Pit Bull Lady Designs

Soup for winter (and summer)

2012-01-14T08:45:00.000-05:00

And speaking of which, here's my secret weapon for surviving the holiday aftermath: Soup, capital S! Make a big vat of it and have a bowl before meals to get in your nutrition and take the edge off of hunger. Studies show soup eaters way less than non-soup eaters, woo hoo!

Leanne's Basic Veggie Soup
Serves 12

2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes -- undrained
1 large onion -- chopped
4 cloves garlic -- pressed in a garlic press
2 tablespoons olive oil -- divided
2 large carrots -- chopped
2 small celery stalks -- chopped
1 medium turnip -- chopped
2 cups green beans -- cut in 1" pieces
6 cups chicken broth
1/4 head cabbage -- chopped
1/2 teaspoon thyme
salt and pepper to taste
2 small russet potatoes -- peeled and chopped

In a large soup pot, heat the one tablespoon of the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the onion and cook till nearly translucent, now add the garlic. Don't let the garlic brown and saute another couple of minutes.

Add the rest of the chopped veggies, sauteing for just a couple of minutes. You're not cooking them, just sauteing for the wonderful flavor this quick step will infuse in your soup. Add the thyme and salt and pepper while sauteing.

Now put the veggies in the crockpot, add the tomatoes and broth. Cook on low 7-9 hours (depending on your crockpot) or high 4-6 hours. Just before serving, gently mash some of the potato chunks against the side of the crockpot to thicken the soup, give it a stir, correct the seasoning if necessary, and serve

SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Grilled cheese sandwiches on whole grain bread and a spinach salad.

Quick Fixes for Variations on the Basic Veggie Soup

Now remember, don't do this to the whole pot of soup! Just the little bit you pull out to fix yourself for lunch, etc.

Quick Fix #1: Tex Mex Veggie Soup. Add some (eyeball it?how much do you want?) canned black beans (drained and rinsed), a little bit of cumin and chopped cilantro. Top with some tortilla chips and cheese, or serve with a quesadilla.

Quick Fix #2: Tuscan Veggie Soup. Add some (eyeball it again) canned cannellini (white kidney beans) or white beans (drained and rinse), a little bit of Italian seasoning and some chopped kale. Cook till heated through and the kale is tender.

Quick Fix #3: Minestrone Veggie Soup. Add some cooked pasta, a little dried basil and top with a fresh grating of Parmesan cheese.

Quick Fix #4: Autumn Veggie Soup. Add some diced acorn squash or butternut squash, some cooked brown nice, a sprinkling of nutmeg and some chopped parsley

Love,
Leanne Ely, Your Dinner Diva from http://savingdinner.com
Saving Your Dinner Since 2001
Come and Get It! FR*EE week of Menu-Mailer when you get our Daily Dish

important repost

2011-04-21T08:26:00.000-04:00

http://blessthebullys.wordpress.com/2011/04/20/encouragement-for-the-fight-against-bsl/

Why You Should Fight BSL (and Encouragement for the Battle)
Posted on April 20, 2011
by Bless the Bullys| Leave a comment
I received an exasperated message yesterday from a blog reader. She was frustrated by breed specific legislation and angry that city officials – through arbitrary and discriminatory laws – could force responsible, loving dog owners to give up their dogs. She was discouraged and on the verge of giving up her hope of winning the battle against BSL.

This is for Sandra…

Encouragement for the Fight — The Tide is Turning
By signing the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, our forefathers adopted and gave birth to a new nation, an independent nation, a nation free from oppressive rule and tyranny. The desires that our forefathers laid out in that Declaration set forth so well why we have not only the right, but the obligation, to fight breed specific legislation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. (Declaration of Independence, adopted July 4, 1776)

Unfortunately, all men [and women] are not created equally. The situations in which our freedoms waiver vary from community to community. Discrimination eats at our freedoms based on our gender, race, religion, community “status”, choice of life partner and, lest I forget, choice of canine companion. Under these circumstances – and so many others – all men and women are not equal in our “free” country.

As stated above, one of the main goals of the signers of the Declaration of Independence was to create a nation free of oppressive rule and tyranny.

Tyranny: arbitrary or unrestrained exercise of power. (Random House Dictionary)

Let’s face it, tyranny exists in many governments across the U.S. We are now at the point where local officials are legislating how far below the waist people are allowed to where their pants. I must admit, it is beyond me why someone would want to wear their pants so the crotch hangs down to their knees, but don’t our local governments have better things to do than use OUR tax dollars to create laws that require police to enforce city-wide dress codes?

There are many examples of government exceeding its boundaries but, to be perfectly honest, my biggest concern revolves around responsible dog owners being denied the right to own the dog of their choice because of arbitrary decisions based on nothing more than a dog’s physical appearance.

Obviously, we do not create laws for dogs – we create laws for people. Laws are meant to deter behavior and to punish people who continue to participate in those behaviors. Before we go any further, let’s make one thing perfectly understood…DOGS DO NOT VIOLATE THE LAW…their owners do. However, when it comes to breed specific legislation (BSL), that is not the case. BSL targets dogs. More specifically, it targets dogs because of the way they look. Think there’s nothing “arbitrary” about that? Think that the breed of a dog can be easily determined? Well, read on.

Before his forced “retirement,” Tom Skeldon was the dog warden in Lucas County, Ohio. While his name is synonymous with unadulterated ignorance and bias in the canine community, he was considered an “expert” in breed specific legislation by those who support such laws. In this capacity, he testified on behalf of the City of Toledo, in the matter of Toledo v. Tellings. Regarding breed identification, Mr. Skeldon testified as follows:

[t]here is really no way to tell if a dog is or is not a pit bull, and the determination is made by animal control officers’ subjective judgment. (Toledo v. Tellings, 2006 WL 513946 (Ohio App. 6 Dist) (March 2006))

Ok class, time for a quick grammar lesson… The word “subjective” is defined as “particular to a given person, i.e., personal discretion. “ The word “arbitrary” means, among other things, “contingent solely upon one’s discretion; based on or subject to individual judgment or preference.”

In a nutshell, dogs are being singled out and killed for no other reason than someone made a subjective decision, based on their own personal experience – which, quite possibly, could be no personal experience at all, that the dog is dangerous simply because it LOOKS LIKE a “pit bull.” Not because of the dog’s actions. Not because it has done anything to pose a danger or threat to the community. Not because he or she belongs to an irresponsible owner. Dogs are dying because they have physical characteristics that certain people – who may or may not have any experience whatsoever in dog breed identification – have assigned to “pit bulls.”

Nevermind that a minimum of 20 other breeds possess the same physical characteristics of bull breeds. Boxers, labrador retrievers, mastiffs, and a host of other breeds are affected by breed specific legislation and so-called “pit bull bans” because they were born with certain physical characteristics that an uneducated group of people have decided deem a dog dangerous.

It is simply preposterous to decide that any given dog poses a danger to society based on nothing other than its appearance – yet it happens every single day in our country that is supposed to be free from arbitrary governing.

In the past few years, it seemed to be the trend for government officials to turn to arbitrary laws to “cure” their dog problems. For a while, it seemed more and more cities were implementing breed specific legislation. Despite this, the number of reported dog bites in the United States has remaied the same for the last several years. In the U.S., an astronomical 4 million+ dog bites are reported every single year – this is IN LIGHT OF the many breed bans that have been implemented across the country. It certainly makes one wonder – if BSL is truly the key to ensuring safer communities and preventing dog attacks, why haven’t these statistics decreased?

You may ask, “How can this be?” The focus of local governments has been to enforce laws against dogs instead of people. More specifically, these laws do not even focus on dogs who have proven themselves to be dangerous or problematic to the community. These laws condemn dogs because of the way they look. “Problem dogs” are a direct result of “problem dog owners.” You can remove every single “pit bull” from the United States, and if the issue of irresponsible dog ownership is not addressed, communities will experience the same “dog problems.” While those problems will involve different dogs, they will most certainly involve the same problem dog owners.

Every dog in every community has an owner. Moreover, dog ownership is a responsibility, and dog owners – not the dogs themselves – owe a duty to their communities to be responsible. Breed specific legislation leaves our communities more vulnerable as they give the sense of false security to residents. After all, all the “bad” dogs are gone…right??

Perhaps you noticed my use of the past tense when referring to the number of places proposing BSL. Alas, the BSL tide is turning. We are seeing fewer and fewer BSL alerts issued and more government officials enacting common sense, effective generic dangerous dog ordinances that focus on human responsibility and behavior and not canine appearance.

Why the change? Because more and more responsible dog owners like YOU are speaking out against ineffective and arbitrary laws and offering suggestions and input to their local governments. Owners of dogs targeted by BSL, as well as those that are not, are speaking out for laws that make our communities safer as opposed to knee-jerk reactions that only put a band-aid over the gushing wound of personal and owner accountability.

