Soggy Dog Studios

2011-11-27T23:39:00.001-05:00

Visit Etsy Shop HERE!!!

Illustration Friday / Topic: Ferocious

2011-09-24T23:32:00.004-04:00

Ferocious sleeping lion from a recent mural.

Thanks for taking a peek!

-Kim :) xo

Illustration Friday: Remedy

2011-07-01T10:29:00.000-04:00

The quickest, fastest,

bestest REMEDY to a messy

room is to sweep under the bed

and shove into the closet!

:) xo - Kim

Mr. & Mrs.

2011-06-27T16:51:00.006-04:00

Look who knocked on my door the other day....

 (photos courtesy of Jenn)

These two little cuties were created for me by  

JENN from NOODLE & LOU

Inspired by my husband (the bloak from UK) and me (the American Girl next door), Jenn cleverly painted our portraits on these bowling pins that stand about 4 inches high.  

It gave me a giggle to see how even our plump figures are just about accurate here!!!   Don't you just love our bathing suits!!!  We look like such tourists don't we!!!  :)  

I love our expressions...

I've always got something curious on my mind. And my husband with the blank stare in hopes that I don't bring up that something curious! :)  So right on there!!!. 

Please check out Jenn's blog here and her Etsy shoppe here.  You'll fall in love with all her goodies and treats!!!

BIG thanks to my friend Jenn!

And thanks for taking the time to see what I've been up too!!!

xo - Kim 

Illustration Friday: Midsummer Night

2011-06-25T10:18:00.002-04:00

News Flash: Summer Is Here

2011-06-22T08:00:00.012-04:00

I heard the Weather Guy say that it was "officially" the FIRST DAY of Summer. Uuhhh... I beg to differ!

Way down here in Florida, Summer skipped Spring. But Summer has a way of doing that.
Although, we really can't complain... we have our freshwater springs, lazy rivers and lakes, sandy seashores and backyard pools to keep us chilled and as if that is not enough, we have our corner slurpee stops, icecream shoppes and snowcone stands.

"Life is Good!" - some guy's t-shirt

So go on grab your suits.. your snorkles.. and your SPF!!! And have a COOL summer!!

Thanks for taking a peek!

:) xox - Kim

Wish

2011-05-07T10:28:00.002-04:00

Remembering my mom...

Wishing she was here to celebrate

Mother's Day and all days with us!

HMD2U ~ xox ~ Kim

Home Clean Home!

2011-05-05T15:47:00.001-04:00

Just finished up a little spring cleaning in the Monster and Goblin's rooms.

  We now have enough random LEGOS to do an addition on the house and I might knit a sweater with all the dust bunnies I found!  :)

xox - Kim

Imagine

2011-05-04T12:18:00.017-04:00

I've been artfully upcycling all kinds of thrifty finds.  First it was a world globe and a rocking horse and then....

...a Guitar

This Beatles Inspired Mixed Media Guitar was created for a  Rock N' Roll Exhibit in downtown Orlando.  I really think I LoVe it.  And happily (and a little sadly) somebody else did too as it SOLD! But I am thrilled that it has a new home!!!

My Thrift Shopping List keeps growing...

1. Globe

2. Rock'n Horseys

3. Guitars

4. TBA :)

 Thanks for taking a peek!!! 

xox - kim 

Desperately Seeking Sanity!

2011-04-14T11:08:00.017-04:00

Where does the time go?

I ask this question seriously, in hopes of an answer that will change my life! There are those of you out there that LOOK like you've got it all together. Seriously DO YOU? And if so HOW? I NEED to know this secret.

How do you run a 24HR Maid & Laundry Operation, a Recreational Shuttle Service and a Gourmet Kitchen, work out everyday, create brilliant master pieces, write a daily BLOG, work a "real" part-time job, walk the dog, pet the cat and be the bestest MOMMY and SEXIEST wife EVER????

HELP a girl out... if you know the secret to stuffing 72 hours worth of sweat, LoVe and tears into 12 hours... I am listening!!!! :)

xoxo - Kim

Third Thursday Gallery Hop

2011-02-17T10:28:00.001-05:00

Exhibit Theme is PARADISE!!! What is your paradise?

My "Road Trip" Globe will be on display at City Arts Factory

Exhibit opens tonight~ February 17 through March 12.

As always... thanks for taking a peek at what I've been up too!

:) xoxo - Kim

HV2U

2011-02-13T16:06:00.003-05:00

HaPpY VaLenTiNes DaY

xoxo

Follow my blog with bloglovin

All You Need Is Love at Artistree Co-op on February 11 !!!

2011-02-01T12:38:00.003-05:00

Words to LiVe by in 2011! xox

2011-01-09T13:33:00.007-05:00

"see no evil

hear no evil

say no evil"

Unless you pinky promise to never tell a soul!

----------------------------------------------

" A little bird told me..."

beware of that little bird who told you... she probably ate the tequila worm!

----------------------------------------------

"love thy neighbor"

....even if their dog poops in your yard!

----------------------------------------------

"dare to be curious..."

even if you don't have nine lives. i'd rather die regretting what i did, than what i didn't do!!!

----------------------------------------------

"never applogize with flowers"

...it makes them stink

----------------------------------------------

"wish upon a star"

... for shoes! :)

----------------------------------------------

wishing you all a merry little new year!

keep peeking at what I am up too!

xoxox - kim

Goodbye 2010...

2010-12-29T10:21:00.011-05:00

My last painting of 2010! :)
Altered prints of this painting can be purchased here! 

It is with a great big sigh that I say goodbye to 2010. This year took me on a twisted curvy ride.

Moved TWICE - saying sad goodbyes to close friends and neighbors.
Visited France... and never wanted to leave!
Upon returning from France, one week later I started a full time job, which left my studio & blogging time chopped in half.

On the greener side of the grass.... I am healthy (although I am feeling a little more plump these days). And my kids are safe and sound. In the end, that is all that really matters! 

2010 - You left me overwhelmed with chaos and clutter...but I have great plans in store for 2011 - so buckle up! :)

Thanks for taking the time 

to see what I've been up to all year!! 

xox - Kim

2010-12-26T12:39:00.001-05:00

Happy Holidays to those I LoVe

...and Goodwill to those I don't!

;) xoxo

Swap Swamped!

2010-12-08T11:18:00.005-05:00

I think I got a little carried away with the blog swaps this year... I must have signed up for anything that crossed my desktop.... Don't get me wrong I LOVE every last bit of it, but I procrastinate and then I seep into perfectionism. Both of these get the best of me up to the very sec before deadline.

  Hosted by Zan at Vegabond Creations

This is my third time participating in Zan's swap.  I am not a doll maker by any definition of the sort, but I do have fun making these whimsy creations and hope their new homes enjoy them as much as I do making them.   

Here is my latest doll swap creation made for Jan of The Hermit's Garden.  We both decided to create studio elves for each other. 

Clothed in canvas, stuffed with sweetness and handpainted with good lucks! I love his little scarf, it was by accident that it curled up as if to be blown by a blizzardy breeze. My sweet little elf is on his way to Texas!

---------------------------------- 

NEXT...

 Hosted by Louise at Dream, Inspire Create.
 THE CHALLENGE: You can only use the colors: 
Red, Green or Gold

three tweet treats 

(say that 5 times fast )

Being sent to my 3 ornament swap buddies

Lorrie of Amiartspott 

Marianne of  Ruffhaven 

Missy of Green Bird of Happiness 

You can see other swapped ornaments here. 

  ------------------------

Many Thanks! 

Thanks to Zan and Louise for hosting the swap!

Thanks to my swap buddies, I am very excited to see what comes my way!!!

And thank you for taking the time to see what I've been up too!

:) xoxo - Kim

The GREAT BIG Stitched Postcard Swap

2010-11-29T09:52:00.011-05:00

Twas a celebration of fabric, paper, ink, paint, and thread as artists world-wide designed postcards to swap!!!  

We cut, We tore, We sewed, We assembled, We glued and  We stamped these beautiful creations.. 

Behold... 

The GREAT BIG Stitched 

Postcard Swap.

Below is my whimsical creation that will be sent to Kylie of One Red Fox!!!

Check out Kylie's talented works of art and design at her blog, here.

My sweet postcard peeks through protected clear plastic as it makes it's way too Australia!!!  I was a bit late in sending it off as I've been a bit overwhelmed with holiday orders and creating inventory for the shoppes.  

Next on the list... Holiday Doll Swap and Ornament Swap... Ohhhh My!

Thanks for taking a peek!!! 

:) xoxo - Kim

Upcycle... it's the new Recycle

2010-11-18T14:39:00.017-05:00

Clever creations are unfolding just in time for the holidays.  Thrifting has become my latest craze. Finding forgotten things and imagining them in their second life has given me some much needed inspiration.   

Here's a little sneak peak of what I've been up to...  

Ive been spinning vintage globes into some funky art.  The globe below reads: "Be the change you want to be in the world" - Gandhi
"Honor the past, Live in the present, Create the future" 

Found this little horsey in GoodWill...

Before

After

Forgive me if I do say so myself, 

"She Rocks"!!! 

