~ subscribe to receive her latest freebie textures, special offerings & tips.

http://www.kimklassencafe.com/

Hopping Down the Bunny Trail

2011-03-31T15:45:00.002-05:00

Two of my friends & I got a bad case of "Spring Fever" on Tuesday & decided to GET OUT OF TOWN! We have all been cooped up way too long in our houses this winter.....and have all been screaming "Road Trip" lately!!!

So off to Madison we drove for a day of thrift shopping & antique treasure hunting. Oh what FUN! We discovered the darling town of Stoughton (WI) on our trip which is just a little bit south of Madison. Our first stop in Stoughton was the St. Vincent's Thrift Shop where I found these SWEET vintage bunny planters:

One thing I have noticed lately.....some of these thrift shops have LOST THEIR MINDS! They are marking some of their "collectible" merchandise at or above market (retail) value now. WOW. It really makes it hard for those of us who are dealers, who drive hundreds of miles to find these treasures, to "make a living" and continue to "follow our bliss". I could not resist these cuties ~ regardless of price.

All in all we visited 7 thrift shops, 2 antique malls & had a delicious lunch at the Koffee Kup in Stoughton. There was much more to see...but we ran out of time. A lovely day with lovely friends! Life is good.

Cave of Forgotten Dreams

2011-03-20T10:53:00.002-05:00

Reduce Reuse Recyle Vintage~Inspired Fashion

2011-03-16T14:12:00.000-05:00

Vintage inspired clutch available at "Remember Me" on Etsy.com

Long ago, someone had a pretty petticoat, or perhaps a sweet summer dress. It was well loved & often worn. It was "handed down" with love & care from one generation to the next. It became so stained & threadbare...someone cut it up for scraps. That is when I found it one day while digging through an old box of forlorn linens in a local antique mall. "This is so beautiful!" I exclaimed. I could only guess at it's history and wonder about all those girls who had shared this petticoat.

I carefully snipped & sewed feeling the "spirit" of the petticoat ~ letting it tell me what it wanted to become...and now...my loving offerings to you.....


Vintage inspired tote purse available at "Remember Me" on Etsy.com

Just Eat Organic

2011-03-13T08:08:00.002-05:00

Celebrate International Women's Day

2011-03-08T12:35:00.000-06:00

International Women's Day (March 8th) celebrates the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. In some places like China, Russia, Vietnam and Bulgaria, International Women's Day is a national holiday.

Some of my personal heroes:

* Florence Nightingale

* Jane Austen

* The Sufferagettes

* Coco Chanel

* Frida Kahlo

* Mother Teresa

* Eleanor Roosevelt

* Rosa Parks

* Audrey Hepburn

* Rachel Carson

Take time today to honor the women who have made a difference in YOUR life.

Plain & Simple

2011-02-26T13:26:00.001-06:00

Shabby Primitive Decor

“Very little is needed to make a happy life.”

~ Marcus Aurelius

I am most comfortable when I am surrounded by simple vintage treasures in white, cream, sepia & black. A room of TOTAL white made me cry in JOY one time.

My heart sings when I see...white dishes, white matte pottery & crisp white vintage linens. Simple things like old brown baskets, twine & bird's nests give me a thrill. Oh! And SEASHELLS with their creamy goodness and muted tones.

Timeworn treasure of years gone by. Simple. Beautiful. Heartwarming.

That's why I "treasure hunt" ~ to bring pleasure & comfort to myself & others in simple gifts.

Nut

2011-02-16T11:56:00.002-06:00

“The molecules of your body are the same molecules that make up the nebulae, that burn inside the stars themselves. We are star stuff.” ~ Victor Tenbaum

Photo courtesy of: lightclad

Funny thing.....one of my "pet names" that Darling Husband calls me is "Nut" which can be defined as a "foolish, silly, or eccentric person". Imagine my surprise when one day I was reading about the various Egyptian Gods/Goddesses and discovered "Nut".....

"Nut was the goddess of the sky and all heavenly bodies, a symbol of protecting the dead when they enter the after life. According to the Egyptians, during the day, the heavenly bodies—such as the sun and moon - would make their way across her body. Then, at dusk, they would be swallowed, pass through her belly during the night, and be reborn at dawn."

(George Hart, Routledge dictionary of Egyptian gods and goddesses)


Photo courtesy of: schmuela ~ "Nut, the sky goddess, arms outstretched, eats the disk of the sun and then gives birth to it again, amidst rays of light, that reach out to bathe the head of Hathor, mistress of the sycamores, with a sycamore tree to the right of her head."

Nut is often pictured wearing a dress covered with stars...I know what my next sewing project is going to be!!!!!

Oh Happy Day

2011-02-13T13:45:00.003-06:00


"Oh Happy Day" Etsy treasury curated by "Remember Me" I was inspired by Lia's painting "Oh Happy Day". Be sure to check out all of her lovely work: LiaLane.Etsy.com

KISS the COOK

2011-02-12T11:43:00.002-06:00

I put together this reminder for Darling Husband!

Have FUN in the kitchen...fill canning jars with dried beans/peas and add your favorite saying...easy peasy!

"Romance" your home! Tape love notes to the bathroom mirror...wrap a love letter/poem around his remote control where he will be SURE to find it!

Remind him/her why you fell in love...and why he/she is special to you... add a little romance to your every day living.

WASTE LAND

2011-01-29T10:42:00.001-06:00

“Both abundance and lack exist simultaneously in our lives, as parallel realities. It is always our conscious choice which secret garden we will tend... when we choose not to focus on what is missing from our lives but are grateful for the abundance that's present / love, health, family, friends, work, the joys of nature and personal pursuits that bring us pleasure / the wasteland of illusion falls away and we experience Heaven on earth.”

Sarah Ban Breathnach

Are you ADORABLE?

2011-01-24T08:52:00.003-06:00

Yes, this is a picture of ME ~ emily!

I was so adorable! I am still adorable.....

but I have my moments.

–adjective

1. very attractive or delightful; charming.

2. worthy of being adored.

I am NOT adorable when:

* People are mean & hateful to me.

* People don't "follow the rules" or "do the right thing".

* I am sick or sad.

I AM adorable when:

* I am snuggling/laughing/spending time with my Darling Husband.

* I am excited/passionate/really engaged in an ART project.

* I perform a "random act of kindness" & try not to get caught doing it.

My challenge this week.....try to be ADORABLE!

and also:

beneficent, cherubic, divine, good, godly, heavenly, humble, innocent, lovely, pure, radiant, righteous, self-sacrificing, sweet & virtuous.

A Spiritual Conspiracy

2011-01-19T07:01:00.004-06:00

Photo courtesy of: geishaboy500

A SPIRITUAL CONSPIRACY ...  On the surface of the world right now there is  war and violence and things seem dark. ..But calmly and quietly, at the same time,  something else is happening underground.  An inner revolution is taking place  and certain individuals are being called to a higher light.  It is a silent revolution.  From the inside out. From the ground up.  This is a Global operation.  A Spiritual Conspiracy.  There are sleeper cells in every nation on the planet.  You won't see us on the TV.  You won't read about us in the newspaper.  You won't hear about us on the radio.  We don't seek any glory.  We don't wear any uniform.  We come in all shapes and sizes, colors and styles.
 

Most of us work anonymously . We are quietly working behind the scenes  in every country and culture of the world.  Cities big and small, mountains and valleys,  in farms and villages, tribes and remote islands.  You could pass by one of us on the street  and not even notice.  We go undercover.  We remain behind the scenes.  It is of no concern to us who takes the final credit.  But simply that the work gets done.  Occasionally, we spot each other in the street.  We give a quiet nod and continue on our way.  During the day, many of us pretend we have normal jobs .