Our forefathers have vested in us the right to be free from arbitrary government and laws. It is our duty to make our voices heard when local governments attempt to take some of our freedoms based on arbitrary and subjective decisions. Breed specific legislation is arbitrary governing at its most basic level.

Please do not be silent.

Breed specific legislation is NOT a “pit bull” problem. Dogs with certain physical attributes – and the responsible owners that love them – need you to stand united with them and fight breed discrimination today and every day.

March 23 - Snow Day for Our School = Crockpot Day

2011-03-24T10:06:00.002-04:00

From a Friend on Etsy (Lona @ ShadySideFarm)
Pinto beans for supper. Will have them in tacos with gound beef. Yum!

3 cups pinto beans
9 cups water
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped fine

Cook all day in the crockpot. Check for doneness--fresh beans will cook quicker than old beans. cooked mine 5 hours on low, but they're as fresh as can be. Then I added:

1/4 tsp. cumin
4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. black pepper

You can mash them for refried-style beans (drain excess water) or just eat whole with chips and cheese and salsa and corn or on tacos... Use your imagination.

March walk with Cruiser & Jared

2011-03-22T19:17:00.005-04:00

Cruiser is always concerned when one of the boys is too far away.

2011-03-10T08:42:00.004-05:00

Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway.

Saddle up and continue on with the day!

You know how much I love photography, right?! Well I came across this cool website named PhotoFunia that is a total blast. I just had to share.

It's free and it's fast and easy to use. And you're not required to download the program onto your computer! This is my kind of program. . .

My kids will be so excited with this website.

2011-03-01T16:25:00.002-05:00

Make It: Egg Bouquet
1. Cut out individual egg holders from an egg carton.
2. Paint the outside of about 10 egg holders in a variety of colors using acrylic paint. Blend colors as desired. Allow at least one hour to dry and then paint the insides.

3. Twist together two different-colored pipe cleaners to make the stem.

4. Poke a hole in the bottom of each "flower" and pull the pipe cleaner through. Make a loop at the top to secure.

5. Place flowers in a clean, glass jar. Wrap a scrap of fabric around the jar to add more detail to this timeless, recycled bouquet.

2011-02-25T14:12:00.001-05:00

I (with my needle felt) will be at Shady Side Farm's Shearing Day

Info here

http://shadysidefarm.blogspot.com/2011/02/shearing-day-feb-26-2011.html

FolkArt Fish Pin Cushion

2011-02-25T14:08:00.000-05:00

Birch Landscape

2011-02-23T13:53:00.002-05:00

WINE BOTTLE PIN CUSHION

2011-02-04T12:42:00.003-05:00

A special gentleman ordered this for his sister, giving me artistic freedom to create something interesting. This solidly felted 6 1/2" tall bottle can be used laying down or standing tall.

Tuna Cakes recipe

2011-01-18T18:31:00.000-05:00

Tuna Cakes recipe

Camera Case with button on flowers

2011-01-08T13:26:00.001-05:00

2010-12-25T20:57:00.001-05:00

Cruiser tried to taste a flying helicopter tonight and buzzed his tongue. . . he is giving it a Pit Bull Evil Eye. . . it stays on it's side of the room and he stays on his side of the room. . .LOL

2010-12-16T10:54:00.004-05:00

I, so love the idea of homeschooling and actually have 2 kids that have asked to be homeschooled (out of 4, 1 NEEDS to learn to work with others and the other, my only girl, I really, really perferred to be alive to reach majority, step-son was the one that needed homeschooling but that wasn't my call at all). So all of my kids have gone or go to public school, the last two go to a school where my oldest neice is Principal.

But as a Public School parent, I totally believe that schooling doesn't end when the school bell rings or the bus doors close on their behinds. We raise & train animals for 4-H (not for my fun either), public speaking and demonstration events, horse judging, Pit Bull Education, Anti-Breed Specific Law events, go the library several days of the week (not just when I work there, LOL), tween club, chess club, lego club, anime club, and my Jared is dragging me kicking and screaming into the Middle Ages. . . with PVC sword in hand. LOL ( www.sca.org )

At the end of 4 kids and multiple animals, what I have to impart is. . . what works for one doesn't work for another and each Child is a learning event.

LIVESTOCK

2010-12-09T09:22:00.009-05:00

Always a farm kid. . . when viewing animals (livestock & pets) I start catagorizing them according to use, breed, coloring and conformation without even thinking.

Many parents who see a horse in the field, say to their child "Oh, look a horsey", or "see the sweet pony", my poor kids got from me "Honey, look at the Belgiun, it's a breed that can pull wagons!", "No that isn't a pony, ponies are under 54 that is a small quarter horse type" or "Wow, See the field of Oreo Cookie Cows they are a beef breed called Belted Galoways. Aunt Mary has some Dutch Belted, which is the Dairy breed marked like this. . . ".

I have this website bookmarked on my computers and refer not only my own kids but my 4-H kids to this great resource . . . http://www.ansi.okstate.edu/breeds/ (Welcome to the Breeds of Livestock resource presented by the Department of Animal Science at Oklahoma State University. This site is intended as an educational and informational resource on breeds of livestock throughout the world. We hope you enjoy the information provided and find it both educational and fun. We see this site as a continually growing resource)

Not only does this website list American popular livestock and breeds but this resouce seems to have most breeds world-wide listed and even lists breeds of Buffalo, Camel, Donkeys, Llama, Reindeer and Yak.

You don't even want to get me started on dog breeds, "Yes, Stevi, ask the owner if you can pet the American Pit Bull Terrier but stay away from the small chihuahu, see how shy it is. Shy dogs can bite in fear. Remember ask the owner first. . . "

Snow. ..

2010-12-08T14:03:00.001-05:00

Make it stop

Look, I'm as big a fan of winter as they come. I love sledding, I love the pretty fairyland all that white stuff falling from the sky creates. I'm not afraid to drive in it and as long as the schools don't close their doors, depriving me of my few hours of respite from my offspring, I'm happy to go to work, go shopping, go wherever.

My animals, however, would really appreciate a break. Horses, despite any evidence to the contrary, believe that the moment the snow starts falling that they are going to starve to death. It doesn't matter how fat and shiny they happen to be, how much hay is in the feeder and buckets of sweet feed they get, they are convinced that starvation is just around the corner. The moment they sight you in the window or hear the back door open, they rush the fence, then stare at you with haunted eyes. Its enough to make you lose sleep.

The dogs hate potty time, but since they refuse to learn to flush the toilet, outdoors it is. And the big fella, the nearly 60# pitiful Pit Bull, has gotten it into his brain that he is somehow too weak and fragile to go outside to pee in the snow. He stands at the door, looking at me with reproach in his eyes. I can't go out there. Yes, yes you can. No, I can't. I'll die. I'll freeze. The snow might eat me. Look, buddy, I don't care if your pecker falls off from the cold, you're going OUT THERE to do your thing. You are the meanest human being that ever lived. I know, my offspring remind me of that fact approximately every thirty seconds. Now go. Out. Go. Fine, I'll go. But I'm peeing on your front porch and entry way garden and tires and. . . here.

When is spring again?

Pit Bull Lady Designs at the Hastings Public Library Art Show

2010-12-06T15:00:00.003-05:00

yoyo's on display!

2010-12-04T10:30:00.001-05:00

something new

2010-11-24T19:23:00.002-05:00

Needle Felt version of an ACEO "Art Cards, Editions and Originals"

2010-11-18T11:23:00.002-05:00

ACEO stands for "Art Cards, Editions and Originals". These cards have one main rule - they are 3.5 inches by 2.5 inches - the size of a trading card.
The reason for this is, of course, that Art Cards are made to be traded! But while artists were happily trading cards, the general public was left out in the cold, having no Art Cards to trade. A group of artists realized this, and quickly made their cards available for sale at remarkably low prices so that everyone could join in the fun!

Cards are also sold either as originals or editions. Make sure you know which you are buying! If it is a print it should say so, and it should be numbered and signed, usually on the back.

Art Cards can be a riot! Artists from all over the world are creating, and now selling these little gems in different mediums and of different subjects. Watercolor, Oil, Acrylic, Colored Pencil, Pastels, Pyrography, Pen and Ink, Sketching, Collage - the sky is the limit. Abstract, Surrealism, Outsider Art, Impressionism, Expressionism -every style you can think of - and then some!. Every interest and subject is covered! Extremely collectable Pocket Art, you can't stop at just one!

2010-11-17T17:56:00.002-05:00

Beneath The Tree Needle Felt Display

2010-11-10T12:19:00.010-05:00

Old Bathroom Cabinet gets an upgrade to my Display

approx. 280 items displayed in a 4'x2' space

Necklace Pendants

Magnet Broaches

Pins

Rings

Earrings

Hat Pin

Hair Clips

Bracelets
Animal Portriats
Snowmen
Finger Puppet
Fingerless Gloves
Martini Glass
Artist Trading Card
Pumpkins

Pin Cushions -Toadstools, Mice, Pumpkins

Bookmarks - Paperclip & Elastic Band styles

Indoor Snowballs

Jean Jacket w/Lily Cascade

Christmas Ornaments

Back

Front Side

New Stuff

2010-11-08T19:30:00.004-05:00

2010-10-13T19:51:00.001-04:00

http://www.thedogfiles.com/2010/10/11/pit-proud-the-history-of-the-pit-bull/

Guinea Pig Costumes for the Livestock Fashion Show

2010-10-08T13:32:00.006-04:00

First Place for their catagory at the Barry County Fair Fashion Show!! Congrads kid & pigs. . . .