These little treasures are on sale here in my shoppe.  Email me to customize a globe for what is going on your world. I am offering 20% discount on any globe art with provided globe!

More to come!

Thanks for taking the time to see what I've been up to!!!
xox - Kim

Flyday Friday!

2010-10-01T08:50:00.002-04:00

Grab your brooms...

Lets Fly!

Illustration Friday Topic- Old Fashioned

2010-09-29T12:49:00.001-04:00

1950 Baywatch Babe!

HB2U Mom

2010-09-27T09:55:00.006-04:00

My Mom would have turned 59 yesterday, 

born on September 26 1951.

She became an angel ten years ago. Since her passing on, some years I remember ahead that the day is coming. But some years the day creeps up on me and hits me with a sad surprise.

This was one of those years. I began to paint a new piece yesterday without any intentions or direction. I chopped up squares of paper, glued them to a wood canvas and painted it white. Then I stared at the blank canvas for a while wondering what to paint. Before I knew it I was painting this heavenly angel, still not linking it to my Mom, or her birthday.

I decided her dress needed something more... perhaps some inspirational words. Okay then what words??? It was then it hit me - Mom's Birthday!!!

I had a little giggle to think that it was my Mother sending me a message from above "Hello Down There... Remember Me??? It's My Birthday!!!"

So HB2U Mom!!! I think of you everyday, but you know me..I'm not so good with dates!!! xox

Thanks for taking the time 

to see what I've been up to!

:) xoxox - Kim

Buying Handmade in Central Florida

2010-09-22T13:13:00.039-04:00

For those of you who have ventured into Artistree Co-op, you know this to be an eclectic charming shop tucked within the heart of College Park.

For those of you who live farther than yonder, I will give you a little scoop of what you are missing. Located in a tiny suburb of Orlando, FL, Artistree Co-op features the handmade goods of many local Central Florida Artists. You'll find pottery, paintings, jewelry, clothing, glassware, knits, skincare, candles and dare I say it... much much more! There's even a children's section and a place for the kiddies to color and play.

Being a Co-op, each artist volunteers their time and effort to ensure the co-op runs smoothly. As my contribution to the co-op I work in the shoppe on Sundays. Although it's hardly work at all, I love meeting and greeting all those who curiously wonder in. I often bring something to work on while I am in the shop, which sometimes wows the customers to think they are meeting a real life artist at task.

Artistree Co-op hosts several art events through out the year, Spring Into Handmade, Fall In Love With Handmade and Go Green,and is home to the College Park Farmers Market every Thursday. This year's annual Fall In Love With Handmade is scheduled on October 16.(mark you calendars, details will follow) We welcome you to come out and enjoy what will hopefully be a beautiful crisp autumn day.

You won't go hungry while you shop as the co-op shares space with Infusion Tea, a vegetarian tea house cafe of sorts.  Infusion   offers teas from around the world and serves some of the most  delicious  bites in town.  Just like off the set of FRIENDS, there's a  cushy  couch, chair and coffee table for all your pals to catch up on  the  latest. 
Above is my little nook in the store,updated with my latest works of  art.  I am getting very excited for the holidays as our shoppe fills  with sleigh loads of tempting treasures.
Thanks for taking the Artistree Tour with me.  I hope that you do come in if you are nearby.  Please visit the shop website and blog, which frequently features the co-op artists.
As AlWaYs...Thanks for taking the time to see what I've been up too! xoxo ~ Kim

Hurray - Latest Works of Art!

2010-09-21T09:21:00.017-04:00

Though I refer to this blog as my "art blog" and often direct people here to see examples of my work, I have not uploaded any photos of my creations here in a while. Living out of boxes, lack of internet connection and "blogger's block" have given me a parade of excuses. But the parade is over people, so here are some of my latest works of art...

All original work is now on Sale at Artistree Co-op.

Look for Altered Prints coming soon on Etsy!

Thanks for taking a peek at what I have been up to!!!

xox - Kim

A little note to those of you who receive my blog via email. An early unedited post was delivered unexpectedly with all my grammar and spelling mishaps... You may receive an edited email as it is always scheduled to deliver the following day after the post day. Sorry if Confused? ;)

Wonder

2010-09-16T15:18:00.029-04:00

For this week's Team Up Thursday, Krista and I chose WONDER as our theme. Again, my imagination was bursting with ideas to portray this theme. I chose a great photo opportunity that may answer some of your own wonder....

Just who is the Dog behind the Blog?

Notorious  for gnawing the limbs off toy action figures, able to leap kitchen counters in  the name of FOOD and faster than you can shout "Get Off The Couch"... 

Meet Soggy Dog, Dog Wonder.

Never fear people, Soggy is not as tough as he looks. He is often found cuddling with our Cat while receiving a Kitty Lick Spa Bath, though he would never admit it.

Six years ago, Soggy was rescued in the woods as a small pup along with his two sisters, who now belong to friends. He has been the love of our life and the pain in our butt ever since. I can't imagine the studio without him!

Back to Team Up Thursday - I am very thankful to be participating. It has rekindled my commitment to my blog and it keeps me in touch with my great friend Krista, whom I terribly miss living nearby. Check out WONDER at Krista's blog here. And check out more Team Up Thursday diptychs here.

Thanks for taking a peek at

what we've been up too!

xox - Kim

My Travels...

2010-09-14T13:40:00.035-04:00

During  the summer in between moving and before starting a full time job, I  left my boys for 10 days to visit my high school BFF, Dinna and her family  in Nice, France and to attend the baptism of her son, my Godson.  Family  came from Paris, Greece, England and America to celebrate the  blessings of this precious little boy,  Alexi. 

At the time of my visit in June, Alexi was around 10 months old and full of sparkle and curiosity just like his mother Dinna, seen below.

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

Dinna and her French husband Laurent own a Charcuterie, a gourmet type bistro offering varieties of foods cooked with pork. It is nestled among cobblestone streets in a city, centuries old.

************* The sea side in the  South of France is like no other on Earth...   Especially since I haven't  been to any other seas on Earth aside   from Florida Beaches, which  are hardly a comparison.  

*************Not far from Nice is the royal country of Monaco (seen below). Bumper to bumper yachts float the port of this not too shabby city.

 My brother  in law and his family  were on holiday from England via a Mediterranean  Cruise and just so happened to be docking in  Monaco while I was  there.   That's what you call good timing!   

Above, my in-laws Julian & Kim 
and nieces Emily and Eleanore!

Below, My two nieces and I! 
Love them!

*************These next two photos are of the view from Dinna's French Chateau balcony. 
C'est Tres Jolie!!!

Above a view of the city and sea at twilight.
And below a view of the French Alps, still sprinkled with snow. 

************* Again me and my little Alexi!!!! Love Him!!! 

I   had such an amazing time but I was very anxious to get home to my  family!  Merci Beaucoup to my friends Dinna, Laurent and Little Alexi!  I  miss you  so much... Can't wait to see you when you come soon to  America!!! xoxo

Sweet Treats!!!

2010-09-13T10:52:00.024-04:00

  LUCKY ME!!!

Look what I won  - It's Little Red, painted by Australian Artist, Kaili Ittensohn.  I am head over heels in love with Kaili's artwork and you will be too!!! Check out her blog here and facebook page here.   Kaili hosted a Facebook Fan contest, a fabulous idea I thought before I won.  And now that I  have won, I thought how wonderful it would be to pass along an opportunity to my worldwide friends and family who helped me win Little Red. 

*******

Here's your chance to win a Sweet Tweet!

The Bird & The Butterfly 
Mixed Media Original

 (image shown is watermarked) 

*******

Here are the details.... 

1. Become a fan of my  
Soggy Dog Facebook Page here.

2. Suggest my page to your friends!

3. Then write to me on my facebook page, letting me know how many friends you suggested.

******* 

My Soggy Dog Studio Facebook Page is so close to  having 500 Fans. I would love to see 500!!! 

For each suggestion/invite you send, you will receive one entry.  So the more folks you invite the better your chances are to win The Bird & The Butterfly! I will keep the contest open through September 30th with weekly Facebook reminders.  

Thanks again to Kaili for my special Little Red, and thank you for the motivation and inspiration to host my own contest! xoxox 

Many thanks to my fans for taking the time to spread the the word! xoxox - Kim

Team Up Thursday - Bloom

2010-09-09T16:32:00.003-04:00

This weeks Team Up Thursday Topic is BLOOM!

There are certain elements that are necessary for a flower to bloom -sunlight, water, carbon dioxide etc. For a seed will remain a seed without these elements.

The  same goes for artists and their work. Without determination, motivation  and inspiration, our creative ideas (no matter how imaginative they  are) will remain just as they are like little seeds in our head.   

Funny  enough,these very elements are often what artists struggle with most.   It is not imagination or creativity we lack. And it is not the desire to  succeed, but the fear of not succeeding that holds us back.

May we nourish our creative souls with all things necessary so that we may surely Bloom! 

Below are our contributions to this week's Team Up Thursday.  As always thanks for taking a peek! xox - Kim 

Kim's Bloom

Krista's Bloom

The Stork Has Arrived...