But behind the false storefront at night  is where the real work takes a place.  Some call us the Conscious Army . We are slowly creating a new world  with the power of our minds and hearts.  We follow, with passion and joy.  Our orders come from the Central Spiritual Intelligence.  We are dropping soft, secret love bombs when no one is looking  ~ Poems ~ Hugs ~ Music ~ Photography ~ Movies ~ Kind words ~  Smiles ~ Meditation and prayer ~ Dance ~ Social activism ~ Websites ~  Blogs ~ Random acts of kindness.  We each express ourselves in our own unique ways  with our own unique gifts and talents . Be the change you want to see in the world.  That is the motto that fills our hearts.  We know it is the only way real transformation takes place.  We know that quietly and humbly we have the  power of all the oceans combined.  Our work is slow and meticulous.  Like the formation of mountains,  it is not even visible at first glance.  And yet, with it, entire tectonic plates  shall be moved in the centuries to come . Love is the new religion of the 21st century.  You don't have to be a highly educated person  or have any exceptional knowledge to understand it.  It comes from the intelligence of the heart  embedded in the timeless evolutionary pulse of all human beings. 

Be the change you want to see in the world . Nobody else can do it for you.  We are now recruiting.  Perhaps you will join us ...Or already have.  All are welcome.  The door is open.

~ author unknown ~

Be Sweet

2011-01-12T14:55:00.007-06:00

Digital collage by emily ~ heart texture courtesy of ~♥ Pretty Petal ♥~

Happy New Year

2011-01-03T10:37:00.007-06:00

Photo courtesy of: ~BostonBill~

My Wishes for You...
I look to the new year and my wish for you;

Peace within your heart
Love from family and friends
Faith to guide your way
Hope to to make it through each day
Sunshine to light the day
Heavenly Stars to wish upon
Rainbows to to let you know there is a tomorrow
A tear to show compassion
A heart to hold the love
But most of all I wish for you
to feel my hand in yours,
To know I am here if you stumble or fall.
To bring you cheer, to bring you love,
to return the love you always share with me.
Author Unknown

All is Calm

2010-12-15T12:54:00.002-06:00

Sad to say.....Christmas usually freaks me out. All the hustle & bustle, all the DRAMA ~ people fighting over cheap merchandise in the stores, families fighting over who-will-spend-Christmas-where. Frantic people stressing out about how they are going to buy gifts for loved ones when they have so little money and have no idea what the gift receivers need or want. I especially hate the fight about whether you should say "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Holidays".....can't we all just share a little love & respect for each other & be inclusive of ALL the holidays/beliefs celebrated at this time of year?!? WWJD? Wouldn't he reach out with open arms to embrace & minister to all?

My poor Darling Husband. For years I have moped around the house at Christmas time sputtering "I HATE Christmas" under my breath. Little or no decorations, no holiday baking, no parties, last minute present shopping, no Christmas Eve service. I'm not sure when it was I started hating Christmas. I think I have just been rebelling about the total commercialization of it all...and all the WORK/STRESS.

So.....this year I am trying to embrace Christmas. I am decorating my home in lovely shades of cream, white, sepia, silver & gold ~ using handmade & "thrifted" items. Actually, I find I am enjoying the process and yes, all is calm. The more I decorate, the calmer I become. I am finding the BEAUTY of the season. I hear stories about those helping people in need like the "Secret Santa" in Kansas City or "Operation Christmas" right here in my area...and my heart is blessed...and I am inspired to seek out my own way to help others (anonymously) before the end of the year. We have invited friends over for a Christmas Eve supper & trip to church.

One thing though.....It's more fun/meaningful if there are children around ~ their sparkling eyes and wonderment of the season is contagious. I have not had Christmas with my children or grandchildren or Dad or brother in many, many years since we all live so far away from each other. I have decided that I am going to leave my Christmas decorations up until we can all get together AT MY HOUSE for Christmas. So yes, if you come to see me in August, you will think I am crazy!

I want to thank Nellie Wortman for the GORGEOUS fabric collage that has inspired me this Christmas. "All is calm"...


Purchased from Nellie Wortman's Etsy shop

Silent night! holy night!
All is calm all is bright.
Round yon virgin mother and child.
Holy infant so tender and mild .
Sleep in heavenly peace!

Snow-flakes

2010-12-12T10:42:00.005-06:00

View out of my art room window this morning

Snow-flakes

by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Out of the bosom of the Air,

Out of the cloud-folds of her garments shaken,

Over the woodlands brown and bare,

Over the harvest-fields forsaken,

Silent, and soft, and slow

Descends the snow.

Even as our cloudy fancies take

Suddenly shape in some divine expression,

Even as the troubled heart doth make

In the white countenance confession,

The troubled sky reveals

The grief it feels.

This is the poem of the air,

Slowly in silent syllables recorded;

This is the secret of despair,

Long in its cloudy bosom hoarded,

Now whispered and revealed

To wood and field.

Photo courtesy of: CaptPiper

Mmmmmm! It's National Cake Day!

2010-11-26T10:53:00.001-06:00

Just what we need the day after Thanksgiving.....MORE FOOD.

Happy National Cake Day!


Cake Photo courtesy of: Chotda

Since my diabetes diagnosis I have refrained from eating dessert as much as possible. I think it is CAKE that I miss the most. There is just some thing about it.....moist & rich.....the creamy decadence of the frosting...Mmmmmmm!

Oh honey! Here is a recipe for you!!!


Cake Photo courtesy of: Devine Domesticity

Better Than Sex Cake

• 1 box - German chocolate cake mix
• 1 can - Sweetened condensed milk
• 1 bottle - Caramel ice cream topping
• 1 small tub whipped topping
• 1/2 bag - Toffee chips or
4 bars of Heath candy

Directions:
* Prepare cake as directed on package.
* When cake is done remove from oven and poke holes all over the top of it
with a wooden spoon handle.
* Pour Caramel and sweetened condensed milk over top of entire cake.
* Let cake cool completely by placing in fridge (overnight is best).
* Once cake is completely cooled, (just before serving) top it with container of whipped topping and then the toffee chips.
The best way to make this cake is to let it sit overnight. That way the caramel and milk can soak into the cake.

Recipe from Amber at Bakespace.com

"Thank your Lucky Stars"

2010-11-25T10:35:00.007-06:00

Photo courtesy of: Kookykrys

to be very grateful for something

(Definition of thank your lucky stars from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary)

If you woke up this morning ~ be grateful for another day & the opportunity to
"make a difference in this world":

If you have bountiful feast on your Thanksgiving table today ~ consider sharing it with those who are truly hungry:

If you have clean drinking water ~ think about those who are do not have this basic necessity:

If you are sitting in your nice, warm comfortable home ~ consider helping those who have no home:

"LIVE SIMPLY so that others

may SIMPLY LIVE"

******************

Do the Thing You LOVE

2010-11-09T09:11:00.004-06:00

When I was young, I never listened to my parents or anyone else in authority for that matter. Now, whenever I have a chance to talk to young people, I always share with them how it took me 50 years to figure out the important things in life and to realize I should have listened to those who came before me! I was so busy rebelling, doing the OPPOSITE of what I was told to do, that I never took the time to figure out who I was & what I wanted. Even today, I get so busy with day-to-day activities and obligations, I do not take the time to DREAM & reflect on how I can make a PERSONAL DIFFERENCE in the lives of others while fulfilling my own destiny.

For the longest time I was so self absorbed in the details of daily living, that I did not see the bigger picture...the universe around me.

The universe is a GLORIOUS & MYSTICAL place.

Photo courtesy of: Mr. Physics

In all of it's vastness, I am but a tiny microscopic dot. But, I was put here for a REASON. Think about it......we were ALL put here for a reason!!! And we were all given our own assignments ~ the talents, resources & instructions for fulfilling our own destinies & making a difference in this universe. We just have to be OPEN to it......we just have to LISTEN & to RECEIVE.