Siren & JewelE are very happy in their Burrito & Taco costumes. . . I have simular costumes listed in my Etsy Shop. Stop by and see!

COWBOY CAVIAR

2010-06-03T11:39:00.004-04:00

.
.

4 color peppers (1/2 of each) - chopped

1/2 onion - chopped

1/2 celery heart - chopped

1 can black beans rinsed

1 can fiesta corn

1 can white corn

1 can yellow corn

Whip til mixed:

1/2 cup vinegar (white)

1/2 cup olive oil (cold pressed)

1/2 cup sugar

Mix everything together and refridgerate for 2 hours.

Serve with chips, as a topping on meat, hotdogs, salad. . .

ALTERNATIVES OR ADD-INS:

extra Black Beans/Kidney Beans

Black Eyed Peas

Roma Tomatoes

Canned Chopped Tomatoes

Cilantro

Avacados

Green onions

DRESSING alternatives or add-ins:

Italian Dressing

Garlic

Lime Juice

Cumin

hot pepper sauce

Jalapeno peppers

VIEW FROM THE GRASS

2010-05-29T09:51:00.009-04:00

Rock solid Temperment! Curiser is a APBT rescued from our local animal shelter 4 years ago. . . goes to all kinds of dog events with his handler who just turned 9 and welcomes short term foster dogs into HIS house. . . not bad for a dog agressive/dog fighter rescue

2010-05-14T18:36:00.000-04:00

Mike Rowe (the Dirty Jobs guy) has nailed it when he talks about the future of farming: http://www.mikeroweworks.com/2010/05/the-future-of-farming/

Cooking, TV and OK. . . . . . . . Ranting

2010-05-12T13:45:00.000-04:00

when all through the house…the only one who was stirring was me… in the kitchen…making stuff. What kind of stuff? Good stuff. I thought my stuff was already good. This stuff is better. Lord. Better stuff? We’re dating…
Yes, I have officially lost my mind. I blame it on reality TV and the idiots who participate. I don’t want to see anymore people with a jillion kids, or crazy people who’ll jump off a mountain if someone will watch. I just want my old TV shows back. The ones with good drama. Sometimes funny. Sometimes sad. But fiction, for God’s sake. Isn’t there anyone left in the entertainment industry who has some creative imagination?
Ok. So I’m on a rant. It’s sugar overload, I think. I haven’t eaten real candy in over a year. I’m making goodies and sampling them against Weight Watcher advise, I might add. Don’t worry. I haven’t lost complete control.

Butterworth Hospital Spring Show

2010-04-26T12:19:00.005-04:00

2010-04-20T18:38:00.003-04:00

With the spring cleaning does the urge to redecorate enter your mind? In addition to purchasing new art for a space, there are some low cost ways, budget friendly ways to freshen up a room. Today's art themed article is Low Budget Decorating, High Style Looks by Kahi Lee of the Home and Garden Television show, Design on a Dime. She details a few simple tricks "do-it-yourself-ers" can do to give any room in your home a fresh, new look.

Dangerous Women

2010-04-06T11:22:00.000-04:00

May we be dangerous women.
May we be women who acknowledge our power to change, and grow, and be radically alive in God.
May we be healers of wounds and righters of wrongs.
May we weep with those who weep and speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.
May we cherish children, embrace the elderly, and empower the poor.
May we pray deeply and teach wisely.
May we be strong and gentle leaders.
May we sing songs of joy and talk down fear.
May we never hesitate to let passion push us , conviction propel us, and righteous anger energize us.
May we strike fear into all that is unjust and evil in the world.
May we dismantle abusive systems and silence lies with truth.
May we shine like stars in a darkened generation.
May we overflow with goodness in the name of God and by the power of Jesus.
And in that name, and by that power, may we change the world.

~ Lynne Hybels
Nice Girls Don't Change the World

Are you DANGEROUS?

! !Goody Bags! !

2010-04-03T09:58:00.002-04:00

The ideas for low cost swag can be applied not just to craft shows but to your Etsy shop too. Enjoy!

Goody Bag Swag for craft shows does not have to be expensive!

Goody bags are a great way to welcome and encourage visitors to arrive during a time which is typically quiet - early mornings. Visitors love getting a free gift: it makes them feel special and appreciated and it encourages them to become shoppers. It's also an amazing way to get your name out there. You can actually say to visitors - "Hey did you get that little notebook l I put in the goody bag you're carrying?" thus making for another point of conversation with a potential customer. And of course they then have some sort of way to be able to contact you afterwards if you put your phone number or email on your swag item. It's an easy, inexpensive way to get YOUR name out there & to remind visitors of you & your craft!

I've received free magnets at shows I've attended with images of artists' work and have specifically sought them out - during the show as well as after - to make a purchase just because I so liked their work represented on the little magnet. So it cost the artist maybe 10 cents to make the magnet but it translated into a $30 sale.

But it can be cost and time prohibitive to give away samples of your work. You don't want to give your work away for free however there are other things you can pass out to make yourself and your business memorable. I want to emphasize that swag does not have to be expensive or time-consuming to be an effective marketing tool. I personally give away "Fortune Fish" with a business card in all my sales and you'd be amazed at how effective a 3 cent item can be!

Here are some more goody ideas:

- One fabric artist I know made little pins by tying a little strips of her leftover fabric (with frayed edges) to safety pins. Then she pinned these to her business cards. Brilliant!!!

- One gentleman at the last Red Rabbit show, a woodworker, took slices of his leftover wood and rubber stamped his name & logo on each one to make coasters. Very cool and gorgeous. I liked the idea of stamping or printing a business name or logo onto a scrap of the material that represents your medium.

- If you happen to have a button badge machine, little 1" buttons cost less than 10 cents to make and are a great way to use fabric scraps or prints of artwork.

- Sticker paper is cheap and you can print a little bit of artwork or a logo to make great little stickers. Use a paper punch to speed things up.

- Glass artists always have lots of scrap glass around. You can fire polish or tumble the glass to remove the sharp edges and drill a hole. Add a little piece of string and tie it to your business card. Easy.

- At other shows, I've seen jewelry makers take a bead or two, and they don't have to be expensive beads at all, and string them onto a little piece of pretty thread and tie that to a business card. The giftee can later add a chain or finding and make their own artwork.

- If you've got a die cut machine (like a Sizzix or Cuttlebug) you are living the life. If you find a die that fits the theme of your art or business, this will allow you to cut your scraps (fabric, paper, cardboard, leather, etc.) very, very quickly. Paper punches in various shapes are great too although not all handle thick materials.

- How cute would it be to get a bag of those little plastic toy bubbles that you get from gumball / toy machines and put a little "fortune" inside - a scrap of paper with your business info and maybe a cute little cartoon scribbled on it? I would totally love a unique little piece of art!

- Imprinted pencils are always cool but they tend to cost maybe 30 cents each. How's about getting a box of pencils from the office supply store (or Costco!) and adding a little label / banner to the top announcing your business? Even easier if you print the labels on sticker paper.

- Don't forget about printable iron on sheets. You can print your business card sized artwork - maybe 15 to a sheet - then iron onto stabilized fabric. Cut apart then add a magnet to the back or an eyelet with a key ring. Now that's a business card that I wouldn't throw away! A variation is to print out artwork instead, make it into a pin and attach it to a business card.

- Wood (popsicle sticks, clothes pins, precut shapes) and a wood burning tool. 'Nuff said. :)

- Never underestimate the power of office supplies and their potential swagability. Rubber bands, colored paper clips, glassine or coin envelopes and ink stamps that say "Urgent" can be combined to make memorable little business card holders.

- Look around at what you've got lots of scraps of - paper, unwanted beads, cardboard, clay, ribbon, fabric, wire - and see if there isn't a way to turn that into a goody somehow. Think clever and make it cool. As long as you put some love into it, even humble leftover material can become a welcome gift.

I think the best swag is something that somehow represents your art and your business but is not expensive or time consuming to make plus it is somehow entertaining (like fortune fish) or functional (like a bookmark or magnet). You want your business info to somehow be on the swag so that people will remember you next time they see you somewhere. "Oh yeah, she's the girl who made those great magnets last time! I love her art! I think I want to buy a picture from her." It happens! I know I often purchase from artists because I remembered them from having gotten a little free goody from them once. And when you see someone walk up to your booth carrying a goody bag be sure to say "Hey! You lucky - you got a goody bag! One of my pieces is in there. Did you see it?" Heck! Offer to sign it! Then with this little icebreaker, you've just introduced yourself to a potential customer. Remember - they got there early so they are looking for art!