2010-09-08T12:40:00.009-04:00

I just received a call from my brother Andy in Austin, TX announcing that my new little nephew or shall I say new big nephew Lucas George Brown was just born, weighing in at 10lbs, 6oz and 21 inches long. I wish I was there in Austin to welcome him here on earth.

Congrats Andy, Susan and Big Brother Connor!

Real life photos to follow!

xox -Auntie Kim

Team Up Thursday - Keeper

2010-09-02T09:24:00.026-04:00

It's Team Up Thursday again...

Our theme this week is Keeper. I had lots of ideas for this one. What first came to mind was a shot of the mile high stack of boxes that I still have yet to unpack from our move. It seems I'm a "keeper" of everything!

But then I came across this sweet photo of my Little O-monster . With September arriving, bringing a whiff of fall into the air - we will soon see pumpkin patches scattered everywhere.

We brought this little "keeper" home, painted him a funny face and there he sat perched, ready to spook all those who dare. The pumpkin turned out cute too, hee hee! :)

Below, the sweetest photo of Krista's daughter and her little "Keeper" -Dirty Ted. Oh the stories that Ted could tell... I am sure he is sworn to secrecy! Pinky Promise!

Now back to the stacks of boxes I mentioned... I will be  unpacking them all very soon. It's time to get back to work yall... and I am in the mood to create lots of spooky treats just in time for Halloween!!! xo

Thanks for taking the time to see what we have been up too!

xoxox

Kim

Illustration Friday Topic: - Immovable / HB2U

2010-08-27T10:08:00.022-04:00

Bless Our New Home,

Let Our Hearts be Immovable!

After moving 2 times in the past 5 months, I would say this week's IF topic: Immovable, tingles our heartstrings and our funny bones.  Its been a very crazy 2010 thus far, but one thing that I have learned from all the chaos is that no matter where we roam our true friendships will follow us along our journey.  Thanks to all my great friends who have continued to keep in touch - your friendships are priceless.  xoxo - Kim

Wishing A Very Happy Birthday to

My God Daughter Kate. 9 Years!!!!

Toothless - Kate & Owen at Universal Studios after a wet ride

I Heart You Kate!

xoxo - Kim

Team Up Thursday: Bliss

2010-08-26T13:27:00.061-04:00

As I mentioned in my previous post, I've been slacking on my blog. But I found a little inspiration called Team Up Thursday.

Team-Up Thursday is a collaborative project.  Each week, partners take a  photograph separately using a theme, then create a diptych with these  photos.  My good friend, Krista Brock, The Accidental Artist and I have paired up to participate and we are very excited!

Krista chose our topic this week, Bliss.  Her photo (shown on top) beautifully captures her son's curious state of Bliss!  My photo (shown below) depicts the five minutes of Bliss I have every morning.

For info on Team Up Thursday visit Megan at Mental Inventory.

In other news....

I am soooo excited to announce that I won a contest at Surprise Delight Joy. SuZ is soooo incredibly talented.  Her whimsical creations bring a smile to my face every time I visit her blog and Etsy Shoppe.  Thank you SuZ!!!! xoxoxo

Its Free Swatch Day at Spoonflowe r!!! Between noon on Thursday, August 26th and noon on Friday, August 27 (EST) you can order a free swatch. 100% totally Free...Even free shipping!!! Just upload one of your own designs to have made into an 8" x 8" fabric swatch or choose from an assortment of talented designers. Check it out here!

Ok Folks thats all I got!

Thanks for taking the time to see what I've been up too!!! 

xoxo - Kim 

Long Story Short

2010-08-19T14:05:00.108-04:00

This year has brought many things.... but blog posts it has not. Long story short... I moved twice in 5 months and started a full time job, along with a bunch of bits and pieces in between. With each spontaneous occasion, I hear a little voice inside that says "How incredible - You should blog that"... but then tick-tock on the clock and before I know it -life has moved on and "the something incredible" has now become old news.

My blog and my readers are truly like old friends. Maybe you can relate with the friend you've lost touch with and though you are friends forever, you don't really know where to start to catch them up on things... and so you don't.

Even though I haven't posted in very many moons, I visit my blog almost everyday.... Checking out my favorite bloggers who have recently posted, seeing who has visited my blog lately and sometimes I just stop by to listen to the sound of music. But mostly I come for inspiration... wishing, hoping and praying that I will find the time to create and blog in my crazy schedule of being a full time working mom, who feels like she is carrying the family's shell around on her back.

Sooo, thank you for your support and patience while I find space on the clock to work in a post or two. xoxo

On a different note... One day when I happened upon my blog, I noticed that my banner had disappeared... I am not sure what happened but in my search to find the banner image in my ultra-unorganized computer files, I came across all of my old banners... Again, it was like rediscovering photos of old friends and remembering the good times.... so here I would like to share with you. Those of you that have been reading for some time might remember some of these...

Thanks for taking a peek!!!

Please come back to see what I have been up too!

xoxo - Kim

:) 4th

2010-07-04T00:00:00.003-04:00

IF TOPIC: Giant

2010-07-02T19:15:00.007-04:00

Love this photo of GIANT Flat Soggy... from Flat Soggy Tour 2009.

Here he is terrorizing the streets of Budapest, Hungary while on vacation with some great friends of mine. Watch out people below!!!

As always... thanks for taking a peek!!!

xoxo - Kim

Illustration Friday Topic: Trail

2010-06-05T18:38:00.004-04:00

Happy Trails..... :)

xoxo - Kim

*altered prints of this painting are available in my etsy shoppe.

Illustration Friday Topic: Early

2010-05-21T11:44:00.007-04:00

Early in the morning, before the birds start singing, the kids start waking, the beds start making, the phone starts ringing, the web starts surfing and the brush starts painting... I start my day with a steaming cup of tea.

Altered prints of this mixed media piece (Tea Time) are now available in my Etsy Shoppe! The original painting currently for sale at Artistree Co-op in Orlando.

Thanks for stopping by! xoxo - Kim

2010-04-30T14:04:00.037-04:00

What a LUCKY lucky gal I was to be shot by one of the finest local photographers, Paris Carter of Paris Carter Photography.

On a hot Florida eve, Paris and her assistant Tara plopped an old vintage sofa into the middle of a grassy green, forced the sun to set and then rolled out the magic.

Before our shoot, I was a little worried that I would fumble awkwardly through a combination of instructions, mixing my left arm up with my right or that I would over-exaggerate a cheesy pouty smile while trying to get my super model groove on.... but it was nothing like that at all.

It was candid and real. Immediately, my worries of sucking it in and tucking it in melted away. I thank Paris for that. She captured that artistic mood I was dreaming of and wrapped it with sexy girly sass.

Thank you Paris for those creative moments and releasing the girl within those paint spattered pants.

A special thanks to my friend Tara, who gave me an Xtreme Makeover before the photo shoot. You made me feel pretty! :)

Many thanks to my Accessorizors, Krista & Emily. You gals made the look all come together!! :)

And thank YOU for taking the time to see what I've been up to!

xoxo - Kim

IF Topic: Detective

2010-04-16T13:10:00.007-04:00

TOP DOG DETECTIVE AGENCY

Case of the Missing Sock

xox -Kim

Illustration Friday Topic: Linked

2010-04-10T02:16:00.008-04:00

Linked hand in hand, they married in a field filled with flowers.

Illustration Friday Topic: Dip

2010-04-02T13:50:00.002-04:00

It's that time of year again....

We're getting ready for a refreshing dip in the sea....

But watch out for the Crocs!!!! :)

Thanks for taking a look!!!!

xoxo - Kim

Tis a wonderful day!

2010-03-12T14:08:00.016-05:00

Tis a wonderful day to find your own creations on sale at your favorite little northern shoppe. If it is possible to have a crush on a store... then I am head over heals in love!!!

Catherine at Red Shoes ordered selections of my work and has them cleverly scattered about. On display on top of the blue hutch and window is "Bless This House " And kindly tucked behind the polka dot mugs is "Freshly Plucked".

Thank you Catherine, for it is a complete joy to be.... "As Seen in Red Shoes"

xox

One day I will visit this charming shoppe in Ann Arbor, MI

...but for now I will continue to window shop by Mac.

For more Red Shoes visit Catherine's blog here and website here.

Thats it for now.... working on a collection to showcase at Artistree Co-op

...details to follow!

xoxo

-Kim

Illustration Topic: Brave

2010-03-06T23:02:00.004-05:00

Be BRAVE in all you do as others are following your lead...

-Unknown

Tick Tock... Splash!

2010-03-04T17:22:00.020-05:00

Can you hear that ticking? It is soooo loud. Somebody please make it stop!

I feel like I am on a sinking ship... Swimming in a monsterous time crunch right now. So many things to do and places to go and people to see. When will I ever find the time to create???

So what would be the one thing that I would want with me if I was ever stranded on a deserted island you randomly ask... Well...if it could be only ONE thing then it would have to be a paint brush. Then I suppose I would smash some berries for paint and chop down a tree for a wood block canvas .... How splendid it would be to have all the time in the world to create!