If you "Do what you love/Follow Your Bliss", then you ARE LISTENING. You will find so much JOY and FULFILLMENT in what you are doing.

So I tell young people.....don't fall into the trap of training/working at a JOB just to get a paycheck. Money is not everything. If you are miserable on that job it is NOT WORTH IT. As long as you are in that miserable job, you are NOT fulfilling your destiny and robbing other people of theirs. We are all connected. What you do (or don't do) will have lasting effects on this planet & ultimately in our universe.

Close your eyes. Imagine that money is no object. You can chose to do anything in this world. What brings you the most JOY?

Now go & do THAT.

I'm Sewing Today

2010-11-02T10:43:00.000-05:00

Sewing Themed Notecard

I am sewing today! I have a special project.....making 1920's style dresses for my granddaughters who will be appearing in the play "The Velveteen Rabbit".

I do love to sew! Once I get started, that is. I get sooooo distracted by other things that keep me away from my sewing table. It's a shame too, because I have a huge stash of vintage fabrics, trims, doilies, etc. I have all of these ideas in my head on just what to make.....but as always.....distracted. I am hoping that this project will jump start my desire to complete my "dreamed of" projects!

One thing I would like to make are some dresses for myself & for offer on Etsy. I hardly have any clothes because, lets face it, what is offered in the stores is UGLY. The clothes are just so BORING!!!After watching Mondo Guerra on Project Runway this past season (who should have WON by the way) I am inspired to be more daring in my fashion choices ~ more color, more flair, more FUN! And if I can't find it in the stores, I will just have to MAKE it.

Stay tuned.....

You Are Sew Beautiful ~ You deserve PRETTY clothes!!!

Geeky Goth Zombie Girls from Space

2010-10-17T15:01:00.002-05:00

Just in time for Halloween.....

Zombie Girls from Space can be found at

"Remember Me" Paper Arts & Vintage Goods

I don't know about you, but I just LOVE making & displaying funny, geeky, wEiRd kind of art in my art studio. I have always been drawn to "outsider art" and anything that the rest of society considers "oDD".

Better find your tin foil hats!!!!! These creepy zombie girl from space dolls have special mind-control powers and will render you helpless with one gaze into their eyes! Keep yourself safe from their treacherous plans.

Photo courtesy of: happyworker

I am so sick today.

2010-10-05T08:05:00.000-05:00

I am so sick today. Can someone please sing "Soft Kitty" to me?

Welcome to my NEW ArtFire shop!

2010-09-28T14:01:00.005-05:00

RememberMeEmily.ArtFire.com

Oh sweetie! I've gone and done it.....I opened another online shop. ArtFire had an offer I could not refuse ~ $5.95 a month for a PRO account ~ no listing fees ~ no "final value" fees!!!!! If you are looking for an online venue RUN (DON'T WALK) right on over to ArtFire honey!!! Their "basic" account is always FREE...yes, you heard me right...FREE!!!

I will still continue to sell on Etsy ~ I LOVE LOVE LOVE Etsy ~ but you know the old saying about having all of your eggs in one basket.....

"Easter is the only time when it is a good idea to put all of your eggs in one basket."

So.....now TWICE the FUN.....

RememberMeEmily.Etsy.com

RememberMeEmily.ArtFire.com

September 21st ~ International Day of PEACE

2010-09-22T11:57:00.001-05:00

Here's an idea.....why don't we celebrate/promote/live in peace EVERY DAY?!?!?!?

Kids for Peace

I Love my Mommy

2010-09-10T13:02:00.001-05:00

I LOVE my Mommy ~ I miss her already.

Today she breathed her last breath and left this earth. She was a precious soul...caring, loving, giving. She was always kind to everyone, always thinking of others. Her creative spirit and artistic talents blessed many. Her legacy will live on in her artwork left behind, and also in the hearts of the artists she tutored/inspired. You "raised me right" Mom. You taught me to be kind, compassionate, understanding & tolerant. You taught me to use my God-given talents to bless others.

I miss you Mommy. I wish we had lived closer together. 4500 miles apart is too far to visit often, too far to talk every day on the phone. I wish we had time to paint together, watch movies together, time to talk about the things that are important to women. I wish I had known you better. I wish you had kept a journal.....maybe I will do these things now with my daughter & her daughters.

I love you Mommy. I thank God that he entrusted my care to you (& Dad). I can only hope that you can feel my love for you radiating heavenward.

Back to Kailua Town

2010-08-23T14:49:00.003-05:00

Darling Husband & I are headed to "Kailua Town" to be with my Mother as she spends her last few days here on this earth. She is a beautiful, caring, loving, giving ARTIST & a light will go out in the heavens when she passes. Your good thoughts & prayers are appreciated for my Mom (Barbara) and her loving husband, my Dad, (Don) as he cares for her at home with the help of Hospice.

Photo courtesy of: B Tal

Her time has been too short, but while she was here she touched lives & brought beauty into this world. Her paintings are so JOYOUS, life affirming & inspirational.

Her Prayer Shawl Ministry will carry on through the selfless devotion of her dear friends. Her hand-knitted donations of scarves, mittens & hats are helping to keep the children of Bhutan warm. She has taught her family what it means to be compassionate, kind, caring & giving. She has been a dear friend to many. One person CAN make a difference.....

We love you Mom. It's just so sad that we are losing you. Our hearts are breaking.

Who Says it Costs too Much to Eat Healthy & Organic ?!?!?!?

2010-08-07T13:30:00.001-05:00

1 lb. green beans, bunch collards, 3 onions, 3 bell peppers, 4 zucchini, 4 summer squash, basket of cherry tomatoes and a quart of fresh picked blackberries ~ $12.00!!!

Our local Farmer's Market....."PRICELESS".

The alternative...


Photo courtesy of: size8jeans

2 Quarter Pounders: $4.98

Large orders of fries: $1.60

Large Frappe: $3.29

2 Cookies: $1.60

Total $11.47

Photo courtesy of: Steve Rhodes

The Creative Color Challenge ~ Week One ~ Sunflower Yellow

2010-08-04T11:17:00.009-05:00

The Creative Color Challenge

THE CHALLENGE: to explore a different color to create with each week in August.

Join me in Louise Gale's fun filled challenge! I am doing this to push myself outside of my comfort zone. For some reason I have a FEAR of color. My art, my home & my wardrobe all reflect my love for all things NEUTRAL ~ white, cream, sepia & black. This month, I am embracing COLOR. I will be experimenting with different shades & hues of COLOR to see what emotions they invoke in me.

Week One ~ Sunflower Yellow

Yellow...I am feeling HAPPY, HOPEFUL, JOYOUS! Yellow is such a cheerful color.

Photo courtesy of: renaissancechambara

I am reminded of the warm sun on my skin, the fragrance of yellow flowers, the hopefulness of yellow ribbons tied around tree trunks.

So..."flowers" got me thinking...here is my artistic offering for week one:

Yellow Button Bouquet available at:

Remember Me Paper Arts & Vintage Goods

Jumping for JOY is Good Exercise

2010-07-29T10:09:00.011-05:00

Original mixed media painting by Emily

Exercise......iCK! I'm sorry, but the people who say they LIKE to exercise...they are LYING!!!!! Exercise hurts me & makes me sweat ~ ewwwww.

I have always been a "couch potato". I would rather lie on the couch and read a good book than to get down on the floor & do push-ups. I would rather take the elevator than climb stairs. Why walk when there is a perfectly good mode of transportion called a CAR?!?