Have Seen This Before. . . But It Makes Me Laugh Everytime!

2010-01-14T14:18:00.000-05:00

BATH NOTE

Don't be alarmed, the world isn't coming to an end. I am simply taking a bath. It will take about thirty minutes and will involve soap and water. Yes, I know how to swim. Even if I didn't, forcing myself to drown in a half-inch of lukewarm water is more work than I've got energy for. (Which reminds me, I'm all for science projects, but the next time you want to see if Play-Doh floats, use cold water.)

Don't panic if I'm not out right on time. I've heard that people don't dissolve in water and I'd like to test the theory. While I'm in the tub, I'd like you to remember a few things. The large slab of wood between us is called a door. Do not bang to hear my voice. I promise that even though you can't see me, I *am* on the other side. I'm not digging an escape tunnel and running for the border,no matter what I said a while ago. I didn't mean it. Honest. There will be plenty of time later to tell me about your day.

"Later" means at a time when I am no longer naked, wet, and contemplating bubble gum in the blow dryer. I know you have important things to tell me. Please let one of them be that you have invented a new way to blow bubbles, not a new way to add gum to your hair.

Believe it or not, shouting, "TELEPHONE!" through the closed bathroom door will *not* make the phone stop ringing. Answer it and take a message. Since Amazing Mind-Reading Mom has the day off, you'll need to write that message down. Use paper and a pencil. Do not use your brother and the laundry marker. We can't send him to school with telephone number tattoos.

Water makes me wet, not deaf. I can still tell the difference between the sound of "nothing" and the sound of a child playing the piano with a basketball. I can also hear you tattling at the top of your lungs. I'm *choosing* NOT to answer you.

Don't call your dad at work and tell him I am unconscious in the bathroom. He didn't appreciate it last time. He won't appreciate it more this time. Trust me.

No matter how much I would like it, water does not make me forgetful. I remember who you are and why you are grounded. No, you can't go to Shelby's house to play. No, you can't go to Shelby's house to use the bathroom. If someone is in our other bathroom, you will just have to think dry thoughts and wait. Unless you have four feet and a tail, do not think of going outside to "water" the lawn. I know the dog does it. The neighbors don't feel the need to call me when the dog does it.

Unless the house catches on fire, stay inside and keep the doors locked. Do not go outside and throw rocks at the bathroom window to get my attention. I know it works in the movies. This is reality, the place where people don't like to sit in a tub while rocks and broken glass rain in on them. Do not set the house on fire. Call me if there is an emergency.

Emergencies ARE:

1. Dad has fallen off the roof.

2. Your brother and/or sister is bleeding.

3. There's a red fire truck in front of our house.

Emergencies are NOT:

1. Dad has fallen asleep.

2. Someone on TV is bleeding.

3. There's a red pickup truck in front of our house.

One other thing: Being forced to use the last roll of toilet paper for a towel does not make me happy. It makes me sticky with little white polka dots. In the future, when the tub overflows, use a mop to clean up the water instead of every towel in the house. For my sanity's sake, let's pretend it was the tub, Okay? No, I don't want to hear the real story. Ever. Especially not while I'm standing in the pool of water you missed.

By the way, all Play-Doh experiments are hereby canceled.

Be good. Entertain yourselves. Yes, you can do both at the same time. Try coloring, playing a game, or paying that stack of bills on the coffee table.

I'll be out soon. Maybe.

Love,
Your Mom

Indoor Snowball Fight!!

2009-12-16T15:55:00.008-05:00

Canned Snow Ball Fight No Matter The Weather! Kid tested, Mother approved.

All the Fun of Snowball Fight straight from a Michigan Snowstorm but in a non-meltable form. These extremely light and safe wool balls make great indoor fun when cold outdoor sport is unavailable.

Needle Felted white roving creates a light, airy ball with a soft squishy inside unlike a wet felted ball that can be as hard and heavy as a tennis ball. I have been having fun throwing them at my computer screen (and not hurting it) and at the library where I work. . . who says kids get to have all the fun!

This listing is for a set of eight (8) snowballs in natural ivory and is presented in a silvertone gallon paint can. Four (4) large balls and four (4) small balls. The balls vary somewhat in size, the large balls are between 10" & 11 1/2" in circumference (11" ball would be 3.46" diameter) and weigh less than an ounce each. The small balls are approximately 8" in circumference (2.45" diameter). The set's total weight of wool is 8 ounces and 15 ounces with the can.

Other size snowballs and sets are available. Convo for more information. See my profile for a description of how these balls are created. Not felted as an animal toy, please see my team mate Lona at www.etsy.com/shop/ShadySideFarm for wet felted dryer balls that will handle rougher play.

Try a New Recipe Today. . .Snowbound West Michigan

2009-12-10T16:54:00.001-05:00

Cowboy Cookies

2 sticks margarine, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 cups oatmeal
1 package bittersweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup nuts, optional

Preheat oven to 350ºF. Beat together margarine, white sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Sift flour, baking powder, and baking soda, and add to the mixture. Fold in oatmeal and chocolate chips. Grease and sprinkle flour over a cookie sheet. Place balls of dough (think the size of small ping-pong balls) about 2 inches apart from each other and bake for 8 minutes. Since many oven temperatures vary, keep an eye on your first batch. At the first hint of browning, take them out. They should be soft and doughy. Carefully remove cookies with a spatula and allow to cool. Store in an airtight container to keep them soft.

Yield: About 50 to 60 cookies.

Things to do when you're bored

2009-12-09T19:29:00.000-05:00

(yes, I know that much of this is for outdoors, and for older kids, but MAYBE something will trigger an idea): from my EtsyWMI teammate Lona at ShadySideFarm.etsy.com

1) ride bikes
2) roller blade
3) basketball
4) play board games
5) make a tent out of blankets
6) squirt with hoses
7) run through the sprinkler
8) jump rope
9) read books
10) blow bubbles
11) make homemade play dough
12) play with play dough
13) press flowers
14) do crafts with pressed flowers
15) write a letter to a relative, friend or pen pal
16) clean bedroom
17) vacuum livingroom
18) clean bathroom
19) make a craft
20) draw
21) color
22) paint
23) pull weeds
24) watch a movie
25) write stories
26) use binoculars
27) use magnifying glass
28) use microscope
29) bird watching
30) write a play
31) act out a play
32) invent circus acts
33) perform a circus
34) play card games
35) make art on the front walkway with sidewalk chalk
36) play catch
37) play baseball
38) collect rocks
39) collect leaves
40) collect feathers
41) play Frisbee
42) make Frisbee's out of old plastic lids, decorate with
markers
43) dust the house
44) brush the pet
45) write letters
46) read a magazine
47) play dress-up
48) play Cowboys
49) pick vegetables
50) play outside with the pet
51) build a fort in your rooms
52) build a fort in the backyard
53) do a jigsaw puzzle
54) play on the Geosafari
55) play on the computer
56) listen to a story or book on tape
57) do extra schoolwork to get ahead
58) do brain teasers (crosswords, word searches, hidden
pictures, mazes, etc.)
59) cook
60) prepare lunch
61) surprise a neighbor with a good deed
62) play store
63) prepare a "restaurant" lunch with menus
64) hold a tea party
65) have a Teddy bear picnic
66) play with toy cars
67) play dolls
68) play house
69) chase butterflies
70) collect caterpillars and bugs
71) plant a garden or a pot
72) collect seeds
73) hunt for four-leaf clovers
74) learn magic tricks
75) put on a magic show
76) plant a container garden
77) sprout seeds or beans
78) make sock puppets
79) put on a puppet show
80) make Christmas presents
81) make homemade wrapping paper
82) make homemade gift cards
83) make picture frames from twigs glued onto sturdy cardboard
84) crochet or knit
85) make doll clothes
86) sew buttons in designs on old shirts
87) run relay races
88) make bookmarks
89) take a quiet rest time
90) take a shower or bath
91) bathe a pet
92) feed the birds or squirrels
93) watch the clouds
94) organize a dresser drawer
95) clean under the bed
96) empty dishwasher
97) vacuum under the couch cushions and keep any change found
98) write these ideas on pieces of paper and pick out one or
two to do
99) whittle
100) whittle bars of soap
101) practice musical instruments
102) perform a family concert
103) teach yourself to play musical instrument (recorder,
harmonica, guitar)
104) fold laundry
105) sweep kitchen or bathroom floors
106) sweep front walkway
107) sweep or spray back patio
108) sweep or spray driveway
109) wash car
110) vacuum car
111) vacuum or dust window blinds
112) clean bathroom mirrors
113) clean sliding glass doors
114) clean inside of car windows
115) wash bicycles
116) clean garage
117) play in the sandbox
118) build a sandcastle
119) work with clay
120) copy your favorite book illustration
121) design your own game
122) build with blocks or Legos
123) create a design box (copper wire, string, odds-and-ends
of things destined for the garbage, pom-poms, thread, yarn,
etc.)
124) plan a neighborhood or family Olympics
125) have a marble tournament
126) paint a picture with lemon juice on white paper and hang
it in a sunny window and see what happens in a few days
127) finger paint with pudding
128) make dessert
129) make dinner
130) give your pet a party
131) paint the sidewalk with water
132) start a journal of summer fun
133) start a nature diary
134) have a read-a-thon with a friend or sibling
135) have a neighborhood bike wash
136) play flashlight tag
137) play Kick the Can
138) check out a science book and try some experiments
139) make up a story
140) arrange photo albums
141) find bugs and start a collection
142) do some stargazing
143) decorate bikes or wagons and have a neighborhood parade
144) catch butterflies and then let them go
145) play hide-and-seek
146) create a symphony with bottles and pans and rubber bands
147) listen to the birds sing
148) try to imitate birdcalls
149) read a story to a younger child
150) find shapes in the clouds
151) string dry noodles or O-shaped cereals into a necklace
152) glue noodles into a design on paper
153) play hopscotch
154) play jacks
155) make up a song
156) make a teepee out of blankets
157) write in your journal
158) find an ant colony and spill some food and watch what
happens
159) play charades
160) make up a story by drawing pictures
161) draw a cartoon strip
162) make a map of your bedroom, house or neighborhood
163) call a friend
164) cut pictures from old magazines and write a story
165) make a collage using pictures cut from old magazines
166) do a secret service for a neighbor
167) plan a treasure hunt
168) make a treasure map
169) make up a "Bored List" of things to do
170) plan a special activity for your family
171) search your house for items made in other countries and
then learn about those countries from the encyclopedia or
online
172) plan an imaginary trip to the moon
173) plan an imaginary trip around the world, where would you
want to go
174) write a science-fiction story
175) find a new pen pal
176) make up a play using old clothes as costumes
177) make up a game for practicing math facts
178) have a Spelling Bee
179) make up a game for practicing spelling
180) surprise an elderly neighbor or relative by weeding
his/her garden
181) fingerpaint with shaving cream
182) collect sticks and mud and build a bird's nest
183) write newspaper articles for a pretend newspaper
184) put together a family newsletter
185) write reviews of movies or plays or TV shows or concerts
you see during the summer
186) bake a cake
187) bake a batch of cookies
188) decorate a shoe box to hold your summer treasures
189) make a hideout or clubhouse
190) make paper airplanes
191) have paper airplane races
192) learn origami
193) make an obstacle course in your backyard
194) make friendship bracelets for your friends
195) make a wind chime out of things headed for the garbage
196) paint your face
197) braid hair
198) play tag
199) make a sundial
200) make food sculptures (from pretzels, gumdrops, string
licorice, raisins, cream cheese, peanuts, peanut butter, etc.)
and then eat it
201) make a terrarium
202) start a club
203) take a nap outside on your lawn
204) produce a talent show
205) memorize a poem
206) recite a memorized poem for your family