Okay, now that I have that imaginary emergency all planned out.... I am inspired to paint the sand and the sea.... hmmmmm I am thinking I might spot a mermaid or two along my way!

Till next time... And there will be a NEXT TIME....

unless I am hopelessly stranded on a deserted island!

xoxox - Kim

IF TOPIC: Perspective

2010-02-26T20:55:00.005-05:00

A Great Perspective On Cats

It is impossible to keep a straight face in the presence of one or more kittens.

~Cynthia E. Varnado

In order to keep a true perspective of one's importance, everyone should have a dog that will worship him and a cat that will ignore him.

~Dereke Bruce

There are few things in life more heartwarming than to be welcomed by a cat. ~Tay Hohoff

If cats could talk, they wouldn't. ~Nan Porter

There are two means of refuge from the misery of life - music and cats. ~Albert Schweitzer

A catless writer is almost inconceivable. It's a perverse taste, really, since it would be easier to write with a herd of buffalo in the room than even one cat; they make nests in the notes and bite the end of the pen and walk on the typewriter keys. ~Barbara Holland

If animals could speak, the dog would be a blundering outspoken fellow; but the cat would have the rare grace of never saying a word too much. ~Mark Twain

Cats are rather delicate creatures and they are subject to a good many ailments, but I never heard of one who suffered from insomnia. ~Joseph Wood Krutch

The cat could very well be man's best friend but would never stoop to admitting it. ~Doug Larson

There is something about the presence of a cat... that seems to take the bite out of being alone. ~Louis J. Camuti

As every cat owner knows, nobody owns a cat. ~Ellen Perry Berkeley

The problem with cats is that they get the exact same look on their face whether they see a moth or an axe-murderer. ~Paula Poundstone

Cats can work out mathematically the exact place to sit that will cause most inconvenience. ~Pam Brown

After scolding one's cat one looks into its face and is seized by the ugly suspicion that it understood every word. And has filed it for reference. ~Charlotte Gray

A cat can be trusted to purr when she is pleased, which is more than can be said for human beings. ~William Ralph Inge

The reason cats climb is so that they can look down on almost every other animal - it's also the reason they hate birds. ~K.C. Buffington

A cat is an example of sophistication minus civilization. ~Author Unknown

There has never been a cat

Who couldn't calm me down

By walking slowly

Past my chair.

~Rod McKuen

Your cat will never threaten your popularity by barking at three in the morning. He won't attack the mailman or eat the drapes, although he may climb the drapes to see how the room looks from the ceiling. ~Helen Powers

Cats do care. For example they know instinctively what time we have to be at work in the morning and they wake us up twenty minutes before the alarm goes off. ~Michael Nelson

When I play with my cat, who knows if I am not a pastime to her more than she is to me? ~Michel de Montaigne, Essays, 1580

Kittens are born with their eyes shut. They open them in about six days, take a look around, then close them again for the better part of their lives. ~Stephen Baker

I had been told that the training procedure with cats was difficult. It's not. Mine had me trained in two days. ~Bill Dana

If there is one spot of sun spilling onto the floor, a cat will find it and soak it up. ~J.A. McIntosh

No amount of time can erase the memory of a good cat, and no amount of masking tape can ever totally remove his fur from your couch. ~Leo Dworken

It doesn't do to be sentimental about cats; the best ones don't respect you for it. ~Susan Howatch

A dog, I have always said, is prose; a cat is a poem. ~Jean Burden

The cat is the only animal without visible means of support who still manages to find a living in the city. ~Carl van Vechten

There's no need for a piece of sculpture in a home that has a cat. ~Wesley Bates

If the pull of the outside world is strong, there is also a pull towards the human. The cat may disappear on its own errands, but sooner or later, it returns once again for a little while, to greet us with its own type of love. ~Lloyd Alexander

One is never sure, watching two cats washing each other, whether it's affection, the taste, or a trial run for the jugular. ~Helen Thomson

I believe cats to be spirits come to earth. A cat, I am sure, could walk on a cloud without coming through. ~Jules Verne

A cat pours his body on the floor like water. ~William Lyon Phelps

There is no more intrepid explorer than a kitten. ~Jules Champfleury

A cat improves the garden wall in sunshine, and the hearth in foul weather. ~Judith Merkle Riley

A cat's got her own opinion of human beings. She don't say much, but you can tell enough to make you anxious not to hear the whole of it. ~Jerome K. Jerome

I wish I could write as mysterious as a cat. ~Edgar Allan Poe

The cat seldom interferes with other people's rights. His intelligence keeps him from doing many of the fool things that complicate life. ~Carl Van Vechten

Cats come and go without ever leaving. ~Martha Curtis

Cats seem to go on the principle that it never does any harm to ask for what you want. ~Joseph Wood Krutch

You will always be lucky if you know how to make friends with strange cats. ~Proverb

The ideal of calm exists in a sitting cat. ~Jules Reynard

Are we really sure the purring is coming from the kitty and not from our very own hearts? ~Emme Woodhull-Bäche, translated

Dogs come when they're called; cats take a message and get back to you later. ~Mary Bly

The cat is the only animal which accepts the comforts but rejects the bondage of domesticity. ~Georges Louis Leclerc de Buffon

The city of cats and the city of men exist one inside the other, but they are not the same city. ~Italo Calvino

If you are allergic to a thing, it is best not to put that thing in your mouth, particularly if the thing is cats. ~Lemony Snicket

My cat speaks sign language with her tail. ~Robert A. Stern

Some people say that cats are sneaky, evil, and cruel. True, and they have many other fine qualities as well. ~Missy Dizick

In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this. ~Terry Pratchett

Authors like cats because they are such quiet, lovable, wise creatures, and cats like authors for the same reasons. ~Robertson Davies

The cat is domestic only as far as suits its own ends. ~Saki

Cats are intended to teach us that not everything in nature has a purpose. ~Garrison Keillor

Most cats, when they are Out want to be In, and vice versa, and often simultaneously. ~Louis J. Camuti

Kittens believe that all nature is occupied with their diversion. ~F.A. Paradis de Moncrif

What greater gift than the love of a cat? ~Charles Dickens

Before a cat will condescend

To treat you as a trusted friend,

Some little token of esteem

Is needed, like a dish of cream.

~T.S. Eliot

People that hate cats will come back as mice in their next life. ~Faith Resnick

Most of us rather like our cats to have a streak of wickedness. I should not feel quite easy in the company of any cat that walked about the house with a saintly expression. ~Beverly Nichols

Kittens are angels with whiskers. ~Author Unknown

Even if you have just destroyed a Ming Vase, purr. Usually all will be forgiven. ~Lenny Rubenstein

You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. ~Albert Einstein

Purring would seem to be, in her case, an automatic safety valve device for dealing with happiness overflow. ~Monica Edwards

It is in the nature of cats to do a certain amount of unescorted roaming. ~Adlai Stevenson

A cat bitten once by a snake dreads even rope. ~Arab Proverb

Cats have intercepted my footsteps at the ankle for so long that my gait, both at home and on tour, has been compared to that of a man wading through low surf. ~Roy Blount, Jr.

Like a graceful vase, a cat, even when motionless, seems to flow. ~George F. Will

When your kitty purrs to you, doesn't it break your heart that you can't purr back? ~Candea Core-Starke

You own a dog but you feed a cat. ~Jenny de Vries

Everything I know I learned from my cat: When you're hungry, eat. When you're tired, nap in a sunbeam. When you go to the vet's, pee on your owner. ~Gary Smith

Sometimes he curls up on my pillow during the night and I don't know he's there until I yawn and my mouth closes on a whisker. ~Astrid Alauda

A cat isn't fussy - just so long as you remember he likes his milk in the shallow, rose-patterned saucer and his fish on the blue plate. From which he will take it, and eat it off the floor. ~Arthur Bridges

Some circumstantial evidence is very strong, as when you find a trout in the milk. ~Henry David Thoreau

There is no snooze button on a cat who wants breakfast. ~Author Unknown

Kittens can happen to anyone. ~Paul Gallico

It is impossible for a lover of cats to banish these alert, gentle, and discriminating little friends, who give us just enough of their regard and complaisance to make us hunger for more. ~Agnes Repplier

No heaven will not ever Heaven be

Unless my cats are there to welcome me.

~Author Unknown

The cat is the animal to whom the Creator gave the biggest eye, the softest fur, the most supremely delicate nostrils, a mobile ear, an unrivaled paw and a curved claw borrowed from the rose-tree. ~Colette

A cat is the only domestic animal I know who toilet trains itself and does a damned impressive job of it. ~Joseph Epstein

Cats conspire to keep us at arm's length. ~Frank Perkins

I have studied many philosophers and many cats. The wisdom of cats is infinitely superior. ~Hippolyte Taine

There is, incidentally, no way of talking about cats that enables one to come off as a sane person. ~Dan Greenberg

Although all cat games have their rules and rituals, these vary with the individual player. The cat, of course, never breaks a rule. If it does not follow precedent, that simply means it has created a new rule and it is up to you to learn it quickly if you want the game to continue. ~Sidney Denham

People who love cats have some of the biggest hearts around. ~Susan Easterly

Prowling his own quiet backyard or asleep by the fire, he is still only a whisker away from the wilds. ~Jean Burden

The trouble with a kitten is that

Eventually it becomes a cat.