All joking aside, exercise really does HURT me. I have a REALLY REALLY bad ankle that I broke 18 years ago and now arthritis has destroyed the cartiladge between the bones ~ OUCH. I cannot walk without the assistance of a brace and a cane. I also suffer from sciatica and we all know what a PAIN IN THE BUTT that is!!!

Recently, I have been reading about how exercise can help prolong my life and help me feel better & happier. (Bless those little endorphins.) Exercise also helps keep me mentally sharp, helps in weight control...and if that's not enough...

Exercise can put the spark back into your sex life.

Alrighty then...

Seeing the need to start exercising, I purchased this FABULOUS DVD from my husband's niece:

Circle of Stones Wellness Life Coaching, LLC

Tammy is inspiring me to take better care of myself so I can have a much longer, richer, fuller life! Thank you Tammy!!!

and remember...Jumping for JOY is good exercise!

Runs with Scissors

2010-07-06T10:10:00.002-05:00

Runs with Scissors Scrabble Saying available at:

Remember Me Paper Arts & Vintage Goods

Ok, it's true...I run with scissors. I know our mothers told us NOT to do this, but I have not always done what my mother said... I know this shocks you! Sorry Mom.

Don't you just LOVE all the "Momisms"???

* Don't sit too close to the television, it'll ruin your eyes.

* How do you know you don't like it if you haven't tasted it?

* I didn't ask who put it there, I said "Pick it up!"

* Isn't it past your bedtime?

* Look at me when I'm talking to you.

* Say that again and I'll wash your mouth out with soap.

* I don't care who started it, I said stop!

* Don't you run through this house with those scissors.

The funny thing is...as much as we hated hearing all those one-liners...we eventually turn into our mothers and say them ourselves! Yes, it's true. The first time I told my daughter to TURN DOWN HER STEREO I cringed in fear & quickly covered my mouth with my hands. "What am I saying?!?!?" I still, to this day, play my stereo REALLY LOUD.

As my children grew, I finally realized that my Mom told me all those things because she LOVED me & wanted the best for me. I even remember calling her as my children approached puberty & apologized to her for all the hurtful things I had said & done to her. (I really was a brat with a sassy mouth in my youth ~ I know, hard to imagine NOW.)

I began to understand the concern in her voice: "Call me when you get there, just so I know you're okay." I began to understand her desire for me to have a healthy body: "Eat your vegetables, they're good for you." And I began to understand her wishes for me to have a happy, joyous & beautiful life: "Go play outside! It's a beautiful day!"

Thanks Mom. I love you!!!

Dieting is NOT a Piece of Cake

2010-07-03T13:55:00.006-05:00

Retro Kitsch Art Assemblage Robot Doll
available at:
Remember Me Paper Arts & Vintage Goods

Since receiving my DIABETES diagnosis almost two years ago...I have been ABSOLUTELY eating healthier. For years I was addicted to sugar ~ had to have something sweet every day ~ usually candy, cookies, pie or cake. It was so yummy and I (thought that I) enjoyed every bite! However, being addicted to sugar set me up for a life filled with disease and bad health. Sugar has contributed to my high cholesterol level, in particular raising my triglyceride level. Sugar helped contribute to my obesity which I am sure, in turn, contributed to my developing cancer. Obesity may have also triggered/aggravated my sleep apnea which can be a life threatening condition.

Photo courtesy of: kimberlykv

I remember after each "indugence" that I would go into a "sugar coma" ~ blissed out, happy, oblivious to the world & my problems...now tell me SUGAR is not a DRUG?!?!?!?

Photo courtesy of: mckaysavage

Now I am eating a balanced diet with lots of fresh organic fruits & veggies, whole grains, and very little meat & dairy. I feel sooooooooo much better!!! And now that I have gotten off that "eat sugar, crave fat/eat fat, crave sugar" merry-go-round I find that I am actually craving fruits & veggies instead! Our brains & bodies know how to eat for our good health, but by introducing so many fast food/sugar & fat filled goodies into our lifestyles, we have set ourselves up for disaster!

Even on my diabetic food plan, I am ALLOWED a treat now and then. However, I usually choose NOT to indulge because I know I could be easily lured back into that seductive world of sugar addiction. I know what my "trigger" foods are and I know to stay away from them! HA! Recently, my husband, who bless his heart has agreed not to bring treats into the house, brought something in one day that was starting to get me into trouble... "Take those "EVIL" things downstairs & HIDE THEM would you please?!?" I scolded him....poor guy.

For those of you who struggle with your weight every day ~ I'm with ya. Leave me a comment and maybe we can encourage each other. Although I am eating better, I am still not exercising which is KEY in weight loss....that will be the subject of another post.

I must admit that I DO miss cake (and ice cream) most of all.

And oh! pecan pie.

i carry your heart with me

2010-06-28T07:59:00.002-05:00

I was reminded today of one of my MOST favorite poems:

Photo courtesy of: litlnemo

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear
no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want
no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

e.e. cummings

You are so Beautiful

2010-06-21T11:37:00.003-05:00

Today I want to tell you about Averi's sister Allison.....my other granddaughter, who is also EXCEPTIONALLY smart/funny/creative/talented & compassionate! Allison is a sweetheart. Ever since she was very little she has always shown kindness to others. I remember how she used to put her little hands up to hold someone's face as if to say "I care deeply about you and just want you to know that I SEE you & UNDERSTAND you and I am here for you if you ever need me". She is a loyal & supportive friend.

Allison has always been "an artist". She draws, paints & writes stories. She plays the piano beautifully and has a real love & talent for music. She composes her own music & lyrics.....and can this girl DANCE!!!!! I attended her school's year end performance recently and was AMAZED at her skilled dance moves. She sings beautifully also ~ filling her voice with much emotion & passion.

The play/musical that she & her fellow students wrote, starred in & produced was so FABULOUS! It was the story of a girl whose dream it was to dance. Her father advised her to be more PRACTICAL and to study for a job that would earn her more MONEY and that she should abandon her DREAMS. In the end, she followed her dreams...her father picked up HIS dream (piano) again...and he was PROUD of her & HAPPY & FULFILLED for himself too.

Remember dearest girl to "Follow your Bliss"....."Do what you LOVE".....and may all your DREAMS COME TRUE!!!

Everything I Ever Needed to Know I learned in Kindergarten

2010-06-20T13:45:00.004-05:00

Last week I went to North Carolina to visit my children & grandchildren. YAY!!!!!!! While I was there, my granddaughter Averi graduated from kindergarten. What a FABULOUS ceremony it was! Her teacher Ms. Jackson, who is ADORABLE by the way, was so sweet & loving and praised them for all of their hard work and accomplishments. Averi actually won the MATH AWARD! This girl can COUNT.....I'm pretty sure she made it to 1000 while I was there. She is also doing addition & subtraction and can read & write.

When I was in kindergarten, I don't remember doing all this so early. Seems to me we spent the day in "play centers" and donned a smock for "art time" where we could draw & paint. I remember the snacks & "naptime"......but reading & writing???.....seems like that came along in 1st or 2nd grade. I also remember one kid who brought an "offering" because he thought it was like Sunday School ~ DUFUS.

Anyway... Averi, being my grandchild, is EXCEPTIONALLY smart/funny/creative/talented and compassionate. I believe she is a wise "old soul" living in a 6 year old's body. She is PASSIONATE about saving the planet and recycling. As she puts it "Save the Earth....it is the only planet with CHOCOLATE"! While I was there we talked about the BP oil leak in the Gulf.....she took action....more about this on a future post.

So, congratulations Averi on your graduation from kindergarten. I will always remember your class & their FABULOUS dance/chorus line
to the tune of "New York, New York"...

"Start spreading the news,

We're leaving today.

We're going to be a part of it

1st grade, 1st grade..."

and always remember.....

Be nice, play fair and

share with others!!!