2009-11-06T10:22:00.001-05:00

Very proud of our Etsy Team. Check out some of them in ths video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGdQE1FuMss

Dust Bunny Inspired by Jayne Castle's Work

2009-10-27T23:22:00.002-04:00

The inspiration for this dust bunny scampers out of the pages of a Jayne Castle's romantic-suspense with a paranormal twist series based on the planet of Harmony. Where dust bunnies prove to be loyal pets and ferocious hunter-protectors.

Vincent is a large wad of lint looking harmless as a ball of fuzz from under the bed and who's bright blue eyes sparkle innocently from a tangle of gray wool. He scampers around on 6 legs begging pretzels and paints large impressionistic canvases when not protecting his lovely owner from the dangers of a extinct alien underground society, energy ghosts and criminal humans.

Vincent is 6 1/2" long, 5" wide and 4 1/2" tall with a wire armature that is covered by needle felted gray wool.

Animal Portraits

2009-10-24T17:07:00.002-04:00

Wright brothers in simulator

2009-10-22T09:30:00.001-04:00

Wright brothers in simulator
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

Just before school started we were able to slide into the Kalamazoo Air Zoo for free because they had free admission for the summer. Still cost to ride the rides but what fun. Jared & Cade were grinning ear to ear all day til closing. . .

Having Fun!

2009-10-22T09:29:00.001-04:00

air zoo,
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

Fun at the Kalamazoo Air Zoo - Video

LABOR FEST, GRAND RAPIDS, MI

2009-09-25T10:19:00.006-04:00

CHOMPERS ON THE LOOSE

2009-09-12T13:14:00.002-04:00

Cookie Chomper

"Me need Chocolate Chip Cookies!!!"

Cupcake Chomper!

Craft Night!

2009-09-09T17:13:00.005-04:00

Hat's Off to FIRE LILY

2009-09-03T18:21:00.006-04:00

Fire Lily" is a cool multi-use sculpture, both a wall hanging wreath hat & a broach to accent your wearable hat or garment. "Fire Lily" is needle felted flower from varied shades of dyed wool (yellow, orange to light burgundy) with a sage green stem & bright yellow stamens.

Lace Hat is ecru doily lace sized for dolls (like American Girl) with "Fire Lily" pin attached to ornament a wall in lovely orange grace. The hat measure 12" from edge to edge.

"Fire Lily" as a pin is 8.5" from petal to petal and 8" from petal tip to stem end. My teen daughter wants "Fire Lily" to grace a floppy, straw beach hat and I think it would look lovely on a handwoven shawl.

As with many of my items, this is a lovely multi-use fiber sculpture that is just waiting for your creative presence to find its ultimate use.

Fall is Coming

2009-09-02T22:27:00.003-04:00

These fun needle felt sculpture pumpkins are making me think of Fall's cool breeze, Halloween sweetness, school starting excitement & harvest smells.

Bike Rack from Lowes Newsletter - I want one

2009-08-19T09:36:00.001-04:00

Bike Rack
A desire for a more eco-friendly and healthier lifestyle, along with ever-fluctuating gas prices, make bike-riding more popular than ever. Follow our step-by-step instructions to build this classic rack.
Rolling Toy Box

Instructions:

General: Cut and label the parts as needed, using the Cut List and Cutting Diagram as guides and adjusting for fit.

1 Assemble the frame and pipe.

a. Align the ends of the (01) rails with the 1 1/2-inch sides facing upward, and clamp the two pieces together.

b. Cut eight 31 1/2-inch-long pieces of pipe, or have a Lowe’s employee cut them for you. Apply a coat of gloss black paint to each pipe piece, and let dry.

c. Following the frame and pipe layout in Figure 1, scribe the location for the pipe holes on the 1 1/2-inch faces of the (01) rails.

d. On the 1 1/2-inch face of each (01) rail, mark the centerline from end to end. This will help provide a centerpoint for the marked holes.

e. Unclamp the (01) rails, and drill 7/8-inch-diameter holes 7/8 inch deep at the marked locations.

f. Predrill two 3/8-inch-diameter pilot holes on the opposite side of each (01) rail 1 1/2 inches deep within the first 3 1/2 inches from each end as shown in Figure 1. Attach the two (02) stiles to the lower (01) rail using glue and screws.

g. Insert the pipe into the drilled holes.

h. Apply glue to the ends of the (02) stiles, insert the pipes into the holes of the upper (01) rail, and attach with screws.

2 Add the triangle assemblies and stops.

a. Following the (03) brace layout in Figure 2, cut out four (03) braces.

b. Using glue and screws, attach two (03) braces to each (04) base and to each other to create two triangle assemblies as shown in Figure 2.

c. Note: The (05) feet are ripped from a 2 x 4. Using glue and screws, attach the (05) feet to the triangle assemblies as shown in Figure 2.

d. Position a triangle assembly centered and flush with the bottom of each end of the frame assembly as shown in Figure 2. Attach using glue and screws.

e. Position the (06) stops 8 inches from the faces of the frame assembly, and attach using glue and screws.

3 Add the finishing touches.

a. Fill all holes, sand, and apply stain.

b. Apply a small bead of clear silicone sealant around the base of each pipe piece where it’s attached to the lower (01) rail.

c. Attach a robe hook using the included hardware centered at each end of the bike rack.

Good To Know: Leaving your car at home just two days a week will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 1,600 pounds per year. Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Excerpt from Bead News

2009-08-19T09:27:00.000-04:00

5 Ways to Wear a Brooch

Ay . . . Me wee lass and I attended a Celtic festival over the weekend. It was a sunny celebration that included toe-dancing girls with bouncing curls, haunting bagpipe tunes, monstrous yet noble hounds, and muscular legs protruding from woolen plaid skirts. Other than the point at which I unwittingly headed a speeding rugby ball (ouch!), it was a pretty mellow time. In another life, I may have headed to the Jameson’s booth to soothe such a head injury, but that’s not quite my thing anymore (especially with preteen daughter in tow), so we headed to the shopping tents instead. We encountered the expected piles of tams, namesake key chains, and St. Patrick’s Prayer throws. But you know what struck me most? The many vendors selling brooches: ornate gem-encrusted ones, stamped ones, and simple wire ones.