~Ogden Nash

Cats can be cooperative when something feels good, which, to a cat, is the way everything is supposed to feel as much of the time as possible. ~Roger Caras

The man who carries a cat by the tail learns something that can be learned in no other way. ~Mark Twain

When you're used to hearing purring and suddenly it's gone, it's hard to silence the blaring sound of sadness. ~Missy Altijd

Any conditioned cat-hater can be won over by any cat who chooses to make the effort. ~Paul Corey

Keep an eye on the cat and another on the frying pan. ~Proverb

Cats are dangerous companions for writers because cat watching is a near-perfect method of writing avoidance. ~Dan Greenburg

Psychologists now recognize that the need in some people to have a dozen cats is really a sublimated desire to have two dozen cats. ~Robert Brault,www.robertbrault.com

It always gives me a shiver when I see a cat seeing what I can't see. ~Eleanor Farjeon

Way down deep, we're all motivated by the same urges. Cats have the courage to live by them. ~Jim Davis

Cats speak a subtle language in which few sounds carry many meanings, depending on how they are sung or purred. "Mnrhnh" means comfortable soft chairs. It also means fish. It means genial companionship... and the absence of dogs. ~Val Schaffner

People that don't like cats haven't met the right one yet. ~Deborah A. Edwards

Another cat? Perhaps. For love there is also a season; its seeds must be resown. But a family cat is not replaceable like a wornout coat or a set of tires. Each new kitten becomes its own cat, and none is repeated. I am four cats old, measuring out my life in friends that have succeeded but not replaced one another. ~Irving Townsend

I love cats because I love my home and after a while they become its visible soul. ~Jean Cocteau

By and large, people who enjoy teaching animals to roll over will find themselves happier with a dog. ~Barbara Holland

You cannot look at a sleeping cat and feel tense. ~Jane Pauley

If by chance I seated myself to write, she very slyly, very tenderly, seeking protection and caresses, would softly take her place on my knee and follow the comings and goings of my pen -sometimes effacing, with an unintentional stroke of her paw, lines of whose tenor she disapproved. ~Pierre Loti

You can keep a dog; but it is the cat who keeps people, because cats find humans useful domestic animals. ~George Mikes

I named my kitten Rose - fur soft as a petal, claws sharper than thorns. ~Astrid Alauda

If he is comic, it is only because of the incongruity of so demure a look and so wild a heart. ~Alan Devoe

To err is human, to purr is feline. ~Robert Byrne

Cat lovers can readily be identified. Their clothes always look old and well used. Their sheets look like bath towels and their bath towels look like a collection of knitting mistakes. ~Eric Gurney

The cat loves fish, but she's loath to wet her feet. ~Proverb

Do you see that kitten chasing so prettily her own tail? If you could look with her eyes, you might see her surrounded with hundreds of figures performing complex dramas, with tragic and comic issues, long conversations, many characters, many ups and downs of fate. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

I don't think it is so much the actual bath that most cats dislike; I think it's the fact that they have to spend a good part of the day putting their hair back in place. ~Debbie Peterson

The way to keep a cat is to try to chase it away. ~E.W. Howe

Those who play with cats must expect to be scratched. ~Proverb

To bathe a cat takes brute force, perseverance, courage of conviction - and a cat. The last ingredient is usually hardest to come by. ~Stephen Baker

I pet her and she pays me back in purrs. ~Star Richés

Cats are the ultimate narcissists. You can tell this because of all the time they spend on personal grooming. Dogs aren't like this. A dog's idea of personal grooming is to roll on a dead fish. ~James Gorman

The best kind of alarm clock is the purring kind. ~Alexis F. Hope

Cats as a class, have never completely got over the snootiness caused by that fact that in Ancient Egypt they were worshipped as gods. ~P.G. Wodehouse

Some people say man is the most dangerous animal on the planet. Obviously those people have never met an angry cat. ~Lillian Johnson

Time spent with cats is never wasted. ~May Sarton

A cat is a lion in a jungle of small bushes. ~Indian Proverb

People meeting for the first time suddenly relax if they find they both have cats. And plunge into anecdote. ~Charlotte Gray

Any household with at least one feline member has no need for an alarm clock. ~Louise A. Belcher

Who would believe such pleasure from a wee ball o' fur? ~Irish Saying

Dogs have owners, cats have staff. ~Author Unknown

One must love a cat on its own terms. ~Paul Gray

The sun rose slowly, like a fiery furball coughed up uneasily onto a sky-blue carpet by a giant unseen cat. ~Michael McGarel

A kitten is the most irresistible comedian in the world. Its wide-open eyes gleam with wonder and mirth. It darts madly at nothing at all, and then, as though suddenly checked in the pursuit, prances sideways on its hind legs with ridiculous agility and zeal. ~Agnes Repplier

Dogs eat. Cats dine. ~Ann Taylor

She clawed her way into my heart and wouldn't let go. ~Missy Altijd

Of all the toys available, none is better designed than the owner himself. A large multipurpose plaything, its parts can be made to move in almost any direction. It comes completely assembled, and it makes a sound when you jump on it. ~Stephen Baker

No matter how much the cats fight, there always seem to be plenty of kittens. ~Abraham Lincoln

The dog may be wonderful prose, but only the cat is poetry. ~French Proverb

The cat has always been associated with the moon. Like the moon it comes to life at night, escaping from humanity and wandering over housetops with its eyes beaming out through the darkness. ~Patricia Dale-Green

Ignorant people think it is the noise which fighting cats make that is so aggravating, but it ain't so; it is the sickening grammar that they use. ~Mark Twain

Cats never strike a pose that isn't photogenic. ~Lillian Jackson Braun

Who hath a better friend than a cat? ~William Hardwin

Nobody who is not prepared to spoil cats will get from them the reward they are able to give to those who do spoil them. ~Compton MacKenzie

A cat is a puzzle for which there is no solution. ~Hazel Nicholson

Always the cat remains a little beyond the limits we try to set for him in our blind folly. ~Andre Norton

When a cat chooses to be friendly, it's a big deal, because a cat is picky. ~Mike Deupree

If purring could be encapsulated, it'd be the most powerful anti-depressant on the pharmaceutical market. ~Alexis F. Hope

He liked companionship, but he wouldn't be petted, or fussed over, or sit in anyone's lap a moment; he always extricated himself from such familiarity with dignity and with no show of temper. If there was any petting to be done, however, he chose to do it. Often he would sit looking at me, and then, moved by a delicate affection, come and pull at my coat and sleeve until he could touch my face with his nose, and then go away contented. ~Charles Dudley Warner

Even overweight, cats instinctively know the cardinal rule: when fat, arrange yourself in slim poses. ~John Weitz

In the middle of a world that had always been a bit mad, the cat walks with confidence. ~Rosanne Amberson

Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet. ~Colette

The cat does not offer services. The cat offers itself. Of course he wants care and shelter. You don't buy love for nothing. Like all pure creatures, cats are practical. ~William S. Burroughs

One cat just leads to another. ~Ernest Hemingway

Women, poets, and especially artists, like cats; delicate natures only can realize their sensitive systems. ~Helen M. Winslow

Most beds sleep up to six cats. Ten cats without the owner. ~Stephen Baker

A cat is a tiger that is fed by hand. ~Proverb

I put down my book, The Meaning of Zen, and see the cat smiling into her fur as she delicately combs it with her rough pink tongue. "Cat, I would lend you this book to study but it appears you have already read it." She looks up and gives me her full gaze. "Don't be ridiculous," she purrs, "I wrote it." ~Dilys Laing, "Miao"

Who among us hasn't envied a cat's ability to ignore the cares of daily life and to relax completely? ~Karen Brademeyer

Cats only pretend to be domesticated if they think there's a bowl of milk in it for them. ~Robin Williams

Every dog has his day - but the nights are reserved for the cats. ~Author Unknown

A kitten is so flexible that she is almost double; the hind parts are equivalent to another kitten with which the forepart plays. She does not discover that her tail belongs to her until you tread on it. ~Henry David Thoreau

Your cat may never have to hunt farther than the kitchen counter for its supper nor face a predator more fierce than the vacuum cleaner. ~Barbara L. Diamond

One of the most striking differences between a cat and a lie is that a cat has only nine lives. ~Mark Twain

A meow massages the heart. ~Stuart McMillan

The domestic cat seems to have greater confidence in itself than in anyone else. ~Lawrence N. Johnson

If a dog jumps into your lap, it is because he is fond of you; but if a cat does the same thing, it is because your lap is warmer. ~Alfred North Whitehead

Cats are to dogs what modern people are to the people we used to have. Cats are slimmer, cleaner, more attractive, disloyal, and lazy. It's easy to understand why the cat has eclipsed the dog as modern America's favorite pet. People like pets to possess the same qualities they do. Cats are irresponsible and recognize no authority, yet are completely dependent on others for their material needs. Cats cannot be made to do anything useful. Cats are mean for the fun of it. In fact, cats possess so many of the same qualities as some people (expensive girlfriends, for instance) that it's often hard to tell the people and the cats apart. ~P.J. O'Rourke, Modern Manners