HAPPY "National Donut Day"

2010-06-04T12:51:00.005-05:00

Photo courtesy of: SanFranAnnie

Now here is a holiday I can really get into!!!!! Celebrated on the first Friday each June, "National Donut Day" was originally celebrated in a Salvation Army event held in 1938. This event was held to raise money to help the needy and to honor the the women who served donuts to soldiers during World War I.

Mmmmmmmm! DONUTS!!!!!

Photo courtesy of: Monster Pete

When my kids were little, I used to make homemade donuts. The recipe was very simple:

2 cups Bisquick

1/4 cup sugar
1/8 tsp. cinnamon
1/8 tsp. nutmeg
2 eggs
2 tbsp. milk

I would mix them, cut them, fry them in oil, drain them on a paper towel, then shake them in a bag with sugar to coat. They were so delicious when eaten while still warm.

Photo courtesy of: bochalla

My granddaughter Averi LOVES LOVES LOVES "Sprinkle Donuts"!!! Her sister Allison's favorite is a chocolate glazed, custard filled donut. And what does Grandma like best? A cake donut with chocolate icing & nuts on top. Mmmmmmmmm!

"Will run for Doughtnuts"

Wow ~ just WOW. What some people will do for some KRISPY KREMES!!!!!

Photo courtesy of: Steve Snodgrass

A Passion for Purple

2010-05-25T18:04:00.005-05:00

Rococo Powdered Wig ~ AntoinettesAtelier.etsy.com

Clothing & Accoutrements inspired by 18th century France: AntoinettesAtelier.com

Kathleen Marie is a NYC based artist. An exceptional visionary, Ms. Marie creates and styles entire Tableaux Vivants...from 18th century wigs, make up, and gowns, to jewelry, illustrations and dolls, her talents flourish on several mediums. With backgrounds in both fashion and costume design, she elegantly entwines both together to create beautiful and truly unique pieces.

When I was a child, my favorite color was PURPLE. My bedroom was painted a lovely shade of violet. My bedspread was white, ruffled, with pretty violet roses on it. I remember how relaxed, calm & inspired I always felt in my room.

A mysterious color, purple is associated with both nobility and spirituality. (1) People with purple "auras" are said to have a love of ritual and ceremony. (2) It is said if you surround yourself with purple you will have peace of mind. Purple is a good color to use in meditation. (3)

* (1) http://desktoppub.about.com/cs/colorselection/p/purple.htm

* (2) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purple

* (3) http://www.crystal-cure.com/purple.html

Please enjoy "A Passion for Purple" ~ a treasury that I curated for Etsy Treasury East:

Mermaid Dreams

2010-05-23T13:26:00.003-05:00

"Mermaid Dreams" Pocket Mirror

Eeeewwww.....it is so hot & steamy outside ~ I feel like I am at the beach. It reminds me...I often think that in another life.....I was a MERMAID. I often have dreams of swimming under the sea and being able to breathe there. Sometimes, I have visions/dreams of what I imagine to be "Atlantis". It saddens me to think of what we are doing to our ocean creatures by our pollution/over fishing and total neglect of the seas.

Who would be
A mermaid fair,
Singing alone,
Combing her hair
Under the sea,
In a golden curl
With a comb of pearl,
On a throne?

Alfred Lord Tennyson

Averi the Mermaid...it runs in the family.

Here's how you can help make the oceans a safer, cleaner place for all creatures.....even mermaids!

* Save My Oceans

* Save My Oceans Upcycle Contest

* Planet Green

* See-The-Sea

How do You want to be Remembered?

2010-05-07T10:53:00.006-05:00

a short film by Amy Krouse Rosenthal

Palmer Peterson ~ I Thought about you Today

2010-05-06T19:35:00.001-05:00

Darling Husband & I took a drive through the country last Saturday. We live in southwestern Wisconsin, the beautiful "Driftless Area", and love to go exploring. We came upon Asbury Methodist Church, located in Vernon County near Viroqua.

It was an absolutely beautiful day! We strolled through the church graveyard, paid our respects, lifted the blessed souls up in prayer. I was drawn to a precious little headstone that read "Palmer Peterson 1893 - 1894". I started to think about sweet little Palmer and what a blessing he must have been to his family. How sad to lose him at such a tender young age. So I said a special little prayer for Palmer & his family and imagined them all together now, looking down from heaven.

Oh YUMMY!!!!! A FREE Give Away

2010-04-29T08:18:00.001-05:00

You can order the book HERE

Susan Tuttle, whose work I ADORE, is offering a FREE COPY of her new book Digital Expressions: Creating Digital Art with Adobe Photoshop Elements.

Book Description:

"Susan Tuttle guides the mixed-media artist through 25 stepped-out digital projects created with Adobe Photoshop Elements. Projects like manipulating single photos, collage on a digital canvas, and digital illustration will inspire you to tackle all kinds of digital mixed-media projects using stock photography, custom brushes, textured backgrounds and your own digital photos. A team of talented contributing artists further illustrates the techniques in action. Plus, a bonus CD includes more than 20 digital design elements for you to use in your own projects!"

Visit Susan's blog "Ilka's Attic" for details about how to win this FABULOUS publication!

Plant Kindness

2010-04-21T18:30:00.013-05:00

"Plant Kindness" Scrabble/Anagrams Saying

"A tree is known by it's fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love."

~ Saint Basil ~

It is easy to be kind and it makes such a deep and lasting impression on people. Usually when you do a kindness, that person responds by being kind to some one else...and so on...and so on. When I do "random acts of kindness", I try not to get caught! The deed is so much sweeter if no one knows it was me who did it!

Be Happy Every Day

2010-04-14T16:20:00.007-05:00

"Be Happy" Handmade Card & Scrabble Saying

For some reason I am having an exceptionally happy day! I woke up to a BEAUTIFUL Spring day. I promptly opened my windows wide to benefit from the fresh air. I only wish I had a clothesline...LOVE LOVE LOVE the sight & smell of freshly laundered clothes blowing in the breeze.

Image courtesy of "Playingwithbrushes"

I spent the morning with my friend Kile at his shop(s) "Driftless Fair Traders" & "Rhubarb" where I am a vendor. We had a FABULOUSLY INSPIRING chat with Rick Segel who in my opinion is a retail marketing GENIUS!!! WOW ~ just WOW!!!

When I left "Rhubarb", I drove to Westby to the Bethel Butikk, a local food pantry & thrift store. I LOVE to shop there because they tell me that for each $1.00 I spend, they can buy $10.00 worth of food to provide for needy families. I usually take a donation & try to purchase something every time I stop by. Today I found a beautiful antique bed, painted white (my favorite color) for $20!!!!! It will go in my (now empty) bedroom downstairs where I am decorating in anticipation of my granddaughters' visit this summer. I would love to have a room decorated just for them! I have already hung a sign that says "What happens at Grandma's STAYS at Grandma's".....that's right!

While I was at Bethel Butikk, I ran into my friend Karla who owns "Donna's Daughters" antique/gift shop in Coon Valley ~ lovely shop! You MUST go there! ~ who told me that the Eastside Flea Market had reopened in town for the season! OH JOY!!! So guess where I headed next? I just love rummaging for treasures..... I only found 3 things.....but I sure had fun!

Now I am blogging/working on an Etsy order and preparing for a meeting of our local Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club that meets at 5:30pm tonight. So indeed ~ a full day ~ doing what I LOVE!

Life is good!

Knit Unto Others

2010-03-24T17:49:00.002-05:00

"Knit Unto Others" Prayer Shawl Ministry Group

Here is my Mom surrounded by her beautiful friends. These ladies meet every Monday at the Kailua Ben Franklin store to knit prayer shawls for people who are ill or need comforting. For the past several years, these ladies have hand knit beautiful shawls of all colors and patterns. Love and prayer is put into every stitch.