I have to be honest, I couldn’t help but think, “Brooches? Who really wears them unless needed for pinning up a tartan cape to keep out the moorland damp?” It’s not that I don’t like to make brooches; they work up quickly and are a great platform for creativity since they don’t necessarily need to be comfortable like a bracelet or necklace. I truly have dozens of brooches in my jewelry locker. But I don’t think to wear them that often.

So when I got home I pulled out all my brooches and decided the reason I don’t wear them is because I haven’t experimented quite fully with how to wear them. I think, like many people, I automatically pin them where a lapel would go. That just evokes nightmarish imagery of Office Space’s Jennifer Aniston’s 37 pieces of flair. So I did a little experimentation and came up with these alternatives wearing my “Paulette’s Brooch” from my book Beaded Weddings:

1. At the neck

2. In the hair

3. On a necklace

4. On the hip

5. On a purse

Hey—this little experiment has made me excited to wear my brooches again! I think the next part of this little study will be to check out some pins and brooches in the Beading Daily store. I’ve got my eye on Linda Jones’s Shell Brooch, which might be just the right thing to pin up my beach sarong.

How about you? Are you a brooch wearer or avoider? Have any other ideas about how to wear them?

More at Beading Daily

•	Forums
•	Bead Shop Directory
•	Free Projects
•	Galleries

2009-08-15T16:15:00.001-04:00

Here is an interesting and lovely way to look at the beauty of mathematics, and of God, the sum of all wonders.

The Beauty of Mathematics

(1 x 8) + 1 = 9
(12 x 8) + 2 = 98
(123 x 8) + 3 = 987
(1234 x 8) + 4 = 9876
(12345 x 8) + 5 = 987 65
(123456 x 8) + 6 = 987654
(1234567 x 8) + 7 = 9876543
(12345678 x 8) + 8 = 98765432
(123456789 x 8) + 9 = 987654321

(1 x 9) + 2 = 11
(12 x 9) + 3 = 111
(123 x 9) + 4 = 1111
(1234 x 9) + 5 = 11111
(12345 x 9) + 6 = 111111
(123456 x 9) + 7 = 1111111
(1234567 x 9) + 8 = 11111111
(12345678 x 9) + 9 = 111111111
(123456789 x 9) +10= 1111111111

(9 x 9) + 7 = 88
(98 x 9) + 6 = 888
(987 x 9) + 5 = 8888
(9876 x 9) + 4 = 88888
(98765 x 9) + 3 = 888888
(987654 x 9) + 2 = 8888888
(9876543 x 9) + 1 = 88888888
(98765432 x 9) + 0 = 888888888

Brilliant, isn’t it?

(1 x 1) = 1
(11 x 11) = 121
(111 x 111) = 12321
(1111 x 1111) = 1234321
(11111 x 11111) = 123454321
(111111 x 111111) = 12345654321
(1111111 x 1111111) = 1234567654321
(11111111 x 11111111) = 123456787654321
(111111111 x 111111111) = 12345678987654321

And, look at this symmetry:

101%!

From a strictly mathematical viewpoint,

What Equals 100%?

And, what could it mean to give MORE than 100%?

Ever wonder about those people who say they
are giving more than 100%?

We have all been in situations where
someone wants you to

GIVE OVER 100%!

How about ACHIEVING 101%?

And, what equals 100% in life?

Now, let’s take a look at this…

Here’s a little mathematical formula that might help you

answer these questions:

If:

A B C D E F G H I J K L M
N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Is represented as:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26,

Then:

K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E

(11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+5) = 96%

Plus:

H-A-R-D-W-O-R-K

(8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11) = 98%

Now:

A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E

(1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5) = 100%

But, look how far the love of

God will take you:

L-O-V-E-O-F-G-O-D

(12+15+22+5+15+6+7+15+4) = 101%

Therefore, one can conclude with absolute mathematical
certainty that:

While Knowledge and Hard Work will get you close, plus Attitude will actually get you to 100%,
it’s the Love of God that will definitely put you over the top!

Have a wonderful day…

and may God bless you!

2009-08-14T23:55:00.000-04:00

From BAD RAP Blog:

Woe is Philly

Something has been going seriously wrong for animals and their advocates in Philadelphia, PA. Since Vick's jail sentence was announced in December 2007, over two dozen crimes committed against companion animals were reported in this city. (Source: Pet-abuse.com) Some say the trend of animal abuse is on the rise. George Bengal, the Philly SPCA director of law enforcement, was quoted to say, “I've been doing this job for 18 years and I’ve never seen the amount of starved to death dogs or fighting dogs that have been killed in various locations around the city.”

To read the Full Article: Please Click

2009-08-13T23:15:00.002-04:00

fresh Michigan blueberries & milk for breakfast. . . oh, so much better than cereal!

Cool from Lakeland Library Cooperative

2009-08-11T16:45:00.000-04:00

Did You Know?

2009-08-10T08:44:00.003-04:00

Animal Facts

* The pig is rated the fourth most intelligent animal but is mentioned only twice in the Bible.

* Sheep are mentioned 45 times and goats 88 time in the Bible. Dogs are mentioned 4 times and lions 89 times, but domestic cats are not mentioned.

* Pork is the world's most widely eaten meat.

* In Denmark there are twice as many pigs as people.

* There are more than 150 million sheep in Australia, a nation of 17 million people.

* New Zealand is home to 4 million people and 70 million sheep.

2009-08-09T17:48:00.001-04:00

A cowgirl's final ride

An article from 2003 that will inspire and amaze you!

Needle Felting Class - Free - Sign up Available 269-945-4263

2009-07-30T17:06:00.007-04:00

FREE 2 hour class

supplies list

Awesome New Magazine - MAKE

2009-07-27T14:12:00.003-04:00

Make: Online : Make: Projects - Magnetic toolbox

Fulton Street ARTisans Market: Opening Day Was a Hit!!!!#links#links

2009-06-17T21:13:00.000-04:00

Fulton Street ARTisans Market: Opening Day Was a Hit!!!!#links#links

Fulton Street ARTisans Market: Etsy Day-A Special Thank You From FSAM

2009-06-17T21:10:00.000-04:00

Fulton Street ARTisans Market: Etsy Day-A Special Thank You From FSAM

Changeable Pendants - Dogwood Blossom

2009-06-15T10:46:00.001-04:00

Changeable Pendants - Dogwood Blossom
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

Changeable Pendants

2009-06-13T11:12:00.001-04:00

Changeable Pendants
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

Button Up. . .

Changeable Pendants - Pink Ribbon

2009-06-11T12:23:00.002-04:00

Changeable Pendants
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

5% of each Pink Ribbon Sale goes toward Breast Cancer Research. . . In honor of family, friends & another 4-H leader.

Changeable Pendants

2009-06-10T15:15:00.001-04:00

Changeable Pendants
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

A shot of most of my pendants on a beaded necklace and a leather/chain thong necklace.

Changeable Pendants - Cherry Blossoms

2009-06-09T14:28:00.001-04:00

Changeable Pendants - Cherry Blossoms
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

Interchangeable Pendants. . .

This is my Cherry Blossom Pendant, that I move from necklace to necklace as the mood hits me and I've made several more pendants to list on Etsy. . .

Leaf Pendant & Earrings

2009-06-08T15:27:00.004-04:00

pendant & earrings

Pendant - "Art On The Move"

Get your hankies out for joyful tears

2009-05-19T12:12:00.001-04:00

BAD RAP Blog: Happy news for Okie dogs

My shop was honored with a Blog Review!