It's really the cat's house - we just pay the mortgage. ~Author Unknown

Cats are notoriously sore losers. Coming in second best, especially to someone as poorly coordinated as a human being, grates their sensibility. ~Stephen Baker

Does the father figure in your cat's life ever clean the litter box? My husband claims that men lack the scooping gene. ~Barbara L. Diamond

If I tried to tell you how much I love my cats, you wouldn't believe me - unless your heart is also meow-shaped and covered in stray fur. ~Lexie Saige

Some people have cats and go on to lead normal lives. ~Author Unknown

Cats have an infallible understanding of total concentration - and get between you and it. ~Arthur Bridges

Four little Persians, but only one looked in my direction. I extended a tentative finger and two soft paws clung to it. There was a contented sound of purring, I suspect on both our parts. ~George Freedley

We should be careful to get out of an experience only the wisdom that is in it and stop there, lest we be like the cat that sits down on a hot stove-lid. She will never sit down on a hot stove-lid again, and that is well; but also she will never sit down on a cold one anymore. ~Mark Twain

I have noticed that what cats most appreciate in a human being is not the ability to produce food which they take for granted, but his or her entertainment value. ~Author Unknown

It is remarkable, in cats, that the outer life they reveal to their masters is one of perpetual boredom. ~Robley Wilson, Jr.

He swings from the chandelier, he paws my peanut butter, and he knocks over my drink in the most unfortunate places in the house - but I still love him like crazy. It's like a hairball in my heart. ~Audra Foveo-Alba

The smart cat doesn't let on that he is. ~H.G. Frommer

If I called her she would pretend not to hear, but would come a few moments later when it could appear that she had thought of doing so first. ~Arthur Weigall

I am as vigilant as a cat to steal cream. ~William Shakespeare, Henry IV

A beating heart and an angel's soul, covered in fur. ~Lexie Saige

If we treated everyone we meet with the same affection we bestow upon our favorite cat, they, too, would purr. ~Martin Buxbaum

The cat was created when the lion sneezed. ~Arabian Proverb

The cat is above all things, a dramatist. ~Margaret Benson

Meow is like aloha - it can mean anything. ~Hank Ketchum

An ordinary kitten will ask more questions than any five year old. ~Carl Van Vechten

Cats were put into the world to disprove the dogma that all things were created to serve man. ~Paul Gray

If the claws didn't retract, cats would be like Velcro. ~Bruce Fogle

A cat determined not to be found can fold itself up like a pocket handkerchief if it wants to. ~Louis J. Camuti

Most cats do not approach humans recklessly. The possibility of concealed weapons, clods or sticks, tend to make them reserved. Homeless cats in particular - with some justification, unfortunately - consider humans their natural enemies. Much ceremony must be observed, and a number of diplomatic feelers put out, before establishing a state of truce. ~Lloyd Alexander

God made the cat in order that man might have the pleasure of caressing the lion. ~Fernand Mery

When a cat speaks, it's because it has something to say, unlike humans who are the great refuse containers of speech. ~V.L. Allineare

Cats are smarter than dogs. You can't get eight cats to pull a sled through snow. ~Jeff Valdez

If only cats grew into kittens. ~R. Stern

If there were to be a universal sound depicting peace, I would surely vote for the purr. ~Barbara L. Diamond

Oh... there I am!

2010-01-13T15:23:00.015-05:00

Many moons have past since I posted last...

November to be exact.

Blame it on the holidays if you will,

but my tongue was caught by the cat. :)

Please follow along while I find my voice again. I am working on all sorts of art full of life things that I can't wait to share with you, including a studio move, a valentine proposal and an artist of the month event. But until then... Be good and don't hit your brother! :) xoxo - Kim

Illustration Friday Topic: Unbalanced

2009-11-14T11:35:00.006-05:00

This IF topic could not have come at a more appropriate time...

as I am completely feeling totally UnBaLaNCed at this given moment!

Here's an old sketch that definitely lends itself to my definition of Unbalanced!!!

Thanks for taking the time!

xoxo - Kim

2009-11-09T21:45:00.001-05:00

Give Me FIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-11-08T00:15:00.017-05:00

THE FIFTH DAY OF BLOGGING HAS ARRIVED... Actually I almost missed it. I had already hopped into bed and started watching the Telly, when ... BoNK.. it hit me right on the head that I had not blogged. If it weren't for having been so committed to the first four days, I probably would have just hit *SNOOZE*zzzzzzzzzzzz

Though I have Blogged for Five, I didn't share half of what I was planning to! And now sadly most of the stuff I wanted to share is dated... but I did promise my little guy Owen that I would post his Farm Trip photos to my blog.... So here we go! Watch where you step and mind the pictures, they are a little fuzzy - it's camera phone photography at it's best!

Owen catches dinner! These poor chickens had 15 or more 6 year olds chasing after them... I've never seen anything like it! Notice the children in the background catching Hens too!

Chow time... Don't be mistaken by their goat like appearance...

these were some greedy little Pigs!!!

Ahhhh the Hay Ride...

Just how many boys can you fit on a tractor?

Notice there are NO GIRLS!!!!!!!! ohh maybe just one!

Oink Oink!

Makes you want one huh! Loved this pig!

SMILE & Say PuMpKiN!

-------------------

Just before Halloween, Krista and I had the pleasure of painting fall windows for our children's classrooms....

Let me just say even though Owen is wearing a jumper in this photo, the FLORIDA weather outside was NOT feeling like Fall :(

Anyway, that's it for now....

Thanks for taking the time to see what I've been up to for 5 DAYS!

:) xoxo - Kim

Dear Santa....

2009-11-06T20:37:00.004-05:00

It's that time of year again, ready or not!

So put on your Jingle Bells and dust off your Holiday Spirit!

-------------------------------------

It was my honor to illustrate the above promo for

The Orlando Repertory Theater/ Dear Santa Production

Here are the details...

Dear Santa

By Norm Foster

November 20, 2009 - December 20, 2009

It is the time of year to peek into the magical and timeless world of the North Pole, bustling workshops, cheerful elves and the jolly old leader himself, Santa Claus. Santa’s efficient, yet frenzied Chief of Staff, the ditzy housekeeper with a secret crush, the high-pressure sleigh salesman and the workshop foreman who does not quite command the English language all combine to keep the place running like clockwork, with the exception of a few mishaps. Soon, a request from one child’s letter throws everything off course and the answer lies in rediscovering the Christmas spirit. Fun for the whole family.

Show times: Fridays at 7pm, Saturdays at 2pm & 7pm and Sundays at 2pm

Sonny’s Family Night – December 12th, 2009

Dinner: 5:30 pm Show: 7:00 pm

Backstage Tour - December 5th after the 2pm show

Thanks to my friend Jeff Revels of The Orlando Repertory Theater for this special opportunity!

This completes my FOURTH DAY OF BLOGG'N

Thanks for taking a look. xoxo - Kim

Falling Backwards Just To Get Ahead

2009-11-06T00:23:00.010-05:00

Today was a humble day.
It was a day of giving up things in order to gain....

A peace of mind...
An extra penny in the pocket...
A surreal sense of reality in the world we live in...

Today was a day to realize what really matters... and what really doesn't.

Thanks to Today, I believe in the Possibilities of Tomorrow!

Cheers to the Third Day of BloGGinG!
Thanks for Taking the Time!
xoxo - Kim

RIP my Sweet Iphone!

On the Second Day of Blogging... la dah dee dah dee dah

2009-11-04T21:34:00.008-05:00

Because I may have over blogged my welcome yesterday and because I just arrived home at 9:21pm from my 11 year old's soccer practice (you'd think he was playing pro with the practice schedule), I am keeping this blog post Short and Sweet...

It's that time again for Go Green at Artistree Co-op (formally known as Cottage Industry). FREE Mimosas & Dessert!!! For those of you who are not re-gifting this year, Artistree Co-op is the place to shop. FREE Mimosas & Dessert!!! Featuring the brilliant talents of local Central Florida Artists, your handmade gift purchases will be adored by all those who receive! FREE Mimosas & Dessert!!! Many of the Artists will be on location to meet and greet! And if that doesn't persuade you... there will be FREE Mimosas & Dessert!!! :)

Please comment below to RVSP !!! :)

Thanks for taking the time!

Come back tomorrow for the 3rd Day of BLOGGIN'

:) xoxoxo

- Kim

Playing Catch up

2009-11-03T19:34:00.025-05:00

Hi Strangers... I am back... from doing nothing and everything!

You know how there's this thing that you need to do and you want to do, but you can't find time to do and then when you do find time to do it, its like you don't know where to start for all the things that have piled up. That would be my blog! I have a list from here to Timbuktu of the things I have to gab about. That's why I have scheduled my mind for FIVE DAYS OF BLOGGING.... So BeWaRe!!! First things first - I had a Birthday (October 21)!!!!!!!!!!