When a shawl is finished, the group prays over it and lovingly folds & prepares it for gift giving to those in need. A special tag is attached:

Kailua Town

2010-03-13T19:32:00.007-06:00

I am soon on my way to Kailua Town to see my parents.

My Mom is very ill ~ please remember her in your prayers.

Mom & Dad moved to Hawaii almost 38 years ago. Where has the time gone?!? Kailua is such a lovely town, located on the windward side of Oahu. I can see why they love it there ~ friendly people, lots of goodwill, a real sense of community and breathtaking scenery! A day at Kailua beach is pure heaven!

Photo courtesy of: http://www.flickr.com/photos/b-tal/2718032399/

I am always touched by the beautiful "Aloha Spirit" ~ affection, love, peace, compassion & mercy ~ shown by the Hawaiian people. Oh that we would all learn to treat each other this way!

123 N - U - M - B - E - R - S 456

2010-02-28T15:27:00.006-06:00

I have a weird love for NUMBERS.

Photo courtesy of : jontintinjordan

Each number has it's own "personality" to me. Each one invokes memories ~ good or bad.

#1 ~ Simple, solitude, pure.

#2 ~ For me - Conflict, disharmony - reminds me of my 2 year battle with cancer/treatment.

#3 ~ Divine, magical, sensuous. (One of my most favorite numbers.)

#4 ~ Sturdy, strong & brave.

#5 ~ Possibility, mystery.

Photo courtesy of: Laineys Repertoire

In school I absolutely LOVED math! Trigonometry, geometry & algebra - OH MY! In my quest for vintage treasures, I am always finding & buying old arithmetic books, game pieces with numbers on them, rulers & math flashcards.

I love to COUNT! Do you ever do that? Do you have "rituals" that involve numbers & counting? Some of mine are :

* Counting as I brush my teeth to make sure I spend at least 30 seconds on each quadrant of my mouth.
* Everything must end with an ODD number.....or be tuned to an ODD number.....or be collected/arranged/grouped/displayed in ODD numbers.
* Counting as I exercise, counting objects as I pass them or observe them.
* I am most comfortable when things are lined up, neat & orderly ~ MEASURED ~ everything in it's place.....but it is rarely actually like that in "real" life.
* I measure out my food now.
* When making art I have been known to "measure" things to make sure they are "just right". Example: Is the border on that card exactly 1/4" all the way around?

Yes....I am just this side of being "A Beautiful Mind" or Obsessive Compulsive I know.

And now.......my FAVORITE NUMBER.......

It's the PERFECT number for me!
I was born on the 27th of January and.....
3 x 3 x 3 (or 3 cubed) = 27!!!!! (3 being my 2nd favorite number.)

RememberMeEmily.Etsy.com

"Remember Me" Featured in an Etsy Treasury

2010-02-27T16:50:00.002-06:00

I am always so honored when someone chooses one of my items for their treasury. Thank you IlluminatedPerfume.Etsy.com

Best Friends

2010-01-20T11:56:00.006-06:00

"What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two bodies."
Aristotle

I like her because she smiles at me and means it.
Anonymous

A friend can tell you things
you don't want to tell yourself.
Frances Ward Weller

A friend is one of the nicest things you can have,
and one of the best things you can be.
Douglas Pagels

Shared joy is a double joy;
shared sorrow is half a sorrow.
Swedish Proverb

The friend who holds your hand and says the wrong thing is made of dearer stuff than the one who stays away. Barbara Kingsolver

The Artist's Way

2010-01-08T17:10:00.003-06:00

The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron

A discussion arose at the family Christmas party about creativity and the desire to be more artistic and expressive. I myself have been in a "creative slump" lately and am in desperate need of a "spark"! Where is my mUsE???

Anyway...several of us have decided to study Julia Cameron's book "The Artist's Way" ~ described as "a course in discovering and recovering your creative self". It sounds EXACTLY what we are looking for!!! Thanks Julia!

She encourages us to do "morning pages" where we write down 3 pages of what we are "thinking" EVERY MORNING ~ free form ~ let it flow out of you. It is one of several "tools" to help us to "unblock" and to get those creative juices flowing again. This is hard to do as I am easily distracted and easily bored. So far, I am managing my morning pages about half the time which is actually GOOD for me! Maybe this will help discipline me to finally "stick with something" long enough to see it to the end.

I actually DO enjoy writing when I finally take the time to sit down & concentrate on it. So my goal is to be able to DO MY MORNING PAGES EVERY MORNING as easily as I breathe. Then, I think they will teach me, enlighten me, encourage me.

Julia also encourages us to take a once weekly solo "artist's date" ~ exploring something that interests us. This part is EASY PEASY for me! There are sooooo many fun/interesting/exciting things I can think of to do:

Art museums ~ Films ~ Antiquing ~ Thrift Shopping ~ Long drives in the country ~ Photographing interesting things ~ Browsing the bookstore ~ Bead Shops/Jewelry making ~ Art supply stores

I am inspired just thinking about this process of "discovery & recovery" and the fact that I am sharing it with precious members of my own family. Study up girls ~ Chapter One is our assignment this week!

"I Love You" ~ A love letter to my Etsy Customers

2009-12-14T13:16:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, "Michelle" (a perfect stranger) made my day and became my 1000th customer since I opened my Etsy Shop in January of 2006!!!!! And guess what she purchased?!?.....it was PERFECT.....

Words alone cannot express my gratitude for all of my lovely customers who have made a conscious decision to support "small business"/handmade & independent artists. Their love, support & precious words of encouragement have inspired me & sustained me through times of doubt about my decision to be a full~time artist:

"I have 2 favorite experiences with Etsy vendors and RememberMeEmily is one of them. The nicest and most pleasant person to work with. She designed these pocket mirrors for my bridesmaids & they are adorable!!! They have become one of my favorite purchases yet :)"

***

"I LOVE my necklace!! It is beautiful, perfectly made
and pure awesomeness! Emily, this was meant to be mine...
thank you, sweetheart!!"

***

"You are one of my favorite sellers on Etsy. I love your shop so much but most of all I love your kindness and your spirit."

***

Thank YOU for allowing me to "Follow my Bliss" & spend my days doing what I love ~ creating sweet, uplifting, comforting & encouraging works of art to grace your life. Thank YOU for making my dream come true ~ my very own art studio & home-based business!

******* I LOVE YOU!!! *******

Flower Power

2009-11-30T10:18:00.004-06:00

"I'd rather have roses on my table than diamonds on my neck."

~ Emma Goldman ~

Flowers bring such sweet blessings to us. Lovers bring a single rose. Friends bring bouquets to celebrate joys & comfort sorrows. Children offer lovingly chosen blooms to show their affection for us. Flowers bring life & beauty & cheer & healing.

"The optimist sees the rose and not its thorns; the pessimist stares at the thorns oblivious to the rose."
~ Kahlil Gibran ~

The world is sadly sick, they say,
And plagued by woe and pain.
But look! How looms my garden gay,
With blooms in golden reign!
With lyric music in the air,
Of joy fulfilled in song,
I can't believe that anywhere
Is hate and harm and wrong.

A paradise my garden is,
And there my day is spent;
A steep myself in sunny bliss,
Incredibly content.
Feeling that I am truly part
Of peace so rapt and still,
There's not a care within my heart . . .
How can the world be ill?

Aye, though the land be sick they say,
And named unto pain,
My garden never was so gay,
So innocent, so sane.
My roses mock at misery,
My thrushes vie in song . . .
When only beauty I can see,
How can the world be wrong?

~ Robert Service ~

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T09:58:00.013-06:00

Photo courtesy of : wishuponacupcake

We give thanks for unknown blessings already on their way.

~ Author Unknown ~

If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, "thank you," that would suffice.