2009-05-12T20:13:00.001-04:00

Check this Review out!
http://resweater.blogspot.com/2009/05/needle-felted-recycled-wool-week.html

List of 50 sites where you can get some traffic for your shop

2009-05-10T19:46:00.001-04:00

http://www.craftjuice.com/
http://craftstylish.com/
http://www.1000markets.com/
http://www.byhand.me/
http://thehandmadedirectory.com/directory/
http://www.mixxmade.com/
http://www.bluecanvas.com/
http://www.plaincraft.com/
http://www.43things.com/things/view/70128
http://www.postaroo.com/postaroo
http://www.craigslist.com
http://www.myspace.com/etsy
http://www.twitter.com
http://www.facebook.com
http://getcrafty.com/index_f.php
http://www.stumbleupon.com
http://www.google.com/addurl/?continue=/addurl
http://www.search.msn.com/docs/submit.aspx
http://www.ecom.yahoo.com/dir/submit/intro/
http://seocompany.ca/directory/free-web-directories.html
http://www.pageflakes.com
http://www.100craftlinks.com/
http://youcraft.org/
http://www.targetcrafts.com/
http://asdcashgenerator.com/?ref=50684
http://www.adwords.google.com/
http://ArtsCollab.com
http://artzee.net/
http://www.blogger.com/start
http://www.bust.com/girlweb/index.html
http://www.cracker.com.au
http://www.craftsitedirectory.com/index.html
http://craftylinks.com/
http://daisycraft.com/
http://www.designstolove.com/
http://www.dmoz.org/add.html
http://www.electroniccottage.com
http://freecraftfair.com/
http://www.flickr.com/
http://froogle.google.com/
http://www.indiefriendly.com/
http://indiefixx.com/
http://www.indiepublic.com/
http://www.linkedin.com/
http://www.kaboodle.com/
http://www.linkreferral.com/adwel.pl
http://www.ryze.com/
http://www.squidoo.com/
http://www.craftytips.com/
http://www.creativity-portal.com

Whooo. . . . Wednesday

2009-05-06T08:32:00.001-04:00

speed show & dragon eye jewelry 008 (2)
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

2009-05-04T23:26:00.006-04:00

Needle Felted Dragon Eye Earrings of Green & Firey Orange firmly stitched to Silvertone Lobster Clasp. The Eye's measure 1 1/2"x1"", the total length of the pendant is 1 1/1/2" and the back of the pendant is fully felted and finished. The length of the black suede leather cording & chain is 26" but can be sized smaller. Plus sized.

This is an extremely light necklace because of the leather cording & needle felt wool, the pendant is attached to a lobster clasp and can be attached to any necklace of your choice.

Needle Felted Dragon Eye Earrings of Green & Firey Orange firmly stitched to Silvertone Dangles. The Eye's measure 1"x3/4", the total length of the earring is 1 1/8".

My Dragon Items were designed and needle felted while I was listening to the audio books of Eon Dragoneye and series Eragon, Eldest & Brisingr. While the main dragon characters were not the same color as my jewelry, these stories inspired the designs.

Waiting for DragonEye Jewelry!!!

2009-05-01T23:32:00.003-04:00

Can't wait to get pictures of my newest idea! Needle Felted DRAGON Eye Jewelry. . . It will be here soon!

Spring Crocus and Daffodil Needle Felt Flower Corsage Perfect for Mother's Day. . . It Is Perfect Mom

2009-04-27T14:21:00.001-04:00

Spring Crocus and Daffodil Needle Felt Flower Corsage Perfect for Mother's Day. . . It Is Perfect Mom
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

This Magnet Pin is perfect for a Spring or Mother's Day. . . a buttoner of Crocus and Miniature Daffodil Needle Felted into a perfect forever spring bouquet. This magnet backed broach measures 3" by 2 1x2" and is an incredibly light needle felted wool sculpture.

Multi-shaded of Blues or Purples Crocus and bright yellow Daffodils have edges and back of the flowers that are fully felted and finished.

All items are made in a pet friendly, kid friendly, 100% SMOKE FREE home and contain animal fibers.

necklace bunny

2009-04-22T10:20:00.001-04:00

necklace bunny
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

Just a new idea. . . How do you like it?

LAST WEEK'S WORTH OF NEEDLE FELT

2009-04-13T14:13:00.019-04:00

COOL STUFF FOR SALE

2009-04-10T16:04:00.028-04:00

Email: pits_in_4h!@!Yahoo
http://pitbullladydesigns.blogspot.com/2008/09/body.html
Torso 1 at $45
Without metal Hanger (open hole) $5
1/2 Torso (wall hanging)(pictures coming) $

Brushed Metal Table Stand sign
8" x 10" inside with center metal strip

$15

Acrylic tray (open corners, dividers, several sizes)

Acrylic Drawers (in use http://pitbullladydesigns.blogspot.com/2009/02/under-construction-workbench.html ) heavy acrylic rectangles to go in undercounter bookshelves as drawers 14"deep x22"longx10" high front, slanted to front edges

$10

Rigid cardboard colored boxes with darker brown accented lids 19"x20" x6" deep

Brown kraft box (very rigid but thin cardboard)

Store Name center top

Acrylic sign holder with weighted rubber base 5"x7" & 8"x10"

5x7 $2

8x10 $3

5 acrylic drawers (8 x 8 x2" inside) 8 1/4" x 8 1/4" x 2 1/4" outside

Tissue holder with caddy

11"x 1 1/2" x 2" U shaped acrylic with holes for screws

1 ounce bottles with screw top lids, flip spout $1/10

Brushed metal 4' tall standing sign (heavy) 8"x10" $25 (no shipping)

Avery and Winslow: 10 Things That Make Me Happy

2009-04-08T13:19:00.000-04:00

Avery and Winslow: 10 Things That Make Me Happy

Beneath the Rowan Tree: 10 Things that Make Me Happy

2009-04-08T09:40:00.000-04:00

Beneath the Rowan Tree: 10 Things that Make Me Happy

Things That Make Me Happy

2009-04-08T08:07:00.004-04:00

1. Reading a good, inspirational story. . . by Lori Wick, Francine Rivers, Sally Johns, etc.
2. Fiber In My Hands. . .Undyed Wool (especially) just waiting to become something new under my needle.
3. Catching my 8 & 9 yo boys reading the encyclopedia for the FUN of learning. . . on Spring Break at that!
4. I love when creatures start peeking out of the unformed blog of fibers on my needle felting pad. . .
5. Coming home from my lovely job at the Library to find my boys (and teen daughter) sitting at the craft table or kitchen table CREATING for the fun of it. . . digging thru my stash and their own for supplies to create something new and special . . . Just for fun!
6. The light in a child's eyes when they "Get It" at a dog or horse training lesson. (plus the thrill of volunteering with 4-H and all the great and wonderful people that I have met there).
7. The happiness in the dog's expression, just because the most important person in their lives is HAPPY.
8. The happiness in MY Family's Dogs' faces when I take time to do a bit of obedience, rally or tricks with them.
9. The calm and sweet nicker of my Arabian, when he sees my teen daughter or I, and realizes that this is "His Time".
10. Adding a finished project picture to Flickr or my Etsy store. . . it's done, it's tested, it's lovely and it's finally ready for public feedback or a new home.
Ok just had to add. . .
11. Reading a series of books (House of Night, just finished Hunted!!!!) or watching a DVD series (like McLeod's Daughters) with my teen daughter, discussing the events or the anticipation of the next installment. . .

Thanks to I Can Make That and 'Beneath the Rowan Tree' for a great idea!

Weigh -In

2009-04-04T15:15:00.001-04:00

At my last weightwatchers meeting, I was pleased to have lost 28.6 # since October!

Pit Bull Lady Designs Featured

2009-04-03T10:11:00.001-04:00

by TweedleBee

You are featured today!
http://tweedlebeetalks.blogspot.com/
Toni

Bookmark Monsters

2009-03-31T10:27:00.002-04:00

Coming soon. . . monsters crawling and clawing their way out of the book BOOKMARKS. The boys were in giggles this morning helping me plan the next one. . . will there be enough to sell? Who knows how many monsters inhabit this household.

Needle Felted Adjustable Book Marks

2009-03-31T08:22:00.001-04:00

book marks
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

Tired of bent pages, missing slips of paper, covers of books flapping open in your tote? This Bookmark will solve many problems. . . elastic cords hold your place and between reading, 1 strap holds the book closed.

Recycled wool garment has been wet felted, accented with needle felt designs and wedded to a scrap of blue jeans. The elastic cording is threaded thru vintage buttons from my mom's & grandmother's button jars and tied in a bow. The cording is adjustable with a quick retying of the bow for large craft books or small romance novels. . . The blue jean bases range from 4" by 7 1/2" to 2 1/2" by 6".

Don't want to share the cover of what you are reading, then order one of the larger bookmarks and the cover art (or artless) can be obscured from prying eyes. Special orders are welcome, otherwise specify your desired bookmark from pictures. For an additional $25, you can have a profile sculpture of your favorite pet or animal.

BUSINESS CARD HOLDERS

2009-03-30T09:51:00.002-04:00

business card holders
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

Something new for my shop. . . Simple slip in business card holders. . . All kinds of new ideas have been springing up all over for me this spring and I can't wait to see how well they are received.

Aliens are COMING!!

2009-03-26T10:04:00.002-04:00

alien finger puppets
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

These cute little aliens are invading from the weightless planet, Fibertron and need human hosts for mobility.

Here on Planet, Earth, while pretending to be finger puppets, they are wanting to cohabit this lovely planet with us. Needing no food they become a perfect house guest or pet willing to ride wherever their hosts' able legs are willing to take them.

Holland Lop Easter Bunny

2009-03-24T13:16:00.004-04:00

Meet Bunny, A Holland Lop Rabbit is made as a Magnet Broach or Pendant for a Necklace. Bunny measures 1 1/2" tall by 1" wide because of the weight wool as a sculpture medium, it will be amazingly light.