You'll never guess how old I am... that's what I said to the 12 year old cashier who carded me for my bottle of wine the other day. She wasn't as amused as I was! So just for kicks, take a wild guess how old I am... I will give you a few clues....

Yep you guessed it 29!

For my birthday I got some great gifts from my blogger & artist friends.

TJ who shares the same birthday as me, sent me lots of yummy goodies from Holland!!

Dutch cookies, candies & cute as pie illustrations!

Just look at this adorable card TJ made for me!!! And for when I go to visit...

she sent me a book on How to survive Holland... Love the humor in this book!

Thank you TJ for all my goodies!!! xoxoxo

Check out TJ's Blogspot here to see

her lovely illustrations that are sooooo full of charm!

I sent her one of my mermaids for her birthday too!

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My good friend Krista from The Accidental Artist gave me a beaded print of her Faith Hope & Love print. I've been begging her for this one and so it was a super lovely surprise to receive it as a gift for my birthday! Thank you my friend!!! You know I LoVe it!

---------------------------------

My dear friend Lauren treated me to dinner and gave me this Vera Bradley Tea & Journal set.

Since I have given up my habitual morning take out coffee, I have been collecting mugs and teacups to soothe my soul.... this one does it for sure!!!! Thanks Sweet Lauren!!!

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My little sister Emily from Pretty Girl in Maitland hooked me up with some Earl Grey Tea and my most favorite thing ever... a Mermaid travel mug from Starbucks. Emily recently started working at Starbucks part time, in between photography shoots! So Yay - I've got connections!

----------------------------------------------------------------------

And from my boys.... I got the best gift ever!!!!!!!!! :)

A super BIG & HUGE button that says......

And yes I wore it ALL day! :)

PLUS

WHEELS!!! I got wheels too!!! A Toyota 4-Runner to be exact...

I will say it wasn't a surprise as I knew it was coming eventually. My husband and I have been sharing a car for a what seemed like forever (3 weeks to be exact). This being because He sold my other Beloved hunk of junk on Craig's List (that's a whole other story that I will save for a rainy day). So perhaps it was just good timing, but it was incredible to get new wheels on my birthday.

It was truly an aMaZiNG day... I am blessed!!! And I am cool with being 38, I am older but wiser and STILL GETTING CARDED!!!! :)

Sooo with all that said.... I will start planning

THE SECOND DAY OF BLOGGING!!!

See you tomorrow!

Thanks for taking a peek!!

xoxoxo - Kim

Illustration Topic: Frozen

2009-10-16T16:23:00.007-04:00

Just waiting on some "frozen" weather in Florida!

xoxox- Kim

Faith Hope Cure

2009-10-15T22:42:00.004-04:00

In loving memory of those who have lost their lives to breast cancer.

In great honor of those who have survived... may we find a cure!

xoxo - Kim

Mermaids xoxox

2009-10-07T12:13:00.019-04:00

Recovering from my creative block... I've been in the mood for MerMaiDs... One of my most favorite things to create. Mermaids are sooo whimsical and mysterious... both traits I love!

...

The above Mermaid - Searching for LoVe will be available for sale in Cottage Industry on Friday, with altered prints soon to follow for sale in my Etsy shoppe (which I've sadly neglected lately - but not for long - keep watch for the update).

...

The below hanging mermaid dolls are for sale now in Cottage Industry & Alada's China & Gifts (they will soon follow in my Etsy Shoppe). Swimming from a whimsy twist of beads and wire, these mermaids are hand painted on duck cloth by me then stitched up by friend

Erin at One Lucky Baby

'cuz it's no secret that I can't sew... not yet anyway!!!

Check out Erin's Etsy Shoppe - LoVe her work- You will too!!!

Okay so that's it....

I am so happy to have my mojo back and I have lots of

creative wonders wandering around in my head!

I hope you will soon stop back by to see what I've been up too!!!

xoxox - Kim

sWeeT tWeeT

2009-10-05T17:13:00.010-04:00

Lately I've been feeling blah... going through a bit a of a creative block...

then a little bird pecked me on the head and told me to Knock It Off.

Thanks for the positive tweets KJB :)

- Kim xoxox

Illustration Friday Topic: Pattern

2009-09-25T09:04:00.005-04:00

Unfortunately I can not sew a dress from a pattern

.... but I can paint one! :)

Thanks for taken the time to see

what I've been up to!

xoxox - Kim

Illustration Topic - Infinite

2009-09-19T00:33:00.007-04:00

True LoVe is INFINITE

Celebrating 11 years!

:) Thanks for taking a peek!

xoxo - Kim

Portrait of an Artist...

2009-09-11T00:21:00.026-04:00

So normally, I wouldn't post posed photographs of myself on my blog or anywhere else for that matter. Mainly because, well lets be honest I usually look like a GOON in photographs. I am either blinking, making quirky faces or showing off 5 chins... it does not make for pretty!!!

...But after my super extreme haircut I decided it was time to update some photos and create my new Artist Profile, if you will.... :)

Bloggers Beware.... I am about to brag... not about my un-natural born beauty, but about the talented eye behind the camera, my little sister, Emily Brown. Starting out, Emily was best know for her incredible self portraits taken with just the click of her cellphone camera (see below). She has since invested in a new camera and is making a go of it professionally!

------------------------------------------------

So off we went on a beautiful Florida Sunny/Rainy Day.... And Voila, see for yourself ... AMAZING... if I do say so myself! :) Not quirky...Not blinking...And no 5 chin pile up! Just simply Lovely & Amazing!

Thank you Emily for a fabulous day

and making me look less like a GOON.

YOU are Lovely & Amazing!!!

Love You!!! xoxox

AND to the rest of you folks....

Thanks for taking the time!

:) xoxoxooo - Kim

Cheers to Happy Endings & New Beginnings!

2009-09-07T09:22:00.023-04:00

Aaaaachooo!

Please excuse the dust that has settled upon this blog, for it has been a few weeks since we have posted. Well... we've been busy with this and that.... For one, our kids have all started school again, which was so bitterlysweet. The new found silence in our homes is both lonely and blissful.

Kim celebrated a wedding anniversary (11 years - whoo hoo) & a high school reunion (20 years - oh my!!!) And... she got an extreme haircut.... yikes :) ! Krista has been...super busy painting,and filling orders (yay!), going green one dryer at a time (not so good), and working as a part time chauffeur for two very busy kiddos!

Might we mention that Soggy Dog Studios has been operating as both an art studio and an animal rescue these past few weeks as coincidentally enough, we both found stray dogs. We must smell like milk bones!

And of course there's been soccer, Pop Warner football, cheerleading(Go South Lake) and a little bit of art making to boot!

Ok - so now that we have caught you up with the going-ons in our lives.... you might have noticed a bit of a change around here.... which brings us to our Announcement...

Roll the Tape...

So there it is people.... for all you gossipers & drama queens - there's no turmoil here... :) We each simply needed more space to spread our wings and claim our own identities.

Now quit wasting time and hop on over to Krista's blog... right here!

You can also shop till you drop at her new Etsy store right here

And forever and always, thanks for taken the time to see what we've been up too!!!

xoxoxooo - Kim & Krista

Illustration Friday Topic: Wrapped

2009-08-17T00:27:00.002-04:00

Wrapped in beautiful striped green rind....

It's Mother Nature's gift to the Summer....

Watermelon! :)

Watch out for the seeds People!

xoxo :) - Kim

Stay Tuned....

2009-08-12T20:13:00.005-04:00

We have an announcement!

Stay Tuned!

Kim & Krista

xoxoxoooo

Family Portrait

2009-08-10T16:32:00.018-04:00

Today

O and I decided to paint together.

He immediately wanted to paint a fleet of Clone Troopers from Star Wars

...But I talked him into a family portrait instead.

It definitely was a collaboration on both our parts.

We had such a grand ole fun and messy time that

silly me forgot to take pictures of the actual painting process...

But anywaze....

Without further ado, it is my honor to introduce to you....

The Turners

by Owen & his Mom

Dad & Mom, the Boys

Halo & Gracie Gray (our felines)

Golden Beach (our retired racing rescue greyhound)

& of course...

The Soggy Dog.

Well off to the park we go...

Thanks for taken a peek! :) oxoxoxooooo - Kim

Illustration Friday Topic - Impatience

2009-08-07T11:53:00.008-04:00

We live in an impatient world these days...

Gone are the days of pen pals and postcards.

You'll see this little love note girl is tucked all over the place,

but I was too impatient to create something new today.

Thanks for taken a peek! :) xoxooo - Kim

VoTe 4 Emily... Again and Again! :)

2009-08-06T01:45:00.007-04:00

A BiG FaT ThAnK YoU

to all of you that have voted for my

little sister's photo...

She is getting closer and closer with each vote!

Please continue to VoTe!

Thanks Again! xoxo - Kim

My Favorite Photo (I've Ever Taken)
Brickfish

Meeting My Muse!

2009-08-01T20:33:00.027-04:00

I attended the Craft Super Show today in Orlando. Although it was a little more Scrappy & Crafty than Artsy, it was still a sweet treat. I met an artist, who's art I grew up with hanging in the halls and all over the walls. Mary Engelbreit! She was my mother's most favorite artist of all time...besides me :)! And though my mom has sadly past away, Mary's artwork still hangs from the walls of my childhood home. Her inspirational art will always be an influence to me.