~ Meister Eckhart ~

He who thanks but with the lips
Thanks but in part;
The full, the true Thanksgiving
Comes from the heart.
~ J.A. Shedd ~

Photo courtesy of: wishuponacupcake

HAVE FAITH

2009-11-17T17:38:00.002-06:00

"A little faith will bring your soul to heaven,

but a lot of faith will bring heaven to your soul."

Ooo La La! Sweet Colette makes jewelry.

2009-11-12T13:16:00.003-06:00

I am taking some "art therapy" today! HA! Actually, I am stalling and distracting myself from things I should be doing that I don't want to do.....yeh, it's about that whole house cleaning thing again! Who wants to scrub toilets when there is art to be made!

I am still drawing "pretty girls" and LOVING it!!! This girl looks "French" to me. Tres chic!

COLETTE is a very sweet and loving girl ~ loyal, kindhearted & giving. She loves to visit the "patisserie", but always keeps an eye on her petite figure. She dresses simply, yet stylishly and even sews some of her own clothes. Her passion is vintage jewelry ~ she scours the Paris Flea Markets for it! She lovingly gathers each piece and wonders who has worn it in the past. Collette takes her treasures home where they "speak to her" and tell her what new creation they want to become. Her creations find new homes, adorning and blessing those who wear them.

Count Your Blessings ~ Name Them One by One

2009-11-04T11:23:00.004-06:00

Scrabble saying can be found at: http://RememberMeEmily.Etsy.com

#1 ~ I am LOVED.

#2 ~ I am able to use my God given talents to bless others.

#3 ~ I can CHOOSE happiness & gratefulness.

#4 ~ Nature is BEAUTIFUL.

#5 ~ I have FRIENDS.

.....and so many more.....

All Saints Day

2009-11-01T11:01:00.004-06:00

St. Catherine of Bologna ~ Patron Saint of Artists

Today, being “All Saints Day”, I kind of like the fact that St. Catherine of Bologna is the “Patron Saint of Artists”. I like to think that there is someone looking over my shoulder and whispering in my ear as I create, inspiring me to make something beautiful that will touch lives and heal hearts.

A Merry Halloween

2009-10-31T11:35:00.013-05:00

Backward, turn backward,
O Time, in your flight
make me a child again
just for to-night!

Elizabeth Akers Allen

Ahhhh.....Halloween memories! When you are a kid, Halloween is all about the CANDY!!!!! When I was a kid we lived in the Keystone neighborhood in Omaha ~ lots and lots of houses to visit! I remember we used to carry a grocery bag to fill. It was all so sweet & innocent. We would dress up in nice little costumes and the neighbors were so friendly and having so much fun "ooooing" and "ahhhhing" over us, or pretending to be sooooo afraid.

My memory is a little fuzzy about whatever happened to all of that candy because I also remember that my Mom was very vigilant about providing a healthy diet & limiting sweets (which I now APPRECIATE & UNDERSTAND).

Well, whether you "celebrate" Halloween or not....have a safe & happy day!

By the way.....this is my Son-in-Law.....There is no limit to what a father will do for his children....Isn't he PRECIOUS?!?!?!?

Happy Halloween Decor

2009-10-29T10:42:00.002-05:00

Yes, I actually got my Halloween decorations up before Halloween! I am soooooo loving these precious little Halloween hats I purchased for my dollies from Amy

at Vintage Market Place

~ "Classic vintage with a twist".

Amy says: "I love all things vintage to create my artwork with.

I surround myself with things that have been loved and cherished by others." Her items are lovingly gathered, then altered/recycled/repurposed into FUN & FABULOUS creations!

Visit Amy today at: http://www.VintageMarketPlace.Etsy.com

Sisters

2009-10-27T09:04:00.014-05:00

My Aunt Carol (from California) is visiting my Mom in Hawaii this week.
I can only imagine the special time they are having together ~
walks on the beach, chatting about children & grandchildren,
sharing the happiness & heartache of their lives.
Sisterhood seems such a very sacred bond.
I am sitting here this morning thinking about them
and wishing them a joyous visit!

Carol & Barbara

"To have a loving relationship with a sister is not simply to have a buddy or confident - it is to have a soulmate for life." ~ Victoria Secunda

Angels of Peace

2009-10-23T15:54:00.006-05:00

"Let us not be justices of the peace, but angels of peace." ~ Saint Therese of Lisieux

I just LOVE making angels! There is so much trouble & heartache in this world, I figure that every angel I make "wings" her way to someone who needs a little comfort...a little hope & peace.

"The magnitude of life is overwhelming. Angels are here to help us take it peace by peace." ~ Levende Waters

Do You Hate Housework?!?

2009-10-19T09:41:00.006-05:00

My idea of housework is to sweep the room with a glance. Seriously, who in their right mind ENJOYS housework? Darling Husband and I are the only ones living in this house, but we are PIGS..... I swannie (southern term for swear)..... I think someone sneaks in at night to mess this place up! How can two people have so many dirty dishes, dirty clothes, discarded papers and all around trash?!?!?

Most days, I just overlook the mess. I would much rather be creating art than scrubbing toilets. Glitter & paper are much more attractive to me than those dang "scrubbing bubbles" that sing to you while they go down the drain. But now, even my sacred art room is so messy it is effecting my creativity! Something must be done!

Copy-right free image from Tack-o-Rama

When I think about it.....Housework is actually a POSITIVE thing that I should enjoy. I should be thankful that I have a nice warm, comfortable place to live. I should be thankful that Darling Husband works so hard to provide for all of our needs. Actually, I do smile a little when I pick his dirty socks & underwear up off the floor ~ it's just so darn nice to have him around the house.

Sometimes I feel guilty for being so blessed. While people around the world struggle to find food & shelter most of America lives like kings and queens comparatively speaking.

Thank God for dirty dishes,
they have a tale to tell;
while others may go hungry,
we're eating very well.

So, while I perpetuate the myth about hating housework so much, and pretend to be distraught about hours of polishing & sweeping & shining.....in my heart I will be grateful and humbled to do my chores in honor of my family, with love in my heart. Occasionally though, I will still use that old trick that my daughter taught me..."Oh Mom, you don't have to spend the day cooking & cleaning. Just put on an apron, throw a little cinnamon in the oven and flour on your face and sprinkle a little sweet-smelling-rug-cleaning powder on the floor. He will think you have been cooking & cleaning all day!"

Copy-right free image from Tack-oRama

Bye~Bye Typepad!!!!!

2009-10-15T14:09:00.007-05:00

As most of you know I have had a blog on Typepad since July of 2007. Now, I am not one who likes change.....but.....today is the day that I totally commit to Blogger and close my Typepad account. It is scary thinking about 2 years of posts disappearing instantly. All that soul-searching-heart-wrenching writing ~ POOF!

Wait! I have an idea! What if I re-post my favorite entries here for posterity and for your (re)reading enjoyment? OK ~ here goes:

November 10, 2007 ~ "Be the Princess"

Some days you just need to take time for yourself and BE THE PRINCESS that you know you are on the "inside". No matter how you are feeling, no matter what stress you are under, no matter...no matter...no matter...just take time for yourself.

Calm down, relax...breathe.

Do something to pamper yourself ~ paint your nails, get a massage, take a bubble bath.....eat some REALLY good CHOCOLATE.

Put on a pretty party dress even if there is no "party". Wear a crown. Cover yourself in vintage rhinestone costume jewelry!

DANCE. SING. LAUGH OUT LOUD. HAVE A TEA PARTY.
There now...feeling better "Your Highness"?!?

December 26, 2008 ~ Happy 10th Anniversary Bruce & Emily!!!

Happy Anniversary to my Darling Husband. Each year grows sweeter.

Robert Browning said: "Grow old with me, the best is yet to be..."