Nicely detailed Holland Lop sculpture can be prepared for a shadow box mounting, or handstitched seedbead bail can be added, it has a magnet attached to be used as a Magnet Broach. Which has a corresponding fabric covered magnet that firmly attaches this bunny to your chosen garment.

Quarter Horses

2009-03-23T22:50:00.001-04:00

bay horses
Originally uploaded by PitBullLadyDesigns

2 bay quarter horse portraits. . . started from the same shape felt base and ended with 2 totally different looks. . .

West Michigan Etsy Artist Team

2009-03-22T09:16:00.001-04:00

Come check out the Artists from West Michigan!!!

abacusbeadcreations, ancientgamecupboard, anneball, artemisred, AustinCityLimits, averywinslow, awindowintowhimsy, baggavond, blisscandles, BonnieBlandford, boogerelli, Brendart, brenderart, Briaberger, buttermilkhollow, catherinemarissa, CheekyVintageCloset, chickadeesews, christinahill, cindybylsma, clawtreedesign, cleanbright, cottonseed, craftedclay, craftinator, daisysanddots, DeeLuxDesigns, dejali, delainie, dreamwhimsy, dulcescreations, ellafern, farmgirldesigns, firstfruitsllc, FreshMetal, funkyartchica, HeatherWeathers, HendersonPipes, holycraft, honeybopsoaps, imaginaryline, IslandGirlBags, jataylordesigns, jenkemp, jewelryobsession, joycetruck, joyfulartstudio, JSurine, JuicyChristians, julieandco, JustforFunCrafts, JustJaynes, karenmary, katskrafts, kayandco, Kerleyskreations, kittskrafts, knots2you, kortni10, krystalsbykrystallee, la01shelle, lhsblack, lilypiedesigns, littlethingsboutique, LLLdesigns, luckybugboutique, luckydesigns, luv4sams, lydialayne, lynnknitter, makinmecrazy, MamiEm, mariasoleil, MaterialPossessions, milksuds, Mimismittens, mindy26, MomNMiaQuilts, mondrysyknotshop, morganannie, my8kidsmom, naturalmomma, needlepointnmore, newleafdesigns, nostalgiqueart, obrienobjects, onehautehostess, pbmin, Pearlgirl901, perennialpiecer, photoblessing, pitbullladydesigns, pollyandesters, poppyglass, posiesforlewis, queenglass, racheljasmine, raidmystash, reblaar, ribbonrose, richardsonglassngift, rista, rwgeneva, RyleesCollection, SarahLynneDesigns, SeaMe, ShadySideFarm, shanajade, showertreatsoap, sjroemer, sparkeez8z1d, squirrelmomma, starttounlearn, stoneme, thatissocute, thebeadgirl, theeclecticbaglady, themonkeyshop, TrendyCards, TRENDYTOTZ, TrilliumStudios, ttnorman, turnadaisy, unicornsgarden, westmichispin, whatnotbags, whiskeygirljewels, willowmoonspirit, yarnhollow, yarntospin, yellowlux, yknotjewelryshop, YouStinkSoap, zeba, ZyliaDesigns

Rabbit are you watching me

2009-03-18T10:58:00.002-04:00

Rabbit are you watching me
Originally uploaded by HVargas

Here's looking at you, Kid. . .

my next model!

"On The Go" Needle Felt

2009-03-17T10:28:00.006-04:00

My on the go Crafting Tote. . . it travels with me EVERYWHERE, in case I get a chance to Needle Felt.

Baseball Card Acrylic box contains my wool/fiber with pictures to work from and extra flat felt in the lid. (bottom view)

Baseball Card Case open . . . (top view)

Clover Brush and 3 needle pen in a Walmart acrylic case that came as a holder for 12 little, screw lid bottles for jewelry. Husband sanded down the edges of the brush to fit within this case. There is space along the edge of the bristles to roll my acrylic fleece scrap(sometimes used to protect the sculpture from the grippy surface of the brush), embroidery scissors, Clover 3 needle pen and bits of colored wool. . . I hold the lid on with a rubber band during travel.

This little case was also, useful when transporting a new show Guinea Pig baby home. I needed to make some stops at stores and didn't want to expose the baby to winter weather waiting in the cold van. I emptied the felting supplies from it and set it in the bottom of my tote with the Guinea Pig corralled in by the sides of my tote and the big baseball card box, laid a winter scarf over the tote and Guinea Pig rode in warm comfort thru out shopping trip. . . (shssss, don't tell the store managers) LOL

Your Fabric Place: Fabric Ponytail holders galore

2009-03-16T19:59:00.000-04:00

Your Fabric Place: Fabric Ponytail holders galore

ANIMAL INSPIRATION

2009-03-12T16:55:00.002-04:00

Please keep sending links for animal inspiration. No date is too late because I'm always working on something.

Wordless Wednesday - Style of Pictures for Portraits

2009-03-11T08:20:00.009-04:00

Looking for Animal Inspiration!

2009-03-10T17:20:00.006-04:00

Send me links to your lovely animal photos! I am looking for another animal to sculpt and would like to see your loved ones for inspiration.

Need clear profiles & face forward views of breed standard cattle, horses, goats, dogs or. . . (surprise me).

When finished the critters will be posted on flickr and possible sale in my Etsy store. . . I'll make sure to make links on this blog for the inspirational animal and it's needle felt sculpture for your judging on how I did!

2009-03-10T17:17:00.001-04:00

Quarter Horse Stallion on a recycled wool purse. . . my first needle felt sale . . . 1 1/2 years ago

BAD RAP Blog: Salvador

2009-03-05T13:07:00.001-05:00

BAD RAP Blog: Salvador

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

2009-03-04T08:24:00.006-05:00

Sparky

2009-03-03T19:00:00.008-05:00

Just had to introduce Sparky, a portrait of a lovely Reining bred Quarter Horse Gelding from Texas. . . he is waiting on a few finishing touches before sending him off to his loving owner.

He is felted from Merino, Corriedale wool & Llama fibers.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION - WORKBENCH

2009-02-27T17:55:00.010-05:00

Workbench, South end-long leg of the "L"
The big white thing will be tested as a photobox. . . soon, I hope very soon. . .

Workbench, west side of short leg of the "L"

Corner of bench (south window)

End Cap on West End of Bench. . . Rulers are also hung here
Pegboard, frames and endcaps freehand painted with sketchy stylized flowers

Under Bench- West End
6" shelf
small pegboard

see my LAMP. . .I'm so excited. . . a 49.99 lamp for 14.95 from a closing JoAnn's
Turquoise Painted Pegboard
Covering Homasote Board with fabric to go beside the pegboard

Shelves Under South end of workbench
4 acrylic drawers
8 brown cardboard boxes
1 project tray

Acrylic Drawers full of WOOL. . . yummy!!!!

2009-02-20T16:12:00.003-05:00

I'm blessed at the moment that my DH is bringing home for me to figure out how to incorporate into my work area; acrylic displays, sign holders, drawers, cubes, cylinders and etc. But I'm also trying to decide what can be used in my craft show booth. Goody, goody. . .

This is from the same place as the torso's (or boobies) that I blogged about earlier. . .

Final Color Choices & Projects for Work Area

2009-02-18T19:13:00.004-05:00

Final Look:

Yellow walls (spounged - original)
Kraft paper tan counter tops (matches kraft paper storage boxes)
Turquoise - main
Chocolate - main

Apple Green - accent

Projects:

make & mount shelves for acrylic cubes
chalk or metallic box labels (cardboard & acrylic)
homemade for blotter
paper roll wall mounted caddy

dispenses rolls of freezer paper onto counter top

trim piece

clothespins
clips
hooks

tins & jars cover/label with paper scraps
claypot twine dispenser
felt cushions in jar bottoms (pinked edges)
pretty paper tags on the cloth door organizer
cover notebooks, clipboards, etc. with fabric
fabric for pincushion
needle felt pincushion

bottle cap bottom
velcro on base for mounting

color code Needle Felt needles according to sizes
pegboard covered with metal paint
magnets on plastic jar bottoms
fabric on plastic jar organizer bottom (cracked)
homasote board with fabric cover (24"x30")
glue buttons over screws on homasote board
sew scrap bag for mounting on counter top edge
galvanized trash can with lid
clean laundry tub
wash navajo-churro wool (large batch)
fabric inserts for apple crates (craft show shelves)
make ironing board cover with organizer
cut stencil shapes

tag
dog logo

cardboard & fabric lids for acrylic cubes and circles
check label maker supplies
shadowbox background

black
white
turquoise

find wood clay pot hangers
decoupage square on top of storage brown boxes
brass frog for paint brush drying
2" -3" -4" -5" -6" circles decoupage on counter top for sizing of portraits

daisy paper from Joann Fabrics

fabric homasote backsplash between shelf & countertop
tape measures on counter top edge
find clip on lights for light box
make wool rack from hair pic
make spot for acrylic project trays
find coordinating wrapping paper
think about rosin paper dispenser

family handiman 12/2008 page 32

use partially made pendants for curtain valance

come up with a shade for window