Mary told her story of how she got started, drawing as a child, working several artsy jobs, contributing to greeting cards, then starting her own company and so on. Her journey to success was just what I needed to hear. During these irritable economic times, thoughts often cross my mind if I should pack up the paint brushes and paint and join the outside workforce.

And then she said it.... ME, the Queen of Everything said...

"There are lots of ways to make a living making art".

My ahhhha ha ha moment.... My living CAN be made with paper, pencils, paint & paste, some imagination and a whole lot of faith! Mary's words of wisdom gave me hope that I am doing what I need to be doing, and if I paint it, they will come. :)

Excuse the blurry photos...

Where is my photo-genius sister when I need her?

And now I begin my collection of ME on the walls and in the halls!

So folks that's it for the Saturday Evening Post....

I am off to the Farmers Market for a nice hot & steamy Sunday morning!

A Big Fat Thank You for Taking the Time! :) xoxoxo - Kim

Welcoming Other Words of Wisdom... Leave me a note below! :)

Illustration Friday Topic: - Modify

2009-07-31T23:01:00.002-04:00

Vincent's Bedroom in Arles modified.

I imagine this is what it would have looked like when he was a kid.

Thanks for taking a peek! :) xoxo - Kim

Vote 4 Emily

2009-07-27T21:50:00.014-04:00

photo courtesy of Lollipop Studios

My beautiful little sister Emily just graduated from high school... (for those of you doing the math, yes I am in fact 20 years older).

Emily is a BRILLIANT photographer. Her work includes gorgeous self portraits, breathtaking nature scenes, cosmic companion candids and heart-strung pet photographs.

She needs your votes to win a scholarship for school.

Please help the girl out and VOTE for her awesome picture.

VOTE HERE

Thank you so much for supporting the Future Artists of America!

Thanks Yall !!!!

xoxoxo :) - Kim

Illustration Friday Topic: - Idle

2009-07-24T21:41:00.002-04:00

Idle Speed Ahead

Thanks for taken a peek!

:) - xoxo - Kim

Volna egy nagy utazás! (Have a great trip)

2009-07-23T10:25:00.017-04:00

FLAT SOGGY SUMMER TOUR 2009

On vacation with some great friends of mine - The Corbos -

Flat Soggy traveled to Budapest Hungary & Vienna Austria!

Take a look at the various sights that Soggy saw!

Nick helping Flat Soggy on to the airplane...

(he was a little nervous his first time)

Great photo opportunity with Linda & friend!

Claudia & Flat Soggy on the subway - City Slickers!

Flat Soggy makes friends with a Local! :)

Nick & his cousin show Flat Soggy a bird's eye view!

Flat Soggy goes for a swim.

Flat Soggy tells Claudia to just follow her nose,

but she insists on checking the map anyway!

Hey - Is that Godzilla?.... Nope it's Flat Soggy Dog...

Watch Out people below!!!! :)

A great big Sloppy Soggy Smooch to

Linda, Nick, Claudia and their family and friends

for showing Flat Soggy a super time over the ocean and across the earth!

Send us an e-mail or comment here to have

Flat Soggy come out your way for a visit!

Thanks as ALWAYS for taking the time to see what we've been up to!

xoxo - Kim

Christmas in July or something of the sort...

2009-07-18T21:00:00.009-04:00

Looky Looky at what I got in the mail today....

It's the Orlando Repertory Theater 2009-2010 Season Promo!

.....And it features my illustration for the Dear Santa production!

Take the whole family to see this wonderful production!

What a great way to celebrate the upcoming holiday!

All productions by The Orlando Rep are Must See Events!

Here is the 2009 - 2010 Schedule - So save the date!

Charlotte's Web

September 12, 2009 - October 11, 2009

How I Became a Pirate

October 10, 2009 - November 8, 2009

Dear Santa

November 20, 2009 - December 20, 2009

The Giver

January 29, 2010 - February 28, 2010

Berenstain Bears On Stage

February 27, 2010 - March 28, 2010

Ramona Quimby

April 17, 2010 - May 23, 2010

Visit the Orlando Rep for more information.

Thanks for supporting your local performing arts... and fine arts too!

xox Kim :)

Under The Sea Swap

2009-07-12T07:00:00.002-04:00

I was so thrilled to find a package in the mail sent from my Under the Sea Swap Buddy, Amy from Heart of A Seed. There she is below. Her name is Emmaleen! Isn't she adorable. Love Her!!! She now keeps me company in my studio, watching me run mermaids through my assembly line. (Photos are courtesy of Amy).

Below is Lucy the Mermaid that I made to swap with Amy. Let me just say, this was my first ever attempt at doll making. I've since made several more and they are selling faster than I can make them, so I would like to thank Zan at Wild At Heart Art for hosting the underwater swap and giving me the opportunity to discover my little gift of making Mermaids.

I make these mermaids in memory of a good friend, Matthew Beard. He was amazing guy who dedicated his life to saving the coral reefs. His research continues to be studied by other scientists in hopes of saving our oceans and our world. To learn more about how to save the coral reef SanctuaryFriends.org .

Thanks for taking the time to see what we've been up to!

:) - Kim

IF Topic: Hollow (by Krista)

2009-07-10T21:59:00.006-04:00

Fill your hollow heart with Faith, Hope & Love
-Krista

IF Topic: Shaky (by Krista)

2009-07-10T20:36:00.006-04:00

His new found super powers are a little shaky, making him one week

behind in Illustration Friday Posts!

Created with a certain little boy in mind.

Prints are available in our etsy shop soon!

-Krista

IF Topic: Hollow (by Kim)

2009-07-10T16:43:00.004-04:00

Sock Monkeys have Hollow noggins!

"See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil

Print Available Here!

:) Thanks for taking the time to stop by! :) - Kim

Illustration Friday: SHAKY (by Kim)

2009-07-10T12:07:00.005-04:00

Kitty's got the shakes on roller skates!

Well the Joke is on me - I thought I was posting to the current Illustration Friday Topic - Shaky - but apparently that was last week's Topic. Back to the drawing board, so to speak.

:) - Kim

Soggy Dog Studios

Illustration Friday / Topic: Ferocious

Illustration Friday: Remedy

Mr. & Mrs.

Illustration Friday: Midsummer Night

News Flash: Summer Is Here

Wish

Home Clean Home!

Imagine

Desperately Seeking Sanity!

Third Thursday Gallery Hop

HV2U

All You Need Is Love at Artistree Co-op on February 11 !!!

Words to LiVe by in 2011! xox

Goodbye 2010...

Swap Swamped!

The GREAT BIG Stitched Postcard Swap

Upcycle... it's the new Recycle

Flyday Friday!

Illustration Friday Topic- Old Fashioned

HB2U Mom

Buying Handmade in Central Florida

Hurray - Latest Works of Art!

Wonder

My Travels...

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

Dinna and her French husband Laurent own a Charcuterie, a gourmet type bistro offering varieties of foods cooked with pork. It is nestled among cobblestone streets in a city, centuries old.

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

The sea side in the South of France is like no other on Earth... Especially since I haven't been to any other seas on Earth aside from Florida Beaches, which are hardly a comparison.

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

Not far from Nice is the royal country of Monaco (seen below). Bumper to bumper yachts float the port of this not too shabby city.

My brother in law and his family were on holiday from England via a Mediterranean Cruise and just so happened to be docking in Monaco while I was there. That's what you call good timing!

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

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

Again me and my little Alexi!!!! Love Him!!!

Sweet Treats!!!

Team Up Thursday - Bloom

The Stork Has Arrived...

Team Up Thursday - Keeper

Illustration Friday Topic: - Immovable / HB2U

Team Up Thursday: Bliss

Long Story Short

:) 4th

IF TOPIC: Giant

Illustration Friday Topic: Trail

Illustration Friday Topic: Early

IF Topic: Detective

Illustration Friday Topic: Linked

Illustration Friday Topic: Dip

Tis a wonderful day!

Illustration Topic: Brave

Tick Tock... Splash!

IF TOPIC: Perspective

Oh... there I am!

Illustration Friday Topic: Unbalanced

Give Me FIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dear Santa....

Falling Backwards Just To Get Ahead

On the Second Day of Blogging... la dah dee dah dee dah

Playing Catch up

Illustration Topic: Frozen

Faith Hope Cure

Mermaids xoxox

sWeeT tWeeT

Illustration Friday Topic: Pattern

Illustration Topic - Infinite

Portrait of an Artist...

Cheers to Happy Endings & New Beginnings!

Illustration Friday Topic: Wrapped

Stay Tuned....

Family Portrait

Illustration Friday Topic - Impatience

VoTe 4 Emily... Again and Again! :)

Meeting My Muse!

Illustration Friday Topic: - Modify

Vote 4 Emily

Illustration Friday Topic: - Idle

Volna egy nagy utazás! (Have a great trip)

Christmas in July or something of the sort...

Under The Sea Swap