I don't know how it could get any better! He is so sweet to me, so kind and loving. I often kid him about all of his "brownie points" he is always earning with me. I think he is up to about 10 GAZILLION by now.

I told him he should write a book teaching men how to treat their wives ~ he is such a wonderful example.

Bless you & thank you honey, for 10 beautiful years.

Love, Your Sweetie
XOXOXO

January 12, 2009 ~ Allison's "Happy Breakfast"

My granddaughter Allison sent me this picture of her "Happy Breakfast". What an adorable idea!!! I cannot think of a better way to start the day. You know what they say...."Eat right & exercise".....well.....

"Jumping for joy is good exercise." ~ Author Unknown

I'm going to make my own "Happy Breakfast". Won't you join me?

Angels Among Us

2009-10-11T11:08:00.006-05:00

"A real friend is like an angel who warms you by her presence and remembers you in her prayers."

I am blessed. I have some really sweet friends. Without even knowing it they are building up my courage, blessing my spirit, restoring my soul & inspiring creativity.

"Sometimes your best friend is an angel in disguise."

Be an angel to someone today.

Torn Between Two Worlds ~ The Past and The Future

2009-09-29T14:11:00.006-05:00

Photo courtesy of Robb North

I am a woman in conflict ~ torn between two worlds. How I LOVE LOVE LOVE everything vintage. I LOVE history and antique/vintage clothes & books & furnishings & art. I am particularly drawn to the mid 19th century for some reason. I LOVE the things of the "everyday rural woman" from that period ~ crisp vintage white linens, brown baskets, white ironstone pictures & platters, eggs in a nest, brown paper purchases tied with string, wildflowers. The simple life, how I adore it and strive for it. How I sometimes wish I had lived in the past.

Photo courtesy of Ted Fines

And yet...the universe beckons me...teases me...tempts me with wonders beyond my imaginings.

Star Cluster in Nebula NGC 3603

Credit: NASA, ESA, and the Hubble Heritage (STScI/AURA)-ESA/Hubble Collaboration

Darling Husband calls me his "sweet nerd" & "precious geek". He catches me watching the Science Channel late into the night. I get all breathless thinking about quasars & nebulas. I am fascinated with string theory and the possibility of parallel universes. And there is nothing sexier than time travel.....

I LOVE science fiction! Ever since Jr. High School I have read sci-fi books and watched Star Trek. And oh! Those 1950's "B" movies about outer space.....mmmmmm.....love 'em!!! I love thinking about the future and thinking about the possibility of discovering other worldly life.

So...I will keep visiting museums & watching Little House on the Prairie & collecting white ironstone & vintage linens. But I will also continue to be caught up in the wonder of the vastness of the universe and be awed by the fact that for some reason I was born into it...for a purpose...part of the grand design. Kinda makes me want to be more awesome than I already am. LOL (Laugh out loud).

The 1000 Journals Project

2009-09-27T11:24:00.004-05:00

Darling Husband and I watched a wonderful documentary the other night about the 1000 Journals project.

From the 1000 Journals website: "The 1000 Journals Project is an ongoing collaborative experiment attempting to follow 1000 journals throughout their travels. The goal is to provide a method for interaction and shared creativity among friends and strangers."

The project began with the launch of 100 blank journals out into the world in August of 2000. Eventually, 1000 journals were sent out to circle the world. Each would come to contain artwork, stories & poems of thousands of people describing their everyday lives and innermost thoughts.

The project was so popular.....the journey continues.....

http://1001journals.com/

Darling Husband & I have decided to start our own shared journal.....stay tuned!!!

Ooo La La ~ Marie

2009-09-16T14:11:00.014-05:00

Marie Antoinette ~ she is such an artistic inspiration! The clothes, the jewels...the opulence...the feminine delishousness!

While I despise the fact that she lived in luxury while her people were starving ~ she does inspire beautiful fashion and art.

Stampington & Company's publication "Marie" is full of beautiful, stunning projects!

Watch Kirsten Dunst as the beautiful, decadent Queen and enjoy the movie soundtrack while creating your fanciful designs!

Painting by Suzi Blu

I so enjoyed Suzi Blu's "Les Petit Dolls Beginner" class that I signed up for "Petit Marie" !!!

Watch this fun video about her new class: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kop3LXmgl8w

I think I need a "Marie" wig & some CaKe...gotta go.......

New Blog???

2009-09-15T11:45:00.004-05:00

I am trying out Blogger to see if I want to switch from Typepad (which costs me money every month) to Blogger (which is FREE).....this is a test.....this is only a test.....

The BEAUTIFUL graphics for my blog are compliments of *ItKuPiLLi*.

I have made several purchases from this FABULOUSLY TALENTED artist and have been delighted each time. She is inspiring me to be more playful & colorful in my artwork.

Remember Me

Dancing without the Stars

What Kind of Bird are YOU?

National Chocolate Day

Unlock the Door to your Dreams ~ I Dream in Purple

Plastic Pollution = ART

Every Leaf Speaks Bliss to Me.....

"..... these are a few of my favorite things!"

She Walks in Beauty

Commercials that I Actually LIKE

What's Bottled Up Inside?

Dreadful Inelegance

Momisms

Springtime in Wisconsin

Texture Tuesday

Hopping Down the Bunny Trail

Cave of Forgotten Dreams

Reduce Reuse Recyle Vintage~Inspired Fashion

Just Eat Organic

Celebrate International Women's Day

Plain & Simple

Nut

Oh Happy Day

KISS the COOK

I put together this reminder for Darling Husband!

Have FUN in the kitchen...fill canning jars with dried beans/peas and add your favorite saying...easy peasy!

"Romance" your home! Tape love notes to the bathroom mirror...wrap a love letter/poem around his remote control where he will be SURE to find it!

Remind him/her why you fell in love...and why he/she is special to you... add a little romance to your every day living.

WASTE LAND

Sarah Ban Breathnach

Are you ADORABLE?

a·dor·a·ble

A Spiritual Conspiracy

Be Sweet

Happy New Year

All is Calm

Snow-flakes

Mmmmmm! It's National Cake Day!

"Thank your Lucky Stars"

thank your lucky stars

Do the Thing You LOVE

I'm Sewing Today

Geeky Goth Zombie Girls from Space

I am so sick today.

Welcome to my NEW ArtFire shop!

September 21st ~ International Day of PEACE

I Love my Mommy

Back to Kailua Town

Who Says it Costs too Much to Eat Healthy & Organic ?!?!?!?

1 lb. green beans, bunch collards, 3 onions, 3 bell peppers, 4 zucchini, 4 summer squash, basket of cherry tomatoes and a quart of fresh picked blackberries ~ $12.00!!!

Our local Farmer's Market....."PRICELESS".

The alternative...

2 Quarter Pounders: $4.98

Large orders of fries: $1.60

Large Frappe: $3.29

2 Cookies: $1.60

Total $11.47

The Creative Color Challenge ~ Week One ~ Sunflower Yellow

Jumping for JOY is Good Exercise

Exercise can put the spark back into your sex life.

Alrighty then...

Seeing the need to start exercising, I purchased this FABULOUS DVD from my husband's niece:

Runs with Scissors

Dieting is NOT a Piece of Cake

i carry your heart with me

You are so Beautiful

Everything I Ever Needed to Know I learned in Kindergarten

HAPPY "National Donut Day"

A Passion for Purple

Mermaid Dreams

How do You want to be Remembered?

Palmer Peterson ~ I Thought about you Today

Oh YUMMY!!!!! A FREE Give Away

Plant Kindness

Be Happy Every Day

Knit Unto Others

Kailua Town

123 N - U - M - B - E - R - S 456

"Remember Me" Featured in an Etsy Treasury

Best Friends